Judgment, like some of the other Tarot cards, seems to fit nicely into the medieval world. It is a familiar Christian image; the great archangel Michael blows his horn, sounds the Last Trump, and the souls of the dead rise up at his call. The idea of the last days of the world is not unique to Christianity, for it is found in many ancient cultures, including Hindu, Norse, Persian and Ancient Roman mythology. Some kind of rebirth, new creation, or resurrection follows the dreadful destruction - and is usually announced by signs and portents beforehand. Pluto, Lord of the Underworld, has been attached to this card since the planet's discovery earlier this century. This planet, now joint ruler of Scorpio with Mars, represents the forces of transformation in astrology. But these dark energies are rarely comfortable, or easy to handle. Frequently the destruction of old habits or outworn concepts precedes the transformation promised by Pluto's influence. Pluto, as god of the dark places beneath the earth, was often said to preside over buried treasure and valuable jewels. Such riches are not easily found, but when they are they bring great rewards to their possessor. Many esoteric cults used the idea of death and rebirth, which is also suggested by this card. Initiates would undergo frightening and solemn rituals as part of their training - many of these included spending some time alone in a dark place. They would then be symbolically 'reborn' and enter the light once more. Judgment is followed by the World, which is the last trump of the Tarot, symbolising completion and fulfilment of the highest kind. Interpretation The Judgment Sometimes Judgment makes itself felt in a literal way, for it can signify decisions. Such decisions are usually pressing, and must be made if your life is to improve. If you were worried about making such a decision when you consulted the cards, you may rest assured that it will have a positive outcome. Judgment can also indicate an awakening. Perhaps you have been working in the dark, and can now see things more clearly. You feel restored and renewed mentally, physically or emotionally - often all three. With this new and vital energy at your disposal every area of life blossoms; you are able to enjoy and appreciate your partner, friends, family and work. This is a very positive card to draw if you are concerned about health, or that of someone else. It indicates that healing has taken place, convalescence is over, and the person is back on his or her feet. In terms of career, it suggests that you are free to enjoy your work and celebrate over your successes. Should you be considering a change of career, Judgment signifies that this would be an excellent move to make. Whether change, promotion or retirement lies ahead you have reached the end of a cycle. But something interesting and stimulating follows; if any cards fall after Judgment these should throw some light on what it may be.  Reversed For some reason a decision needing to be made is being delayed. This is creating a stagnant pause in your life. If you are dithering about something, now is the time to make up your mind once and for all. If you delay you may lose something or someone of value to you. Traditionally, Judgment reversed signifies fear of death. Death can take many forms, and on one level represents major changes, so this position can also mean fear of change - another reason for delaying decisions and sitting on the fence. Emotionally, this position denotes a loss of some kind. You and your partner may have to spend some time apart, but the break is not necessarily final. One of you may even have to go away because of work, and be forcibly separated for a time. If things have been going badly in your relationship, it may indeed be drawing to an end but neither of you is able to say 'goodbye' just yet. 0 - The Fool 1 - The Magician 2 - The High Priestess 3 - The Empress 4 - The Emperor 5 - The Hierophant or Pope 6 - The Lovers 7 - The Chariot 8 - Justice 9 - The Hermit 10 - The Wheel of Fortune 11 - Strength 12 - The Hanged Man 13 - Death 14 - Temperance 15 - The Devil 16 - The Tower 17 - The Star 18 - The Moon 19 - The Sun 20 - Judgment 21 - The World