Major Arcana XIX
The Sun
The Radiant Child
The card
A couple sits by the shore, the man drawing the woman’s attention to the subdued sun above. Within its circumference is Mucha’s imagining of ageless youth and beauty with two ancient beings standing guard on each side.
Every version of the sun from the very first Marseille decks has several figures. This version represents the way of happiness rather than happiness itself. At times we are unable to experience happiness until we have shared it with others. Conversely, some are unable to attain happiness until they have received it from others. Whether you share happiness with an individual or you seek to share it with the world, the sun is always present, waiting in the sky.
The Sun card brings news of abundance. You are shining bright and standing in your power. You are no longer afraid of being your authentic self and are ready to show it off! The sun is a steady, energetic source, so reflect its attributes and bring your light wherever you go. If you find yourself in a dark night, know that this card is a sign of good things to come and you will soon be standing in the warmth of the sun’s rays once again.
Where could you permit uncomplicated aliveness?
Jungian lens
The archetype in motion
Vitality returns when the spontaneous and previously hidden child is welcomed. Its shadow is relentless positivity that refuses grief or complexity. Integration allows joy to become spacious enough to illuminate the whole person.