The Chariot & Knight of Cups
The Chariot & Knight of Cups
Analysis:
Both cards illustrate themes around travel, movement, and a journey. The charioteer commands their chariot and the Knight of Cups commands their horse.
Speaking of command, in comparison to some of the other cards in the deck (Knight of Swords/Wands) these two seem to be working in harmony with their vehicle, moving at a comfortable and steady pace.
Each landscape contains trees in the background.
There are a handful of visual similarities between the riders. Both are holding onto something with one of their hands. Both can be seen wearing armor and a helmet. Each rider has what we would describe as a satisfied look on their faces.
There are wings featured in both scenes. In The Chariot, we can see the winged disk on the front of the chariot. Those same wings can be seen on the helmet and boots belonging to the Knight of Cups.
Water is another theme that touches on each card in numerous ways. For starters, we can see water in each landscape. Each card is also associated with water as The Chariot corresponds with Cancer and the Knight of Cups is a part of the cups suit which is ruled by water. The crab (cancer) is a creature that can be found in water. Similarly, the Knight of Cups wears a vest with fish on it, another created that can be found in the sea.
The Knight of Cups is riding a horse that appears white, however, if you look at it in contrast to the sphinx on the right in The Chariot, the horse becomes greyer in appearance - more like that of the chariot. Grey is a combination of white and black, and may indicate a middle path or moderate approach.
The idea of a vessel is demonstrated in each card. In The Chariot, we have the charioteer within The Chariot. In this case, the chariot is the vessel that holds the charioteer or the spirit; the thing that is driving the energy forward. In the Knight of Cups, the knight holds out a cup which is a vessel for water. Just as The Chariot is motivated by some inner force, so is our knight guided by their desires, inspiration, and instincts.
What do YOU see???
Possible Interpretation:
Both cards indicate movement and the idea of being guided by various forces. It’s not just the rider’s themselves, but the mechanisms which usher them forward i.e. the chariot, the sphinxes, the horse. Together they may imply a great deal of motivation and momentum - something strong and meaningful leading the way! Someone who was in such a state may describe it as following their bliss, being in flow state or going after their heart’s desire. In this way, they may experience a kind of tunnel vision where all they can see is their aim; everything else falls to the side. This can be a powerful (maybe unstoppable) force to work with so long as we’re aiming “right”!