XII. The Altar

Upright

• A very central and important commitment in one's life.
• Devotion to something or someone which changes many other aspects of a person's life, alters a person's worldview, or transforms their character— their moral being.
• An affinity or love so strong that it alters a person's being or life.
• Affinity, love, or devotion which may inspire something along the lines of altar building, to act upon and demonstrate such powerful emotions.
• Something or someone for which one may sacrifice theirself.
• Making a vow, perhaps of a sacred nature.
• Religious devotion, worship, or piety.
• A deeply significant and heartfelt offering of gratitude.
• Seeking forgiveness for wrongdoing.

When contemplating the meaning of The Altar, it helps to imagine situations which involve altars: ceremonies where sacred vows are taken, worship of divine figures, offerings symbolic of sacrifice to something more important than oneself. Ceremonies and worship in this vein are indicative of importance or significance which has the potential to transform those involved, enabling them to carry a sacred ideal out into the world and to live by it.

Altars may also be symbolic of gratitude, and can be utilized to express profound gratitude, hence this card may represent such gratitude. Approaching an altar may also be an occasion to ask for forgiveness for something.

The Altar can also signify those bonds which may be considered sacred: parents or guardians and children, significant others, best friends, any caregivers and those whom they assist. Any bonds which inspire deep devotion or self-sacrifice resonate with the essence of The Altar.

Reversed

• A betrayal of trust.
• Desecration of something sacred.
• Egregious moral violations: abusing those who are powerless, hate crimes, causing extensive suffering and loss.
• Breaking a sacred or otherwise important vow.
• Going back on a crucial promise.
• Someone turning their back on whomever or whatever once held their deep devotion.
• Feeling regret, guilt, or remorse for any wrongdoing.
• Letting someone down believing that one has let someone down.

The Altar Reversed conveys desecration, destruction of cherished beauty and virtue. It could represent going back on a sacred vow, or breaking a promise.

This card may also signify a severe breach of trust by an authority figure. A ruler who lies to their nation, a parent who abuses their child, or a boss who robs their company are all figures whom this card may characterize.