Description: After being struck by lightning coming from the sun, the crown of materialistic thought is knocked from the Tower. The falling drops of light seen here, as well as in Key #18 (The Moon), and the Aces of 3 of the suites of the Minor Arcana (Wands, Cups and Swords) are the Hebrew 'Yod'.

They signify the descent of the Life Force from above into the conditions of material existence. The lightning flash represents the same energy as that being drawn from above by The Magician and which also lights The Hermit's lantern. It is the power of spiritual truth, which breaks down ignorance and false understanding.

"The Tower" is one of several names that have been given to this card. Others are "The Lightning-Struck Tower" and "The House of God." The card suggests the breaking down of existing ways of life to make way for new ones. In terms of consciousness, the lightning flash also symbolizes the brilliant and momentary glimpse of truth. The crown on top of The Tower represents the materialistic concept of life - shown here as it falls from power.

Divinatory Meaning: The overthrow of existing modes of life. Conflict, unforeseen problems. Old notions being upset. A disruption that brings enlightenment in its wake. Selfish ambition about to fall, bankruptcy.

Reversed: Oppression, imprisonment. The same meanings as above, only to a lesser degree.