The Lily

The card

A lily. The posture is upright and the lines are cool; traditionally it is tied to purity and propriety.

Traditional meaning

Traditionally the Lily is harmony, virtue and maturity, and often an older man. In some traditions it is connected with sexuality.

How to read it

The Lily is maturity and decorum: measured, cultivated, able to stand scrutiny. It often marks an older man, an elder, or someone with standing. It also means long-term calm — not passion, but settledness. A minority tradition reads it as desire, which has to be judged from context.

In context

Love

A mature, steady relationship, or an older partner.

Work

Senior people, advisers, fields where experience and reputation matter.

Timing

Winter, or a long settled stretch.

Common combinations

• The Lily + The House · A harmonious household, elders in good health
• The Lily + The Heart · Mature and deep feeling
• The Lily + The Tower · Highly respected and also alone
• The Lily + The Man · An older man of some standing
• The Lily + The Anchor · Long calm and steadiness
• The Lily + The Tree · Health questions that come with age
• The Lily + The Fish · Money handled prudently, nothing rash
• The Lily + The Sun · Well regarded, a good name
• The Lily + The Coffin · An elder passing, or a mature relationship ending
• The Lily + The Book · Experience and learning