“Surrender immediately opens you to the greater intelligence that is vaster than the human mind, and it can then express itself through you.” -Eckharte Tolle 

The HANGED MAN is the archetype of surrender and release. Inherently one of the most complex cards in the deck, it’s ruled by Neptune and was once often referred to as “the drowned sailor,” due to its association with maritime crimes and punishments.

My relationship with this archetype has deepened. I see the hanged man more as an outlaw redeemer—the one who braves ultimate sorrow in order to bring warmth, comfort, knowledge, or safety to the world.

Sometimes this card is about surrender to the map of destiny within—and to the ethical nature of one’s inner voice.

The Hanged Man then becomes a Promethean type of hero. The card speaks to that spark of divinity within each of us that sees suffering in the world, and—like Prometheus—can’t help but climb down the mountain and share our fire, knowing that there will be an enormous sacrifice to be made for such boldness. 

There is a touch of crazy Prometheus in every creator, every artist, every counselor or healer. The Hanged Man can represent the deep love we hold within, but also the sacrifices that are made in order to be who we really are. So, what does your inner outlaw have to say?

Day 13: “My inner outlaw wants to be…Seven of Pentacles (reversed)

• My inner outlaw knows that she does good work and will only say yes to people and situations where she is valued.
• My inner outlaw is willing to review and prioritize her activities carefully.
• My inner outlaw is done with being undervalued and overworked.
• My inner outlaw says “no” to exploitation.
• My inner outlaw wants nothing to do with the status quo.
• My inner outlaw is taking a break and looking at the “big picture” before making the next move.
• My inner outlaw is ready to play.
• My inner outlaw dances while working.
• My inner outlaw dances every day.