6 The Lovers – uThando (love)
The concept of The Lovers in the iTongo Tarot deck is about perspective, choice and decision. The higher you fly the greater your perspective. Other elements are being of service to others and understanding the paradox of relationships and the merging of opposites. The invitation is the process of co-operation, finding balance and wholeness. In that balance we discover the harmonious connections with others and ultimately realising our spiritual power and transcendence within.
iTongo myth, legend, Archetype
A young Xhosa princess was deeply in love with a brave hunter, but she was forbidden to marry him by her father as he had chosen the son of a neighbouring king. This man was well known for his cruelty and brutality.
A lavish celebration was held to honour the princess on the morning of the wedding ceremony. When masked dancers appeared before the king, the princess recognised her lover among them and realised that this would be her opportunity to escape. She only needed a moment of darkness and confusion to succeed in her bid.