Welcome back to Everyday Tarot! Season 16 is devoted to queer deities, and today, we turn to Zeus—the lightning-bearing patriarch of Greek mythology.
What we explore in this episode:
The myth of Zeus
Zeus as a queer deity
Tarot cards archetypes that resonate with Zeus: The Fool, The Emperor, Justice, Wheel of Fortune
The Myth of ZeusZeus, ruler of Olympus and god of thunder and sky, is a figure of immense authority and appetite. Known for his lightning bolts and numerous affairs, he represents the archetype of dominance and creation—often through chaos. Ancient texts trace his lineage to Dyaus Pitar, or “Father Heaven,” linking him to other sky gods such as Jupiter and Odin. Though revered as patriarch, Zeus inherited his power by overthrowing his father Cronus and absorbing earlier matriarchal traditions once ruled by Gaia and Rhea.
Zeus as a Queer DeityWhile often remembered for his authority and countless heterosexual liaisons, Zeus’s mythology also contains deeply queer undertones. Most notably his relationship with Ganymede, a mortal youth taken to Olympus as cupbearer to the gods, reveals ancient cultural dynamics of mentorship, eroticism, and power imbalance. Modern readers might view Zeus as bisexual or pansexual.
Zeus & TarotZeus’s energy appears in tarot as both ruler and storm-bringer. The archetype reminds us that authority is not static.
The Emperor - Authority, leadership, structure, and patriarchal energy
The Fool - New beginnings, impulsive adventure, divine foolishness
Justice - Balance, accountability, and divine retribution
Wheel of Fortune - Fate, transformation, the cyclical nature of change
King of Wands - Fire, confidence, creativity, and visionary power
If you haven't listened to my other seasons yet, go check them out!
💭 Today's Tarot Pull:
From The Citadel: A Fantasy Oracle by Fen Inkwright, I pulled the The Waker (Reversed) Awareness, Reflection
This reversal reminds us that power without self-awareness becomes imbalance; reflection restores equilibrium. Just as the sky clears after a storm, self-inquiry clears our inner weather.
Reflective prompts on this card:
Where am I mistaking external control for internal balance?
What storm within me needs reflection rather than reaction?
How can I hold authority in my own life without losing compassion?
Ways to Connect & Support
