The Lovers card symbolises the first decision which must be made unaided by the traveller on his journey through life.  The youth is caught in the dilemma of having to choose between loyalty to his mother and desire for his beloved. This is an important stage in the development of individuality;  the stage at which the personality becomes an entity separate and apart from its origins.

The card the lovers contains a paradox.  Only by withdrawal from the influence and authority of the mother can he proceed but by attaining independence he also ensures the eventual ending of independence;  by winning life he is also presented with the prospect of death.

The Lovers card may also be interpreted that the maiden represents the path of outward activity, in which self-reliance and a sense of dedication and purpose strengthens and helps him to contend with the twists and turns of doubt and fear that surround him.

The older woman then represents the easier way of dependence on familiar and established ground of assumed responsibility for his welfare.  She offers comfort and protection in return for loyalty and obedience.

The seeker has reached the point where the lovers indicates that he must reluctantly accept that one must be sacrificed in order to know the other.  His decision can no longer be delayed as he sees that the two options are incompatible.

He is however, rescued from the dilemma as he has not yet reached the stage at which his destiny with the lovers card is within his own control;  he being the product of his past and the powers that formed his past, will cultivate his future and unwittingly help him choose the right path for him at this time.

The negative aspect of the lovers tarot shows the neurotic who, through his fear of independent life, and perhaps subconsciously the fear of death, is unable to leave his mother.

When reversed, the lovers signifies he who waivers between the two choices and avoids decisive action unless pressurised to do so by forces outside of his control will continue to waste time and energy trying to find a solution of compromise which he cannot find.  Until he decides, he is unable to give up either of the desirable alternatives he should face.

Divinatory meaning of The Lovers:
Upright:  A time of choice, the outcome of which is of crucial importance.  Intuition rather than intellect is more reliable and therefore on inspiration rather than reason.  The Lovers can indicate an aspiring insight that resolves that which appears to be an insoluble problem.  Also an important  choice dependent on maturity and integrity for its outcome.

Reversed:  Possible lapse in morals, great temptation placed in one's path.  Inability to make an important choice through a desire to have the best of both worlds with the card The Lovers.