Part of the Sky Above Earth Below Oracle Deck I created in 2014. Mixed Media

Crab (Exploration, Home)
Crab carries its home with it where it goes. Crab has a thick exoskeleton that protects it from predators. The unique articulation of its legs makes it easier for crab to walk sideways. True crab species will molt their old shell while they build a new one underneath. When crab needs to molt it will crack its own shell; a task that others need to accomplish when looking to eat crab. Hermit crabs are unable to create their own shells and so will move into abandoned ones when they get too big. It is this behaviour of building, or using shells as protection that makes crab symbolic of home. Crabs will often time the release of newly hatched larvae with the tides. Even land based crab will venture to the ocean to release larvae. Juvenile land crabs must then migrate back to land once they are large enough. These migration and current riding tendencies link crab with the idea of exploration. Crabs will work together to find food and protection during mating season, and when females release the larvae. Working together in this way also made crab represent home and family.

When Hercules battled the hydra Hera sent the crab (Karkinos) to distract him. Some versions of the myth say that while he tried he was unsuccessful and Hera gave him a spot in the sky for his efforts. Other versions of the myth say that Hercules dispatched of Karkinos quickly, kicking him with such force that he was propelled into the sky. Some Native American tribes used the tails of horseshoe crabs as spears. Crab is linked in many cultures to protection because of its hard shell. The moon, and lunar energy is also linked to crab. Historically there was some belief that crabs molted according to the moon, or that crabs could be found with ease during a full moon.

When crab sidewalks its way into a reading it may be time to choose between home and exploration. Do you carry home with you in your heart? What are you looking to explore? Is it time to shed your shell, or are you going to find a cast-off and make it yours? Crab is linked to the element of water and to the major arcana of the moon.

Astrology- (Western Cancer Jun 21- Jul 22) The western sign of Cancer love home life and family. The degree to what this water sign views as home and family may vary however. Those born under this sign are traditionalists, and may have a love of history or ancestry. As their namesake suggests Cancers can be moody, and crabby. Sometimes seen as fickle Cancer needs time alone and it's best to let them retreat to do so. When Cancer emerges they are loyal and sympathetic friends, easy to talk to and warm.

Stars and Constellations
Sidestep, Crack Open, Fortification, Careen with the Currents, Cast off the Old