Tarot Cards: A Deep-Dive into the Major and the Minor Arcana

July 7, 2024 Colin Lawson Comments 0 Comment

The tarot deck is a fascinating and complex tool used for divination, self-reflection, and psychological insight.

A full tarot deck comprises of two main categories: the Major Arcana consisting of 22 cards and the Minor Arcana with its 56 cards.

Each card possesses its own unique significance and role in a tarot reading. A card reading may include both the major and minor arcana, but some readings may utilise only the major arcana, this still can still create a fully textured and complete reading on its own.

So buckle-up, we’re about to learn all about the anatomy of the classic tarot card deck and its meanings:

The Major Arcana*: A journey through Tarot’s Foundational cards upon which all readings are based

The Tarot deck is a collection of 78 cards, each filled with symbolic imagery and profound meaning. Among these, the 22 cards of the Major Arcana hold a special place, representing the spiritual lessons, karmic influences, and the big archetypal themes influencing our lives.

The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, starting with ‘The Fool’ (card number 0) and ending with ‘The World’ (card number XXI). These 22 cards are considered the heart of a tarot deck and represent significant life events, lessons, and milestones.

They depict the journey of The Fool, an archetypal character, through various stages of life and spiritual enlightenment. Each card in the Major Arcana symbolizes a different aspect of human experience and consciousness, from the innocence and potential of The Fool to the completion and unity of The World.

Let’s now come together and embark on an enthusiastic exploration of these enigmatic cards and their meanings:

0. The Fool:

The Fool is a fascinating tarot card, symbolising new beginnings, adventure, and unlimited potential.

It’s the card of the free spirit, embarking on a journey with an open heart and mind. The appearance of The Fool in a tarot reading suggests an exciting, spontaneous, and possibly unexpected adventure lies ahead.

The Fool encourages taking a leap of faith and embracing new experiences with enthusiasm and optimism. This card represents the very essence of innocence and the courage to step into the unknown, reminding us that every journey starts with a single, often uncertain, step.

I. The Magician:

The Magician tarot card is a powerful symbol of manifestation and resourcefulness.

It represents the mastery of the physical world through the understanding and use of all elements at one’s disposal. When this card appears, it signifies that you have the tools and the talent necessary to realize your desires and ambitions.

The Magician encourages you to combine your knowledge and skills to achieve your goals, reminding you that with focus and determination, you can harness the power of the universe to create your own reality.

II. The High Priestess:

The High Priestess tarot card is a profound symbol of intuition, mystery, and spiritual insight. When she appears in a reading, it’s a call to listen to your inner voice and embrace the knowledge that lies within the subconscious.

She represents the gateway to hidden truths and the potential for new understanding, especially in matters of spirituality and inner wisdom.

This card encourages trust in the unseen and faith in one’s own intuition, suggesting a time for reflection and meditation to connect with the deeper aspects of oneself. The High Priestess is a reminder of the vast inner landscapes waiting to be explored, full of secrets and mysteries yet to be uncovered.

III. The Empress:

The Empress tarot card is a celebration of femininity and abundance, symbolising motherhood, fertility, and the nurturing spirit of nature.

It’s a card that speaks to the creative and bountiful aspects of life, encouraging those who draw it to embrace growth, sensuality, and comfort in the natural world.

As a Major Arcana card, The Empress holds significant power, often indicating a period of personal or artistic flourishing, where intuition and harmony guide the way to fulfillment and the creation of beauty in various forms around us.

Whether it’s a call to connect with your inner self or to express your nurturing side towards others, The Empress represents a potent force of love, creativity, and prosperity.

IV. The Emperor:

The Emperor tarot card is a fascinating symbol of authority and structure, often associated with fatherhood and leadership.

It represents the triumph of logic over emotion, suggesting that discipline and order are necessary to achieve one’s goals. As the fourth card in the Major Arcana, it is linked to Aries and signifies a powerful influence, possibly an older male figure who offers guidance and wisdom.

Embodying stability and protection, The Emperor encourages you to take charge of your life, asserting control and establishing rules that will lead to success and achievement.

V. The Hierophant or High Priest:

The Hierophant tarot card is a fascinating symbol of tradition, wisdom, and guidance.

It often represents the importance of social institutions and conventional values, suggesting a time to adhere to established norms and traditions.

This card may indicate the presence of a mentor or guide in your life, who could offer valuable wisdom and spiritual counsel. In terms of personal growth, The Hierophant encourages you to explore traditional knowledge and rituals, which can provide a solid foundation for your beliefs and values.

VI. The Lovers:

The Lovers tarot card is a profound symbol of partnership and choice, often representing a perfect union or a harmonious relationship.

It signifies the importance of making decisions that are in alignment with one’s true self and values, suggesting a time of love, attraction, and finding balance within oneself.

Whether it’s about romance, friendship, or a spiritual journey, The Lovers encourage an open heart and mind, embracing the deep connections that make life so enriching.

This card is a reminder that love is the force that holds the universe together, and it’s the choices we make in love that define our experiences.

VII. The Chariot:

The Chariot tarot card is a powerful symbol of motivation, control, and triumph. It represents the victory that comes from determination and willpower.

When this card appears, it’s a sign to stay focused on your goals, harness your inner strength, and push through obstacles with confidence and self-discipline.

The Chariot encourages you to maintain balance and direct your energy towards achieving success, reminding you that with effort and perseverance, you can drive your life in the direction you desire.

VIII. Strength:

The Strength card in Tarot is not just about physical strength; it’s a symbol of inner power, courage, and resilience.

It often depicts a serene figure taming a lion, representing the control of raw emotions and the calm mastery of mind over matter.

When this card appears, it’s a sign to harness your inner fortitude to overcome obstacles, with a gentle touch and self-confidence. It’s a powerful reminder that true strength comes from within, and with patience and compassion, you can navigate through life’s challenges with grace and dignity.

IX. The Hermit:

The Hermit tarot card is a profound symbol of introspection and inner guidance. It represents a time for deep reflection, solitude, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

When The Hermit appears in a reading, it often suggests that one may be entering a phase of self-discovery, seeking wisdom from within rather than from the external world.

This card encourages embracing the journey of personal growth and understanding, highlighting the value of withdrawing from life’s distractions to focus on one’s inner voice and path.

The Hermit’s presence is a powerful reminder that true insight and guidance come from within, illuminating the importance of solitary contemplation in achieving spiritual awareness.

X. Wheel of Fortune:

The Wheel of Fortune tarot card is a fascinating symbol of life’s cyclic nature and the twists of fate that can change our paths. It represents the concept of karma and the idea that what goes around comes around.

When this card appears, it suggests that change is coming, often in the form of a turning point or a decisive moment that could bring good luck or fortune.

It’s a reminder to stay positive and adaptable, embracing the flow of life’s ups and downs, knowing that every cycle brings new opportunities and experiences.

XI. Justice:

The Justice tarot card is a powerful symbol in the world of tarot, representing fairness, truth, and the law. It often signifies a time when you will be held accountable for your actions and the decisions you make.

With its strong associations to balance and karma, the appearance of the Justice card in a reading suggests that actions and outcomes are connected.

The card’s imagery, featuring scales and a sword, underscores the importance of weighing decisions carefully and acting with integrity.

Whether you’re seeking resolution in legal matters or striving for honesty in personal affairs, the Justice card reminds us that our choices have consequences and that truth and fairness will ultimately prevail.

XII. The Hanged Man:

The Hanged Man tarot card is a profound symbol of pause and surrender, inviting reflection and a shift in perspective.

It often represents a period of voluntary or involuntary suspension, suggesting that it’s time to let go of outdated beliefs or patterns.

This card encourages embracing a new point of view, one that may reveal opportunities and insights that were previously hidden. It’s a call to release control, reassess one’s path, and find enlightenment through sacrifice and acceptance of change.

The Hanged Man’s serene expression in the imagery signifies peace with these transitions, highlighting the potential for personal growth and spiritual evolution.

XIII. Death:

The Death card in Tarot is often misunderstood, it’s actually a powerful symbol of transformation and new beginnings.

It signifies the end of one phase and the start of another, urging us to let go of the past and embrace change. This card is not about physical demise, but rather about the metaphorical death of something that no longer serves us, making way for fresh opportunities and growth. It’s a reminder that with every ending comes a new start, and that change, though sometimes challenging, is a natural and necessary part of life.

Death is card number XIII in the deck, could this be a possible origin to the belief by many that the number 13 is unlucky?

XIV. Temperance:

The Temperance card in tarot symbolises balance, harmony, and moderation, representing a period of inner calm and perspective. It’s a call to stabilise your energy and embrace a peaceful, patient approach to life.

This Major Arcana card often indicates harmonious relationships and the blending of diverse elements to create something new and valuable.

Whether it’s about love, career, or personal aspirations, Temperance encourages you to find your centre and align with your higher purpose.

XV. The Devil:

The Devil tarot card is a fascinating symbol in the world of tarot, often representing the more shadowy aspects of our existence.

It signifies the presence of an overbearing force that may be causing feelings of entrapment or powerlessness, urging a reflection on personal freedoms and the need to release negative influences.

This card is a call to examine one’s attachments, whether they be to people, habits, or material possessions, and to consider how these bonds affect one’s pursuit of a fulfilling life. It’s a powerful reminder that liberation from these chains is possible, and that true control lies within oneself.

The imagery of The Devil card, with its chains and ominous figures, serves as a stark representation of the consequences of surrendering to temptation and the importance of personal sovereignty.

XVI. The Tower:

The Tower tarot card is a powerful symbol in the world of tarot, often representing sudden upheaval and dramatic change.

It suggests that the structures and beliefs that one has built their life upon may be challenged or even destroyed, paving the way for a fresh start. This card can be a harbinger of chaos, but it also carries the promise of clearing away illusions to reveal a more profound truth and understanding.

While it may signify difficult times, the destruction The Tower brings is often necessary for growth, making way for new opportunities and a stronger foundation to rebuild upon.

XVII. The Star:

The Star tarot card is a symbol of hope, inspiration, and renewal. It often appears after a period of turmoil, signalling a time of healing and positive transformation.

This card encourages you to trust in the universe and your own intuition, suggesting that you are on the cusp of a new, more fulfilling phase of life.

Embrace the calm and serene energy The Star brings, as it represents a clear vision for the future and spiritual insight. It’s a reminder that you are connected to the divine, and that your dreams and aspirations are within reach.

XVIII. The Moon:

The Moon tarot card is a fascinating symbol, often associated with intuition, dreams, and the subconscious.

It suggests that not everything is as it seems, urging a deeper look beyond the surface to uncover hidden truths. This card may appear during times of confusion or uncertainty, prompting a trust in one’s instincts and intuition.

It’s a reminder that our fears and anxieties can cloud our vision, and only by connecting with our inner guidance can we hope to navigate through the illusions to find clarity.

XIX. The Sun:

The Sun tarot card shines brightly in the realm of tarot, symbolising positivity, success, and vitality. It’s a card that brings a message of optimism and joy, suggesting that things are going in your favor.

This card often represents good fortune, happiness, and the realisation of personal goals. When The Sun appears in a reading, it’s a sign to embrace the warmth of success and the light of truth, as it illuminates the path to clarity and the achievement of one’s desires.

It’s a reminder that, like the sun itself, you have the power to radiate positivity and to influence the world around you with your inner light.

XX. Judgement:

The Judgement tarot card is a powerful symbol of self-reflection and transformation. It represents the moment of reckoning where one’s past actions, thoughts, and decisions are evaluated.

This card signifies an awakening, calling you to rise to a higher level of consciousness and embrace a new phase of life. It’s about shedding the weight of past mistakes, forgiving oneself and others, and moving forward with clarity and purpose.

Whether it’s a call to a higher service or a significant life change, the Judgement card encourages you to listen to your inner wisdom and act upon it for your highest good.

XXI. The World:

The World tarot card, as the final card in the Major Arcana, symbolises completion, fulfilment, and the culmination of a journey.

It represents a moment of profound accomplishment and success, where all elements have come together harmoniously, leading to a sense of wholeness and achievement. This card often signifies a time of celebration and triumph, as the goals you’ve been striving towards are finally within reach, marking a period of transition and the start of a new chapter.

The World invites you to reflect on your path, embrace the lessons learned, and look forward to the future with optimism and confidence.

The meanings listed above are only a starting point for the user and many who utilise these cards bring more defined and personal meanings to the cards; this does not necessarily mean the meanings we offer are incorrect. Like many aspects of spirituality, the cards and their meanings can become a very personal thing for each person for whom they are drawn.

It is worth noting that many practitioners believe a card appearing upside down during a reading indicates the card’s meaning may be weakened or even reversed from those shown above which are accurate if the card is the correct way up.

Each card in the Major Arcana is a step along a greater journey – a path to personal growth, understanding, and enlightenment. They mirror the various stages of life, from the innocence of The Fool to the wholeness of The World. In a Tarot reading, these cards can offer powerful insights into the greater forces at play in our lives and guide us towards self-discovery and fulfilment.

The Tarot is a tool for introspection, offering a mirror to our soul and a window to the universe’s infinite wisdom. As we delve into the meanings of the Major Arcana, we unlock the doors to our innermost selves, inviting a journey of transformation and enlightenment. Embrace the journey, for each card is a chapter in the grand story of your life.

The intricacies of the Minor Arcana*

Following on from the Major Arcana comes the Minor Arcana, made up of 56 cards, divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles (or sometimes Coins), Swords, and Wands (or sometimes Clubs). Each suit corresponds to an element and aspect of human life. Cups are associated with emotions and relationships, Pentacles with material aspects and career, Swords with intellect and conflict, and Wands with creativity and action. The Minor Arcana cards reflect the day-to-day activities and the decisions we make, providing more detailed insights into the current circumstances affecting an individual’s life.

The Minor Arcana also includes four suits of numbered cards, one to ten similar to a traditional pack of playing cards and then the Court Cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King, which can represent people in the querent’s life or certain aspects of their personality.

Together, the Major and Minor Arcana form a complete picture, with the Major Arcana charting the broader spiritual and life lessons, and the Minor Arcana filling in the details of everyday experiences. In a tarot reading, the interplay between these two sets of cards can offer profound insights into the complexities of life’s journey.

Understanding the tarot requires not only knowledge of each card’s meaning but also an intuition that allows the reader to interpret the cards’ messages in the context of an individual’s unique circumstances. Whether used for personal growth or as a means of divination, the tarot deck is a powerful tool that continues to inspire and guide those who seek its wisdom.

*The images of the major and minor arcana featured above show the designs used in the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck

The Rider-Waite Tarot Deck is a true classic in the world of tarot, renowned for its rich symbolism and profound imagery.

Created in 1909, this deck was a collaborative masterpiece between academic and mystic A.E. Waite and artist Pamela Colman Smith.

Each card in the deck is a visual representation of life’s complexities, offering a mirror to the soul and a key to unlocking the subconscious.

Whether you’re a seasoned reader or new to the art of tarot, the Rider-Waite deck is a timeless tool for introspection and divination, beloved by millions around the globe.

The Rider-Waite Tarot deck is still widely available to purchase from mystic stores, some toy stores, as well as online from stockists such as Amazon, eBay etc. for a very reasonable price.

Tarot Trivia

Tarot cards are a wellspring of mystery and intrigue, often associated with the art of divination. Here are ten fascinating tidbits about these enigmatic cards:

1) The traditional tarot deck comprises 78 cards, split into the Major and Minor Arcana.

2) The Minor Arcana resembles a regular deck of playing cards with four suits, but includes an additional court card.

3) Tarot cards date back to the 15th century, where they were initially used for games before being adopted for fortune-telling.

4) Each suit of the Minor Arcana is associated with an element: Cups with water, Swords with air, Wands with fire, and Pentacles with earth.

5) The Fool card, often numbered as 0, is considered both the beginning and end of the Major Arcana, symbolizing an infinite journey.

6) Some tarot enthusiasts believe that the cards do not tell the future but reflect the subconscious mind of the person asking the question.

7) The imagery and symbols on the cards are rich in historical and cultural references, providing layers of meaning. There are many traditional designs dating back to the middle ages and beyond but each year contemporary artists create new decks with unique themes ans artwork.

8) The Death card is one of the most misunderstood; it typically signifies transformation and change rather than physical death.

9) Carl Jung, the famous psychologist, utilised tarot imagery for its archetypal representations in his analytical psychology.

10) There’s a vibrant community of tarot readers worldwide, with many online platforms and forums dedicated to the practice and interpretation of tarot readings.

Whether you’re a seasoned reader or a curious newcomer, the world of tarot is full of depth and symbolism to explore.

For those interested in delving deeper into the meanings and symbolism of the tarot, there are numerous resources available, including books, online courses, and communities of tarot enthusiasts. Exploring the tarot can be a lifelong journey, one that offers endless opportunities for discovery and personal development.

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