Tarots (The Major Arcana)

Most Tarot decks consist of 78 cards, of which are divided into 2 groups – the Major Arcana (22 Cards) and the Minor Arcana (56 Cards, with four suits; Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles.)

If Tarots were an apple, the Major Arcana’s would be its core These cards represent the physical, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional (strengths, weaknesses, hopes, and fears) and facets of mankind. Some Major Arcana’s depict archetypal figures, such as; religious leader, a maternal, nature-oriented woman, a strong, masculine figure of authority, or a magical, intuitive individual. The illustration behind these characters further symbolizes their specified personality traits, and foretells whether they are a positive or negative influence.

The Major Arcana (22 Cards):

(1) The Fool - Major transitions, movement; whether a new life, home or job. Positive qualities; innocence, trust, sense of adventure, new beginning – taking risks. Being in the right place at the right time.

(2) Magician -If representing the Querent, they are a dynamic, highly intelligent person. A powerful man may enter their life.   A time of action, a great opportunity for new beginnings – self-confidence to direct one’s life. One who is convincing, with the ability to talk others into anything – creating miracles. There may be an element of trickery involved if representing an individual.

(3) High Priestess – Divine fate and destiny. May indicate an element of surprise. Promising signs of potential yet to be fulfilled. A time of study and learning. Spiritual enlightenment.  Psychic forces – pay attention to your dreams.

(4) The Empress – A wise and decisive woman – reminding that things take time and patience to grow.  Could symbolize creativity, marriage, or a birth – fertility and nurturing.  May indicate a house, move, or relocation to be closer to nature.

(5) The Emperor – If drawn for the Querent, they are the Master of their own fate.  A man with an air of authority about him, with a strong physical presence – a father, judge, or political leader.  Commanding power and strength (control). Could signify a business opportunity, pertaining to the material world.

(6) Hierophant – Wisdom, studying, tradition, and spiritual beliefs.  A choice made through guidance from a wise person.  Conforming to rules, having faith.  If a question about a situation was asked, it means that the Querent will make it official or put it together properly, and feel really good about it.

(7) Lovers – A choice between two attractions – a union of two kindred spirits, and a temptation, a moral choice. Romance, love with guidance from above. Could be a business partnership (depending on the cards near by).  Trust one’s instincts.

(8) The Chariot – Personal determination – a hard won victory, achievement.  Reaching a goal, winning, or overcoming obstacles. Can describes movement – travel or vehicles.

(9) Strength – Querent needs to have courage, to succeed and persevere. Strength and stamina. Patience, compassion, and ability to get a point across.  Protect one’s territory.  Mental telepathy (picking up on others thoughts.)

(10)The Hermit – Introspection – seeing things from a different perspective.  Seeking the truth.  The Hermit is a seeker, a loner and wise (due to spending time in solitude reflecting on issues.) Personal growth – a journey may be in store.

(11) The Wheel of Fortune – Karma and destiny. Heralds a very significant change in the pattern of life.  Movement, change, and evolution.  Payback for the good things that have been done. The Querent will get the job or money they need.

(12) Justice – Doing what is necessary – no matter how hard it is to gain equilibrium. The laws of cause and effect. Fairness, accountability, often portends to a major decision in regards to a legal issue or job.

(13) The Hanged Man – Sacrifice. Querent must look more closely at their situation – in which their perspective will change.  Transitions and turning points.  About those who seriously consider their next move.  Being at a crossroads.  Things being on hold (in suspension.)

(14) Death – A major and necessary change, time for something to end so the new will begin.  Death, Rebirth, and Renewal.

(15) Temperance – Blending of opposites – to create harmony. Patience – be moderate and avoid excess.  Equilibrium (balance), clairvoyance and visionary art. A period of high creativity and personal growth.

(16) The Devil - Entrapment, enslavement, addictions, constant denial, conflict and resentment.  Trickery of some sort, perhaps depicting someone who can’t be trusted. Greed and temptation.

(17) The Tower – Unexpected catastrophe or events occurring.  False beliefs, walls and structures. Shake-ups and time to move on. Suddenly realizing the truth.

(18) The Star – Hope, healing, peace and harmony in the future. Illumination. Clarity, letting energy flow.  This card may represent a person who lives up to their highest potential.

(19) The Moon – Cycles, strange behaviour, mood swings. Mental and emotional roller coaster. A time of uncertainty and confusion. Pay attention to phases of the moon and dreams. May represent an individual who follows their instincts. The card of the psychic.

(20) The Sun – Radiance, young, healthy, new, and fresh.  Everything falls into place and is going to be alright. Glory and greatness.

(21) Judgement (Angel) – Final settling of accounts.  A big change, perhaps a new career.  Leaving an abusive situation. A different way of seeing things. An awakening and reckoning.  Card of opportunity to correct mistakes and to start a new life. Destiny, inner calling.  Live, rather than exist.

(22) The World (Universe) – Coming together of things, possibly a job offer or a trip to an amazing place. This card suggests the healing process. Feeling complete – a time of culmination. Accomplishment and fulfillment.  Travelling, a new home, a graduation, or the admiration of others (depending on the surrounding cards.)