Major & Minor Arcana: Symbolism and Interpretation

Tarot decks hold a wealth of meaning, divided into two primary sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. Each card carries symbols, archetypes, and narratives that offer insight into different aspects of life, emotions, and personal journeys. Understanding their significance strengthens interpretation and deepens connections to readings.

The Major Arcana: Life’s Defining Moments

The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards representing major themes and transformative experiences. Each card embodies universal lessons, reflecting personal growth, challenges, and revelations.

Key Symbolism of the Major Arcana

• The Fool (0) – New beginnings, spontaneity, trust in the unknown.
• The Magician (I) – Manifestation, resourcefulness, untapped potential.
• The High Priestess (II) – Intuition, subconscious wisdom, hidden truths.
• The Empress (III) – Nurturing, abundance, creative energy.
• The Emperor (IV) – Structure, authority, discipline.
• The Hierophant (V) – Tradition, spiritual guidance, learning from mentors.
• The Lovers (VI) – Relationships, choices, alignment of values.
• The Chariot (VII) – Determination, willpower, controlled progress.
• Strength (VIII) – Inner fortitude, patience, self-mastery.
• The Hermit (IX) – Solitude, self-reflection, seeking inner guidance.
• Wheel of Fortune (X) – Cycles, destiny, changes in fate.
• Justice (XI) – Truth, fairness, karmic balance.
• The Hanged Man (XII) – Surrender, new perspectives, spiritual insight.
• Death (XIII) – Endings, transformation, letting go for renewal.
• Temperance (XIV) – Harmony, moderation, patience.
• The Devil (XV) – Temptation, materialism, self-imposed restrictions.
• The Tower (XVI) – Sudden upheaval, breaking illusions, necessary change.
• The Star (XVII) – Hope, inspiration, renewal.
• The Moon (XVIII) – Illusions, subconscious fears, intuition.
• The Sun (XIX) – Joy, vitality, clarity.
• Judgment (XX) – Awakening, self-evaluation, personal reckoning.
• The World (XXI) – Completion, fulfillment, achieving a cycle.

Each of these cards presents an overarching lesson, shaping personal growth and shifts in perspective.

The Minor Arcana: Daily Experiences and Practical Insights

The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards across four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. These cards represent everyday situations, emotional states, and practical matters.

Wands (Fire) – Passion, Action, Ambition

• Ace of Wands – Inspiration, new opportunities, creative sparks.
• Two of Wands – Planning, decision-making, potential expansion.
• Three of Wands – Progress, foresight, long-term vision.
• Four of Wands – Celebration, stability, milestone achievements.
• Five of Wands – Competition, conflict, challenges.
• Six of Wands – Recognition, victory, personal achievement.
• Seven of Wands – Defending beliefs, perseverance, standing ground.
• Eight of Wands – Swift movement, rapid progress, momentum.
• Nine of Wands – Resilience, endurance, near completion.
• Ten of Wands – Burdens, responsibility, overwhelming obligations.
• Page of Wands – Enthusiasm, exploration, new adventures.
• Knight of Wands – Bold action, impulsiveness, energetic pursuits.
• Queen of Wands – Confidence, charisma, determination.
• King of Wands – Leadership, vision, authority.

Cups (Water) – Emotions, Relationships, Intuition

• Ace of Cups – New emotional experiences, love, creative inspiration.
• Two of Cups – Partnership, mutual connection, harmony.
• Three of Cups – Friendship, community, joyful gatherings.
• Four of Cups – Contemplation, dissatisfaction, re-evaluation.
• Five of Cups – Loss, regret, emotional setbacks.
• Six of Cups – Nostalgia, childhood memories, past connections.
• Seven of Cups – Choices, illusions, fantasy.
• Eight of Cups – Walking away, seeking deeper meaning, transition.
• Nine of Cups – Emotional fulfillment, satisfaction, wishes granted.
• Ten of Cups – Harmony, happiness, lasting relationships.
• Page of Cups – Creative ideas, emotional openness, curiosity.
• Knight of Cups – Romantic gestures, idealism, emotional exploration.
• Queen of Cups – Compassion, deep intuition, nurturing energy.
• King of Cups – Emotional balance, wisdom, leadership through empathy.

Swords (Air) – Intellect, Challenges, Communication

• Ace of Swords – Clarity, breakthroughs, intellectual power.
• Two of Swords – Difficult choices, indecision, seeking balance.
• Three of Swords – Heartbreak, sorrow, emotional pain.
• Four of Swords – Rest, recovery, mental recuperation.
• Five of Swords – Conflict, self-interest, hollow victory.
• Six of Swords – Transition, moving forward, relief.
• Seven of Swords – Strategy, deception, hidden motives.
• Eight of Swords – Feeling trapped, limiting beliefs, mental blocks.
• Nine of Swords – Anxiety, worry, sleepless nights.
• Ten of Swords – Endings, betrayal, hitting rock bottom.
• Page of Swords – Curiosity, learning, youthful intellect.
• Knight of Swords – Swift action, determination, mental agility.
• Queen of Swords – Truth, independence, clear-minded decisions.
• King of Swords – Authority, wisdom, strategic thinking.

Pentacles (Earth) – Material Aspects, Career, Stability

• Ace of Pentacles – New financial opportunities, prosperity, growth.
• Two of Pentacles – Balance, adaptability, financial decisions.
• Three of Pentacles – Collaboration, teamwork, craftsmanship.
• Four of Pentacles – Security, holding onto resources, stability.
• Five of Pentacles – Financial struggle, hardship, feeling left out.
• Six of Pentacles – Generosity, giving and receiving, financial support.
• Seven of Pentacles – Patience, long-term investment, reassessment.
• Eight of Pentacles – Skill-building, dedication, craftsmanship.
• Nine of Pentacles – Independence, self-sufficiency, luxury.
• Ten of Pentacles – Wealth, legacy, long-term success.
• Page of Pentacles – Learning, ambition, financial beginnings.
• Knight of Pentacles – Hard work, diligence, methodical planning.
• Queen of Pentacles – Practicality, nurturing energy, resourcefulness.
• King of Pentacles – Wealth, leadership, financial mastery.

Interpreting the Cards in Readings

• Major Arcana cards indicate larger life lessons and defining moments.
• Minor Arcana cards reflect daily situations and shifting emotions.
• Suits bring depth, highlighting passion (Wands), emotions (Cups), intellect (Swords), and material matters (Pentacles).
• Card positions matter, influencing their meaning in spreads like the Celtic Cross or three-card draws.
• Reversals offer contrast, shifting emphasis or revealing hidden aspects.

Understanding these cards strengthens interpretation, bringing clarity to readings and self-reflection. The interplay between the Major and Minor Arcana tells a dynamic story, guiding insight into challenges, choices, and personal evolution.