Tarot: Major Arcana cards

The Major Arcana cards in Tarot embody the profound life lessons and archetypal themes that shape your spiritual path. These 22 cards, often called the Trump Cards, guide you through the journey of human consciousness and offer timeless insights into your soul’s growth and evolution.

Among them, the Fool takes center stage. Unnumbered yet crucial, the Fool represents the beginning of a transformative journey, weaving through the cards as he learns from new teachers, faces challenges, and gathers wisdom. His path, known as the Fool’s Journey, ends with the World card, symbolizing completion and enlightenment. This narrative serves as a framework for understanding the Major Arcana’s rich symbolism and meanings. More: Discover your true path with North Node

In a Tarot reading, drawing a Major Arcana card signals a moment of deep reflection. These cards highlight the significant life themes and lessons currently influencing your path. They often set the tone for the entire reading, offering a lens through which the other cards are interpreted.

When Major Arcana cards dominate a spread, it indicates that you are amidst life-changing events with lasting impact. This is a time to focus on key lessons and embrace growth. However, if many Major Arcana cards appear reversed, it might suggest resistance to these lessons. Take a step back, realign, and understand what the Universe is trying to teach you. The Major Arcana invites you to explore your inner world and align with your higher purpose—an adventure worth embracing. More: Tarot card guide: Key insights and methods

The Major Arcana card: What is their meaning?

The Fool

The Fool Tarot card captures the spirit of new adventures and untapped potential. On the card, a young man stands confidently at the edge of a cliff, gazing toward the sky and the Universe, unaware of the precipice below. He embodies innocence and curiosity, untouched by the challenges and complexities of life. Carrying only a small bundle, the Fool is unburdened by worry, ready to step boldly into the unknown.

In a reading, the Fool often signals the start of a fresh journey. His number, 0, represents infinite possibilities—a blank slate ready to be filled with experiences. He encourages you to embrace life with optimism, curiosity, and the willingness to take risks. The Fool reminds you to shed the weight of fear and trust that each step, even into uncertainty, leads to growth and discovery.

However, the Fool reversed carries a different message. It warns against reckless behavior and a lack of foresight. You may ignore potential dangers or act impulsively, putting yourself in risky situations. The reversed Fool asks you to pause, plan, and assess before leaping.

The card’s playful dog, seen in many depictions, serves as a reminder to stay alert to signs and warnings, especially when something seems too good to be true. The Fool teaches a delicate balance: embracing life’s unpredictability with joy while remaining mindful of the consequences of your actions. This card is a call to explore but with a watchful heart.

The Magician

The Magician card is marked by the number One. It signifies beginnings and boundless potential. Ruled by Mercury, the Magician bridges the spiritual and physical worlds. With one hand reaching toward the heavens and the other grounded to earth, he channels universal energy into tangible form, transforming ideas into reality. His white robe symbolizes purity, while his red cloak reflects wisdom gained through experience. Together, they embody the balance of inspiration and action.

This card serves as a powerful reminder: you possess all the tools and talents needed to pursue your goals. The Magician encourages confidence in your abilities, urging you to take initiative and harness your willpower to create the life you envision. When this card appears, it signals that now is the moment to act—whether in work, relationships, or personal growth. Bold choices made now could lead to transformative outcomes.

In reverse, the Magician warns of illusion and manipulation. It could represent someone in your life whose intentions are not what they seem or reflect your inner struggles, such as self-doubt or an obsession with control. This version of the card calls for introspection—reassess who and what influences your decisions and realign with authenticity.

The Magician teaches us that “as above, so below”—our outer world mirrors our inner beliefs. By mastering your inner potential, you can shape the reality you desire. Trust your power, but remain grounded and true to your values, especially when faced with challenges or temptations.

The High Priestess

The High Priestess sits gracefully before a veil adorned with pomegranates, symbolizing the gateway between the conscious and subconscious, the known and the mysterious. This veil protects sacred knowledge, granting access only to those who seek deeper understanding. The pomegranates represent fertility, abundance, and the divine feminine, echoing Persephone’s myth of transformation and return.

This card calls on you to embrace intuition and inner wisdom. When the High Priestess appears, she invites you to pause your search for external answers and tune in to your instincts. She reminds you that your subconscious holds the key to profound truths. Whether through meditation, spiritual exploration, or simply trusting your gut, this card encourages you to connect with the depths of your being.

Representing the divine feminine, the High Priestess embodies the mysteries of self-discovery, spirituality, and nature. She urges you to explore what lies beyond logic and intellect, diving into realms that may seem daunting but promise personal growth and transformation. Her night-time imagery speaks to this inner journey, where the answers to your questions are hidden within.

When reversed, the High Priestess signals a struggle to connect with your intuition. Perhaps you’re ignoring the subtle nudges of your inner voice, leading to confusion or misaligned actions. This is a call to recalibrate, to quiet your mind, and to trust your inner compass. By embracing self-reflection and asking the right questions, you can uncover a path that feels authentic to your soul’s truth.

The Emperor

The Emperor exudes authority, structure, and power. Sitting confidently on his stone throne adorned with ram heads—a nod to Aries, the zodiac of action and leadership—he symbolizes a grounded and determined energy. Clad in armor beneath his royal robes, The Emperor is both a protector and a ruler, ready to defend his domain while commanding respect. His scepter and orb represent his dominion over the physical and material world, as he rules with logic and discipline.

This card calls you to embrace structure and take responsibility for your life. The Emperor encourages you to create order out of chaos, establish boundaries, and set clear goals. His presence highlights the importance of strategy and stability, whether in your career, relationships, or personal growth. He is a reminder that with firm resolve and a plan, you can build a solid foundation for success.

The Emperor also represents a fatherly figure, offering guidance and protection. He values tradition and stability, urging you to rely on wisdom and experience to navigate challenges. However, when reversed, The Emperor warns of excessive control or rigidity. You may feel stifled by authority or struggle with an imbalance in power dynamics.

The reversed Emperor asks you to reassess your leadership style or relationship with control. Are you too domineering or, conversely, avoiding responsibility? Either way, it’s time to find harmony between discipline and flexibility. The Emperor invites you to embody strength and stability, leading with integrity and confidence in all areas of life.

The Hierophant

The Hierophant symbolizes tradition, spiritual wisdom, and moral authority. Seated between two pillars, he acts as a bridge between the divine and the earthly, offering guidance and structure to those seeking meaning. The crossed keys at his feet represent the unlocking of sacred knowledge, and the figures kneeling before him signify the passing of wisdom and teachings. More: Tarot card Hierophant: Meaning and experience

When The Hierophant appears, it encourages you to honor established traditions or seek guidance from a trusted mentor. Whether through religious practices, societal norms, or personal philosophies, this card highlights the importance of finding structure and support in your spiritual or intellectual journey. The Hierophant invites you to explore how collective wisdom can bring clarity and purpose.

Reversed, this card challenges blind adherence to tradition. It may signal a need to question outdated beliefs or explore alternative paths. Are you conforming to expectations that no longer serve you? The reversed Hierophant urges you to embrace individuality and redefine what guidance means for you.

The Lovers

The Lovers card celebrates union, harmony, and the deep connections we share with others and ourselves. Depicting two figures guided by a divine presence, this card reflects love, partnership, and alignment with your values. It represents a choice—one that must align with your true desires and principles.

The Lovers ask you to evaluate your relationships and decisions carefully. Are they in harmony with your higher self? Whether it’s a romantic connection, a friendship, or a personal decision, this card encourages you to embrace authenticity and trust the power of unity.

When reversed, The Lovers signal imbalance or disharmony. When The Lovers appears reversed, it often highlights disharmony or misalignment in relationships, values, or decisions. In relationships, this reversal can indicate a disconnect between partners—perhaps unmet needs, lack of communication, or diverging paths. It’s a call to reflect deeply on the state of your connection. Are you staying true to each other, or have external pressures created distance?

For those facing a decision, the reversed Lovers suggests internal conflict or hesitation. You may feel torn between your head and your heart, struggling to make a choice that feels authentic. It warns against decisions made out of obligation, guilt, or fear rather than genuine desire.

The Chariot

The Chariot embodies willpower, determination, and victory. A strong figure stands confidently in a chariot pulled by two sphinxes—one black, one white—symbolizing opposing forces that must be guided in harmony. The Chariot moves forward with control and focus, representing the power to overcome challenges and achieve success.

When The Chariot appears, it urges you to take control of your destiny. It’s a call to harness your ambition, direct your energy, and stay focused on your goals. Obstacles may arise, but with discipline and determination, you can overcome them and reach your destination.

Reversed, The Chariot warns of lost direction or lack of control. Are you letting external forces dictate your path? The reversed card asks you to regain focus and realign with your goals. Balance your drive with patience and steer your journey with purpose.

Strength

The Strength card speaks to the quiet power within you. A figure gently tames a lion, symbolizing inner courage, patience, and the ability to face challenges with compassion rather than force. Strength encourages you to trust your instincts and control impulsive reactions. It’s about balancing your primal urges with reason, finding harmony between raw emotion and intellect. When this card appears, it reminds you that true strength isn’t about domination but about endurance, empathy, and confidence. Lean into your inner resilience, and you’ll navigate obstacles gracefully.

When Strength appears reversed in a reading, it may indicate self-doubt, inner turmoil, or a lack of confidence. You might feel disconnected from your inner strength, leaving you vulnerable to fear or impulsive reactions. Instead of calmly facing challenges, you could be struggling to control your emotions or letting frustration get the better of you.

The reversed Strength card can also point to feeling overwhelmed by external pressures. You might feel as though you’re losing control or questioning your ability to handle the situation. It’s a reminder to trust in your inner resilience and find balance between force and compassion. This card may suggest the need to work on self-care and emotional healing.

The Hermit

The Hermit invites you to step away from the noise of daily life and retreat into introspection. A figure holding a lantern stands alone, symbolizing the quest for inner truth and guidance. This card calls for a period of self-reflection, asking you to seek wisdom within rather than relying on external influences. It encourages solitude, meditation, and spiritual growth. When The Hermit appears, it’s a reminder to pause, evaluate your journey, and reconnect with your deeper purpose.

The Hermit reversed often suggests isolation or avoidance. You might be retreating too much, cutting yourself off from others, or feeling lonely even when surrounded by people. This could be a time when you struggle to find clarity, feeling lost or stuck instead of enlightened.

Alternatively, the reversed Hermit may indicate that you’re resisting necessary introspection. Perhaps you’re afraid of confronting certain truths about yourself or hesitant to explore deeper personal issues. Avoiding self-reflection can keep you from growing and evolving. This card can also suggest being overly reliant on external advice or distractions instead of trusting your inner wisdom.

Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune reflects the ever-turning cycles of life. It signals a shift in circumstances, whether positive or challenging, urging you to embrace change with flexibility. This card reminds you that while life’s highs and lows are inevitable, your response defines your journey. Trust in the universe’s rhythm, and remember that every turn of the wheel brings new growth opportunities.

The reversed Wheel of Fortune suggests delays, setbacks, or a feeling that luck isn’t on your side. You might feel stuck in a cycle of misfortune or unable to break free from negative patterns. Life may seem unpredictable or out of control, leaving you frustrated by the lack of progress.

This card can also indicate resistance to change. You might be clinging to old habits, relationships, or situations, even when it’s clear that they no longer serve you. The reversed Wheel of Fortune reminds you that change is inevitable, and resisting it only prolongs the discomfort. On a deeper level, this card invites you to reflect on your role in your current situation.

Justice

Justice symbolizes fairness, truth, and the law of cause and effect. The figure holding scales and a sword reminds you that your actions have consequences. This card urges honesty, integrity, and accountability in all areas of life. When Justice appears, it asks you to assess whether your choices align with your values and invites you to take responsibility for your path.

When Justice appears reversed, it can indicate dishonesty, unfairness, or imbalance in a situation. You might be facing a lack of accountability—either from yourself or others. Perhaps someone is not owning up to their actions, or you might be struggling to take responsibility for your own decisions.

This card often highlights the consequences of avoiding the truth. You could be ignoring important facts or refusing to confront a situation that requires clarity and honesty. It may also point to biases or distorted perspectives that are clouding judgment. The reversed Justice card can signify legal or moral disputes where fairness seems absent.

The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man depicts surrender and a shift in perspective. A figure hangs upside down by one foot, not in distress, but in calm acceptance. This card encourages you to pause and release control, allowing new insights to emerge. Sometimes, progress comes from letting go of old patterns and seeing things from a different angle. When The Hanged Man appears, it’s a call to embrace stillness, reflect deeply, and trust that patience will lead to clarity and transformation.

The reversed Hanged Man suggests stagnation, resistance, or an unwillingness to let go. You may feel stuck in a situation where progress seems impossible, yet you resist the sacrifices needed to move forward. This card highlights an inner struggle to surrender control and embrace a new perspective.

You might be avoiding the lessons that come from pausing and reflecting. Instead of gaining insight, you could be rushing decisions or clinging to outdated beliefs. The reversed Hanged Man warns against impatience and urges you to reconsider your approach. This card can also signal indecision or procrastination, leaving you suspended in limbo.

Death

Despite its ominous name, the Death card represents transformation and renewal. A skeletal figure on horseback signifies the inevitable end of one chapter, clearing the way for growth and new opportunities. Death asks you to let go of what no longer serves you—be it habits, relationships, or outdated beliefs—and embrace change with courage. While endings can feel daunting, they make space for a fresh start. This card is a powerful reminder that rebirth often follows letting go.

The reversed Death card often signifies resistance to transformation or fear of letting go. You might be clinging to old habits, relationships, or situations that no longer serve your growth. This reluctance to embrace change can create stagnation, leaving you feeling stuck and unfulfilled. This card may also point to a prolonged ending or a situation that drags on longer than necessary. You could be avoiding necessary closure, and delaying the process of renewal that comes with letting go.

On an emotional level, reversed Death suggests unresolved fears or anxieties about the unknown. It encourages you to face these fears and recognize that endings are a natural part of life’s cycle. By releasing the past, you can create space for new beginnings and personal transformation. More: Understanding the Tarot card of Death: Insights from readings

Temperance

Temperance reflects the art of balance and moderation. An angel pours water between two cups, symbolizing the blending of opposites and finding harmony. This card encourages patience, self-control, and the ability to adapt. Temperance asks you to bring equilibrium to your life, whether it’s between work and rest, emotions and reason, or opposing forces. When it appears, it’s a reminder to approach life with calmness and an open heart, fostering a sense of unity within and around you.

Reversed Temperance often signals imbalance, excess, or a lack of harmony in your life. You may feel pulled in opposing directions, struggling to find a sense of calm or moderation. This card warns against extremes—whether it’s overindulgence, impatience, or neglecting self-care.

You might be rushing to achieve your goals without taking the necessary steps, leading to chaos or poor results. Alternatively, you could be trying too hard to control everything, leaving little room for natural flow and adjustment. The reversed Temperance card asks you to assess where your life feels out of sync.

The Devil

The Devil card represents the chains we place on ourselves, whether through unhealthy habits, relationships, or desires. A figure looms over two bound individuals, symbolizing the grip of temptation and illusions of entrapment. This card asks you to confront what holds you back and recognize that freedom is within reach if you choose to break those chains. When The Devil appears, it’s a call to examine areas where you may feel stuck and to reclaim your power by facing your fears and breaking free from self-imposed limitations.

When The Devil appears reversed, it suggests a chance to break free from limitations, addictions, or unhealthy patterns. You might be gaining awareness of what binds you—whether it’s toxic relationships, destructive habits, or inner fears—and beginning to reclaim your power.

However, this card can also highlight lingering doubts or resistance to fully letting go. You might feel overwhelmed by the process of change or uncertain about life without the things that have held you captive. The reversed Devil encourages you to confront these fears and trust in your ability to rise above them.

This card can also indicate that you’re ignoring red flags or minimizing the impact of negative influences. It’s a wake-up call to address these issues directly, take responsibility for your choices, and embrace the freedom that comes with letting go of what no longer serves you.

The Tower

The Tower signifies abrupt and transformative upheaval. Lightning strikes a towering structure, forcing its occupants to leap into the unknown. This card warns of unexpected disruptions or revelations that shake your foundation. While these moments may feel chaotic or destructive, they often clear the way for truth and growth. The Tower reminds you to embrace change, however unsettling, as it can ultimately lead to liberation and a more solid future.

The Tower reversed suggests resistance to change or an unwillingness to let go of unstable foundations. You might sense that something in your life is crumbling, but instead of addressing it, you’re clinging to the familiar out of fear. This resistance could lead to prolonged chaos or even greater upheaval in the future. More: Tower tarot card meaning

Alternatively, the reversed Tower can indicate that you’ve already experienced a significant shake-up and are now beginning to rebuild. The storm may have passed, but healing and growth require effort and reflection. In some cases, The Tower reversed warns of avoiding inevitable truths. You may need to face difficult realizations or break free from situations that no longer serve you.

The Star

The Star brings a sense of healing, inspiration, and guidance. A serene figure pours water into a pool and onto the land, symbolizing renewal and balance. This card appears when you need hope after hardship, offering reassurance that the universe supports your journey. The Star encourages you to trust your intuition, dream big, and nurture your spirit. It’s a sign that brighter days lie ahead, filled with clarity and optimism.

When The Star appears reversed in a reading, it signals a loss of faith or diminished hope. You might feel disconnected from your goals or uncertain about the future, as though the guiding light you once followed is now obscured. Doubts and negativity could be clouding your vision, making it difficult to see the possibilities ahead.

This card may also suggest feelings of self-doubt or low confidence. You might be questioning your abilities or the path you’ve chosen, leading to a sense of stagnation. It’s essential to reconnect with your inner strength and trust that brighter days are possible, even if they feel distant right now. On a deeper level, The Star reversed encourages self-care and introspection.

The Moon

The Moon illuminates the mysterious and unseen. A moonlit path winds through a dreamlike landscape, representing the subconscious and hidden truths. This card asks you to trust your instincts while navigating uncertainty or deception. The Moon often signals a time when things aren’t as they seem, urging you to uncover deeper layers of meaning. It’s a reminder to embrace intuition and let it guide you through the shadows toward clarity.

When the Moon appears reversed, it often signals confusion and inner struggles. You might feel stuck, wanting to move forward but unsure of the right path. Anxiety and fear could be clouding your judgment, creating a sense of unease. It’s time to confront these shadows and believe in your ability to overcome them.

This card can also suggest you’re beginning to untangle the fears and illusions that have held you back. You may find clarity as you address these challenges, leading to a sense of freedom and transformation. However, it’s important not to push emotions aside or bury them too deeply. Avoiding your feelings may bring temporary relief but will eventually require attention.

The Sun

The Sun radiates warmth, success, and positivity. A child rides a white horse under a brilliant sun, symbolizing innocence and happiness. This card celebrates clarity, accomplishment, and the pure joy of being alive. When The Sun appears, it’s a sign that your efforts will bear fruit and that confidence and positivity will light your path. It encourages you to bask in the present moment, knowing that you’re on the right track to fulfillment and harmony.

When reversed, the Sun suggests you may struggle to see the bright side in some situations. Challenges or setbacks could feel overwhelming, making it hard to feel confident or energized. It might feel like the warmth and light you need to move forward are just out of reach, leaving you frustrated or uncertain.

Alternatively, the reversed Sun might signal that you’re viewing things through an overly optimistic lens. You could be ignoring important details or being unrealistic about certain situations. Take a step back and reassess to ensure you’re grounded and moving in the right direction.

This card invites you to find balance—acknowledge difficulties without letting them overshadow your potential and temper optimism with practicality. With a clear view, you can regain your confidence, rediscover your energy, and steer your efforts toward lasting success. The light is still there; you just need to refocus to see it.

Judgement

Judgement signifies a powerful moment of self-evaluation and awakening. The card often depicts figures rising from coffins as an angel sounds a trumpet, symbolizing renewal and the call to a higher purpose. This card encourages you to reflect on your past choices and actions, not with guilt but with an understanding of how they’ve shaped your present. It’s a time for letting go of old judgments, forgiving yourself and others, and embracing transformation. Judgement calls you to align with your higher self, preparing you for a new chapter filled with clarity and purpose.

The reversed Judgement card suggests you may be overly critical of yourself, creating self-doubt and holding back from seizing new opportunities. This self-judgment can stall your progress, making it harder to move forward. Instead of letting doubt take over, you need to step forward with confidence and embrace the chances ahead.

Another perspective on the reversed Judgement card is the need for introspection. It’s a reminder to pause and reflect on your life journey so far, recognizing the lessons you’ve learned. You might be too caught up in your daily routine to fully process your experiences. Without this time for reflection, it can be challenging to gain the clarity needed for growth and progress.

The World

The World represents fulfillment, wholeness, and the successful completion of a significant journey. A figure dances within a wreath, symbolizing the harmony of opposites and the cycle of life. This card appears when you’ve achieved a major milestone or come full circle in a life phase. It celebrates the integration of lessons learned and the balance you’ve cultivated. The World urges you to enjoy this moment of accomplishment while also recognizing it as the gateway to new beginnings. It’s a sign that you’re in alignment with the universe and ready to embrace all the opportunities ahead.

The reversed World card suggests a need for closure. Perhaps you’re clinging to the past—an old relationship, a former self, or an unfulfilled dream. Letting go is difficult but necessary to embrace the present. Take time to reflect through journaling, therapy, or other tools to release emotional ties and move forward.

This card may also point to taking shortcuts toward a goal. While quick solutions might seem appealing, they often leave you unsatisfied. True fulfillment comes from embracing the process and its challenges. Face these trials, grow from them, and discover the deeper sense of achievement waiting for you at the journey’s end. More: Learn about Paganism and Pagan gods