Introduction
Tarot cards are a powerful tool for self-discovery, spiritual growth, and divination. Each card in the deck has a unique meaning and symbolism, and can offer valuable insights into different aspects of life. However, for beginners, learning the meanings of all the cards can be overwhelming. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll break down the basics of what tarot cards really mean.
Understanding the Structure of Tarot Decks
Before diving into the meanings of individual cards, it’s important to understand the structure of tarot decks. Most tarot decks consist of 78 cards, divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each of which represents a major life lesson or spiritual theme. The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards, divided into four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles), each with 14 cards. The Minor Arcana represents the day-to-day challenges and experiences of life.
The Major Arcana Cards
The Major Arcana cards are often seen as the most important and powerful cards in the deck. They represent major life lessons, archetypes, and spiritual themes that we all encounter on our journey through life. Here are the meanings of the 22 Major Arcana cards:
0 – The Fool: New beginnings, taking a leap of faith
1 – The Magician: Manifestation, creativity, self-confidence
2 – The High Priestess: Intuition, inner wisdom, feminine power
3 – The Empress: Motherhood, nurturing, abundance
4 – The Emperor: Authority, structure, discipline
5 – The Hierophant: Tradition, religion, spirituality
6 – The Lovers: Love, relationships, harmony
7 – The Chariot: Victory, willpower, determination
8 – Strength: Inner strength, courage, resilience
9 – The Hermit: Solitude, introspection, wisdom
10 – The Wheel of Fortune: Change, cycles, destiny
11 – Justice: Balance, fairness, legal matters
12 – The Hanged Man: Surrender, sacrifice, letting go
13 – Death: Transformation, endings, new beginnings
14 – Temperance: Moderation, balance, harmony
15 – The Devil: Materialism, addiction, negative patterns
16 – The Tower: Change, upheaval, unexpected events
17 – The Star: Hope, inspiration, spirituality
18 – The Moon: Intuition, emotions, subconscious
19 – The Sun: Happiness, success, vitality
20 – Judgement: Rebirth, forgiveness, redemption
21 – The World: Completion, wholeness, fulfilment
The Minor Arcana Cards
The Minor Arcana cards represent the day-to-day challenges and experiences of life. They are divided into four suits, each with 14 cards representing different aspects of life:
Wands: Creativity, passion, energy
Cups: Emotions, relationships, intuition
Swords: Intellect, communication, conflict
Pentacles: Material possessions, career, finances
Each suit has four Court Cards (King, Queen, Knight, and Page) and ten Number Cards (Ace through 10), each with its own meaning and symbolism.
Interpreting Tarot Cards
While it’s helpful to know the basic meanings of each card, it’s important to remember that tarot readings are highly subjective and interpretive. A skilled tarot reader will be able to read the energy of the cards in relation to the person receiving the reading, and offer guidance and insight based on their unique situation and circumstances.
Using Tarot Cards for Self-Discovery and Personal Growth
One of the most powerful ways to use tarot cards is for self-discovery and personal growth. By using the cards to reflect on different aspects of your life, you can gain insight, clarity, and guidance. Some helpful practices for using tarot for self-discovery include journaling, meditation, and visualisation.
Choosing the Right Tarot Deck
There are countless tarot decks available on the market, each with its own unique artwork, symbolism, and energy. When choosing a deck, it’s important to find one that resonates with you and your personal style. You may want to consider the artwork, the theme of the deck, and the creator’s intentions when choosing a deck.
Learning to Read Tarot Cards
Learning to read tarot cards takes time, patience, and practice. While there are many books and online resources available to help you learn the meanings of the cards, the most important aspect of learning to read tarot is developing your intuition and trusting your instincts. Some helpful tips for learning to read tarot include practising regularly, keeping a tarot journal, and finding a community of other tarot readers to share your experiences with.
Common Misconceptions about Tarot Cards
There are many misconceptions and stereotypes about tarot cards and tarot card readers. Some people may believe that tarot readings are a form of fortune-telling or that they are associated with dark or negative energies. However, tarot is a tool for self-exploration and empowerment, and can be used to gain insights and clarity on a wide range of issues.
Ethics in Tarot Readings
Ethics are an important consideration for tarot readers, as they are offering guidance and advice to people who may be seeking help or direction. Some important ethical considerations include maintaining confidentiality, offering non-judgmental guidance, and being transparent about the limitations of tarot readings.
