Exploring the Tarot's Major and Minor Arcana is a fascinating tool for self-knowledge and reflections. Ever since I had my first contact with the cards, I realized that they are much more than simple images; they are a reflection of our subconscious, showing our desires, fears and potentials.
In the Tarot, the Arcana play a fundamental role. While the Major Arcana deal with significant and archetypal lessons in life, the Minor Arcana reflect the nuances of everyday life. Together, they create a powerful narrative that can guide us through times of uncertainty and change.
Let's understand more about this powerful tool and how it can help us on our personal journey.
Origin of the Tarot
The origin of the Tarot dates back to the 15th century, when the first cards appeared in Europe as part of a card game. The Tarot, as we know it today, began to consolidate in the 18th century, when mystics and occultists began to explore its symbolic depths and relate them to traditions of divination.
In the beginning, the Tarot cards were considered a means of connecting with the divine, a resource for accessing higher wisdom and, in a way, predicting the future.
Over time, various systems and interpretations have emerged, each bringing its own specificities and approaches to how the cards can help us understand ourselves and the world around us.
The Tarot has also taken root in different cultures, incorporating elements of numerology, astrology and psychology. The connection between the cards and humanity's collective archetypes makes them even more powerful.
Every time I do a reading, I feel like I'm accessing timeless knowledge that goes beyond my own understanding. This incredible combination of meanings and symbolisms makes the Tarot a fantastic tool for self-knowledge.
What are the Arcana?
The Arcana are the cards that make up the Tarot, and they are divided into two main categories: Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. This division is fundamental for understanding the depth and complexity of the Tarot readings.
The Major Arcana, which consist of 22 cards, represent significant lessons and themes in life. They reflect the universal experiences we all face, such as love, death, transformation, wisdom, among many others.
In contrast, the Minor Arcana, which total 56 cards, are more related to everyday life and momentary events. They help us navigate life's small situations, offering practical advice and insights into how to deal with daily challenges.
When performing a reading, the presence of a Major Arcana usually indicates that a matter of great importance is at stake, while a Minor Arcana brings details that complement this broader narrative.
Before we move on to the next topic, you might like to get to know the Tarot of the 7 Sacred Weeks, a practice I've developed over many years, a special Tarot reading that offers a guide for the year ahead.
The Major Arcana
The Major Arcana are the backbone of the Tarot, made up of 22 cards that represent profound lessons and universal experiences. Each one carries a rich and multifaceted symbolism, reflecting aspects of the human journey. Each of the 22 Major Arcana presents, from its essence, a range of at least 52 meanings.
Let's summarize the essence of each of these cards, in order, by clarifying that in most decks The Fool is considered to be Arcanum 0; and in a few decks, it is considered to be the Arcanum 22:
- 1. The Fool (0): represents new beginnings, freedom and unlimited potential. It is the card of the adventurer, the free spirit who throws himself into life without fear of the consequences;
- 2. The Magician (I): symbolizes manifestation and ability. The Magician reminds us that we have the power to create our reality through intention and action;
- 3. The Priestess (II): refers to intuition and hidden knowledge. She represents inner wisdom and the connection with the unconscious;
- 4. The Empress (III): the figure of fertility and abundance. She represents creativity, love and nourishment, symbolizing the strength of femininity;
- 5. The Emperor (IV): symbolizes structure, authority and leadership. The Emperor is the figure who brings order and control, setting rules and limits;
- 6. The Hierophant or The Pope (V): represents tradition, spirituality and institutions. He is the guide who connects the divine to the mundane, bringing teachings;
- 7. The Lovers (VI): talks about relationships and choices. The Lovers emphasize the importance of love and meaningful connections, as well as the need to make conscious choices;
- 8. The Chariot (VII): represents willpower and determination. It is the card of movement and conquest, symbolizing victory over challenges;
- 9. The Justice (VIII): symbolizes balance and truth. The Justice teaches us about the importance of moral choices and the consequences they bring;
- 10. The Hermit (IX): symbolizes introspection and spiritual quest. The Hermit invites us to look inwards in search of wisdom and self-knowledge;
- 11. The Wheel of Fortune (X): represents the cycles of life, luck and destiny. The Wheel of Fortune reminds us that everything is constantly changing and that we must be open to what life brings us;
- 12. The Strength (XI): refers to courage and compassion. The Strength teaches us that true strength comes from within, from controlling our emotions and from kindness;
- 13. The Hanged Man (XII): symbolizes detachment and sacrifice. The Hanged Man teaches us that, in order to move forward, we need to leave behind what holds us back, making room for a transformation;
- 14. The Death (XIII): represents transformation and new beginnings. Although often misinterpreted, this card talks about the need to let go of what no longer serves so that something new can emerge;
- 15. The Temperance (XIV): talks about balance, moderation and harmony. The Temperance encourages us to seek middle ground and inner peace;
- 16. The Devil (XV): refers to temptations, vices and limitations. This card warns us about what imprisons us and prevents us from evolving;
- 17. The Tower (XVI): represents sudden change and revelations. The Tower indicates that a structure or belief may be destroyed to make way for a new perspective;
- 18. The Star (XVII): symbolizes hope, inspiration and renewal. The Star reminds us that even in difficulties, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel;
- 19. The Moon (XVIII): refers to intuition, illusions and fears. The Moon can indicate confusion or uncertainty, but it also invites us to explore our inner world;
- 20. The Sun (XIX): represents success, joy and vitality. The Sun is a card of optimism, bringing light and clarity after a period of darkness;
- 21. The Judgement (XX): symbolizes renewal, forgiveness and evaluation. The Judgement invites us to reflect on our choices and seek a new path;
- 22. The World (XXI): represents fulfillment, completion and plenitude. The World indicates that a cycle has been completed and that new beginnings are ahead.
Each of these cards offers a unique perspective on our life's journey and the lessons we must learn along the way.
When they appear in a reading, the Major Arcana often indicate significant moments, transformative events or important lessons that have a profound impact on a person's life.
Understanding the meaning of each Tarot card and how they relate to each other can enrich our practice and provide a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
It's always a pleasure to share such information and to see how the cards can light up people's paths!
The Minor Arcana
While the Major Arcana deal with the great lessons of life, the Minor Arcana are more focused on everyday situations and experiences.
Made up of 56 cards, the Minor Arcana are divided into four suits: Hearts, Clubs, Spades and Diamonds. Each suit brings a unique perspective on different aspects of life, as I explain below:
- Hearts: represent emotions, relationships and connections. They reflect our emotional life and the experiences we have in love and social interactions;
- Clubs: associated with the fire element, they symbolize action, passion and inspiration. The Clubs cards encourage us to follow our creative impulses and pursue our passions;
- Spades: represent the mind, communication and decisions. They reflect the mental challenges and conflicts we face, often addressing themes of struggle and overcoming;
- Diamonds: related to the earth element, they deal with issues of material security, health and work. These cards help us to understand our relationship with the physical world and the practical concerns of everyday life.
Within each suit, there are 10 numbered cards and 4 court cards (Jack, Knight, Queen and King). Each of these cards has specific meanings that help us deal with everyday situations.
For example, the Five of Hearts can indicate loss and mourning, while the Three of Clubs can represent planning and expansion.
The Minor Arcana are important for understanding the nuances of life. They complement the messages of the Major Arcana, offering practical advice and insights on how to deal with everyday difficulties.
When they appear in a reading, they can bring clarity and guidance about the little things that together form the big picture of our existence.
The interaction between the Major and Minor Arcana
The interaction between the Major and Minor Arcana is a fascinating aspect of the Tarot.
In a reading, the presence of a Major Arcana can highlight a central theme or an important lesson that the person is experiencing. On the other hand, the Minor Arcana offer details and nuances that help to place this experience in context.
For example, if a Major Arcana such as The Empress appears next to the Two of Hearts, this could indicate a period of emotional growth and creativity in relationships.
The Empress brings a message of abundance and nourishment, while the Two of Hearts talks about partnerships and harmony. Together, these cards offer a deeper insight into a person's emotional life.
On the other hand, if a Minor Arcana such as the Five of Spades appears with The Death, this could suggest that the transformation that is taking place may be linked to conflicts and misunderstandings.
The reading becomes richer and more informative, allowing the reader and the person who is consulting to better understand the situation and what needs to be worked on.
Thus, the combination of the Arcana enables a unique narrative that guides and illuminates the issues faced, helping to find clarity and direction.
The Tarot as a tool for self-knowledge
In my experience as a Tarot reader, one of the most powerful things the Tarot can offer is self-knowledge.
The cards act as a mirror that reflects our subconscious, allowing us to access our inner wisdom and make decisions that are more in line with our true selves.
When working with the Arcana, I realize that clients often bring questions that go beyond external circumstances. They seek to understand their inner fears, desires and patterns of behavior.
The Tarot helps to illuminate these dark areas, revealing insights into who we are and what we really want.
The cards encourage us to look inwards and consider not only what is happening around us, but also what it means for us on a more profound level.
For example, by taking The Moon, a card that represents illusion and uncertainty, I can ask: "Is there any fear or insecurity preventing you from moving forward?" This can open up a rich and transformative dialogue.
In this way, the Tarot transcends the old view of being just a game of fortune telling, and now occupies an important place as a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth.
Schedule your Tarot session today
The Tarot's Major and Minor Arcana guide us on our life journey, offering deep insights into challenges and opportunities.
The Tarot is a powerful tool for self-knowledge that invites us to explore our present, past and future, revealing hidden truths and boosting our personal growth.
If you're seeking clarity in your life, I invite you to schedule a Tarot reading remotely with me. With over 40 years' experience in the holistic and esoteric field, I can help you find answers and better understand your life journey!
May the Light of Love be the guide of all paths, at all times, in all circumstances, with all the people. And may Love foster Peace!