Jessica Verge is the Content Manager at Purple Garden. Her professional writing career spans nearly 20 years and countless topics, but her true passion lies in new age spirituality and divination. Through her writing, Jessica aims to demystify esoteric subjects as practical advice for everyday life.
Stepping into the world of Tarot feels like unlocking a timeless treasure chest of symbols, stories, and insights. Each card in a Tarot deck holds its own message, carefully crafted through imagery, color, and symbolism. For centuries, people have turned to these cards as tools for reflection, spiritual growth, and answers to life’s most significant questions.
From the soul-searching journey of the Major Arcana to the practical wisdom of the Minor Arcana, Tarot cards offer a complete system for understanding life’s complexities—whether you’re seeking clarity about relationships, career moves, or personal transformation. These cards act like a mirror, reflecting your thoughts, feelings, and the pathways available to you.
Tarot cards are a deck of 78 cards divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana (22 cards) and the Minor Arcana (56 cards). Each card weaves a story representing key aspects of human experience, from daily challenges to profound spiritual lessons.
The Major Arcana symbolizes life’s bigger themes and milestones. Its story is often referred to as the Fool’s Journey, a metaphor for personal growth in which the Fool (the seeker) moves through life’s transformative stages.
The Minor Arcana, on the other hand, focuses on everyday experiences and is divided into four suits:
Wands: Creativity, passion, and inspiration.
Cups: Emotions, relationships, and intuition.
Swords: Thoughts, challenges, and decisions.
Pentacles: Material matters, finances, and resources.
Together, these cards form a dynamic system for guidance, helping you navigate life’s ups and downs.
Most Popular Tarot Decks
With hundreds of Tarot decks available, each brings its own unique style and interpretation. The Rider-Waite-Smith Deck, created in 1909, remains the most influential, featuring detailed imagery and rich symbolism that set the standard for modern Tarot readings. For those drawn to traditional designs, the Marseille Tarot offers a minimalist, classic look rooted in European symbolism, while the Thoth Tarot, designed by Aleister Crowley, incorporates deep occult and astrological themes.
Contemporary decks like The Wild Unknown and Light Seer’s Tarot reimagine traditional cards with modern artistry, offering fresh perspectives that resonate with today’s readers. Whether you prefer historic symbolism or modern interpretations, choosing a deck that speaks to your intuition and style can enhance your connection to the Tarot.
List of Cards in Major Arcana
The Major Arcana is the heart of the Tarot deck, representing significant themes, milestones, and spiritual lessons in life. These 22 cards tell the story of the Fool’s Journey—a metaphor for personal growth and transformation. Let’s explore each card and its meaning:
The Fool Tarot Card
The Fool is the first card of the Major Arcana (numbered 0) and represents new beginnings, innocence, and spontaneity. The image shows a young person stepping off a cliff, reminding us to trust our instincts and take bold leaps of faith.
The Magician Tarot Card
The Magician symbolizes manifestation, power, and skilled action, featuring a figure with one hand pointing to the sky and one to the earth. This card reminds you that you have all the tools needed to manifest your desires and transform your reality.
The High Priestess Tarot Card
The High Priestess represents intuition, mystery, and inner knowledge. She is depicted as a serene figure between two pillars. She encourages you to trust your inner voice and explore your subconscious mind.
The Empress Tarot Card
The Empress embodies nurturing, abundance, and fertility. She is shown as a magnificent figure in a lush garden. She represents the creative force of nature and reminds us to embrace our nurturing side.
The Emperor Tarot Card
The Emperor represents authority, structure, and stability, depicted as a stern figure on a stone throne. This card suggests establishing order and taking control of your situation through practical leadership.
The Hierophant Tarot Card
The Hierophant symbolizes tradition, spiritual guidance, and conventional wisdom, shown as a religious figure. This card appears when you need to consider traditional approaches or seek advice from a mentor.
The Lovers Tarot Card
The Lovers represent choice, partnership, and harmony, showing two figures in a garden. This card speaks of essential decisions, especially in relationships, and the need to align your choices with your values.
The Chariot Tarot Card
The Chariot represents determination, willpower, and victory. It is depicted as a figure in a vehicle drawn by sphinxes. This card suggests forward movement and overcoming obstacles through focus and determination.
Strength Tarot Card
Strength represents inner power, courage, and patience. It is shown as a figure gently closing a lion’s mouth. This card reminds you that strength comes from gentle persistence rather than brute force.
The Hermit Tarot Card
The Hermit represents introspection, inner guidance, and solitude. It is depicted as a robed figure holding a lantern. This card suggests taking time for self-reflection and seeking wisdom through contemplation.
The Wheel of Fortune Tarot Card
The Wheel of Fortune symbolizes cycles, destiny, and turning points, as shown by a great wheel surrounded by mystical figures. This card indicates that change is coming and reminds you that good and challenging times are part of life’s natural cycles.
Justice Tarot Card
Justice represents fairness, truth, and cause and effect, depicted as a figure with scales and a sword. This card appears when you need to make crucial decisions or when karma is at work in your life.
The Hanged Man Tarot Card
The Hanged Man, shown as a figure suspended upside down, represents surrender, letting go, and new perspectives. This card suggests that pausing and viewing things from a different angle can lead to enlightenment.
Death Tarot Card
Death represents transformation, endings, and new beginnings, depicted as a skeletal figure on horseback. This card indicates profound change and the need to relinquish what no longer serves you.
Temperance Tarot Card
Temperance represents balance, moderation, and harmony, as shown by an angel mixing waters between cups. This card suggests finding a middle ground and bringing different elements of your life into harmony.
The Devil Tarot Card
The Devil represents bondage, materialism, and the shadow self. It is depicted as a horned figure with chained figures below. This card reveals where you might feel trapped or bound by material concerns and unhealthy patterns.
The Tower Tarot Card
The Tower represents sudden change, upheaval, and revelation, as shown in a lightning-struck tower with figures falling. This card indicates dramatic changes that, while potentially tricky, clear the way for something better.
The Star Tarot Card
The Star represents hope, inspiration, and renewal. It is depicted as a figure pouring water under a starlit sky. This card brings a message of healing and optimism after difficult times.
The Moon Tarot Card
The Moon represents intuition, illusion, and the subconscious, as a moon faces above a path between towers. This card suggests trusting your intuition while navigating through uncertain or confusing times.
The Sun Tarot Card
The Sun represents joy, success, and vitality, depicted as a radiant sun, often with a child on a white horse. This card brings messages of happiness, achievement, and positive outcomes.
Judgement Tarot Card
Judgment represents awakening, renewal, and reckoning, shown as figures rising from graves at the trumpet sound. This card suggests a time of personal awakening and answering a higher calling.
The World Tarot Card
The World, the final card of the Major Arcana, signifies completion, accomplishment, and integration. A figure dancing within a wreath represents achieving goals and the successful end of a cycle.
List of Cards in Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana focuses on the practical, everyday aspects of life and is divided into four suits—Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit explores a different dimension of human experience:
Ace of Wands Tarot Card
The Ace of Wands represents a spark of inspiration and new creative beginnings. This card appears when you’re about to embark on an exciting new venture filled with potential and enthusiasm.
Two of Wands Tarot Card
The Two of Wands shows a figure holding a globe, representing planning and future possibilities. This card suggests you’re at a crossroads, contemplating your next move while holding the world in your hands.
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Three of Wands Tarot Card
The Three of Wands depicts a figure watching ships sail away, symbolizing expansion and foresight. You’re seeing the first results of your efforts and planning for future growth.
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Four of Wands Tarot Card
The Four of Wands shows a celebration under a floral archway, representing stability and celebration. This card appears when it’s time to celebrate achievements and enjoy moments of harmony.
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Five of Wands Tarot Card
The Five of Wands depicts figures in playful combat, representing competition and conflict. This card suggests facing challenges that require you to assert yourself and stand your ground.
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Six of Wands Tarot Card
The Six of Wands shows a victorious rider on horseback, representing triumph and recognition. Your hard work is about to pay off with public acknowledgment and success.
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Seven of Wands Tarot Card
The Seven of Wands depicts a figure defending their position from below, representing defensiveness and conviction. You’re standing up for your beliefs and defending what you’ve achieved.
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Eight of Wands Tarot Card
The Eight of Wands shows eight staff flying through the air, representing swift action and movement. Things are about to speed up, with news and opportunities coming your way quickly.
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Nine of Wands Tarot Card
The Nine of Wands shows a wounded but steadfast figure, representing resilience and persistence. You’ve been through challenges but have the strength to persist.
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Ten of Wands Tarot Card
The Ten of Wands depicts a figure carrying a heavy burden, representing responsibility and overwhelm. You might need to take on more responsibility or feel weighed down by obligations.
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Page of Wands Tarot Card
The Page of Wands represents enthusiasm, exploration, and new ideas. This card brings messages of exciting opportunities and creative inspiration.
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Knight of Wands Tarot card
The Knight of Wands shows an enthusiastic knight charging forward, representing action and adventure. This card suggests taking bold action and enthusiastically pursuing your passions.
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Queen of Wands Tarot Card
The Queen of Wands represents confidence, determination, and social charm. She encourages you to embrace your charismatic nature and lead warmly and enthusiastically.
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King of Wands Tarot Card
The King of Wands represents inspired leadership and bold vision. This card suggests taking charge of your situation with creativity and charisma.
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Ace of Cups Tarot Card
The Ace of Cups represents emotional beginnings and spiritual love. This card heralds new relationships, emotional breakthroughs, or spiritual connections.
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Two of Cups Tarot Card
The Two of Cups shows two figures exchanging cups, representing partnership and mutual attraction. This card suggests harmonious relationships and emotional connections.
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Three of Cups Tarot Card
The Three of Cups shows three figures celebrating together, representing friendship and celebration. This card appears when it’s time to enjoy the company of others and celebrate life’s pleasures.
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Four of Cups Tarot Card
The Four of Cups depicts a figure contemplating three cups while a fourth is offered, representing contemplation and discontent. You might be overlooking opportunities due to dissatisfaction.
Five of Cups Tarot Card
The Five of Cups shows a figure mourning spilled cups while others remain standing, representing loss and regret. This card reminds you to acknowledge losses while recognizing what remains.
Six of Cups Tarot Card
The Six of Cups shows children exchanging flowers, representing nostalgia and innocence. This card suggests revisiting memories or reconnecting with old friends.
Seven of Cups Tarot Card
The Seven of Cups shows various images floating in cups, representing choices and fantasy. You’re faced with many options but need to distinguish reality from illusion.
Eight of Cups Tarot Card
The Eight of Cups shows a figure walking away from cups, representing withdrawal and seeking more. It’s time to leave behind what no longer fulfills you and seek more profound meaning.
Nine of Cups Tarot Card
The Nine of Cups shows a satisfied figure with cups arranged in an arc, representing wishes and contentment. This card suggests emotional satisfaction and fulfilled wishes.
Ten of Cups Tarot Card
The Ten of Cups shows a happy family under a rainbow, representing harmony and happiness. This card represents emotional fulfillment and domestic bliss.
Page of Cups Tarot Card
The Page of Cups represents creativity, intuition, and new emotional experiences. This card brings messages of love and creative inspiration.
Knight of Cups Tarot Card
The Knight of Cups shows a romantic knight offering a cup, representing romance and charm. This card suggests pursuing emotional quests and following your heart.
Queen of Cups Tarot Card
The Queen of Cups represents emotional intelligence and intuition. She encourages you to trust your feelings and nurture others with compassion.
King of Cups Tarot Card
The King of Cups represents emotional maturity and wisdom. This card suggests mastering your emotions while remaining kind and diplomatic.
Ace of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Ace of Pentacles represents new material beginnings and opportunities. This card heralds new financial opportunities or practical ventures.
Two of Pentacle’s Tarot Card
The Two of Pentacles shows a figure juggling two coins, representing balance and adaptability. You’re managing multiple responsibilities and need to maintain flexibility.
Three of Pentacle’s Tarot Card
The Three of Pentacles shows artisans collaborating, representing teamwork and skill. This card suggests working together to create something of lasting value.
Four of Pentacle’s Tarot Card
The Four of Pentacles shows a figure holding coins tightly, representing security and possession. You might need to have more tightly to material security or resources.
Five of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Five of Pentacles shows figures in hardship passing a church window, representing material challenges. This card suggests temporary hardship but reminds you that help is available.
Six of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Six of Pentacles shows a figure giving to others, representing generosity and sharing. This card suggests giving or receiving help with grace.
Seven of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Seven of Pentacles shows a figure contemplating their harvest, representing assessment and patience. It’s time to evaluate your progress and plan your next steps.
Eight of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Eight of Pentacles shows a craftsman, representing skill development and dedication. This card suggests focusing on developing your skills and mastering your craft.
Nine of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Nine of Pentacles shows a well-dressed figure in a garden, representing self-sufficiency and abundance. Through your efforts, you’ve achieved material comfort.
Ten of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Ten of Pentacles shows a wealthy family scene, representing legacy and wealth. This card represents lasting abundance and financial security.
Page of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Page of Pentacles represents study, curiosity, and manifestation. This card brings messages about practical opportunities and learning.
Knight of Pentacles Tarot card
The Knight of Pentacles shows a cautious knight, representing reliability and hard work. This card suggests steady progress and careful planning.
Queen of Pentacles Tarot Card
The Queen of Pentacles represents nurturing abundance and practical wisdom. She encourages you to create material security while caring for others.
King of Pentacles Tarot Card
The King of Pentacles represents material success and business acumen. This card suggests mastering the material world with reliability and wisdom.
Ace of Swords Tarot Card
The Ace of Swords represents mental clarity and breakthrough ideas. This card heralds new insights and cognitive breakthroughs.
Two of Swords Tarot Card
The Two of Swords shows a blindfolded figure with crossed swords, representing difficult decisions. You’re facing a choice that requires careful thought and balance.
Three of Swords Tarot Card
The Three of Swords shows a heart pierced by three swords, representing heartbreak and sorrow. This card suggests facing emotional pain with courage.
Four of Swords Tarot Card
The Four of Swords shows a resting knight, representing rest and recovery. It’s time to take a break and restore your mental energy.
Five of Swords Tarot Card
The Five of Swords shows a figure collecting abandoned swords, representing conflict and defeat. This card suggests picking your battles wisely.
Six of Swords Tarot Card
The Six of Swords shows figures crossing water in a boat, representing transition and moving forward. You’re leaving difficulties behind for calmer waters.
Seven of Swords Tarot Card
The Seven of Swords shows a figure sneaking away with swords, representing strategy and deception. This card suggests being strategic but ethical in your actions.
Eight of Swords Tarot Card
The Eight of Swords shows a bound figure surrounded by swords, representing restriction and imprisonment. Although you might feel trapped, freedom is possible through mental clarity.
Nine of Swords Tarot Card
The Nine of Swords shows a figure sitting in bed, representing anxiety and worry. This card suggests facing your fears and finding ways to calm your mind.
Ten of Swords Tarot Card
The Ten of Swords shows a figure pierced by ten swords, representing painful endings and rock bottom. This card suggests that renewal is coming, while an ending might be painful.
Page of Swords Tarot Card
The Page of Swords represents curiosity, communication, and new ideas. This card brings messages about intellectual pursuits and truth-seeking.
Knight of Swords Tarot Card
The Knight of Swords shows a charging knight, representing swift action and intellect. This card suggests pursuing goals with determination and mental clarity.
Queen of Swords Tarot Card
The Queen of Swords represents clear thinking and direct communication. She encourages you to speak your truth with wisdom and clarity.
King of Swords Tarot Card
The King of Swords represents intellectual power and authority. This card suggests making decisions with logic and ethical leadership.
How to Use Minor Arcana and Major Arcana Cards
The Major Arcana and Minor Arcana work together to create a complete story in Tarot readings. The Major Arcana highlights significant life events, spiritual lessons, and turning points, while the Minor Arcana focuses on the practical, everyday aspects of your experiences.
When a Major Arcana card appears, it signals a major theme or transformation that requires attention, pointing to the why behind your current situation. The Minor Arcana, on the other hand, provides details about the how—your actions, emotions, and challenges. Together, they offer both big-picture insights and practical steps forward.
To use them effectively:
Focus on the Major Arcana: These cards reveal key life lessons or significant influences.
Add Context with the Minor Arcana: These cards help clarify daily events, emotions, or next steps.
Connect the Story: Look at how the cards interact—Major Arcana shows the “big picture,” while Minor Arcana adds the details.
Tarot cards offer a powerful tool for self-reflection, guidance, and understanding life’s journey. The Major Arcana reveals overarching themes and spiritual lessons, while the Minor Arcana provides practical insights into everyday experiences. Together, they create a complete system that can help you navigate challenges, uncover opportunities, and connect with your intuition.
As you explore the meanings of the Tarot, trust your instincts and allow the cards to speak to you. While traditional interpretations provide a foundation, your unique perspective brings the cards to life. Remember, Tarot is not about predicting the future but about empowering you to make choices and gain clarity on your path.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned reader, the wisdom of the Tarot can be a guiding light, helping you unlock a deeper understanding and embrace life’s unfolding story.
Jessica Verge is the Content Manager at Purple Garden. Her professional writing career spans nearly 20 years and countless topics, but her true passion lies in new age spirituality and divination. Through her writing, Jessica aims to demystify esoteric subjects as practical advice for everyday life.
