The Major Arcana Cards List: A Detailed Guide to Tarot’s Most Powerful Symbols

When it comes to tarot card reading, the Major Arcana cards hold immense significance. Comprising the first 22 cards of the tarot deck, the Major Arcana represents the journey of the Fool, a symbolic figure who traverses the ups and downs of life, learning profound lessons along the way. Each Major Arcana card holds its own unique symbolism and energy, playing a crucial role in divination and self-reflection. In this extensive guide, we will explore each card in the Major Arcana and unravel the mysteries they hold.

0. The Fool

The Fool is the starting point of the Major Arcana, representing new beginnings, adventurous spirit, and boundless potential. Depicted as a young man stepping off a cliff, the Fool carries a small bag of belongings and a white rose, symbolizing purity and enthusiasm. This card encourages us to embrace uncertainty and take risks, reminding us that every journey starts with a single step.

1. The Magician

The Magician signifies power, will, and manifestation. Depicted as a charming figure surrounded by the four elements – earth, air, fire, and water – the Magician harnesses his resources to manifest his desires. With one hand pointing to the sky and the other to the ground, this card represents the connection between the spiritual and material planes. The Magician reminds us that we possess the power to shape our reality through focused intention and skillful action.

2. The High Priestess

The High Priestess embodies intuition, wisdom, and the unconscious mind. Depicted as a serene woman sitting between two pillars, she guards the hidden knowledge and secrets of the universe. The moon adorns her crown, representing the ebb and flow of emotions. The High Priestess invites us to trust our instincts, explore the depths of our psyche, and tap into our spiritual truth.

3. The Empress

The Empress symbolizes femininity, abundance, and nurturing energy. Surrounded by lush greenery and sitting on a throne, she represents fertility and the creative forces of nature. The Empress card encourages us to connect with our nurturing side, embrace our sensuality, and cultivate a harmonious relationship with the natural world.

4. The Emperor

The Emperor portrays authority, stability, and leadership. Sitting on a throne adorned with ram heads, the Emperor embodies power, structure, and rationality. This card represents our ability to take control of our lives, establish boundaries, and create a solid foundation. The Emperor reminds us to tap into our inner strength and use our rational mind to guide our actions.

5. The Hierophant

The Hierophant signifies tradition, spirituality, and religious beliefs. Depicted as a religious figure with an air of wisdom, he represents organized religion and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. The keys in his hand symbolize unlocking hidden truths. The Hierophant encourages us to seek spiritual guidance, honor our traditions, and find meaning in our connection to something greater than ourselves.

6. The Lovers

The Lovers card represents love, choices, and partnerships. Depicted as a man and a woman standing beneath an angel, they symbolize the power of love and its transformative nature. This card reminds us to make choices guided by our heart, seek balance in our relationships, and embrace the unity of body, mind, and soul.

7. The Chariot

The Chariot signifies willpower, determination, and triumph. Drawn by two horses in opposite directions, representing our internal conflicts, the Chariot holds the reins firmly in his hands, representing control and direction. This card reminds us to harness our conflicting energies, stay focused on our goals, and overcome obstacles through sheer determination.

8. Strength

Strength embodies courage, inner strength, and resilience. Depicted as a woman gently taming a lion, this card emphasizes the power of gentleness and emotional intelligence. Strength encourages us to confront our fears, master our impulses, and find harmony between our instinctual and rational selves.

9. The Hermit

The Hermit symbolizes introspection, solitude, and personal growth. Depicted as an elderly man holding a lantern, the Hermit reflects on his inner wisdom and guides others with his light. This card encourages us to seek solitude to find answers within, cultivate self-awareness, and embrace the wisdom gained through introspection.

10. Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune represents destiny, change, and cycles of life. Depicted as a wheel with various creatures and symbols, this card reminds us that life is constantly in a state of flux. It encourages us to embrace change, understand the cyclical nature of existence, and find balance amidst life’s ups and downs.

11. Justice

Justice symbolizes fairness, truth, and the law. Depicted as a woman holding scales, she represents the impartial distribution of justice. This card reminds us to seek truth, make decisions based on fairness and integrity, and take responsibility for our actions. Justice encourages us to find harmony between our desires and the universal moral principles.

12. The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man signifies surrender, suspension, and letting go. Depicted as a man hanging upside down from a tree, this card challenges our perspective and invites us to pause and reflect. The Hanged Man encourages us to release our resistance, find new insights by changing our viewpoint, and trust in the divine timing of life.

13. Death

Death represents transformation, rebirth, and letting go of the old. Depicted as a skeleton with a scythe, this card reminds us that change is inevitable and necessary for growth. Death encourages us to release attachments, embrace the natural cycles of life, and make way for new beginnings.

14. Temperance

Temperance symbolizes balance, moderation, and harmony. Depicted as an angel pouring water between two cups, this card embodies the art of blending contrasting elements. Temperance invites us to adapt to changing circumstances, find harmony between our desires and responsibilities, and cultivate patience and moderation in all areas of life.

15. The Devil

The Devil signifies materialism, addiction, and unhealthy attachments. Depicted as a devil figure with two enslaved humans, this card represents the shadow aspects of ourselves. The Devil reminds us to examine our desires, confront our inner demons, and free ourselves from unhealthy patterns and self-imposed limitations.

16. The Tower

The Tower represents sudden change, upheaval, and awakening. Depicted as a tower struck by lightning, this card symbolizes the destruction of outdated structures, beliefs, and illusions. The Tower encourages us to embrace change, no matter how unexpected or uncomfortable, and rebuild our lives on a stronger, more authentic foundation.

17. The Star

The Star signifies hope, inspiration, and spiritual guidance. Depicted as a cosmic figure pouring water into a pond, this card represents healing, renewal, and optimism. The Star reminds us to connect with our higher selves, trust the journey ahead, and seek guidance from the divine.

18. The Moon

The Moon represents intuition, emotions, and the subconscious mind. Depicted as a moon shining down on a path between two towers, this card invites us to explore the mysterious depths of our psyche and embrace our intuition. The Moon reminds us to trust our instincts, navigate through uncertainty, and find clarity in the shadows.

19. The Sun

The Sun signifies joy, vitality, and fulfillment. Depicted as a radiant sun shining on a blissful child, this card represents positivity, abundance, and success. The Sun card encourages us to embrace our true selves, live authentically, and find joy in even the simplest of pleasures.

20. Judgment

Judgment symbolizes awakening, self-evaluation, and spiritual rebirth. Depicted as an angel blowing a trumpet, this card represents a call to awaken to our true potential. Judgment encourages us to reflect on our past actions, release judgment of others and ourselves, and embrace a new, enlightened way of living.

21. The World

The World signifies completion, wholeness, and fulfillment. Depicted as a dancing figure surrounded by a laurel wreath, this card represents the culmination of a journey and the attainment of a goal. The World card encourages us to celebrate our achievements, embrace our inner wisdom, and live in harmony with ourselves and the universe.

As you can see from the Major Arcana cards list, each card carries its own profound symbolism and energetic influence. Understanding these cards and their meanings can lend insight, guidance, and clarity to your journey through life. Whether you are a seasoned tarot reader or just starting your exploration of the tarot, the Major Arcana offers a rich tapestry of archetypal energies to unravel.

Remember, the interpretations of the Major Arcana cards are subjective, and it takes time and practice to develop a deep connection with their messages. Allow your intuition to guide you as you explore the profound wisdom contained within the Major Arcana cards, and may their symbols illuminate your path to self-discovery and personal growth.