Can You Read Tarot with Only Major Arcana?

When it comes to tarot, most people are familiar with the 78-card deck consisting of the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana, often referred to as the “trump cards,” are a set of 22 highly symbolic cards that represent significant life events and archetypes. The Minor Arcana, on the other hand, consists of 56 cards divided into four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles) and represents more everyday aspects of life. While both the Major and Minor Arcana are commonly used in tarot readings, some believe that one can attain deep insight and guidance by solely using the Major Arcana. In this blog post, we will explore the question, can you read tarot with only Major Arcana?

The Significance of the Major Arcana

The Major Arcana cards carry significant weight in tarot readings. Each card is rich in symbolism and represents a powerful archetype or life event. For instance, the Fool card signifies new beginnings and taking risks, while the Death card represents transformation and rebirth. These cards delve into profound and transformative experiences that are often seen as milestones or turning points. In a tarot reading, the Major Arcana cards can provide insights into the larger themes and spiritual lessons in one’s life journey.

The Benefits of Using Only Major Arcana

While tarot readings typically involve both the Major and Minor Arcana, some tarot practitioners argue that using the Major Arcana alone can be highly effective and insightful. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Simplicity and Focus

By removing the Minor Arcana cards from the deck, the reader can simplify the reading, allowing for more focused and in-depth exploration of the key issues at hand. Without the distractions of the everyday aspects of life represented by the Minor Arcana, the Major Arcana can offer a more profound exploration of the larger themes and energies surrounding the querent.

2. Archetypal Depth

The Major Arcana cards are deeply rooted in archetypal symbolism, drawing on universal themes and experiences. When conducting a reading with only the Major Arcana, the reader can tap into the collective unconscious and connect with the archetypal energies that resonate with the querent’s situation. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the underlying forces at play and provide profound insights into the querent’s journey.

3. Spiritual Transformation

The Major Arcana cards are often associated with spiritual growth and transformation. By focusing on these cards exclusively, a reader can delve into the spiritual aspects of the querent’s journey and provide guidance on their path towards personal enlightenment and self-discovery. This approach can be particularly beneficial for individuals who seek spiritual guidance or are navigating significant life transitions.

Challenges of Using Only Major Arcana

While reading tarot with only the Major Arcana offers unique benefits, it is essential to acknowledge the potential challenges that come with this approach. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Limited Scope

By removing the Minor Arcana from the deck, the reader may miss out on insights into practical matters and day-to-day issues that the querent may be facing. The Minor Arcana provides guidance on relationships, work, finances, and other aspects of life that are important to consider when seeking a holistic reading. Ignoring these elements may result in a skewed or incomplete interpretation.

2. Nuanced Interpretations

The Minor Arcana cards often provide nuanced interpretations and detailed insights into specific situations. While the Major Arcana offers broader themes and archetypal energies, the Minor Arcana can shed light on the finer details and specific actions required to navigate a given situation. Leaving out these cards may limit the reader’s ability to provide specific guidance or advice.

3. Contextual Understanding

The Major Arcana cards derive their meaning from the context in which they appear in a reading. By excluding the Minor Arcana, a reader may miss out on the interplay between the different suits and their interactions. The Minor Arcana can provide valuable clues and additional layers of meaning that enrich the reading and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the querent’s situation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it is possible to read tarot with only the Major Arcana, it is crucial to recognize the limitations and considerations that come with this approach. The Major Arcana offers profound insights into significant life events and archetypal energies, allowing for deep spiritual exploration and transformation. However, it is essential not to overlook the practical aspects of life represented by the Minor Arcana. Ultimately, whether you choose to read with only the Major Arcana or incorporate both the Major and Minor Arcana, the most important factor is to approach the cards with reverence, intuition, and an open heart.