The Order of Major Arcana Tarot Cards: A Comprehensive Guide

For centuries, the Tarot has been used as a powerful tool for divination and self-discovery. Within the Tarot deck, there are 78 cards that are divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. In this blog post, we will focus exclusively on the order of the Major Arcana cards and explore their meanings and symbolism.

What is the Major Arcana?

The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards that are considered the foundation of the Tarot deck. These cards represent significant life lessons, archetypal energies, and spiritual growth. When these cards appear in a reading, they often indicate major life events or transformations.

To truly understand the order of the Major Arcana cards, it is important to recognize that they tell a story. Each card builds upon the themes and lessons of the previous ones, creating a coherent and profound narrative. Let’s explore the order of the Major Arcana cards below:

The Fool (0)

The journey of the Major Arcana begins with The Fool. This card represents new beginnings, spontaneity, and fearless exploration. The Fool sets off on his journey, stepping into the unknown, and embarking on the path of self-discovery.

The Magician (I)

Following The Fool is The Magician, a card that symbolizes manifestation and personal power. The Magician uses the elements and tools available to him to create his desired reality. This card reminds us of the power we hold within ourselves to shape our destinies.

The High Priestess (II)

The third card in the Major Arcana is The High Priestess. She represents intuition, wisdom, and the mysteries of the subconscious. The High Priestess teaches us to trust our inner voice and explore the depths of our psyche.

The Empress (III)

Next in line is The Empress, a card that embodies femininity, abundance, and nurturing energy. This card signifies creative potential and the birth of new ideas or projects. The Empress reminds us to connect with our senses and appreciate the beauty of the world around us.

The Emperor (IV)

Following The Empress is The Emperor, representing authority, leadership, and structure. The Emperor symbolizes the need for order and organization. This card encourages us to take control of our lives and establish clear boundaries and rules.

The Hierophant (V)

The Hierophant follows The Emperor and represents tradition, spirituality, and wisdom. This card embodies the teachings of established institutions and encourages adherence to cultural norms and beliefs. The Hierophant reminds us to seek guidance from respected authorities or mentors.

The Lovers (VI)

The Lovers, the next card in the sequence, represents love, relationships, and harmony. This card symbolizes the choices and decisions we make based on our hearts’ desires. The Lovers remind us to follow our passions and form meaningful connections with others.

The Chariot (VII)

The Chariot represents willpower, determination, and victory. This card symbolizes the need to take control of our lives and overcome obstacles through focused action. The Chariot reminds us that we have the strength and determination to achieve our goals.

Strength (VIII)

Following The Chariot is Strength, a card that embodies inner strength, resilience, and compassion. This card reminds us to find courage and harmony within ourselves when facing challenges. Strength encourages us to face our fears with love and empathy.

The Hermit (IX)

The Hermit represents introspection, solitude, and inner guidance. This card signifies the need for self-reflection and taking time to withdraw from the noise of the world. The Hermit reminds us to seek inner wisdom and listen to our inner voice.

Wheel of Fortune (X)

The Wheel of Fortune stands for destiny, luck, and cycles of life. This card reminds us of the ever-changing nature of existence and the uncertainty that accompanies it. The Wheel of Fortune encourages us to embrace the highs and lows of life and find balance within the constant flux.

Justice (XI)

Following the Wheel of Fortune is Justice, representing fairness, balance, and impartiality. This card symbolizes the consequences of our actions and the need for equitable decision-making. Justice reminds us to apply reason and objectivity in our pursuits.

The Hanged Man (XII)

The Hanged Man stands for surrender, suspension, and letting go. This card urges us to relinquish control and adopt a new perspective. The Hanged Man reminds us that pause and sacrifice can lead to a newfound understanding and growth.

Death (XIII)

Next in line is the card of Death, representing endings, transformation, and rebirth. This card signifies the inevitable cycle of life and the need to embrace change. Death reminds us that from every ending comes a new beginning.

Temperance (XIV)

Following Death is Temperance, symbolizing balance, moderation, and harmony. This card encourages us to find equilibrium in all aspects of our lives and integrate opposing forces. Temperance reminds us to approach challenges with patience and moderation.

The Devil (XV)

The Devil represents materialism, temptation, and self-imposed limitations. This card symbolizes the chains that hold us back from realizing our true potential. The Devil reminds us to release unhealthy attachments and break free from self-imposed restrictions.

The Tower (XVI)

The Tower signifies sudden change, upheaval, and revelation. This card represents moments of crisis that lead to personal transformation and growth. The Tower reminds us that sometimes we need to dismantle existing structures to build a stronger foundation.

The Star (XVII)

The Star represents hope, inspiration, and spiritual guidance. This card signifies a renewed sense of purpose and faith in the future. The Star reminds us to trust the Universe and follow our dreams.

The Moon (XVIII)

Following The Star is The Moon, embodying intuition, unconsciousness, and mysteries. This card represents the path to self-discovery and navigating through our deepest emotions and fears. The Moon encourages us to embrace the unknown and trust our instincts.

The Sun (XIX)

The Sun signifies joy, vitality, and enlightenment. This card radiates positivity and represents a period of growth and success. The Sun reminds us to embrace life’s simple pleasures and bask in the happiness that surrounds us.

Judgement (XX)

Judgement represents self-reflection, transformation, and spiritual awakening. This card symbolizes a time of reckoning and the need for self-evaluation. Judgement reminds us to let go of the past and embrace our true selves.

The World (XXI)

The World is the final card in the Major Arcana and represents completion, fulfillment, and wholeness. This card signifies a sense of unity with oneself and the world at large. The World reminds us that we have successfully accomplished a cycle and are ready to embark on a new journey.

Conclusion

The order of the Major Arcana cards holds a profound narrative that reflects the complexities and lessons of life. As we journey through the various archetypal energies and themes of the Major Arcana, we gain insight into our own personal growth and spiritual development. Whether we seek guidance from the Tarot for divination purposes or utilize it as a tool for self-reflection, understanding the order of the Major Arcana cards can deepen our connection with these powerful symbols and unlock their transformative potential.