What are the 12 Tarot Cards?

When it comes to divination and spiritual guidance, tarot cards have been a popular tool for centuries. The tarot deck is composed of 78 cards, each holding its unique symbolism and meaning. Within this deck, there are 22 major arcana cards and 56 minor arcana cards. Today, we will focus on the 12 tarot cards that make up the major arcana.

The Major Arcana

The major arcana is often considered the heart and soul of the tarot deck. These cards represent the significant life events, major archetypes, and spiritual lessons we encounter on our journey. Out of the 22 major arcana cards, the following 12 are particularly influential:

The Fool (0)

The Fool is the card of new beginnings, unlimited potential, and taking risks without fear. Symbolized by a carefree young person, often accompanied by a loyal animal companion, the Fool reminds us to trust in our instincts and embrace the unknown. It signifies the start of a new journey and urges us to embrace life’s adventures with an open mind.

The Magician (I)

The Magician embodies the power of manifestation, creativity, and transformation. This card signifies our ability to harness the energy around us and turn our dreams into reality. It represents the connection between the spiritual and material worlds, urging us to take action and use our skills to achieve our goals.

The High Priestess (II)

Inspiring intuition, wisdom, and mystery, the High Priestess represents the divine feminine and the subconscious mind. She signifies the hidden knowledge within ourselves and encourages us to look within for answers. This card urges us to trust our instincts and embrace our inner voice.

The Empress (III)

Symbolizing femininity, abundance, and nurturing, the Empress embodies fertility and creativity. This card represents the power of nature and the love and support we receive from the important women in our lives. It encourages us to connect with our nurturing side and embrace the beauty in the world around us.

The Emperor (IV)

Opposite to the Empress, the Emperor represents authority, structure, and leadership. This card stands for the ability to create order, set boundaries, and take control of our lives. It signifies the importance of discipline and the ability to take on responsibility.

The Hierophant (V)

The Hierophant represents tradition, spirituality, and education. This card signifies the guidance and wisdom we can find in institutions and spiritual leaders. It reminds us to honor our traditions and seek higher knowledge, either through formal education or personal growth.

The Lovers (VI)

The Lovers card embodies love, relationships, and choices. It represents the duality of human existence and the importance of finding harmony within ourselves and others. This card urges us to make decisions based on our values and emotional well-being.

The Chariot (VII)

Symbolizing determination, control, and progress, the Chariot represents our ability to overcome challenges and achieve victory. This card encourages us to harness our inner strength and align our conscious and subconscious minds. It signifies the need for focused action and willpower.

Strength (VIII)

Strength symbolizes inner strength, courage, and resilience. This card represents our ability to face adversity with confidence and grace. It encourages us to embrace our personal power and use it to overcome challenges and obstacles on our path.

The Hermit (IX)

The Hermit embodies reflection, introspection, and solitude. This card signifies the importance of withdrawing from the outside world to find inner guidance and seek spiritual enlightenment. It urges us to take the time for self-discovery and embrace solitude as a means of growth and self-improvement.

Wheel of Fortune (X)

Symbolizing destiny, change, and cycles, the Wheel of Fortune represents the constant ebbs and flows of life. This card reminds us that change is a natural part of existence and encourages us to surrender to the flow of the universe. It signifies the importance of seizing opportunities and embracing the changes that come our way.

Justice (XI)

Justice embodies fairness, balance, and truth. This card represents the consequences of our actions and encourages us to act justly and honorably. It signifies the need for honesty, objectivity, and taking responsibility for our choices.

The Hanged Man (XII)

The Hanged Man represents surrender, release, and new perspectives. This card symbolizes the need to let go of control and surrender to the transformative powers of life. It urges us to see things from a different angle and break free from self-imposed limitations.

In Conclusion

These 12 tarot cards, part of the major arcana, hold great significance and offer valuable guidance in various aspects of life. From the Fool’s call for new beginnings to the Hanged Man’s invitation to let go, understanding these cards’ meanings can provide deep insights into our personal journeys.

When consulting tarot cards, it’s essential to remember that they are tools for self-reflection and guidance, not fortune-telling devices. By exploring the symbolism and messages behind these cards, we can tap into our intuition, gain clarity, and make informed decisions as we navigate life’s twists and turns.