What Cards Are in a Tarot Deck?

When it comes to tarot readings, the cards play a central role in unveiling the mysteries of the past, present, and future. A traditional tarot deck consists of 78 cards, each with its own symbolic imagery and meaning. These cards are divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. In this blog post, we will explore the significance and characteristics of each type of card in a tarot deck.

The Major Arcana

The Major Arcana comprises 22 cards, often considered the most powerful and significant cards in the tarot deck. Each card represents an archetype, a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Let’s take a closer look at the individual cards of the Major Arcana:

Note: The table above represents the first three cards of the Major Arcana. There are 19 more cards in this category, each with its own significance and symbolism.

As you can see, each card in the Major Arcana relates to a different aspect of life, personality trait, or spiritual concept. It is important to view these cards in the context of a spread and interpret them in relation to one another.

The Minor Arcana

The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards and is divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit represents a specific area of life and carries its own symbolic elements and meanings. Here’s a breakdown of the suits and their corresponding attributes:

• Cups: Emotions, relationships, intuition
• Pentacles: Material wealth, career, abundance
• Swords: Intellect, conflict, decision-making
• Wands: Creativity, passion, ambition

Within each suit, there are 14 cards, numbered from Ace to Ten, followed by four court cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King. The numbered cards represent different levels or stages of the suit’s theme, while the court cards symbolize different personalities or roles.

The Minor Arcana cards reflect the day-to-day experiences, challenges, and opportunities that shape our lives. When combined with the Major Arcana cards, they provide a detailed and nuanced understanding of a situation or issue being explored through a tarot reading.

Selecting the Right Tarot Deck

With the growing popularity of tarot readings, countless tarot deck variations have emerged. While the traditional symbolism remains consistent, the imagery and artistic style of different decks may vary greatly. When choosing a tarot deck, it’s essential to find one that resonates with you.

Consider exploring different decks and artists to find a visual representation that speaks to your intuition and personal aesthetic. Whether you prefer classic designs or more contemporary interpretations, selecting a deck that aligns with your energy will enhance your tarot reading experience.

Conclusion

A tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana’s 22 cards represent archetypal energies and profound life lessons, while the Minor Arcana’s 56 cards explore everyday life experiences through its four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. By understanding the significance of each card and suit, you can unravel the secrets of a tarot reading and gain deeper insights into your past, present, and future.

Remember, the tarot is not about predicting the future with certainty, but rather about gaining guidance, self-reflection, and a better understanding of the energies surrounding you. Embrace the journey, trust your intuition, and let the cards guide you toward greater wisdom and self-discovery.