The Major and Minor Arcana
Tarot decks are divided into two main parts: the Major and Minor Arcana. This article explores the differences between these two sections, their unique characteristics and meanings, and their roles in tarot readings.
Major Arcana
Basic Characteristics
The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, numbered from 0 to 21. Each card in the Major Arcana serves as a metaphor for life’s major events, spiritual lessons, and psychological archetypes. These cards are often considered the most powerful and significant in a tarot reading.
Examples of Cards and Their Symbolism
- 0 – The Fool: Represents new beginnings, innocence, and a childlike curiosity.
- 1 – The Magician: Stands for skill, self-confidence, and manifestation.
- 21 – The World: Symbolizes completion, wholeness, and harmony.
Usage in Tarot Readings
In tarot spreads, the cards of the Major Arcana symbolize significant life events, deep insights, and karmic lessons that the individual is facing. They speak of changes, personal development, and life paths.
All Major Arcana Cards
Minor Arcana
Basic Characteristics
The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards divided into four suits: Cups, Swords, Wands, and Pentacles. Each suit has 14 cards: ten numbered cards and four court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, King).
Symbolism and Meaning
- Cups: Represent emotions, relationships, and intuition.
- Swords: Symbolize thoughts, words, and conflicts.
- Wands: Stand for energy, passion, and creation.
- Pentacles: Relate to material aspects, career, and physical health.
Usage in Tarot Readings
The cards of the Minor Arcana deal more with the everyday events and practical aspects of life. They provide detailed guidance and assistance to navigate through daily challenges and decisions.
Cups
Swords
Wands
Pentacles
Differences Between the Major and Minor Arcana
Emphasis on Life’s Aspects
The Major Arcana focuses on larger life themes and universal human experiences, while the Minor Arcana deals with the more everyday and practical aspects of life.
Usage and Interpretation Methods
In a tarot reading, the Major Arcana usually indicates larger and more significant events or life changes, while the Minor Arcana provides insight into daily details and closer circumstances.
Some Examples of Tarot Cards
Articles in "Tarot for beginners"
- Why do tarot?
- The History of Tarot Cards
- The Rider-Waite Tarot Deck
- The Major And Minor Arcana (This article)
- Tarot Card Spread And Reading
- The Meaning of Position
- Intuition
- Self-reflection
- Spirituality
- Tarot and esotericism
Related:
General interpretation without a question, 3 cards. Interpret your homemade 3-card spread and gain insights into your past, present, and future. This tool is ideal for introspection and personal reflection.
Advanced interpretation with a question, 3 cards. Use this tool to interpret your own 3-card spread from home with a specific question. This allows you to gain more detailed and specific insights into your past, present, and future, making the interpretation deeper and more personally relevant.