Tarot is an ancient set of 78 mystical cards that has fascinated and intrigued mankind for centuries. Although many people treat it mainly as a divination tool, the truth is that these cards hide much deeper meanings and symbolism. They are a reflection of human life, experiences and archetypal patterns. Through their study we can explore ourselves, develop intuition and gain insight into the deepest recesses of our own psyche. Tarot is also an excellent tool for self-development and self-discovery. That's why it's worth learning the meaning of the various cards and understanding their symbolism.
Key elements of Tarot
Great arcana
The Great Arcana are the quintessential part of the tarot deck, being its most essential and powerful part. These 22 cards are archetypes, representing fundamental aspects of human life and experience. They represent both our inner transformations and the external events we go through on the path of development.
The Fool (0) begins this journey as an archetype of childlike innocence, spontaneity and openness to new experiences. It symbolizes a state of pure consciousness, free of preconceptions and limitations, entering a world full of possibilities.
The successive cards (I-XXI) are arranged in a sequence, presenting different stages of the human life experience. Each represents a different aspect of it - from birth and first steps (Mage), through motivations (Empress), temptations (Devil), trials (Tower), to purification (Final Judgment) and ultimate fulfillment (World).
The Great Arcana can be divided into three groups reflecting the three main spheres of existence:
The arcana of Reason (I-VII) - include cards related to the intellectual dimension of man, such as Mage, Priestess, Emperor. They symbolize initial ideas, willpower and action.
Arcana of the Soul (VIII-XIV) - here there are archetypes depicting our inner emotional and spiritual journey, such as: Justice, Hangedman, Temperance. They represent challenges on the path of development.
The arcana of Essence (XV-XXI) - the last group of cards (e.g. Devil, Tower, World) shows the climaxes and specific events that stand in the way of human life. These include both temptations and spectacular twists.
It is also worth noting the reversed position of the Great Arcana cards. Read "rev ersem" they often gain opposite, darker meanings, symbolizing the negative aspects of a given archetype. For example, the reversed Justice can signify corruption and injustice.
The complex symbolism and diversity of the Great Arcanes make them an extremely powerful and universal tool for self-discovery, developing intuition and exploring the essence of human existence. Each of these cards is a source of profound truths and lessons on the path of spiritual growth.
Small arcana
The Minor Arcana, consisting of 56 cards, complements and completes the picture outlined by the Major Arcana. They are divided into four groups related to the elements: Cups (Water), Coins (Earth), Bulls (Fire) and Swords (Air). Each of these groups symbolizes a different aspect of human experience and existence.
Cups represent the sphere of emotions, feelings, sensitivity and intuition. They are cards of love, friendship, creativity and deep inner experiences. Their element is Water, which reflects their fluid, changeable and delicate nature.
Coins are associated with the Earth element and embody the material, earthly dimension of life. They relate to finances, work, material security and all worldly possessions. They are solid, stable and practical.
The group of Taurus is co-created by the cards of energy, passion, action and ambition. The fiery element of the Bulls makes them feeders and motivators of goals. They also represent achievement and success.
Swords are intellect, analytical abilities, decision-making, but also obstacles and conflicts. This air element is responsible for the realm of the mind, communication and any mental and intellectual challenges.
Within each of these four groups are also cards referred to as courtly - King, Queen, Knight and Squire/Paw. They often symbolize specific people or archetypes of human attitudes and behavior. For example, the King is a mature person with authority and power. The Knight, on the other hand, represents a young, energetic man with a fiery temperament.
Thus, the Minor Arcana provide valuable details and context to the archetypal images of the Major Arcana. They allow an in-depth analysis of the various spheres of life, illuminating its various aspects. They enrich and complement interpretation, drawing on the deep symbolism associated with the elements. They are the key to a more complete reading of the message of Tarot cards.
Court cards
The court cards (King, Queen, Knight and Squire/Beast) within each group of Small Arcanas often symbolize specific people or archetypes of human attitudes and behavior. Here are their meanings:
King - represents a mature, balanced and wise person. He symbolizes authority, strength, success and a certain social position. In a negative sense, it can mean an arrogant and domineering person.
Queen - personifies a woman of high standing, with a strong psyche and charisma. The archetype of a mother, protector, advisor. She can also symbolize mystery, intuition and magic.
Knight - is a young, energetic man often identified with a lover or friend. His qualities are spontaneity, heroism, but also impulsiveness and lack of prudence.
Squire/Paw - represents a very young person - a child or teenager. It can herald upcoming news or indicate immaturity in a particular matter.
The art of card reading
Learning to read and interpret tarot cards is an arduous process that requires patience and practice. Here are the most important steps along the way:
- Choosing the right deck and preparing the space for divination - it is advisable to rely on intuition when choosing cards. The place should be quiet, atmospheric (candles, incense).
- An in-depth study of the meanings and symbolism of the cards - both their literal and more esoteric/archetypal meanings.
- Mastering different layouts and card weaves - there are hundreds of layouts for answering a variety of questions.
- Regular practice - it's worth keeping a tarot journal, reading cards for yourself and loved ones, exploring your intuition.
- Interpretation in context - the arranged cards should be read not only individually, but also in connection with the whole arrangement and the situation of the questioner.
- Continuous improvement of the workshop - learning to read tarot is an ongoing process, allowing you to improve your skills over time.
Thus, the art of tarot divination requires an open mind, a developed intuition and a willingness to explore one's psyche and human nature. For the initiated, these cards become an extraordinary key to understanding oneself and one's life. They allow one to discover deep truths, heal emotional wounds and walk one's own unique path. Tarot is therefore not only prophecies, but first of all a path of self-discovery and spiritual development.
Interesting topic! In my opinion, Tarot is a fascinating tool, but you need to approach it with detachment. It can help to analyze emotions and life situations, but let's not treat it as an oracle.
Remember that the interpretation of the cards is subjective. It's a great hobby and method of personal development, but it's no substitute for professional help with serious matters. The most important thing is to use common sense and critical thinking. What do you guys think about it?
