Introduction: What Is the Major Arcana?
The Major Arcana is the heart and soul of any tarot deck. Comprising 22 powerful cards, it represents the core stages of the spiritual journey known as the Fool’s Journey—from innocence and potential to wisdom and completion. Each card embodies deep symbolic meanings and life lessons that guide tarot readings in profound ways.
Whether you’re just learning tarot or deepening your practice, understanding the Major Arcana gives you insight into your soul’s path and the larger forces at play in your life.
A Quick Look at All 22 Major Arcana Cards
- The Fool
- The Magician
- The High Priestess
- The Empress
- The Emperor
- The Hierophant
- The Lovers
- The Chariot
- Strength
- The Hermit
- Wheel of Fortune
- Justice
- The Hanged Man
- Death
- Temperance
- The Devil
- The Tower
- The Star
- The Moon
- The Sun
- Judgement
- The World
Each card marks a key milestone in the Fool’s Journey—a symbolic exploration of human growth, consciousness, and destiny.
The History Behind the Major Arcana
Originating from 15th-century Europe, tarot cards were initially used for playing games. Over time, mystics and occultists recognized the deeper archetypal symbolism within the Major Arcana. Influential figures like Eliphas Levi and Arthur Edward Waite (of Rider-Waite fame) helped transform the tarot into a divinatory tool.
The Major Arcana evolved to reflect universal truths, psychological archetypes (à la Carl Jung), and spiritual wisdom that transcends cultures.
Major Arcana Symbolism & Meaning
Unlike the Minor Arcana (which focuses on daily life events), the Major Arcana represents major life themes such as:
- Transformation (Death)
- Self-discovery (The Hermit)
- Inner strength (Strength)
- Awakening (Judgement)
- New beginnings (The Fool)
These cards often point to turning points, soul lessons, or karmic cycles unfolding in the querent’s life.
Upright vs. Reversed Meanings
Every tarot card can be interpreted in both upright and reversed positions:
- Upright: The card expresses its energy fully, positively, or clearly.
- Reversed: The card’s energy is blocked, delayed, hidden, or manifesting as a shadow.
Example:
The Tower Upright = Sudden upheaval
The Tower Reversed = Avoiding necessary change
How the Major Arcana Appears in Readings
When multiple Major Arcana cards appear in a reading, it’s a sign of:
- Life-changing events
- Deep spiritual awakening
- Karmic or fated experiences
They carry more weight than Minor Arcana cards and often indicate that the universe is calling your attention to something bigger than yourself.
Explore Each Major Arcana Card
Click on a card to explore its full meaning in love, career, and life:
Final Thoughts: Unlocking the Magic of the Major Arcana
The Major Arcana isn’t just a set of pretty pictures—it’s a map of the soul’s evolution. Whether you’re seeking clarity, guidance, or a deeper connection with yourself, these 22 cards can help you tap into ancient wisdom and inner truth.
Start your journey today by pulling a free tarot card or exploring the full meanings of each archetype.
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