Tarot is more than just a deck of cards.

This is the true beauty of tarot, it allows you to express your fascinations, the deep 
stirrings of your soul, encourage the psyche, the imagination to explore your fanaticism, 
your fantasies and reveal beliefs, hopes and dreams .

The Major Arcana depict images, characters that convey deeper meanings,messages, 
insights to encourage you to delve deep into your soul, reveal the shadows, the secret 
longings or pain, fears as well as hopes, forgotten blessings and joys; it may even point 
to possibilities you have never thought of. 

Tarot also paves the path to healing of deep wounds suffered in solitude; it helps one in 
the grieving process, it is also a helpful meditative tool. And if you are feeling a bit whimsical 
and magical, try casting a tarot spell!

 What the cards hold for you:

Major Arcana: there are 22 cards 

Cards 1-7: deals with who you are what you are or can be your experiences in your material 
and physical world. It describes the inner you, it calls attention to your basic needs, your desires 
and secret longings, your virtues and vices.

Cards 8-14: forces, energies, influences beyond your control, the encounters on your path as 
you journey through this life, environmental influence that come your way, like it or not.

Cards 15-21:what is meant to be will be. There are cosmic influences along the way that you 
will encounter.
 
Part I: Who you are, what you are and the world around you: 
CARDS I-VII
I Magician:
Before him are the tools he needs on his journey, perhaps minor ones but needed, nonetheless. 
Above him is the sign of infinity, a symbol of the Holy Spirit reflecting his Intellect that gathers all 
knowledge and pours it out into Life and the attainment of the spirit.

This reflects self-confidence, strong will power, ability to transform ideas into action, he meets
life’s crises and dilemma head on, with clear resolve and common sense.

II - High Priestess
Described as the great feminine force that controls the very source of life. She gathers all the 
energy and pours it to the spirit when the time of release is right. At times stands for religion 
and the church.

She brings about the female creativity, she shows the hidden influences that can be detected 
by those who seek foresight and insight to try to understand what is to be.

III Empress
She is the creative and positive side of Nature, with Venus as her symbol, she stands for the 
aspect of love. Some regard her as a symbol for Occultism, the door to the inner mysteries.

This card stands for strong maternal love, nurturing and supportive. She is eager to participate 
in productive and creative endeavours. She brings with her abundance and prosperity. She takes 
initiative and her practical side overshadows the emotion.

IV  Emperor
Authoritative, dominant, the Emperor exudes all that is powerful, passionate and impetuous in 
love and war. He stands for the positive masculine. He sees both sides of an issue, resolves 
conflict with his broad view of the picture, he also stands for mental rulership.

This card reflects maturity, regardless of age.The dominant side is influential in the decision making 
process; he is strong-willed and purposeful.

V  Hierophant
He is the counterpart of the High Priestess.He is the reflective or mystical aspect of the masculine. 
Whereas the Emperor is a doer, the Hierophant is the thinker. It is thought that this card indicates 
the hidden guardianship of the Masters. This card offers the chance to go beyond the physical realm,
it is possible to stimulate the flow of esoteric forces into the physical plane. It also indicates 
emotional health.

This card brings out the compassion and sensitive nature of man, a desire to adhere to tradition, 
respect rituals and the law. There is a strong reliance on intuition and the higher self. Rituals in 
this respect may indicate marriage or acceptance to an order. It also represents contemplation, 
endurance and reconciliation.

VI  Lovers`
When Adam and Eve first entered Paradise, they were without fetters. They were inspired, 
intuitive and free from the shackles of materialism. They are a picture of innocence, 
virginity and pure love, without lusty desire. 

This is a card that shows the way to human love, truth and life. It is deep love that brings 
harmony and peace. It points to decisions and choices to be made to bring happiness and 
contentment. It shows the male figure as the protector, the female secure in his presence 
although she is strong-willed.

VII  Chariot
This card is a symbol of the spirit of man in control of mind, body and spirit.. The Chariot 
rises above the cloud of illusion and is able to penetrate the higher realm. He is endowed 
with the occult energy to overcome evil forces; he is ready to do battle.

This card represents the cyclic rhythm of changes to show that nothing in life is static. 
He represents the conquest on all planes, mental, physical, scientific and even the 
process of initiation.

This card opens your eyes to  the resolution of problems by taking a look at all sides and 
endeavour to bring about peace and harmony. Even when you have a strong desire to 
forge ahead and you know you can, self-control is advised. Exercise positive physical and 
mental attitude in all that you do.

Part II: Forces you encounter along the way, sometimes beyond our control  
CARDS: VIII-XIV

VIII  Strength
It is the mastery of the lower –self  by the higher. It is the power of the Spirit that gives the 
strength to subdue and check the rising tide of passion. In its exalted aspect, Strength  
connects with the Divine , she fosters virtue that applies in all planes.

This card suggests that which is steadfast and enduring. With feet solid on the ground, passions 
are kept in check, she will only do battle for the right reasons. This card brings a strong sense of 
mental power when faced with adversity. Honor is ultimate with this card.

IX  Hermit
He is the eternal seeker- the Pilgrim Soul.  His beacon of wisdom and knowledge illuminates 
the world below him as he beckons: “Where I am, you also may be, Eternal spring is in his heart.

With this card, think things over , evaluate carefully your options. Sometimes it helps to withdraw 
or retreat from a situation or issue. Being too emotionally involved with the problem may cloud the 
decision-making process. Let a bright light come on to help you gain a better perspective.

X  Wheel of Fortune
On the Tree of Life, the Wheel is placed on the Pillar of Mercy. As it revolves, you can see the
changing influence of Light and Dark, the steps that eventually lead to liberation.

The Wheel signifies the perpetual motion of the universe and highlights the continuous changing 
cycles of human existence. It shows that equilibrium is attainable. The Wheel stands for the cycles 
of life, changes that are in store. Man does not stand still, neither does time. Sometimes it calls 
attention to recurring patterns in your life. 

It is may also reflect the laws of Karma, cause and effect.This card may allude to the mystery of life, 
to seek  higher consciousness, to appreciate the essence of being.Look forward to new opportunities, 
be in sync with the cyclical patterns, at times, it may be the destiny calling.

XI  Justice
This card shows the scales of Justice. She has the authority to pass judgment, so that laws are obeyed. 
She protects law and order and moral principles. It is with enlightenment that she passed judgment.

This card depicts the balance that is possible after a stressful time. It requires that Justice will be served 
according to principles, and dealt with love and compassion.It calls your attention to look at your life, 
are in balance and harmony with the cosmos?

This card asks that you take time to honor yourself, and not give up your personal power.

XII  The Hanged Man
This is a card of sacrifice. It speaks of the submission to the material bonds in order to bring out 
what is sublime in the higher consciousness. This requires a quiet time for contemplation, to emerge 
stronger .For those who seek higher illumination, the work is never complete, thus the recurring visit
of the Hanged Man.

Take a rest, give yourself some time alone, after going through tough times New ideas will come 
forth to help smooth out difficulties, a better perspective, new attitude emerging.

XIII  Death
This is a most feared card, feared for the drastic events it may bring. The skeleton  survives the 
destructive power of time, but is the basis for re-structuring. It symbolizes rebirth, renewal, new 
beginnings.

This card denotes drastic changes, lessons learned from past mistakes and failures, the chance to 
rise from the ashes of destruction. It restores the faith in love, it will conquer the darkness that fear brought.
It offers new beginnings. Rarely does the Death card signify actual physical death.

XIV  Temperance
This card projects equilibrium. It calls you to be moderate in every endeavour you pursue. An angel 
blends fire and water- inspiration and intuition the element.

Fire evokes and the emotions that Water symbolize.Temperance encourages you to understand the 
hidden energies available to you, to exercise moderation in all that you do, to avoid being a slave to
life’s excesses. Listen, look deep within, and be in tune with your inner self.

This card indicates one who has learned lessons about patience and living in the moment. It is a 
realization that moderation in life is necessary, if you are to maintain balance and harmony.

Part III:what  is meant to be will be; experience the cosmic influences along the way. 

Cards :XV-XXI

XV The Devil
The Devil and Death are great controlling forces of the Universe. The destruction and havoc these
cards wreak clear the way for renewal and rebirth. Nothing is permanent in Life. 

Sometimes disintegration clears the fear, it paves the way for you confront these and find renewal, 
stability and strength after a struggle.

The Devil card opens your eyes to the fears, anger, greed, passions and lusts in your life. Look at 
your life, ask yourself, what can you change? These are strong ,powerful and destructive emotions 
that will bring nothing but more pain and bury you deeper in the mire. This card may represent 
the pursuit of all that is material, it may be time to re-assess your spiritual self.

XVI  The Tower
Lightning strikes a tower with tremendous destructive force. What is toppled is symbolic of the necessity, 
or possibly the only way to allow the light to emerge from the darkness.

It calls your attention to examine the walls you build around your life, what are behind those walls that 
you must give up to put your life in order, once again. This card is the “wake-up call” ,you need to shake 
yourself out of your false illusions or delusions, living in the edge of disaster, be it personal or financial. 
You have thrown caution to the wind, this card beckons you to mend your way, with prudence and optimism. Sometimes, a collapseis the only way for you to open your mind,and be in touch with your inner spirit.

XVII  The Star
This card offers a guiding light, opens your heart to love, in all its forms. It lights up your soul. It is an 
inspiring card-with the promise of ultimate attainment. Enjoy the beauty of the heavens above, feel the
gifts of the spirit flow within you.

This card offers great insight, new expectations, dark clouds are clearing. The shining star is a symbol of 
realization, of hope amid difficult times. It asks you to attune to your higher self, align to a higher purpose. 
Feel the optimism, enjoy good health as you look at the stars.

XVIII  The Moon
Dark shadows lurk in the brightness of the Moon, shadows of unrewarded toils, unrequited love, fear 
and possible failure. Everything looks still in cool brightness of the Moon- yet intimidating. The moon  
moves the intellect to follow the reflective light to the far beyond of unknown mysteries, yet to be 
revealed. It shows the psychic, the unconscious waiting to be reconciled with the conscious.

This card speaks of a need for security and fulfillment.It reflects the illusions and delusions you live 
with. It promotes confusion and lack of clarity. There are unconscious forces within, work with these, 
do not be fearful, for eventually, you will see the  path clearer in full light of the moon.
 
XIX   The Sun
The Sun is a life source, it provides warmth and vitality.Nothing can hide from the brightness of the
sun. The sun is a predominant symbol of strength , energy anddivine potential.However, it may also 
bring out the arrogant and disdainful qualities, a scorching sun is unbearable.

This is a good card to turn up in a reading. It offers inspiration as it casts its brightness on your path. 
Feel its warmth, absorb its radiance , let it shine through your being. It offers the possibility of great 
achievement, success and all the trappings of fame.

XX  Judgment
An angel sounds the trumpet, experience the forces beyond human realm. What is the sum total of 
your life, your undertakings, your hopes and fears. Have you known the strength, have you felt the 
power from your higher self? 

From the power above, man transcends the limitations of his human experience and environment. 
Feel the wonder and the ecstasy of the summons from above, find the answers deep within.

This card calls for more spiritual outlook; a time for self-redemption. Ride the turbulent tides of your 
difficulties with a positive attitude, seek the enlightenment from your spirit and behold the transformation
that springs from within.

XXI  The World
This is the final message of the Major Arcana. It symbolizes the rapture of the universe when it 
connects with the cosmos, the ultimate power above whose light descends upon the spirit to the 
physical being. It is the great Mother, the wheel of Life and Death, it includes the elements, the stars 
shining brightly in the darkness, it is the present, it is NOW.

Gather all your experience, for good or bad, learn what you can and make yourself whole again as 
the World offers it hand, as life once again comes full cycle. Be enlightened by it all, walk with faith 
and confidence, savor the moment of reward and success. Find your balance with the elements and 
the Universe. Live in the moment and let life flow.

Card 0-  The Fool

The Fool is a card unto itself. At every step, there he is, evolving step by step as he walks his path, 
stumbling at times, then rises , and keeps going till he reaches the final step in his journey. Did he tread 
along the path that is meant for him, is the destination the ultimate goal, or is it the journey that counts?

The Fool goes on without pretense. He shows no hint of the Divine as he embarks on his journey. 
He shows no care in the world, he probably forgets that in his “bundle” he carries with him the tools 
he needs as he goes on his journey. He is surrounded by worldly wisdom held in check by his i
nnocence or naivetë. He walks his path on an early Spring day,taking his steps without caution.

The Fool card shows one with an open mind, full of hopes and dreams and a very vivid imagination. 
This card indicates inexperience, unrealistic goals and very high hopes. It is a card of happenings, 
the beginning of all endeavours. Great caution is advised when this card turns up. Decisions 
are left to chance or to others.

REVERSALS

Disaster is not for the cards to tell. Caution is strongly recommended, so is the ability to rise from the 
pain, from the ashes of a destructive human experience. It opens your eyes to the pitfalls of negative 
emotions, of fear, greed, anger, apathy, neglect of duties, power struggle and particularly neglect of the 
spirit. I believe in drawing upon the energy of the “right side up” card when in reverse it speaks of doom 
and gloom.
 
Tarot Journal:
This is a rewarding way to let Tarot into your life. It is very helpful for beginners, and An insightful map 
for the enthusiast and devotee. Some cards turn up over and over.What do you suppose is the message 
it is trying to convey? Think about this.

May you find some inspiration, may you eventually be able to walk the path meant for you, as you 
navigate through the potholes and detours along the way and weather the storms and look forward 
to the dawn of a new day!

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