Tarot Information and meanings

The Tarot Cards

The Fool The Magician The Empress The Emperor The Heirophant The Lovers The Chariot Justice The Hermit The Wheel Strength Hanged Man Death Temperance Devil The Tower The Star The Moon The Sun Judgment The World

The 78-card tarot deck has two distinct parts called The Major & The Minor Arcana which are split as follows:

The Major Arcana - The Greater Secrets

Consisting of 22 cards with no suits and are called as follows: 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, and The Fool.

The Minor Arcana - Lesser Secrets

This section of the Tarot has 56 cards, divided into four suits which are Swords, Wands, Pentacles and Cups each containing 14 cards; with ten numbered cards and four court cards per suit.
The court cards are the King, Queen, Knight and Page/Jack, with the numbered cards that start from the Ace through to the Tenth card.

Aces Twos Threes Fours Fives Sixes Sevens Eights Nines Tens Knights Pages Queens Kings

All the cards have attributes and associations such as the elements of air, water, fire and earth there are links to astrological signs and influences with each card. The Major cards deal with the higher spiritual consciousness, our development and awareness as well as lessons we need to learn. The colours used throughout the deck have attributes to certain vibrations and correlations which relate to the reader on different levels depending on his or her development. The Minors deal with day to day events with the suits depicting present and upcoming conditions in the querents life.

The Tarot work as a mirror and it is vitally important for the reader to sift through what the querent is hoping or projecting whilst receiving their reading to get the information required. Tarot is a fascinating study and changes dramatically from reading to reading, no two readings will be the same even if the cards are similar for another person.

Listed below are a fairly simple explanation of the cards and a feel for the type of energy surrounding it, there is no waxing lyrically or airy fairy language just a clear description for the feel of the energies. Those with the knowledge need to be able to get this information across in a way that is understood, deeper meanings and interpretation can come at a later stage. There are some readers who make out they are special in some way and so other worldly that they can't be understood by mere mortals. I have to tell you it's rubbish, Tarot is a language that speaks to us on many levels and we all have the ability to understand once we have been taught the basics.

The images below have been used because of copyright issues with the Ryder Waite 1910 edition, although USA can use them freely as they have passed into the public domain it is not the case for the UK. US Games are usually very good as they have given copyright permission for images used for training purposes they still need to be approached for permission to use here in the near future.

	The Fool Representative of the child within and the innocent expectation of new adventures and spontaneity. This card shows a welcome spark of life which spurs your actions that look to others reckless and unstable. This card brings lessons that eventually prove to be maturing and dare I say it even wisdom but it will be a long time coming. Original ideas or actions here’s a journey that will be embarked on regardless of naysayers and every moment along the way will be enjoyed.
	The Magician Intelligence, and the accumulation of skills that when applied will bring success and recognition for talents. The application of learning will bring an opportunity that benefits the querent. Its time to move forward whilst the energies are in your favour, new experiences and people are on the horizon and a corner is about to be turned. Here’s the chance to move quickly and put any insecurities about your capabilities firmly behind you, don’t spend too much time dithering or you will miss out.
	The High Priestess Here are our subconscious powers, intuition and the instinctive knowledge of what is the truth or right regardless of other opinions. The feminine energies represented here are understanding, integrity and forgiveness. Here is someone who uses these traits to help those who seek her out for guidance; if you are ready the knowledge will be given but only in answer to the right question.
	The Empress The feminine power of nature and the cycle of life, the Empress promises quite literally a birth or the conception of something new which is transformative. A time to relax and plan before the hard work begins, so enjoy and savour the simple comforts of home and family. A good time to get back to nature in it’s truest sense and take the time to enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
	The Emperor The male principle of structure and the continuity of a well built foundation through hard work, discipline and experience. Power, strength and maturity brings recognition and rewards, there is respect given to the querent for their advice which is fair and authorities. This shows the querent is well respected and looked to for direction however is seen as stern and distant figure within the home environment
	The Hierophant The connection between convention and conviction of beliefs, there is an overlying need for structure and conservatism. This may conflict with personal beliefs or force the denial of the true self in order to conform leaving a deep seated resentment of being misunderstood and having to conform. Trusting oneself is the key here regardless of the dictates imposed by outdated and inflexible organisations.
	The Lovers A choice to be made for the right reasons, take time to look at the cross roads that have appeared and make a decision that has been carefully considered. Sometimes something looks too good to be true and a knee jerk reaction now can lead to regrets later, take time out to think things through properly. Once all aspects have been weighted the answer will become clear, only then can a decision be made.
	The Chariot Movement and momentum that builds once the individual breaks away from their comfort zone. Here is the need for action and a restlessness that propels the situation forward fully focused on the destination that needs to be reached. An abundance of self confidence hides any underlying insecurities but there is a warning here not to overestimate the challenge or your abilities.
	Justice Clear and fair judgement is applied regardless of extraneous information, the principle of cause and effect are clearly defined with this card and a balanced verdict is applied. Time to ask whether actions in the past can stand up to scrutiny. It is time to look at our behaviour and accept responsibility especially if we have been less than straight in our dealings with people. Anything underhand will now come to light and good behaviour will bring recognition.
	The Hermit A time of withdrawal is needed to evaluate without outside influences interfering and still meet obligations. Time will be deliberately set aside to be alone rather than full isolation. During this process there will be flashes of insight and eventual clarity that is restorative and rejuvenating.
	The Wheel of Fortune The Wheel represents where we are within the cycle of life, either waiting, on top, at the bottom or coming out of the cycle ready for the next cycle. The phases will reflect events or situations that are blocking, delaying or helping, with the other cards giving further information as to the issues involved.
	Strength Here is the power of conscious and unconscious working in harmony to overcome challenging situations with a quiet courage and patience that eventually overcomes difficulties. True strength does not come from brute force or domination, Here is someone who has gained mastery and composure over their most basic and innate nature.
	The Hanged Man. Stagnant situation with no obvious solution, this position has been enforced through circumstances or people that we have made sacrifices for. The point is that these actions haven’t really made the difference they should of. Whilst noble actions should be valued there is no one around to give you the same consideration, free yourself and get moving again.
	Death This usually causes a sharp intake of breath when it appears, it doesn't’t mean physical death more of a transformation in life. This could mean letting go of situations that can no longer continue before you are ready which will cause some emotional upsets. As a positive it can also bring a long awaited change for the better, regeneration and rejuvenation are the theme of change
	Temperance Finding balance and harmony after going overboard and extremes, there are opportunities to heal and learn to accept and like you self regardless of past problems. Reconnecting with family and loved ones after a period of estrangement are also possible now, enjoy this time and remember to learn from past mistakes. You are still vulnerable so make sure you look after yourself properly
	The Devil Here’s where we face our negative traits which keep us bound to something or someone, this is about our fears and weakness and learning to overcome. It is only when we are honest that we find the freedom and release to become the person we are meant to be. Tests and Karma are designed to help us grow and must be faced, or we repeat the lessons again and again.
	The Tower Everything that we thought was solid is about to be shaken up, if we have built our life by papering over cracks instead of dealing with reality be prepared for a rude awakening. This energy will wake you up to face the truth, sometimes we allow ourselves to get pulled into situations that are false and we carry on regardless as there seems no other option. Here’s the release you may not know you need, and it will only be with hindsight you will understand the importance of this card.
	The Star Following the Tower comes the Star, learning to start afresh but this time the right way. If you use this energy to it’s full potential it can help to realize long held dreams. It is your time to rebuild and learn to enjoy the freedom and opportunities that will come your way, release the past as a bad dream that has no place in your future or it will control your future actions
	The Moon A subconscious realization starts to creep in, be aware that the shadows that seem so threatening in the dead of night are magnified out of proportion. You are becoming aware but are not yet in full possession of the facts, subconscious fears are getting in the way. Don’t worry about something you have no control over, do not feed into insecurities as the facts will come to light and may not be as bad as your imagination has lead you to believe.
	The Sun After the dead of night daybreak appears bringing with it a promise of a new day, energy is revitalized and everything looks more promising. Take a deep breath and a few minutes to feel the Suns warmth flood through your system, optimism returns along with the ability smile and enjoy having others around you.
	Judgment Here we have the rewards of past actions, the realization when we look in the mirror and see that the reflection is accurate and we have to learn to like and accept who we are. It is a time when evaluations and adjustments will be made and anything that is no longer good for you will be discarded ready to move on to the next stage of your life with full understanding of who you are.
	The World Completion and formal recognition of all your hard work, take pride in the fact that we have reached this stage because the world is about to open up to you. Tests, challenges and Karma have been taken on and lessons learned and you are now ready for the next stage of development at a more mature level. This is the realization of all that has gone before; you are a different person with a wealth of knowledge and potential Soon - The Minors & Their Meaning
Minor Arcana Aces Twos Threes Fours Fives Sixes Sevens Eights Nines Tens Knights Pages Queens Kings

	Aces
	Ace of Wands The initiator of vision and imagination moves out of the comfort zone towards an imagined goal. Element of fire, potential, creative power, vitality, start of an activity, fertility, enthusiasm, individuality, originality, ideas, new projects and a feeling of optimism. Ace of Cups This Ace represents the element of water which represents feelings and emotions with the urge toward forming or consummating a relationship. It is a great release of emotional raw energy after a period of control. It represents the unconscious, the "dark side of the moon". Ace of Swords Creative intelligence represents the element of air, conception of a plan. Using Intelligence to find solutions for current problems. Strategy, timing, physical movement and determined action, pushing the physical boundaries over mental barriers. Ace of Pentacles Element of earth, associated with business, financial and material growth. The seed or beginning of a venture, money and gifts. Connections to financial agencies, investments, insurance, contracts, hard work and physical strength to achieve goals.
	Two's
	Two of Wands Ambition, drive and vision for the future potential meetings and partnerships that hold the promise of success. Courage and the conviction to carry plans through from the initial stages, influential people who will help on the way. Two of Cups Harmony and love that has energy and intense feelings that is enjoyed to the full without insecurities wrecking the moment. Enjoying the best of a relationship without wondering where it is going, honesty and acceptance of another person. Two of Swords Intelligence and communication between two parties, a sense of holding your breath and waiting. Previous conflicts and unpleasantness have been faced and will now dictate the outcome and the negotiations should be acceptable to those involved. Two of Pentacles Weighing up the possibilities of a project that will be materially beneficial in the long term. Stay flexible to take advantage of the opportunities that are about to present themselves. Money and time will need to be juggled to stay on top and in control.
	Three's
	Three of Wands Contacts have been established and new plans ready to go, enthusiasm is catching and hard work will be taken on without complaining. The need to travel will increase and there are further accomplishments that will keep the energy levels high. Three of Cups Celebrations and good times to be shared with family and friends enjoy this time fully as it is rare that the atmosphere is so loving and upbeat. Associated with gatherings involving friends such as a hen night or news of a birth. Three of Swords Conflict and either emotional or physical pain suffered through separation or illness. Doubt and sorrow have caused feelings of despair and hopelessness; this is a time of emerging from loneliness and grief. Healing and acceptance is just about to start although it is difficult to see this as a release point at the present time. Three of Pentacles Potential is recognized and brings more opportunities for expansion of knowledge and qualifications. Getting over any feelings of inadequacy concerning education or establishments, there could also be the possibility of educational issues regarding children.
	Four's
	Four of Wands Establishing a solid base of security and friendship that bring benefits, any outside threats to home life or established friendships will be met with strong resistance and support. Standing your ground against being taken for granted will break friendships that have become parasitic. Four of Cups Outwardly presenting that everything is fine there is a shadow of discontent concerning personal relationships, the pretence is oppressive and ignoring issues cause depression. Sometimes you just need to look at others around you who are trying to help and let them in to get your spark back. Four of Swords Take time out to look after yourself whilst you gather you thoughts and strength back, if you are recuperating from some illness this is a time of healing. Stressful situations will benefit from a withdrawal to collect your thoughts and decide the best way of handling problems. Four of Pentacles Hard work will give security and although you may have more going out than coming in you are managing well. There is more concentration on the work life and a lack of family life at this time but the effort will be worth it in the long run.
	Five's
	Five of Wands Minor arguments with family and friends over your opinions, it seems that everything is getting in your way. Don’t bother getting involved in defending just ignore and get on with what it is that you want to do, without tramping over those closest to you. Five of Cups Disappointments and unease, there is no point in wishing things had been different. The message of this card is clearly not to cry over spilt milk, hanging on to the negative will bring further sadness. Accept whatever is still here and reshape your future. Five of Swords Forced to see things from a different perspective otherwise facing further defeats, something is so entrenched that you have lost all objectivity. Change is coming whether it is liked or not and it is better to recognize and work with the options than fight a losing battle. Five of Pentacles Struggling with finances and a loss of faith in life in general, there is about to be a bit of light at the end of a very difficult time. Here’s an opportunity to start over properly using the challenges you have faced to bring success in the future. Friendships and social opportunities will be offered.
	Sixes
	Six of Wands A break through with recognition being given for an achievement, pride and confidence draws positive events towards you. An offer is about to be made that will make life more interesting and give more opportunities for advancement. Six of Cups Unconditional love and a child like trust that bring emotional balance, childhood memories are shared and information comes to the surface. Connections to the past either people or places will be a theme now as pieces of a jigsaw start falling into place. Six of Swords Having dealt with problems this card now promises a calmer frame of mind. This new found balance attracts people and your powers of persuasion take on an almost compelling quality. You are perceived as dignified and composed, travel and trips for pleasure will also be offered. Six of Pentacles Generosity and benevolence towards others will bring its own rewards, this does not necessarily mean giving money but rather time or some other commodity. Remember whatever you give has to be unconditional and the rewards that come back will restore your faith in people.
	Seven's
	Seven of Wands Using the imagination to create something special and putting major effort and care into making sure the end result is worth it. Improvements and slow development will be questioned by others who want quick results. Stick to your standpoint the results will speak for themselves. Seven of Cups Emotional needs may cause choices to be made which are illusionary and disappointing. This card asks that you consider the reality of the path you are taking to avoid chasing rainbows. There is the potential for realizing a dream or turning something into a nightmare. Choose carefully. Seven of Swords There is a need to act and think in a cautious and manipulative manner in a certain situation, be sure to question the integrity of what you are trying to attain. We may also be on the receiving end of someone’s manipulation and exploitation, be careful as you may compromise yourself. Seven of Pentacles There is a need to break out of a rut and try something different; there is a rebellion gathering and an action about to be implemented. There is no guarantee of success and there is a warning to get independent advice, gambling and hoping for the best is not an option.
	Eight's
	Eight of Wands A release of energy to pursue many different levels whilst attempting to reach goals or ambitions, this will include a sudden outpouring of talent and activity. Many options will be chased with some falling short of their target, but at least one attempt will hit its mark. Eight of Cups After a huge build up and promise now comes the anti climax, the party is over and there is no one around to clean up the mess. With has been so much energy put in and there is a sense of loss and disillusionment of being on your own to cope with the aftermath. Time to move on. Eight of Swords Not dealing with or being more discriminating has led to being placed in this situation by others.Not wanting to see what is really going on means you are just as complicit, ignoring does not mean that you will not be involved or harmed by it. You are not as safe as you think. Eight of Pentacles Skilled work for very little in return initially, there is a creative ability similar to an artisan that brings rewards at a later stage. This is typical of a mid life crisis whereby we question what we have achieved and what potential we may still have. A vocation or calling for change before it’s too late.
	Nine's
	Nine of Wands Power and strength against opposition before the final stages, conviction that cannot be shaken regardless of detractors. Tired but resolute there is nothing that can shake the belief of a beneficial outcome, and provides inspiration to others to believe in themselves. Nine of Cups Enjoying life with goodwill extended to people around you, there is a sense of fun and pleasure that attracts people towards you. Celebrations and social events open up but there is a warning here of over indulging a little too much. Have fun but be moderate don’t pay too high a price for enjoyment. Nine of Swords Fear and anxiety through thinking of the worst case scenarios, feelings of guilt and loneliness are forms of self punishment. Try talking to someone you trust or a counselor, and wait until there is something tangible to deal with before you decide the nightmare outcome as it might not happen. Nine of Pentacles Self sufficiency and a sense of value bring material gain, recognition for some unique ability or product. There are further accomplishments on the way which will attract a possible change or expansion into another area in the near future.
	Ten's
	Ten of Wands Burdens have increased steadily and the effort to carry on is becoming oppressive with no relief or help to make life a bit easier. It’s time to establish priorities and discard extraneous responsibilities by placing them back where they belong. Without seriously prioritizing health problems will result. Ten of Cups This promises a period of love and emotional healing within relationships; this is a good time and will pass quite quickly so enjoy it to the full. Events bring connections and opportunities to travel for pleasure will leave some wonderful memories of this time. Ten of Swords Its time to face some home truths along with disillusionment and disappointments, sometimes it is time to let go however painful this process is. A whole phase or chapter is about to close that allows the freedom to move forward and leave the negatives firmly in the past. Slow beginnings. Ten of Pentacles Discussions about assets and or material possessions are a theme and it is time to put it to some use for the future, inheritances, insurance and long term investments should be carefully considered. There may be money released to further enhance long term plans for the family.
	Knight's
	Knight of Wands Knight show situations as well as people, here is an energy that is adventurous and imaginative. Actions are taken quickly without proper planning or forethought, and this energy is highly reactive. Opportunities, excitement and new ideas start to arrive, a very energetic phase is about to start. Knight of Cups Here is a gentle energy with the underlying feel of romance or idealistic perceptions of situations or people surrounding you. Impressionable and immature in the emotional sense there may be an obsessive need to believe and see the best of people. Naive situations and awakening emotions. Knight of Swords Sudden developments and situations appear out of nowhere, there is a sense of urgency that needs a response. This is high energy, conflict and persuasive arguments that could have a hidden agenda. A turbulent time is in store, stay calm and don’t be pressurized or persuaded by high energy tactics. Knight of Pentacles Stability and rewards for hard work, this is a slow steady energy that is concerned with security and taking time out to enjoy the fruits of their labour. There is an ability to plan effectively and a gift of foresight that will help to achieve a well balanced and enjoyable life style. Ability to be successful.
	Page's
	Page of Wands Energetic and talented but very childlike this youngster approaches life with a naivety and overconfidence of their abilities. This restless energy means there are too many interesting distractions can take away from the real potential as the grass always appears greener. Talkative and easily bored can be gullible. Page of Cups Here’s an attractive situation and or person about to appear who wears their heart on their sleeve, holding a promise of something new and emotionally appealing about to be offered. Pleasure through the simple things in life, represent s a younger person is a caring and emotionally vulnerable. Page of Swords Here’s a situation or younger person that represents intelligence with holding information to be used at a later stage. Original perceptions and the use of intellect to bring a situation to light, as a situation it warns that other facts need to come to light. Clever youngster who will go far in life. Page of Pentacles Attainment and ambition this is a situation or person who wants to proof their abilities, desire to gain or be recognized financially and emotionally as someone to be reckoned with. A high achiever who will work however long it takes to reach their goals. Planning and foresight bring rewards.
	Queen's
	Queen of Wands Magnetic and energetic this woman cause’s heads to turn when she makes an entrance, confident and strong willed she devotes herself to the things she believes in. Her drive and determination make things happen and her positive and direct approach earns her many supporters. Queen of Cups This card represents the more feminine beauty with a slightly hypnotic power over people, there is a depth of understanding and love that draws people to her. Even when younger there is a quality of maturity and emotional wisdom that gives an aura of pure magic. This lady may also be quite psychic. Queen of Swords This lady is intelligent,strong and idealistic and can appear quite aloof, even if married with children there is an aura of untouchable. This woman when younger may have had to prove herself against particular male and has excelled as a consequence. If this woman gets behind you – you will win, don’t cross her. Queen of Pentacles This lady is strong and sensual with a strong sense of value in her abilities; pragmatic and resourceful she will preserve and sustain the home and family’s lifestyle. She carries an aura of dignity and responsibility that gains the respect of others, stylish with good taste she is also generous to those she cares about.
	King's
	King of Wands This man initiates ideas and projects and sells them to interested parties, leadership and visionary qualities help to motivate and generate change. A mentor to those he identifies as talented or gifted he handles life and situations with enthusiasm and optimism. Energy can be creative or destructive. King of Cups This man wants to achieve the ideal relationship and family, compassionate and full of empathy he never fully trusts anyone enough to open himself emotionally because of past hurts. Protective of those he loves he is not above manipulating to get what he wants. This man hides a lot of inner turmoil behind a calm exterior. King of Swords Intellectual, charming and exceptionally skilled in strategy, diplomacy hides an extremely ambitious man. A born mediator - words are used as weapons and speech is delivered with the appearance of feelings and empathy. However there is a detachment of feeling that is well hidden except to those close to him. King of Pentacles Success through discipline and hard work, this man is self made and recognized for his authority and leadership. He has the ability to manifest his ideas into profitability, and can spot a potential for investment. Can get greedy in his pursuit of financial security but will cover his bets before committing.

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