Understanding the Major Arcana: Meanings of the 22 Tarot Archetypes
A complete guide to the Major Arcana: what the 22 archetypal tarot cards represent, how to read them, and links to deeper meanings for each card.
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The Major Arcana are the 22 archetypal cards in tarot. They’re often read as the “big themes”: turning points, life lessons, and developmental stages. When Major Arcana cards dominate a spread, it usually means the question touches something foundational rather than merely situational.
This page gives you a clear map of what the Major Arcana are, how to read them, and links to deeper meanings for each card.
How to Read Major Arcana Cards
Useful principles:
- Think in themes, not predictions: Major Arcana cards are better at describing the lesson than forecasting the event.
- Look for the role you’re being asked to play: learner, builder, lover, seeker, teacher, etc.
- Notice sequences: if you keep drawing several Major Arcana in a row over time, you’re likely in a genuine transition.
Major Arcana Meanings (All 22 Cards)
- The Fool Tarot Meaning
- The Magician Tarot Meaning
- The High Priestess Tarot Meaning
- The Empress Tarot Meaning
- The Emperor Tarot Meaning
- The Hierophant Tarot Meaning
- The Lovers Tarot Meaning
- The Chariot Tarot Meaning
- Strength Tarot Meaning
- The Hermit Tarot Meaning
- Wheel of Fortune Tarot Meaning
- Justice Tarot Meaning
- The Hanged Man Tarot Meaning
- Death Tarot Meaning
- Temperance Tarot Meaning
- The Devil Tarot Meaning
- The Tower Tarot Meaning
- The Star Tarot Meaning
- The Moon Tarot Meaning
- The Sun Tarot Meaning
- Judgement Tarot Meaning
- The World Tarot Meaning
If You’re a Beginner
Two good “next pages” to build skill fast:
Related: Tarot for Beginners | Complete Guide to Tarot Spreads
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