How Each Major Arcana Card Represents Key Phases in Personal Development
The Major Arcana, an important bifurcation in tarot, is a series of 22 cards, each representing important stages in personal growth and transformation. Each card symbolises a different phase or lesson in life, from self-discovery to spiritual and mental awakening, which can mean anything, from expanding your boundaries to understanding that there are some things that science just cannot make sense of to owning and accepting belief systems that you need to trust in to live. Understanding these stages can help you see your own journey in a new light. This is a guide to how to understand what the reveal of each Major Arcana card in your spread might mean for your personal development.
1. The Fool
The Fool represents the start of a new journey. This card is about taking a leap of faith, often without knowing exactly where you’re going. It symbolises innocence and curiosity, and most importantly, the courage to explore the unknown.
2. The Magician
The Magician represents realising your personal power and the ability to manifest your goals. This phase is about discovering your skills and resources and learning how to use them to shape your life.
3. The High Priestess
The High Priestess encourages you to look within for answers. This phase focuses on intuition, self-reflection, and understanding the deeper, sometimes hidden aspects of yourself.
4. The Empress
The Empress is about abundance, nurturing, and creativity. This stage invites you to take care of yourself and those around you, cultivating love and growth.
5. The Emperor
The Emperor represents structure, discipline, and authority. At this phase, you learn the importance of setting rules, making plans, and creating stability in your life.
6. The Hierophant
The Hierophant symbolises learning through tradition, guidance, and spiritual wisdom. This phase may involve connecting with mentors or exploring philosophies that deepen your understanding of life.
7. The Lovers
The Lovers card represents choices, particularly in relationships. This phase is about learning balance, commitment, and understanding your values in connections with others.
8. The Chariot
The Chariot is about determination, willpower, and staying focused on your goals. This phase reflects the ability to overcome obstacles by staying disciplined and in control.
9. Strength
Strength is about finding inner courage and developing compassion, both for yourself and others. This phase teaches resilience and the power of kindness.
10. The Hermit
The Hermit represents a phase of introspection and personal reflection. This is a time for solitude, exploring your inner world, and finding clarity.
11. The Wheel of Fortune
The Wheel of Fortune represents change, cycles, and accepting the ups and downs of life. This phase teaches adaptability and reminds you that growth often involves embracing life’s unpredictability.
Each Major Arcana card reflects a key phase in personal development, helping you see the universal lessons that guide growth. From starting new journeys to finding inner strength, these stages offer insight into personal transformation.
