Tarot Card Meanings of the Major Arcana
Major Arcana
For people who subscribe to the truth of tarot readings, knowing the different card meanings can be vital to understanding the direction and feel of a tarot reading. To be a proper tarot reader, it is of course important to know card meanings for all of the major and minor arcana, in order to give a proper reading. The following is, of course, only a partial list of the major arcana cards, but can get you started on your way to understanding all card meanings.
1. The Magician
The magician is the first trump card in the major arcana and is usually associated with determination and drive. The card meanings of the magician in a tarot reading can further include a tendency toward energy and creativity, suggesting personal power, focus, and self confidence.
2. The Lovers
The card meanings of the lovers can sometimes be more straightforward than many of the other cards. In a tarot reading, the lovers often signify sexuality, passion, desire, physical attraction, or romance. In general, tarot readings often see these as having to do with a romantic relationship in some way, or some sort of union, though it can also suggest having to make a choice or sacrifice in the pursuit of these qualities.
3. The Chariot
The chariot is often considered to be a very powerful character in tarot readings. The card meanings of the chariot can range from conquest and victory to impulsivity and inflexibility. This sense of power can be related to bravery and conviction, or to egocentrism and, as a result, anxiety and discipline.
4. The Hermit
The card meanings of the tarot card of the hermit often relate to the hermetic nature of the card. Often this rings of introspection and reflection, but may also have the negative connotation of seclusion and isolation. It generally implies some sort of philosophical attitude, which may even suggest a distant or retreated personality.
5. The Hanged Man
The hanged man is a somewhat controversial card in that the card meanings of this man can be interpreted in a variety of ways in a tarot reading. Because the man is hanging upside down, the card meanings are sometimes suggested to involve new point of view or contemplation, as well as a letting go. However, because of the connections to Christ (on most tarot cards he’s hanging on a cross), he can also be used to represent sacrifice, especially when paired with other cards that promise good things. Also similar to Christ, he can represent passivity or surrender in favor of the greater good.