A standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards, each rich with symbolism and meaning. This intriguing collection is divided into two main sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana features 22 cards that represent significant life themes and spiritual lessons—think of them as the headline stories in your life's narrative. Cards like The Fool, The Lovers, and Death carry profound messages about beginnings, relationships, and transformation.
On the other hand, we have the Minor Arcana, which contains 56 cards divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles (or Coins), Swords, and Wands. Each suit corresponds to different aspects of life—Cups deal with emotions and relationships; Pentacles focus on material matters; Swords relate to thoughts and conflicts; while Wands are all about creativity and action.
What’s fascinating is how these cards can be interpreted in countless ways depending on context. A single card drawn during a reading can resonate differently based on personal experiences or current situations. It’s almost like holding up a mirror to one’s soul—each reflection unique yet universally relatable.
Many people wonder why there are so many interpretations for just 78 cards. Well, consider this: within those layers lie archetypes that speak not only to individual circumstances but also tap into collective human experiences across cultures and time periods.
So next time you shuffle a tarot deck or come across someone who reads them professionally—or even casually—you’ll know there’s more than meets the eye behind those colorful illustrations.