Meaning of Tarot Cards

I
THE MAGICIAN

A magician or a conjurer, standing in front of his own workbench, is

portrayed while lifting his magic wand.
Different objects are lying on the table, and all of them can be linked to the
suits of the Tarot.
In fact, on the magicians table we can see a cup, a knife or a sword, some
coins, and a wand.
In cartomancy, the figure of the magician is often associated with the person
who reads the cards.
In some illustrations, above the head of the magician there is a sideways 8, the symbol for
infinity. Sometimes this symbol may be represented by the shape of the magicians hat.
Meaning in the Tarot

The magician is a figure that represents action; in fact, the magician is the person who
makes his own destiny, who is enterprising, who acts, and who obtains results.
This is an undoubtedly positive card; in fact, it represents a person who is capable and
intelligent, and makes good use of both attributes, and as a result reaches his objectives.
It stands for: action, capability, enterprise, merit, results.
Reversed Card

All the negative aspects of acting are exalted; for example, it may mean: acting negatively,
too quickly, and acting without thinking, seeking status, lack of confidence in ones own
capabilities that are instead effective, misbehaving, obsession with material results while
neglecting true values.
II
THE POPESS

The figure of the popess is of medieval origins.

In fact, there were rumors about Pope John VIII actually being a woman.
These rumors, which were most likely unfounded, were rampant among the
people and contributed to the appearance of this popular figure of a woman
pope, which we also find in the Tarot.
The Popess card portrays a woman seated on a throne, dressed in a papal
habit or sacred garb, and holding a book containing universal knowledge on
her lap.
The face of the Popess is expressionless, and she is glancing straight ahead in spite of the
fact that the book lies open on her lap, meaning that she need not look at the book as she
already knows everything.
Under her head gear she is wearing a veil, and there is also a veil behind her.
The Popess is often portrayed between two columns, and in some cases she is holding keys
in her hand a symbol of the keys of knowledge .
Meaning in the Tarot

The Popess card represents serenity, knowledge, faith and loyalty, values and moral
rectitude.
It often refers to a female figure who is reliable and sincere.
It is undoubtedly a positive card.
Reversed Card

Appear conceited and presumptuous, use information for questionable ends, traps laid by
a very intelligent woman.

III
THE EMPRESS
A young woman with regal garb and jewels, seated on the throne, gazing
straight ahead.
The Empress of the Tarot is not as predictable a figure as she might seem at
first glance.
In fact, she was a well-known and common figure during the Middle Ages, but
not in terms of how she is portrayed in the Tarot.
Above all, the Empress was a figure who was rarely quoted or portrayed
without the Emperor.
In the Tarot, instead, she is represented holding symbols of power: the scepter and the
shield.
This portrayal, unique and rich in meaning, constitutes one of the many innovative
contributions of the Tarot to iconography and medieval art.
Meaning in the Tarot
The Empress indicates stability, strength, and protection.
These concepts are clearly symbolized by: the throne, the scepter, and the shield.
The Empress represents inner strength, willpower, and authority over things.
She can represent a strong outsider who helps us in a specific situation, a support upon
which we can rely, a point of stability and strength in our favor.
Reversed Card
Rigidity in morals and in action, an excess of drastic measures, excessive protective
instinct towards another person, struggling to maintain current status.

IV
THE EMPEROR
The Emperor is a bearded sovereign seated on a throne, transmitting
determination and power.
All the symbols of power are present in this card: the sovereigns clothing,
the long scepter, the shield with the imperial eagle.
To further emphasize the concept of power, the emperor is often represented
with his legs crossed, a sign that he has no superiors to whom he must be
ready to rise and bow.
Meaning in the Tarot
The Emperor in the Tarot symbolizes strength, authority, security, power, wealth,
charisma, virility, knowledge, and fortitude.
The Emperor wields the utmost earthly power, and at the same time is a wise, intelligent,
and often just figure.
Reversed Card
Rigidity, arrogance, severity, taking drastic means, excessive use of force.

V
THE POPE
The figure of The Pope is one of the images of the Tarot that has remained most
constant over time and in different decks of cards.
Indeed, The Pope is almost always represented in the same way: a pope seated
on a throne, holding the staff in one hand and raising the other hand to bless the
two figures kneeling before him.
The figure transmits wisdom and respect, but at the same time reverential awe.
In some Tarot decks, The Pope is portrayed between two columns, while in
others it is the back of the throne that is supported at the sides by a sort of column.
Meaning in the Tarot
The Pope symbolizes sound, selfless advice, the approval of others, well-deserved success,
a faithful and loyal person upon which one can rely.
The Pope can represent an outsider, a mentor, a figure we respect and can follow as a role
model.
Reversed Card
Giving too much importance to the approval of others, not making decisions on your own,
always following the crowd without having the strength to sustain our true positions.
In some cases, it may also mean excessive moralism.
VI
THE LOVERS
A couple in love is about to be joined in marriage.
Their union is sanctioned by a person on earth and by Cupid in the heavens.
Cupid is about to shoot his arrow, thereby allowing love to triumph.
In some Tarot decks, the hands of The Lovers are joined: yet another symbol,
both Christian and pagan, of the union of matrimony.
Meaning in the Tarot
The symbolism of the card is obvious: love.
Other meanings of the card of The Lovers may be: desire for true love, physical attraction
that transforms into spiritual attraction, positive temptations.
Reversed Card
Too much love can be oppressive, a union that is not positive, separation and break-up,
negative temptation, even going as far as infidelity.
VII
THE CHARIOT
The Chariot in the Tarot represents the chariot of triumph, the chariot of victory.
A king with a crown and scepter drives the chariot drawn by two horses,
returning to the city after winning a decisive battle.
Meaning in the Tarot
The Chariot predicts success in a specific situation.
The success will be clear and powerful, transmitting complete satisfaction and glory.
Reversed Card
Success is a double-edged sword, like the charioteer, one must know how to drive the
chariot drawn by more than one horse (opposing forces), and as such success must be
managed and guided.
A person who cannot drive success, in addition to failing to enjoy it, may risk negative
effects.
The Chariot reversed may also symbolize excessive boasting of ones own success with
others, thereby generating dislike or envy.

VIII
JUSTICE
Justice bears a sword in one hand and scales in the other.
The sword symbolizes the Justice that men mete out, while the scales refer
instead to natural justice.
One reference, according to some, is to Osiris, who according to legend would
weigh the heart of the dead to decide the destiny of their souls.
In the Tarot, Justice is seated on a throne and gazes straight ahead, emotionless.
There are two columns, one on each side of Justice, or the back of the throne has the shape
of two columns.
Meaning in the Tarot
Justice represents fairness and rectitude, but also a rendering of accounts, a test, passing a
test, or virtue.
Reversed Card
Upset balance, injustice, excessive severity, unfavorable evaluation.
IX
THE HERMIT
A bearded old man wearing a long, hooded tunic walks along with the help of a
staff, lighting his way with a lantern.
Meaning in the Tarot
The Hermit is the symbol of wisdom.
The symbol for wisdom is either the lantern he holds in his hand which illuminates the
reality of the facts or the figure of The Hermit himself.
The wisdom of The Hermit in the Tarot is also intended as caution, for example, in
evaluating where we are going and what we are doing.
It also means an inner search and reflecting on the situations indicated by the nearby
cards.
A desire to discover the truth, seeking the truth.
Reversed Card
Excessive caution, excessive isolation from others, excessive meditation and too little
action, recklessness, poor judgment concerning what one is doing.
Not having understood what is actually going on and who can be trusted.
X
WHEEL OF FORTUNE
The Wheel of Fortune or Fortune is represented by a wheel.
This stands witness to the very nature of luck, that tends to turn and change,
thereby placing a person in a specific moment of good or bad luck, which then
alternate with each other. The Wheel of Fortune is overlooked by a figure wielding a sword
and thus has power upon whom luck undoubtedly smiles. Another two figures are
clutching at the Wheel: one is rising, one is descending.
Meaning in the Tarot
This card reminds us of the precariousness of situations destined to evolve and change.
The crucial point is that things can evolve for the better, but also worsen.
The card refers to conditions of precarious balance.
In general, the Wheel of Fortune is more of a positive card than a negative one; in fact,
change is always a fruitful opportunity for those who know how to grasp it.
Reversed Card
Changes for the worse in a situation, bad luck.
Slow to exploit change as an opportunity.

XI
STRENGTH
A beautiful young woman easily pries open the lions jaws.
Notice the iconographic reference to the labors of Hercules.
The woman portrayed on the card has a sideways 8 over her head, the symbol of
infinity, or in some cases, a hat that recalls the same shape.
Meaning in the Tarot
The card symbolizes brute strength (the lion) conquered by intelligence.
It therefore reminds us to use our own intelligence to resolve situations, without taking
drastic measures, rash solutions, or resorting to brute strength.
The card of Strength also indicates success in resolving situations thanks to ones own
inner strength, courage, and astuteness.
Reversed Card
Poor results due to an excessive use of force or an impulsive reaction, without having
reflected first. Lack of time to reflect overcome by events and consequential wrong
actions.

XII
THE HANGED MAN
The position of The Hanged Man in the Tarot is that of an ancient form of
torture: being hung upside-down by one foot with hands tied behind ones
back.
The Hanged Man, however, has a calm expression, almost as if he were
meditating, tolerating the pain impassively.
Meaning in the Tarot
At first glance, this card seems to transmit a negative situation of immobility,
but at a closer look, we understand that it is instead the situation of a person who refuses
to struggle uselessly and waits for events to change, totally aware that an unfavorable
situation is only temporary.
The card symbolizes a sacrifice, an unfavorable position to be tolerated in order to reach an
objective.
Major efforts are necessary, as are sacrifices, and having to overcome difficult trials.
It will be necessary to make the best of a bad situation, in that by reacting instinctively and
incorrectly, this temporarily difficult situation risks becoming a permanent condition.
One must make sacrifices, be clear-headed under difficult conditions, and know how to be
patient.
Temporary sacrifice, in order to later improve ones own situation.
Reversed Card
Negative reactions to temporarily difficult positions.
Useless efforts to change a situation that calls for only one course of action: waiting.

XIII
DEATH
Here we find the familiar image of the skeleton wielding a scythe.
Death is number thirteen of the Major Arcana of the Tarot.
According to most ancient traditions, the number thirteen is the bearer of
misfortune, but there are also cultures where the number thirteen brings good
fortune.
A disturbing figure on the whole, it is also ominous thanks to the details of the
body parts of those struck down by the scythe of death.
However, Death is also paradoxically perceived as a just and fair figure, in that he strikes
everyone indiscriminately, no matter what their social class or assets.
In fact, on the ground there is also the crowned head of a beheaded sovereign.
Meaning in the Tarot
Death symbolizes a phase of the Cycle of Life, a traumatic phase that precedes a new birth.
A figure so frightening does not therefore necessarily mean that Death is a card that bears
misfortune; in fact, its meaning is mainly that of change, of the conclusion of a cycle, and
subsequent renewal.
Death means the end of the present situation, perhaps in a traumatic way, and the new
situation that will follow.
Death can also concern the end of a negative cycle.
Obviously, this card when associated with other unfavorable cards contributes to
outlining a not very positive picture.
Reversed Card
Bad ending to a situation, misfortune.

XIV
TEMPERANCE
Classic medieval representation of the virtue of Temperance: a female figure that
pours a liquid from one vase to another.
In the Tarot, Temperance is represented by a winged woman, standing, in the
process of pouring a liquid, probably the water of life, between two cups or
pitchers.
Meaning in the Tarot
The card of Temperance calls for moderation.
As in the past, wine was diluted with water; likewise, excesses should be avoided in life.
We must seek moderation, self-control, and we must relax.
It may also mean: a balanced approach is being taken in a certain situation; the right
balance must be maintained.
Reversed Card
Lack of moderation, excesses.
A situation is not being approached with the right balance; the wrong attitude is being
manifested.

XV
THE DEVIL
A horned devil, with bat wings and animal legs: a disturbing image.
The Devil is on a sort of altar, and we can make out a face on his abdomen,
symbolizing how he is driven by basic instincts.
Two demons are chained at his feet, and The Devil is holding a sort of
scepter or fiery staff.
The composition of the figures recalls the card of the Pope, in an evil
version.
Meaning in the Tarot
The Devil is the most negative card of the Tarot.
It can symbolize evil or danger.
Even immorality, degeneration, malice, and various vices can be associated with this card.
Reversed Card
Pure evil.
In rare cases, it may refer to unbridled passion.
In other cases, it may refer to the end of a dangerous situation.

XVI
THE TOWER
A tower struck by a lightning bolt that sets it on fire and destroys it.
The reference is to the Tower of Babel, symbol of the arrogance and pride of
man who desired to rise to compete with the divine, and was destroyed by God
himself.
Two people falling in mid-air after the collapse of the tower are portrayed on the
card.
Meaning in the Tarot
The Tower of the Tarot represents the punishment of arrogance.
It is an unfavorable card that announces failure due to ones own presumption and
arrogance.
We will face harsh punishment due to our lack of humility.
We have stirred up envy and animosity, due to our ostentatious success or our ambition,
and someone will see to it that it works against us.
The card of The Tower can also be merely a warning: be careful not to boast about your
success; do not be presumptuous or arrogant with others, otherwise you may be punished
harshly.
Reversed Card
Extreme arrogance, ostentation, or ambition.
Extreme animosity from someone who will stop at nothing to put obstacles in your path.
Losses.

XVII
THE STAR
A completely naked woman, bending over the lake shore or a river bank, pours
the liquid contained in two vases into the water.
The water contained in the vases is the water of life and, up in the sky, seven small
stars, together with one larger, shine down benevolently.
In the background we see trees, as if to emphasize the fertility of the entire card,
and so the land.
Meaning in the Tarot
The card of The Star is undoubtedly positive.
We must be optimistic because the stars are on our side and shining down on us
benevolently.
We have the blessing of the heavens and the stars to illuminate our path.
An abundance of ideas and favorable circumstances.
This card has a positive influence on the cards around it and on the situations they refer to.
The Star does not necessarily indicate material success in a specific action, but rather that
we will find joy, good spirits, and feel gratified and content.
Everything is in place to guarantee our happiness.
Reversed Card
A favorable situation that was not grasped, opportunities not exploited.
Excessive pessimism even when the situation is not so serious.

XVIII
THE MOON
The Moon of the Tarot is overlooking two howling dogs.
The setting is spectral and obscure, just as the moon was considered the bearer of
darkness and evil influence.
There is also an illustration of a crayfish, that with its peculiar backward gait
becomes another sinister and obscure symbol.
On the sides of the card there are two towers.
Meaning in the Tarot
The iconography of the card clearly evokes its meaning: there is a sinister and obscure
atmosphere brimming with deception.
If caution is not taken, mistakes will be made; outside circumstances are unfavorable,
tempting, and deceptive.
It is however possible to remain unscathed, but only by being astute and skillful.
The moon rays conceal the traps and perils of dangerous lands; it will not be simple to find
your way and avoid making mistakes.
Someone is deceiving you or is speaking behind your back.
Unfavorable circumstances, hidden perils, trickery, deceitful people, enemies disguised as
friends.
Reversed Card
You are being deceived. Very dangerous circumstances in the near future.

XIX
THE SUN
The sun is shining down on two children.
It is significant that in the order of the Tarot, the card of The Sun comes
immediately after that of The Moon: the sun comes out and shines again after a
dark time.
Meaning in the Tarot
The sunlight returns to illuminate our path and eliminate the perils of darkness.
Now our path is brighter and free from dangers.
A period of serenity and happiness awaits.
After difficult periods (darkness), everything is taking a turn for the better.
Great personal gratification because a positive moment follows less fortunate ones.
Reversed Card
A negative situation delays a turn for the better.
It is difficult to find joy and be light hearted even when faced with positive situations.

XX
JUDGEMENT
Judgement of the Tarot is nothing other than the representation of the Last
Judgment, with the angel of the apocalypse heralding the final moment when we
will all be judged.
The trumpets of the judgment blare and the dead rise from the tombs to face the
last judgment.
Meaning in the Tarot
Judgement is a card of renewal, evidently a situation is changing.
The situation changes because the moment of the rendering of accounts has arrived.
One can no longer be idle or postpone matters, because the rendering of the accounts must
be faced head on and the relative consequences must be paid.
Judgement may also represent the need to free oneself from material obsessions and
rediscover the true values that actually make us happy.
You will pay for your misdeeds; closure of a situation; judgment.
Reversed Card
An unfavorable rendering of accounts.
Punishment suffered.
Misdeeds that are discovered and punished.
Someone discovers that you have been at fault.

XXI
THE WORLD
A nude or semi-nude woman is encircled in an oval garland with one leg
slightly bent. She is holding one or two magic wands.
The corners of the card instead bear the symbols of the four evangelists: an
angel (Matthew), a lion (Mark), a bull (Luke), and an eagle (John).
Meaning in the Tarot
The World is one of the most positive cards of the Tarot; it represents purity
and harmony, creation and human knowledge.
Objectives will be reached and success will be gained in what you are doing.
You will be prolific.
You will attain inner serenity.
You will learn to feel gratified in your situation and to enjoy what you have.
Reversed Card
You will achieve success, but not by acting appropriately.
There will be some inappropriate behavior, but in spite of this, everything will go well.

THE FOOL
A vagabond, perhaps a jester, moves on with the help of a walking stick while a
dog follows him, biting at his clothes.
The fact that The Fool card has no number associated with it or is at most
considered the number zero card only emphasizes its peculiarity.
Meaning in the Tarot
The card of The Fool may have a double meaning: both positive and negative.
The positive meaning is to encourage us to let ourselves go and live freely.
We should free ourselves from the excess of logic, rationality, and do what we like to do
best.
We then live as fools, breaking the rules that others have imposed on us while doing what
makes us feel better, even if it goes against common sense; the important thing is that for
us it is positive and gratifying.
Otherwise: creativity and genius (often misunderstood).
The negative interpretation of the card, instead, concerns reckless actions, carried out
irrationally, like a fool.
A person who has acted irresponsibly, who needs to start over again. Otherwise: a lack of
self-respect; letting oneself be passively led on by events.
Reversed Card
Irresponsibility, irrationality, obsession, immaturity, lack of logic, acting according to
totally mistaken instincts, lack of guidelines.
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