Explore the complete meanings of 78 tarot cards, from Major Arcana to Minor Arcana, deeply understand the symbolism and interpretation methods of each card
Found 79 cards out of 79
The Fool card depicts a young man happily walking towards the world. He is taking his first step, full of energy, joy, and excitement. He carries nothing but a small bag, oblivious to the dangers that may lie ahead on the road. In fact, he is about to encounter the first of these potential dangers, as if he takes one more step, he will fall off the cliff in front of him. But this seems irrelevant to him - it's uncertain whether he is naive or immature. The dog following him is barking, warning him that he may miss all the adventures he dreams of if he doesn't become aware of his surroundings soon.
The Magician is a tarot card full of symbolic meaning. The central figure depicts a person with one hand pointing to the sky and the other to the ground, as if saying 'as above, so below.' This is a complex statement, but in summary, it means the heavens reflect the earth, the external reflects the internal, and the microcosm reflects the macrocosm. It can also be interpreted as the Magician symbolizing the ability to act as an intermediary between the heavenly and human worlds. On his table, the Magician has also placed all the tarot suits, symbolizing the four elements - air, fire, water, and earth - connected by this Magician. The infinity symbol above his head indicates the infinite possibilities that can be created with willpower.
The High Priestess sits between the two pillars of Solomon's Temple, Jakin and Boaz. Jakin (on the right) is typically referred to as the Pillar of Establishment, and Boaz (on the left) as the Pillar of Strength. The pillars depict the duality of nature: male and female, good and evil, negative and positive. The High Priestess, positioned between the two, indicates her role as a mediator at the depths of reality. She is the third pillar - the path between the two. She perceives these two pillars as equals, with knowledge to be learned in both realms. You will also notice she wears the crown of Isis, possibly indicating her as a devotee of magic. The High Priestess, adorned with the solar cross, signifies her connection to the seasons of the earth and the earth itself. The crescent moon at her feet also appears in many depictions of the Virgin Mary, symbolizing her complete control over her emotions. The pomegranate in the background represents the High Priestess's aspirations.
The Empress card depicts a woman seated on a throne. From the rich nature surrounding her, we can assume this woman represents the archetype of the Earth Mother, the goddess of fertility. Her world is ruled by Venus, meaning there is complete love, harmony, fertility, and luxury under the grace of this goddess. The lady herself has golden hair adorned with stars, indicating her divine connection to the mysterious realms. She wears a robe with a pomegranate pattern, symbolizing fertility, and sits on a cushion embroidered with the symbol of Venus. She is surrounded by a charming green forest, through which a river flows, symbolizing the vibrant life force. The Empress card brings prosperity and blessings to those who draw her.
In the Emperor tarot card, we see an image of a resolute ruler. The throne is adorned with four ram's heads, representing his zodiac sign - Aries. On one hand, he holds a scepter, symbolizing his rule; on the other, a globe, representing the kingdom he protects. The Emperor's long beard signifies his rich experiences. The barren mountains in the background highlight his determination, ambition to reach new heights, and leadership abilities. The Emperor rules with courage, strength, and authority.
This card depicts a religious figure seated before the congregation in a church. He wears three carefully designed robes, representing three different worlds. His right hand is raised correctly, indicating a gesture of blessing - the same hand the magician raises. He wears a triple crown, symbolizing the three levels of body, mind, and spirit. On the other hand, he bears a triple cross, with the three crossbars believed to represent the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Below him sit two acolytes, representing the transfer of sacred knowledge within the institution. Through these followers, this card also represents the path to knowledge and education.
In the Lovers card, the man and woman in the image are being protected and blessed by an angel above. The couple appears safe and happy in what seems to be their home, reminiscent of the Garden of Eden. The tree with the serpent behind the woman alludes to the biblical story of humanity's fall into temptation, into the realm of flesh and desire. The angel depicted here is Raphael, the angel of the wind - the same element associated with the zodiac sign of this card: Gemini. The wind is related to mental activity, especially communication, which is the foundation of healthy relationships. His blessing seems to bring a sense of balance and harmony to this card, symbolizing the union of opposing forces in a grand and universal sense.
The Chariot card depicts a person seated in a vehicle driven by two black and white sphinxes. The whole card has a somewhat celestial atmosphere; the figure is seated under a blue canopy adorned with white stars. On their shoulders, they bear the crescent moon, representing the spiritual factors guiding them. A crown on their head signifies their enlightenment and pure will. A square is imprinted on their chest, indicating the element of earth, the material world, which is the foundation of their being and actions. The sphinxes, colored in black and white, symbolize the opposing forces the charioteer must learn to control. Behind the chariot is a castle, representing their original intention - the home they must protect.
In this tarot card, you will see a woman calmly holding the lower jaw of an adult lion. Despite the lion's fierce and strong appearance, the woman seems to have dominion over it. It's fascinating how she elegantly controls the lion. Her calmness represents control and discipline, especially in the face of adversity. Holding the lion's jaw also indicates her courage. Her control over the lion is not brutal but rather shows love and compassion. The blue background above the mountains shows the kind of tranquility that comes with stability and being grounded.
The Hermit card depicts an old man standing alone on a mountaintop, holding a lantern in one hand and a staff in the other. The mountain represents achievement, development, and success. The Hermit has attained a high level of spiritual knowledge and is ready to descend the mountain to share this knowledge with others. He has a firm determination towards his goals and a clear understanding of the path he walks. Inside the lantern, you will see a hexagram, also known as the Seal of Solomon. This symbol represents wisdom. The staff he holds depicts authority and power. The lack of bright colors in the Hermit card allows him to see the subtle things in life.
The Wheel of Fortune is one of the most symbolically rich cards in the tarot, filled with symbols of various meanings. At the center of the card is a huge wheel covered in arcane symbols. Surrounding the wheel are four creatures: an angel, an eagle, a bull, and a lion. They are related to the four fixed signs of the zodiac - Leo, Taurus, Scorpio, and Aquarius. These four animals are also representatives of the four evangelists in Christian tradition, perhaps explaining why they all have wings. The books each creature holds represent the Torah, conveying wisdom and self-understanding. The snake represents the descent into the material world. Riding atop the wheel is a sphinx, while the creatures beneath the wheel appear to be either devils or Anubis himself. These two Egyptian figures represent both the wisdom of gods and kings (sphinx) and the underworld (Anubis). They are forever spinning in a cycle, with one ascending as the other descends.
The Justice card is a symbol of truth, fairness, and law. When the judge sits in her chair, she uses the scales in her left hand to represent how intuition should balance logic. With her right hand, she wields a double-edged sword symbolizing justice. The square on her crown symbolizes the clarity of thought required to administer justice. Behind her is a purple cloak and upright gray pillars. Beneath the red cloak, she reveals the tip of a white shoe, reminding the audience that what she delivers is the result of their actions.
This card depicts a person hanging upside down, their foot suspended from the World Tree. This tree is rooted deep in the underworld and is known to support the celestial bodies. It is believed that the hanged person is actually placed there by their own free will. We believe this because of the calm expression on their face. Their right foot is tied to the branch, but their left foot is completely free. At the same time, their hands are clasped behind their back, forming an inverted triangle. The red pants they wear represent the flesh and human passions, while the blue of their shirt represents calm emotions, a color combination often seen on saints. The yellow of their shoes, hair, and halo symbolizes their intellect.
In the image, we see Death riding a beautiful white horse, holding a black flag with a white rose drawing. Death is clad in armor, which gives him invincible power - indicating that no one can destroy death. The white horse he rides represents purity, as death purifies all. Beneath him, people of all classes lie in the dirt - a king and a commoner, meant to remind us that death makes no distinction of class, race, or gender. However, in the distance, the sun is rising, representing rebirth, bringing new beginnings and new hopes.
The Temperance card shows an angel with wings, whose gender is not distinctly visible, indicating a balance between the sexes. One of the angel's feet is in water, representing the subconscious, and the other on the ground, representing the real world. On her robe, there is a square with a triangle inside, echoing the tangible earth and the divine trinity. She holds two cups, from which she mixes water, representing the fusion of the superconscious and the subconscious. The water flowing between them suggests union and infinity. Everything about this card represents balance, perfect harmony arising from the union of dualities. The advice she brings is to test any new waters before diving into the abyss.
The devil in this card appears in his most famous Satyr form, also known as Baphomet. In addition to the half-goat, half-human body, this devil has bat wings and an inverted pentagram on his forehead. He stands on a pedestal, to which a naked man and woman are bound, seemingly indicating the devil's dominion over them. Both the man and the woman have horns, suggesting that the longer they spend with the devil, the less human they become. The chains make it appear as if they are captives of the devil. The flame on the man's tail and the bowl of grapes on the woman's tail symbolize their respective obsessions with power and the pleasures of life. Upon closer inspection, both the man and the woman look unhappy. Their personal power has been taken away, leaving them exposed and ashamed.
The Tower card depicts a tall tower nestled atop a mountain. A lightning bolt has struck the tower, setting it ablaze. Flames burst from the windows, and people are seen jumping from the windows in a desperate attempt to escape the turmoil and destruction within. The tower is a symbol, representing ambitions built on false premises. The destruction of the tower must occur to clear the old ways and make way for the new.
The Star card depicts a woman kneeling by the edge of a small pond. She holds two containers, pouring water from one onto the parched land, seemingly to nourish it and ensure its fertility. The lush land around her suggests that it is working. One foot in the water shows the woman's spiritual and inner strength, while the other on the ground displays her practical abilities and power. Behind her, a large central star is surrounded by seven smaller stars, representing the chakras. A bird perched on a branch symbolizes the thoughts and wisdom of the sacred ibis. The zodiac sign corresponding to this card is Aquarius.
When we draw the Moon, we see a path leading into the distance. On either side of the path stand a wolf and a dog, representing our animalistic nature - the tamed and the untamed. A small lobster is crawling out of the pond, its elusive form symbolizing a deeper facing of the unknown and an unsettling of eerie emotions. In the distance, we can see two towers on either side of the central path, representing the forces of good and evil, and their similar appearance may hint at the difficulty we face in distinguishing between them. Everything in this card seems to echo each other, hinting at two possibilities. As we walk this path, we tread the narrow line between the conscious and the unconscious, between the civilized tameness of the dog and the wild nature of the wolf.
The Sun card conveys a sense of optimism and satisfaction. It represents the dawn that follows the darkest night. The sun is the source of all life on our planet, symbolizing the life force itself. The card features a child playing joyfully in the foreground, symbolizing innocence and the joy that comes when you are in alignment with your true self. The child is naked, indicating complete openness and lack of concealment. The card also depicts the purity and innocence of childhood, especially emphasized by the white horse the child is riding, which is also a symbol of strength and nobility.
This card depicts the various forms that the final judgment imagined by people takes in many myths. The images in the Judgement card show women, men, and children rising from their graves in response to the sound of Gabriel's horn. Their outstretched arms symbolize their readiness to undergo the judgment of the universe. They are about to meet their creator, their deeds will be assessed, and it will be decided where they will spend the rest of eternity: in heaven or in hell. The enormous tide in the background signifies the inevitability of judgment, and that this judgment will be final. Judgement is presided over by Pluto, the ruler of the underworld. This card resonates with the Death card, as both remind us that everything has an end, and a new beginning is imminent.
The World card features a dancing figure at its center. The dancer in the card has one leg crossed over the other, with a wand in each hand. She symbolizes balance in motion and evolution. The completeness and unity she represents is not static but is in constant flux, dynamic, and eternal. The green wreath around the central figure symbolizes success, and the red ribbon around the wreath suggests infinity. At each corner of the card are four figures - the same as those in the Wheel of Fortune. These four figures represent Scorpio, Leo, Aquarius, and Taurus - the four corners of the universe, the four elements, and the four evangelists. Together, they symbolize the great harmony of all energies.
The World card features a dancing figure at its center. The dancer in the card has one leg crossed over the other, with a wand in each hand. She symbolizes balance in motion and evolution. The completeness and unity she represents is not static but is in constant flux, dynamic, and eternal. The green wreath around the central figure symbolizes success, and the red ribbon around the wreath suggests infinity. At each corner of the card are four figures - the same as those in the Wheel of Fortune. These four figures represent Scorpio, Leo, Aquarius, and Taurus - the four corners of the universe, the four elements, and the four evangelists. Together, they symbolize the great harmony of all energies.——the same as those in the Wheel of Fortune. These four figures represent Scorpio, Leo, Aquarius, and Taurus - the four corners of the universe, the four elements, and the four evangelists. Together, they symbolize the great harmony of all energies.
The wand is associated with the element of fire, and the Ace of Wands is its core representative in the wand suit. This card depicts a hand reaching out from a cloud, holding a wand. Upon closer inspection, we can see that the wand in this hand is still growing. Some leaves have already sprouted on the wand, indicating spiritual and material balance and progress. In the distance is a castle, symbolizing future opportunities.
The Two of Wands shows a man atop a castle, holding a miniature globe in his right hand. From the way he stands, it appears he is surveying the vast landscape before him, with the ocean on the left and land on the right. The man wears an orange waist-length coat and a red hat, symbolizing his passion for life and his desire for adventure. The miniature globe in his hand represents the possibilities for exploring a broader life.
The Three of Wands depicts a person standing at the edge of a cliff, overlooking the sea and mountains. From the cliff's edge, he can see everything ahead of him. The wands are planted in the land beside him, one of which he holds. He seems to be looking forward, contemplating his commitment to his plans and the methods to execute them to turn them into reality.
The Four of Wands depicts a couple dancing under a welcoming garland, which is tied between four wands. There seems to be a celebration taking place, or some sort of welcoming ceremony for the couple. You can see from the image that this card represents a moment filled with a sense of achievement, a moment of satisfaction brought about by the true realization of a goal.
The Five of Wands depicts five people, each holding their own wand, waving them in the air. Like most fives in the tarot, it concerns some sort of disagreement the querent is facing. This discord can be seen as a sign of conflict between these people, or it may be that they are all enjoying the adrenaline rush that this conflict brings. The competition between them is one of goodwill rather than anger. The relaxed way they hold their wands suggests that this argument is more of a performance than a fierce battle.
The Six of Wands depicts a man, crowned with a wreath of victory, riding a horse through a crowd that is cheering. The horse is white, a well-known symbol of strength, purity, and success. The cheering crowd indicates the recognition of the man's achievement by all. The wand he carries is also adorned with a wreath, further emphasizing his success. The man does not seem afraid or ashamed of all this attention; instead, he is proud of his achievements, to which the surrounding crowd responds with joy and enthusiasm.
The Seven of Wands depicts a figure standing on a high mountain, challenged by opponents below. They seem to be defending this position and launching a counter-attack. Interestingly, in the depiction of the Seven of Wands, the figure is wearing two shoes that do not match. This detail echoes the other details on the card, such as the uneven ground and the lack of a stable foothold for the protagonist.
The Eight of Wands depicts eight wands flying through the air, seemingly suspended. The background of their flight is a clear sky, suggesting that there may be no obstacles on their way to the destination. The card presents a magnificent view, with water flowing, bringing vitality to the scene. The wands appear to be about to land, marking the end of a long journey.
The Nine of Wands shows a figure who looks quite weak, holding a magic wand, with another 8 wands standing upright behind them. This figure appears injured, yet seems ready to fight again, with a strong desire for victory. The expression on their face shows a mix of hope and determination, which should help them in their final battle. This is a card that shows a mix of challenge, hope, and victory.
In the image, a man is carrying a heavy bundle of wood, ten wands tied together, towards a house in the distance. The image on the Ten of Wands indicates that a person has been working hard in life and has achieved a harvest, and is now bringing the harvest to their final destination. At this point, he is under immense pressure, looking extremely tired. But the house in the distance indicates that the endpoint is not far away, and success can be achieved by taking one step at a time.
A young man, dressed flamboyantly, boldly holds a wand standing on a barren land. His clothes have a pattern like a salamander, symbolizing a transition from bad to good. This young man is a passionate advocate, constantly spreading ideas of spiritual and social progress, uplifting his peers. The desert in the background symbolizes his element - fire, and also represents his life in a world that has not yet borne fruit. Therefore, his ideas are entirely hypothetical. However, if he chooses to put these ideas into practice and begins his journey, his pure heart can lead him to greater wealth.
The Knight of Wands rides on his horse, which raises its head, ready for action. From the knight's clothes and armor, as well as his horse, it is clear that he is prepared for the future. He wears a yellow-patterned shirt over his metal armor. He also wears a helmet with red feathers. He seems ready for battle, but he holds a large wand instead of a sword. His horse is orange, with a mane that looks like flames. Looking at the face of the Knight of Wands, you can see the determination to succeed in his endeavors. Fire is the main symbolic element of the Knight of Wands. The decorative tassels hanging from his arms and back, as well as the horse's mane, are all in the colors of fire. He also wears a yellow shirt printed with the fire salamander symbol.
The image depicted by the Queen of Wands shows a queen proudly sitting on a throne, facing forward, symbolizing strength and fire. In her left hand, she holds a sunflower, and the throne is also carved with the image of a sunflower - symbolizing happiness, satisfaction, and fertility. In her right hand, she holds a budding wand, symbolizing life. On her positive and outgoing side, the Queen of Wands can be associated with loyalty, devotion, and warmth. The black cat at her feet suggests her secretive side. Black cats are traditionally symbols of witchcraft and mysticism, but it may also indicate her ability to grasp things through deep intuition.
The King of Wands depicts a person holding a budding wand, representing the passion for life and creativity. His throne and cape are adorned with images of fire salamanders and lions, symbols of fire and strength. The salamander biting its tail represents infinity and the drive to overcome all obstacles. His robe is a bright orange, similar to flames, and the crown is shaped like a tongue of fire. All these indicate that this king is full of energy and authority.
In the Ace of Cups, a hand reaches out from the clouds, holding a cup, as if offering the querent a drink. The cup overflows with sparkling water, symbolizing pure and simple emotions. Accepting this offer and drinking from this cup will surely bring emotional and spiritual satisfaction. Five streams of water overflow from the cup's mouth, representing the power of intuition and the importance of listening to your inner voice. To attain the emotional or spiritual satisfaction depicted by the Ace of Cups, the querent needs to follow this inner voice and remain true to it under all circumstances. This requires emotional restraint, but the card itself suggests the rewards it can bring: overflowing joy and happiness.
This card shows the image of a man and a woman engaged in some sort of cup-exchanging ceremony. In the middle is the caduceus of Hermes, which is usually associated with negotiation, trade, cosmic energy, protection, proper conduct, and duality. The Two of Cups seeks to reveal something quite positive - it is one of the most auspicious cards in the tarot, suitable for romance, business, or other relationships. It suggests that a new partnership is in the works, one that will be based on balance, respect, and honor. Above the caduceus is a chimera, symbolizing the influence of fire and passion on this partnership.
When you draw the Three of Cups, you will see three ladies raising their cups towards the sky in a form of celebration. The atmosphere is evidently filled with joy, as indicated by the flower garlands in the hair of the three ladies. Flower garlands are typically associated with success and victory, so their happiness is quite apparent. The three ladies are also standing amidst a circle of flowers and fruits, further adding to the cheerful atmosphere of the card. One can imagine the ladies sharing the delightful and joyful feelings with each other.
The Four of Cups shows a young person sitting under a tree on a mountain, away from others. They seem to be in deep thought and meditation. In front of them lie three cups on the grass, while a hand from the sky offers a fourth cup. This person, with arms and legs crossed, head down looking at the three cups, is so unmoved that they fail to see the hand reaching out to offer them the fourth cup. The Four of Cups represents our tendency to take what we have for granted, making it hard for us to see the treasures the universe presents to us. We tend to find the answers to our troubles within our immediate surroundings, but an over-focus on what we lack can blind us to the abundance we already have.
Some tarot cards immediately evoke negative emotions, and the Five of Cups is one of them. This card symbolizes loss and the painful challenges brought about by this particular loss. The card depicts a figure in a black cloak, hiding their face, seemingly in a state of despair. On the ground are five cups, three of which are overturned, and two still standing. However, this figure seems not to notice the two standing cups, as they are too occupied mourning the fallen ones. A turbulent river flows between them and the distant castle, indicating that the flood of emotions has separated them from their home.
The Six of Cups symbolizes the nostalgic pleasures, the comfort of home and the innocence of childhood. The card has six cups, all of which are filled with white flowers. The foreground depicts two children, one of whom is handing a cup to the other. The boy handing the flowers to the girl indicates the passing of memories and the joy of reunion. The children seem to be in a place reminiscent of a castle, which can be imagined to provide them with a sense of security and comfort.
The Seven of Cups symbolizes imagination, choices, wishful thinking, illusions, and fantasies. This card shows a person with their back to us, contemplating the 7 scenes emerging from the cups, all floating in the clouds. The clouds represent dreams, illusions, and imagination. The many fantasies emerging from the cups indicate the numerous visions people see when dreaming. The Seven of Cups may mean that you have many options to choose from.
In the Eight of Cups, we face a moment of transition. We see a cloaked figure walking towards a desolate land, leaving behind eight golden cups. They have grown weary of the cups they spent so much time collecting and are now seeking a higher goal. This may be due to the realization that what they were searching for in life is not as pleasurable or satisfying as they once thought, leading to boredom or discontent. The figure embarking on this journey may also symbolize the seeking of刺激 in the unknown. The barren mountains they head towards may symbolize the new challenges they will face. Their emptiness seems to indicate that they are waiting for someone to arrive and shape them. This journey may be an attempt to try new things that could help one grow spiritually and mentally. The card also indicates a willingness to separate oneself from others to commit to self-improvement, self-understanding, and growth.
In this card, a middle-aged man sits on a wooden chair, arms crossed, with a significant degree of satisfaction on his face. He is elegantly dressed, reflecting a true sense of abundance. The red headdress on his head mirrors his active and vibrant thoughts. Behind him, you will find nine neatly arranged golden cups. The Nine of Cups symbolizes spiritual and material satisfaction and success. The man shows a look of achievement after realizing his innermost desires.
The image on the Ten of Cups shows a couple embracing each other, with a beautiful house and green fields in front of them. Next to them, two children are playing joyfully. The couple is embracing in a way that is full of love and romance, while the children play freely. The couple seems to have a stable relationship, and they are blessed with a comfortable home and beautiful children. The green land symbolizes fertility, and the river shows how freely their emotions flow, indicating a harmonious relationship. In the sky, ten cups are arranged in an arc, meaning blessings from heaven. The rainbow behind them indicates the end of difficult times and sorrows, and the arrival of a new happy life that each family member will enjoy. The Ten of Cups card depicts the idea of 'having it all'.
The Cup Page represents unexpected inspiration from the unconscious, perhaps in ways we may not yet fully understand. In this card, a young person by the sea, dressed in a blue coat with floral patterns, holds a golden cup. They also wear a bohemian-looking beret and a flowing scarf. They are startled by a fish jumping out of the cup, as if it has come to greet them from a fairy tale. They can neither drink nor offer a toast with the cup, as the fish seems intent on interacting with them.
The Knight of Cups card depicts a young knight, proudly riding a white horse while holding a cup, as if he is some sort of messenger. Unlike the Knight of Wands or Knight of Swords, this knight is not charging into battle. Instead, he is moving forward slowly, providing a peaceful overall impression. The horse, representing a person's drive, energy, and power, is white, symbolizing spirit, light, and purity.
The Queen of Cups rules the realm of emotions. Her throne is at the water's edge, with water typically pointing to the realm of the unconscious and feelings. Her position at the shore indicates that she is at the intersection of land and sea, where feelings and thoughts merge. She holds a cup, the handle of which is shaped like an angel. This cup is closed, which is why the Queen of Cups symbolizes our unconscious thoughts. The queen sits alone, allowing her to reflect. The calmness of the water and sky symbolizes the queen's tranquil mind. Her feet do not touch the water, representing her objective perspective on her own thoughts and feelings.
The King of Cups is a tarot card representing generosity, control, and emotional balance. The card itself depicts a king seated on a throne, with a fish-shaped amulet representing his creativity and spirit thriving in the calm waters around him. We can see in the background a stable balance between the conscious and the unconscious. To the right of the king, a fish jumps out of the sea, and to the left, a boat is seen, representing the emotional and material worlds respectively. The King of Cups indicates that you do not suppress your impulses but have learned to handle them in a balanced and harmonious way.
The Ace of Swords shows a hand emerging from the clouds, wielding a double-edged sword. This sword is adorned with a golden crown and surrounded by a garland. For a long time, garlands have been associated with victory, success, and great achievements. The crown is a symbol of the dominion brought by royalty and the royal. Behind the sword are mountains and oceans, used to symbolize the vast range and distant lands that the sword can conquer, as well as ambition.
The Two of Swords symbolizes the confusion we face when forced to make difficult choices. In the Two of Swords card, a seated woman is blindfolded, holding a sword in each hand. In the background, there is a sea with cliffs and rocks, serving as obstacles for ships and vessels, hindering progress and action. The blindfolded woman in the card represents a situation that prevents her from seeing the problem and solution clearly. The swords in her hands indicate two choices, leading in different directions, and are mutually exclusive. This may also depict a stalemate, suggesting that the issue should be resolved with logical and rational thinking. The moon on the right side of the card may symbolize the difficulties brought about by illusions and deception in making choices.
As one of the most representative images in the tarot, the Three of Swords shows a heart floating in the air, pierced by three swords. The background is filled with dark clouds, and it is pouring rain. The symbolic meaning of the card is ambiguous, but its emotional impact is quite direct. The heart is warm, the seat of emotions and spirit; the three swords represent the power of hurt, causing pain to this heart. It is an image of grief, damage, and heartbreak. The clouds and rain depict the harsh circumstances surrounding it. All these symbols indicate that the Three of Swords shows a low point in a person's life.
The Four of Swords presents a state of quiet, a peaceful feeling in stark contrast to the pain depicted in the Three of Swords. In a church, there is a sculpture of a knight lying on a tomb, with three swords hanging above, and the fourth sword placed beneath him. The three swords serve as a reminder of the pain endured in the Three of Swords. The position of the fourth sword seems to signal that the battle is over. The stained glass in the background depicts a child and a woman, conveying a sense of warmth and welcome after withdrawal. The knight's hands are clasped together as if in prayer.
The Five of Swords card depicts a young man with a clear look of disdain on his face. He is looking at the enemies he has successfully conquered. He possesses five swords - which he has taken from others in the card. The other two figures are walking away from him slowly, looking defeated and saddened. Above them, the sky is calm, but the clouds indicate that not everything is smooth despite the end of the battle.
In the Six of Swords card, a ferryman is seen rowing a boat carrying a woman and a child to the other shore. The image suggests that the woman and child must have left something behind as they turn their backs to us. The woman's head is covered with a hood - perhaps she is fleeing from something and must leave unnoticed. Because of this, she is experiencing great loss or sorrow. The Six of Swords symbolizes the power of rational thought over intuition and spirit, indicating a move towards a more hopeful future, leaving behind the past.
In the Seven of Swords card, a figure is seen sneaking out of a camp with five swords in hand. Two more swords are left standing in the ground behind them. From this card, we can deduce that the Seven of Swords concerns secrecy, escape, deception, or betrayal. The expression on the figure's face shows considerable confidence, as if they are sure of the success of their sneaky endeavor. Unfortunately, it seems a group of soldiers to the left have noticed the theft, and one soldier is raising a flag or weapon, seemingly signaling a pursuit.
The Eight of Swords shows a woman who is bound and blindfolded, with eight swords strategically placed around her, limiting her movements as if she is in some trap or prison. However, the trapper seems to have been a bit lazy or careless, leaving some gaps through which she can escape. But, due to the blindfold, the woman cannot see these gaps and thus cannot find her way out. The barren land around her may signify a lack of some creativity, and the gray sky in the background may symbolize despair, as she feels hopeless in her constrained situation. Once she removes the blindfold, she will find that she can easily walk out of this predicament.
The Nine of Swords depicts a woman sitting on her bed, holding her face in her hands. She seems to have just woken up from a terrible nightmare. She appears distressed, anxious, and fearful. Nine swords hang on the wall above her bed, and a carving depicting one person being defeated by another can be seen on the bed. The quilt is decorated with various astrological symbols and roses. Here, we see the same woman previously seen in the Eight of Swords - perhaps she has finally been released, but is now haunted by the painful nightmares of being abandoned and rejected.
One of the most striking and ominous cards. The Ten of Swords shows a person lying flat on the ground, face down in the dirt. They are covered with a red cloth from the waist down, with ten long swords plunged into their back, indicating a possibly unseen demise. The air is filled with a terrible silence: the sky above is black and overcast, indicating fears and negative emotions associated with death. The water in front is still, with no ripples - adding to the eerie stillness and finality of the card. Looking towards the eastern horizon, the sun is rising, and despite the darkness, the weather seems very calm. The Ten of Swords seems to suggest a low point in a person's life, a point of no return. But still, even in this state, the sun slowly rises.
The appearance of the Page of Swords represents a person displaying abundant energy in life. Surrounded by wind and clouds, a youth stands proudly on the edge of a rocky cliff. This energetic youth holds a sword in hand, with a determined and somewhat provocative expression - seeming ready to pounce at the slightest provocation.
How hurried this knight appears! The Knight of Swords depicts a young man in armor, riding a strong white horse into battle. The white horse points to an overall purity and energy of wisdom, inspiring the young rider. The stormy clouds in the background and the trees bent by the strong wind further emphasize his air element.
The Queen of Swords sits on a high throne, looking into the distance with a stern expression. As the queen of the wind element represented by the swords, her position in the clouds indicates that no one can deceive or fool her. The sword in her right hand points to the sky, while her left hand is extended as if to bestow something. The Queen of Swords grants us the gift of judgment for everyday decisions and the flexibility to learn from the experiences of others.
The King of Swords shows a king seated on a throne, with a double-edged sword pointing upwards in his right hand. The King of Swords emanates the power of wisdom, clear thinking, truth, and authority. He understands that power entails great responsibility. The blue robe the king wears symbolizes his spiritual understanding. The butterflies behind the throne represent transformation.
In this card, a mysterious hand reaches out from the clouds, holding something that looks like a coin, with a five-pointed star engraved on its surface. This pentacle is associated with the earth element and is seen as a symbol of wealth and all material, secular matters. Below the hand is a garden, seemingly in full bloom with flowers and other kinds of plants - exuding an aura of fertility, growth, and prosperity. The mountains in the distance represent the ambition that drives people to seek the pentacle.
The Two of Pentacles card depicts a person dancing while juggling two large coins. The infinity symbol surrounding the pentacles indicates that this person can handle all issues and can elegantly manage their life. In the background, two ships are seen riding the giant waves, emphasizing the difficulty this person has in maintaining balance - they are in turbulent waters but must manage to stay balanced. The Two of Pentacles depicts the ups and downs that usually occur in a person's life. Despite the surrounding chaos, this person lives a very carefree life, as they dance and happily handle all that comes their way.
The Three of Pentacles depicts a young apprentice working on a cathedral. Before him are two figures, one a priest and the other a noble, holding the architectural plans of the cathedral on a parchment. From the way the apprentice looks up, he is presenting the progress of the cathedral's construction. The other two figures listen attentively to understand what needs to be done and how they can provide guidance. Despite the apprentice's lack of experience, the other two listen to him because they know his ideas and experiences are fundamental to the successful completion of the entire building. Thus, the Three of Pentacles represents the coming together of different kinds of knowledge to create something.
This card depicts a person sitting on a stool, guarding their pentacles with a very tense and defensive posture, as if afraid of losing them. One pentacle is precariously balanced on their head, another is tightly clutched in their hands, and two more are firmly planted under their feet. They are ensuring that no one can touch their pentacles. Clearly, they cannot move, as they must tightly guard these pentacles. In other words, they are restricted in their actions because of their tight grip on their possessions. For some, money does not always bring freedom.
Like the other fives in the tarot, the Five of Pentacles symbolizes adversity. It depicts two figures walking in the snow. They are not only cold but also sick, poor, exhausted, and hungry. They seem to lack the basic necessities of life. One figure in the card is using a cane, while the other has their head covered with a shawl, walking barefoot in the snow. The background shows a black wall with a stained glass window, on which are five pentacle symbols, indicating it is a church. Usually, the Five of Pentacles is a bad omen. However, there is no need to panic, as its meaning can change depending on its position in the spread.
In the image of the Six of Pentacles, there is a person dressed in a red robe. The red symbolizes this person's status and wealth. In one hand, he holds a scale, representing equality and justice. This reminds us of the Justice card, which hints at karma, cause and effect, and the principle of reaping what you sow. His other hand is giving money to two beggars kneeling at his feet. The Six of Pentacles suggests that you have enough security to give to others without affecting your own stability.
The Seven of Pentacles depicts a young man who seems to have paused his hard work to admire the fruits and flowers in the garden. He leans on his shovel, admiring the seven pentacles hanging on the lush plants. The way he rests his head on his hand suggests a kind of fatigue—he works hard to ensure a good harvest this year. Because he focuses on long-term goals, he cannot reap his rewards now and keeps only one pentacle for himself while continuing to nurture the others. Through his efforts, he hopes his crops will continue to bear fruit.
The Eight of Pentacles depicts a young man carving pentagrams onto eight gold coins. This card symbolizes someone who is completely focused on what they are doing. The distant town in the background means he has successfully isolated himself from distractions so he can fully concentrate on his task. The Eight of Pentacles refers to a time in your life when you are dedicated to completing a task. You are fully immersed and committed to performing at your best.
The Nine of Pentacles depicts a woman in a vineyard. She wears a luxurious long dress decorated with sunflowers. She seems to be a member of a wealthy family, as in the distant background we see a castle. A falcon sits peacefully on her left hand. The grapevines behind her are full of grapes and coins, showing her career is very successful and fruitful.
In the Ten of Pentacles, an old man sits in the archway leading to a large estate. He seems to be the head of the family, surrounded by younger relatives. He wears a robe decorated with crescent moons and grapevines—representing the union of spirit and matter. He is accompanied by his family and dogs. In front of him is a happy couple, likely his descendants. Behind the couple is a playful child, his grandchild, reaching out to pet the dog.
The Page of Pentacles depicts a young man standing alone in a wide field full of flowers. In the background, you also notice some lush trees and a cultivated field. The young man seems to walk slowly and ignores his surroundings because his attention is completely absorbed by the pentacle in his hand. He is fascinated by everything the pentacle represents: ambition, security, wealth, nature, and sensuality. The Page of Pentacles symbolizes a grounded, loyal, and diligent person.
Like the other court cards of the Pentacles suit, the Knight of Pentacles is themed around work, effort, and responsibility. The Knight of Pentacles sits on a black horse in a field. Unlike other knights who are always off on adventures, this knight decides to stay home and focus on farming. He is preparing for the next harvest—he believes this land is where he can do his best. In his hand, he holds a coin and gazes at it. In his eyes, we see a sense of careful consideration. Perhaps he is dreaming of what it can bring him. Other knights may find him a bit boring, but this knight cares more about the long-term future of his kingdom.
The Queen of Pentacles depicts a beautiful woman sitting on an ornate throne, holding a coin in her hand. She is surrounded by beautiful flowers and green gardens. Her throne is decorated with various beasts of the earth, closely connecting her with nature and abundance. At the bottom right of the card, a rabbit seems ready to jump out of the frame, symbolizing her abundant energy and fertility. Thus, the Queen of Pentacles depicts a certain degree of success and prosperity.
The King of Pentacles refers to an ambitious, materially satisfied, and worldly successful person. The King of Pentacles sits on a throne decorated with grapevines and bull heads, and his robe is embroidered with many grapevine patterns. He looks mature and dignified. Around him are various types of plants, vines, and flowers, depicting the king's material success. In his right hand, he holds a scepter, and in his left, a coin engraved with a pentagram. Behind him is a castle, symbolizing his determination and effort.
