Tarot Foundations: From the Fool to the World
Written by: Cleo Divine
Published on: December 23, 2025
Category:
Tarot
The Journey of the Soul: An Introduction to Tarot Foundations
Tarot is perhaps the most iconic tool of divination in the Western world. While its exact origins are debated, its evolution from 15th-century Italian playing cards (Tarocchini) into the complex esoteric system we use today is a testament to its enduring power. At its core, the Tarot is a story known as 'The Fool's Journey.'
Understanding the Structure: Major vs. Minor Arcana
The Major Arcana: Life's Big Lessons
The 22 cards of the Major Arcana (from The Fool to The World) represent significant life milestones and archetypal forces. When these cards appear in a spread, they indicate that the situation is governed by larger forces or that a major life shift is occurring.
The Minor Arcana: The Daily Grind
The 56 cards of the Minor Arcana deal with the day-to-day happenings. They are split into four suits:
- Cups (Water): Emotions, relationships, and intuition.
- Pentacles (Earth): Finances, career, and the physical body.
- Swords (Air): Logic, intellect, conflict, and communication.
- Wands (Fire): Passion, inspiration, drive, and action.
Tarot Myths & Misconceptions
The most persistent myth is that the Death card predicts physical demise. In reality, it almost always signifies a necessary ending that paves the way for a new beginning. Another myth is that you should never buy your own deck; choosing a deck that resonates with your personal energy is vital.