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.

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Journey through the archetypes of the Tarot. Learn the history of the cards and how to perform your own readings.