The standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards
divided into two sections, the major and minor arcanas. The word
arcana is the plural of arcanum which means "profound secret."
To the alchemists of the Middle Ages, the arcanum was the secret
of nature. The tarot cards are therefore a collection of the "secrets"
that underlie and explain our universe.
The 22 cards of the major arcana are the heart
of the deck. Each of these cards symbolizes some universal aspect
of human experience. They represent the archetypes - consistent,
directing patterns of influence that are an inherent part of human
nature.
Each card in the major arcana has a name and number.
Some names convey a card's meaning directly, such as Strength,
Justice and Temperance.
Other cards are individuals who personify a particular approach
to life, such as the Magician
or the Hermit. There are also
cards with astronomical names, such as the Star,
Sun and Moon. They represent the
elusive forces associated with these heavenly bodies.
The major arcana cards are special because they
draw out deep and complex reactions. The images on the Rider-Waite
deck are evocative because they combine esoteric symbolism with
recognizable figures and situations. The symbolism is subtle,
but effective.
The major arcana is often considered as a unit.
Different schemes have been developed to show how the cards form
patterns that cast light on the human condition. Numerology,
astrology and other esoteric sciences often play a role
in these schemes.
Many interpreters view the major arcana as showing the different
stages on an individual's journey of inner growth - what some
call the Fool's Journey.
We all travel this road to self-actualization, though our trips
more often involve detours, backups and restarts than smooth progression!
Our specific paths are unique, but our milestones are universal.
The 22 major arcana cards are markers on the path of inner development
leading from earliest awareness (card 0) to integration and fulfillment
(card 21).
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