The Major Arcana
22 archetypal cards representing life's great lessons and spiritual evolution. When these cards appear in a reading, pay close attention — they mark significant moments.
What Makes Major Arcana Special?
While Minor Arcana cards reflect daily experiences and temporary situations, Major Arcana cards point to fundamental themes, karmic lessons, and transformative moments that shape who we are.
These 22 cards are numbered 0 through 21, beginning with The Fool (pure potential) and culminating in The World (integration and completion). Together, they form what's often called The Fool's Journey — a metaphor for the path of human consciousness from innocence through experience to wisdom.
The Fool's Journey
Beginning (0-7)
From The Fool's innocent departure through early life lessons — developing skills, seeking guidance, facing choices.
Middle (8-14)
Confronting inner strength, seeking wisdom, facing fate and justice — the deep inner work of maturation and transformation.
Culmination (15-21)
Breaking free from limitations, experiencing illumination, and finally achieving integration and wholeness.
The 22 Cards
Click on any card to explore its full meaning, symbolism, and interpretations.
Deepen Your Study
Love these decks? Buying through our links directly supports Tarot Arbak.
The Rider Tarot Deck
The classic deck with the most coherent Major Arcana symbolism. Essential for serious study.
The Ultimate Guide to Tarot
The definitive guide to card meanings, spreads, and intuitive reading by Liz Dean.
The Hermetic Tarot
Black and white esoteric deck packed with alchemical and astrological symbolism.
Experience the Cards
Theory is valuable, but direct experience with the cards teaches more than any guide.