Tarot cards, explained

The big themes in life.

• The FoolStarting something new before you feel ready.
• The MagicianUsing what you already have to make something happen.
• The High PriestessListening to what you quietly know.
• The EmpressComfort, care and things growing.
• The EmperorStructure, rules and taking charge.
• The HierophantLearning from tradition, teachers and the way things are done.
• The LoversCloseness, and choosing what matters to you.
• The ChariotMoving forward by keeping control.
• StrengthQuiet courage and patience.
• The HermitTime alone to think.
• Wheel of FortuneThings changing, the ups and downs of life.
• JusticeFairness, honesty and cause and effect.
• The Hanged ManPausing and seeing things a different way.
• DeathAn ending that makes room for something new.
• TemperanceBalance and finding the middle way.
• The DevilThe habits and ties that hold you back.
• The TowerA sudden shake-up that clears the way.
• The StarHope and feeling better.
• The MoonUncertainty, and things not being clear yet.
• The SunJoy, warmth and things going well.
• JudgementWaking up to what's next.
• The WorldFinishing something, and feeling whole.

Drive, ideas and getting things going. In tradition, the suit of Fire.

• Ace of WandsA spark of a new idea.
• Two of WandsPlanning your next big move.
• Three of WandsWaiting for your plans to pay off.
• Four of WandsCelebrating, and feeling at home.
• Five of WandsClashing ideas and friendly competition.
• Six of WandsBeing recognised for what you've done.
• Seven of WandsStanding your ground.
• Eight of WandsThings moving fast.
• Nine of WandsTired but still going.
• Ten of WandsCarrying too much.
• Page of WandsCuriosity and a new interest.
• Knight of WandsBold action, full speed ahead.
• Queen of WandsConfidence and warmth.
• King of WandsLeading with vision.

Feelings, love and friendship. In tradition, the suit of Water.

• Ace of CupsA fresh start in feelings or love.
• Two of CupsA close connection between two people.
• Three of CupsFriends and good times.
• Four of CupsFeeling flat and missing what's on offer.
• Five of CupsFeeling sad about what's gone.
• Six of CupsGood memories and simple kindness.
• Seven of CupsToo many choices, some of them daydreams.
• Eight of CupsWalking away from what no longer fills you up.
• Nine of CupsGetting what you wished for.
• Ten of CupsHappiness at home.
• Page of CupsA sweet surprise or a new feeling.
• Knight of CupsFollowing your heart.
• Queen of CupsCaring and understanding feelings.
• King of CupsStaying calm with your feelings.

Thoughts, words and hard truths. In tradition, the suit of Air.

• Ace of SwordsA clear idea or a breakthrough.
• Two of SwordsStuck between two choices.
• Three of SwordsHurt feelings.
• Four of SwordsRest and a pause.
• Five of SwordsWinning at a cost.
• Six of SwordsMoving on to calmer waters.
• Seven of SwordsSneaking around, or being clever.
• Eight of SwordsFeeling trapped by your own thoughts.
• Nine of SwordsWorry that keeps going round your head.
• Ten of SwordsHitting rock bottom, and the end of it.
• Page of SwordsCurious and full of questions.
• Knight of SwordsRushing in with strong opinions.
• Queen of SwordsHonest and clear.
• King of SwordsClear thinking and fair judgement.

Money, work and home. Pentacles are coins with a star on them. In tradition, the suit of Earth.

• Ace of PentaclesA new chance with money or work.
• Two of PentaclesJuggling things.
• Three of PentaclesTeamwork and skill.
• Four of PentaclesHolding on tight.
• Five of PentaclesFeeling left out in the cold.
• Six of PentaclesGiving and receiving.
• Seven of PentaclesPatience while things grow.
• Eight of PentaclesPractice and hard work.
• Nine of PentaclesEnjoying what you've earned.
• Ten of PentaclesLasting security and family.
• Page of PentaclesLearning something practical.
• Knight of PentaclesSteady and reliable.
• Queen of PentaclesPractical care.
• King of PentaclesSuccess and being dependable.