Tarot Symbols

All 78 cards in a tarot deck are essential to obtain a realistic and relevant reading. Each card contains some tarot symbolism that contributes to the complete interpretation. However, 22 cards are considered as being the “key” to our basic understanding of tarot symbolism. These are the Major Arcana cards.

This article discusses the 5 women who are portrayed in the Major Arcana: The Priestess, The Empress, Strength, Justice and Star and the tarot symbolism they represent. This gives us a necessary understanding of womanhood, and how its mystery can give us a better understanding of ourselves.

1. The Priestess tarot symbolism.

   The priestess conveys deep understanding of things, mystery and influence. If you take a close look at the card, you will be enthralled by her posture and intelligent facial expression, while holding the scroll that represents a higher form of knowledge and ability. When the Priestess card appears, it indicates that we are in a situation where we need to tap into a higher force to access our inner abilities. The Priestess is a psychic and so are all of us. Pulling The Priestess card means thorough awareness of the ways of life and respect for knowledge. The Priestess also represents mystery and this means that it is a difficult task to get a deep understanding of her meaning; it only shows itself to the worthy. The key is to listen to your inner voice and understand your own purpose in life. That is how the Priestess will explain herself to you.

2. The Empress tarot symbolism.

   The Empress is the mother figure in a deck of tarot cards. Just like the traditional representation of a mother and her life-giving prowess, The Empress is a tarot symbolism for abundance, opportunity, femininity, creativity, promise and assurance. The Empress is about growth and creation. Some say that The Empress is pregnant. One interpretation of the card illustrates new opportunities along the way, represented by the mother’s pregnancy. It may also be a message to a mother (if you are one) or from your own mother. Another interpretation dwells on Venus being the ruler of the card, which therefore means beauty, art, love and pleasure. This challenges you to be creative.

3. Strength tarot symbolism.

   When we think of the word “strength” the first thing that comes to mind is physical strength. The tarot symbolism in the Strength card shows a maiden taming a lion. In this case, Strength symbolizes inner strength, represented by the maiden’s ability to control a “savage beast.” The card emphasizes such powerful traits as balance, courage, patience, compassion and understanding of the true meaning of strength. A reading of this card dwells on the strength we have to subdue our own inner beast – our materialistic and selfish needs. Real strength is our ability to calm these needs, by understanding that self-worth is not provided by worldly goods, and that somewhere deep within us is the reason to love ourselves.

4. Justice tarot symbolism.

   The Justice card is all about truth. Its basic message is about accountability and responsibility for our actions. This card urges us to listen to our conscience whenever a decision has to be made. When we reveal the Justice card, we have to examine our past and try to be accountable for our actions. It also challenges us to live a balanced life and to always strive for equality and fairness when we deal with others.

5. Star tarot symbolism.

   Probably the most positive card in the whole Major Arcana is the Star. It symbolizes hope, healing, cleansing and rejuvenation. The maiden on the card represents an inspiring sense of peace and tranquility. When we select the card from a deck, it reminds us that there is a good life ahead. If we are experiencing difficulties in our lives, the Star symbolizes our turning point – that the hardships are finally coming to an end and the process of healing and rejuvenation commences.

To sum it all up, all 5 women in the Major Arcana represent positive energy. In tarot reading, it is all a matter of state of mind. The women in tarot reveal the keys in the mystery of life – and the door is always within ourselves. This is the power of women in tarot symbolism.