Monday, August 1, 2011

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Fool of the Major Arcana

The Fool is a card of the Major Arcana of the Tarot. Unlike the rest of the Major Arcana, he has no number. He is the traveler of the Tarot, the one who journeys through life.

The Symbolism of the Fool Tarot Card

The Fool represents that part of everyone in search of experience, the part of that is free of reason and responsibility, the part of that is still childlike in nature. The bright sun behind him represents the truly divine nature of the Fool’s youth and exuberance. On his back, he carries all that he will need on his journey, a reminder that one never needs as much as one thinks.

In his hand is a flower, showing his appreciation of beauty in all its forms, great and small. He is accompanied by a dog, an animal which represents both his inner desires, and the real world, constantly nipping at his heels. He is unconcerned that he is about to step off the cliff, falling into the unknown.

The number “0,” the number of the Fool, is perfect in all aspects. “0” can become anything upon reaching its destination. “0” is nothing, the lack of real substance, a blank slate to write upon.

The General Interpretation of the Fool Card

When appearing in a spread, this card generally signifies the beginning of a new chapter of life. Risk will be required, a leap into the unknown, a leap of faith.

The Fool is ambiguous in nature, for he does not know whether he will succeed, or merely end up looking a fool. This adds an element of excitement and fear. This is the beginning of the great journey of life, the very beginnings of the Major Arcana.

The Inner Meaning of the Fool in Tarot

The Fool reveals an inner impulse to leap into the unknown. The conservative and cautious side watches in both horror and terror as desire takes the Fool, with no concern for the possible consequences, and no hesitation. While this may seem like madness, it is not, for it is an unwavering path towards change, and change cannot be halted.

There is no pre-planned action associated with this card; there is simply a desire to begin a voyage. The Fool stands at the beginning of his journey, and when appearing in a spread, brings a reminder that all must stand at this place at least once, and will face the same hardships, and the same triumphs.

The leap from the cliff can sometimes lead to pain and fear, but could also lead to a new beginning, to joy and to love; the outcome is uncertain, but the need to take the leap cannot be denied. This card is also a reminder of the craving everyone has inside them, the craving to seek out something new. This craving should be minded, for if it is not, it is easy for one to find oneself at the end of the journey, the end of life, wondering at the emptiness inside.

This card does not promise a certain conclusion, but merely makes it clear that the challenges life presents must be accepted, regardless of the outcome. No matter the ending, the journey this card represents will be full of lessons, both learned and ignored.

The Fool is considered by some to be the most important card in the Tarot. He represents the beginning, the unknown, and the desire to take risks. He must step off the cliff before he can encounter the Magician.

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