Explore the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck

As we navigate through the intricacies of human existence, we often seek guidance and inspiration from various sources, including mystical instruments like tarot cards. The Gilded Tarot Deck is one such powerful tool that has been revered for centuries for its ability to provide insights and reveal hidden truths. At the heart of the deck is the Major Arcana, a set of 22 cards that represent the journey of the soul towards enlightenment. Each of these cards carries its unique symbolism and deeper meanings, offering a glimpse into the mysteries of the universe. In this article, we will explore the profound symbolism and significance of each Major Arcana card in the Gilded Tarot Deck, revealing the secrets and wisdom that lie within.

The Major Arcana

The Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck has long been a source of fascination and mystery for tarot enthusiasts. These 22 cards, each with their own unique symbolism and meaning, represent some of the most significant archetypes and life experiences in the human journey. From the starting point of Card 0: The Fool to the triumphant end represented by Card XXI: The World, the Major Arcana offer a wealth of insight into personal growth, self-reflection, and even relationship advice. For those new to the Gilded Tarot Deck, it is recommended to first read the beginner’s guide and the history of the deck to gain a fuller understanding of its context and usage.

Card 0: The Fool

The Fool is the first card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot deck. It is represented by a young man standing at the edge of a cliff with a small dog jumping at his feet. The sky above him is bright and clear, and he looks like he is about to take a step off the cliff. The Fool is a card that represents new beginnings, taking chances, and the unknown.

Symbolism:

The Fool is often associated with the element of Air, which represents intellect and communication. The young man on the card is dressed in bright and colorful clothing, symbolizing his optimistic and carefree attitude towards life. The dog jumping at his feet represents loyalty and protection, but also reminds us that sometimes we need to let go of our fears and take risks.

Meaning:

The Fool is often interpreted as a card of new beginnings, starting on a new path, and taking risks. It could also mean that you need to have faith in yourself and trust that things will work out in the end. However, it is also a warning that taking risks without thinking things through could have negative consequences.

If you draw the Fool in a reading, it could mean that you are at a crossroads in your life and need to make a decision. It could also mean that you need to be open to new opportunities and experiences that are coming your way. The Fool encourages you to take a leap of faith, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to use your intuition and intellect to guide you.

If you want to learn more about the history and symbolism of the Gilded Tarot deck, check out our article on the history of the Gilded Tarot deck. If you want to use the Gilded Tarot deck for self-reflection and growth, check out our guide to using the Gilded Tarot deck for self-reflection and growth. If you are new to tarot and want to learn more about using the Gilded Tarot deck, check out our beginner’s guide to the Gilded Tarot deck. If you want to compare the Gilded Tarot deck to other tarot decks, check out our comparison of the Gilded Tarot deck to other popular tarot decks.

Card I: The Magician

The Magician is the first card in the Major Arcana and serves as the bridge between the spiritual and physical worlds. This card represents manifestation, power, and creation. The Magician is depicted standing at a table with all four suits of the Minor Arcana – swords, wands, cups, and pentacles – laid out before him. This symbolizes the Magician’s mastery of all the elements of life.

The Magician also holds a wand in one hand pointing upwards and his other hand pointing downwards, symbolizing the Hermetic axiom “as above, so below.” This represents the connection between the spiritual and the physical worlds, and that with the power of the Magician, one can manifest their desires in the physical realm.

When the Magician appears in a reading, it can suggest that the querent has the power and ability to manifest their desires, but they need to first believe in their own abilities. It can also mean that the querent needs to take action and use their skills and resources to bring their desires into reality.

It’s important to note that the Magician can also represent trickery or the misuse of power, so it’s essential to look at the surrounding cards to gain a better understanding of the message being conveyed.

The Magician is a potent card that encapsulates the essence of the entire Tarot deck in one image. It encourages us to recognize our own power and abilities but also warns us to use them wisely. To learn more about the Gilded Tarot Deck, its iconography, and how to use it for readings, be sure to check out the relevant articles through these links: gilded-tarot-iconography, choose-spread-gilded-tarot, gilded-tarot-minor-arcana, gilded-tarot-cleansing, gilded-tarot-deck-relationship-advice.

Card II: The High Priestess

The High Priestess is the second card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck. This card represents mystery, intuition, and the feminine divine. It is a powerful card that encourages us to trust our own inner wisdom and intuition. Here are some key details about the High Priestess:

1. Appearance: The High Priestess is depicted as a woman sitting on a throne, with a crescent moon at her feet. She wears a crown and holds a scroll in her hand. Her dress is blue, which represents her connection to the spiritual realm.

2. Symbolism: The High Priestess is a symbol of the divine feminine and represents intuitive wisdom, psychic ability, and the mysterious unknown. She reminds us to trust our inner voice, even if it goes against logic or reason.

3. Meaning: When the High Priestess appears in a reading, it is a sign to pay attention to your intuition and trust your inner voice. This card represents a time of introspection and reflection, where you may need to retreat from the world and spend time in contemplation. It can also indicate that secrets or hidden knowledge may be revealed in the near future.

4. Reversed: If the High Priestess appears upside down in a reading, it can suggest a lack of trust in oneself or a situation. It may be a warning to not ignore intuition or to overly rely on logic and reason. It can also indicate a need for more introspection and reflection.

The High Priestess is a powerful and mysterious card that represents intuition, psychic ability, and the divine feminine. It encourages us to trust our inner voice and to pay attention to the hidden knowledge waiting to be revealed.

Card III: The Empress

The Empress is the third card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck. This card represents femininity, motherhood, and abundance. In this card, we see a woman sitting on a throne. She wears a crown of twelve stars, which represent the twelve months of the year and the zodiac signs.

Below the throne, there is a field of wheat, which represents fertility and growth. The Empress is surrounded by lush greenery, which represents nature and the nurturing aspects of femininity. The Empress is pregnant, which symbolizes creation, birth, and the cycle of life.

In the Gilded Tarot Deck, The Empress has a strong and confident expression on her face. Her posture and demeanor convey a sense of calm and serenity. She is a symbol of female power and the beauty of creation.

The Empress signifies abundance, creativity, and comfort. She represents the feelings of comfort and security that come from having a mother figure in our lives. Her presence in a reading can indicate a time of growth, abundance, and prosperity. It can also signify creativity and inspiration.

The meaning of The Empress in a reading can vary depending on the context and other cards present in the spread. She is a positive card that represents the nurturing and abundant aspects of femininity.

Table:

Symbolism	Meaning
The Crown of Twelve Stars	Represents the twelve months of the year and the zodiac signs.
The Field of Wheat	Represents fertility and growth.
Lush Greenery	Represents nature and the nurturing aspects of femininity.
Pregnancy	Symbolizes creation, birth, and the cycle of life.

Card IV: The Emperor

The fourth card of the Major Arcana in the Gilded Tarot Deck is a representation of great power and control, symbolized by the figure of the Emperor. This card is often associated with a father figure, one who represents authority, stability, and order in one’s life.

The image of the Emperor in the Gilded Tarot Deck shows a regal figure seated on a throne, adorned with armor and a crown. He holds a scepter in one hand and a globe representing his dominion in the other. The background shows a castle or fortress, further emphasizing the theme of strength and stability.

The Emperor represents structure, organization, and strategy. He is a disciplined leader who values tradition and order. In a tarot reading, the Emperor can indicate the need for structure and stability in one’s life. It may also suggest a need for guidance or mentorship, particularly from a father figure.

Let’s take a closer look at the symbolism of the Emperor in the following table:

Symbol	Meaning
Throne	Represents the Emperor’s authority and power over his domain.
Armor and Crown	Symbolize the Emperor’s regal and dignified nature, as well as his position as a leader.
Scepter	Represents the Emperor’s authority and control.
Globe	Represents the Emperor’s dominion and influence over the world.
Background Castle/Fortress	Emphasizes the theme of strength and stability.

The Emperor card represents a powerful figure who exerts control and authority over his domain. The symbolism of the Emperor’s throne, armor, crown, scepter, and globe all emphasize his position as leader and his influence over the world. In a tarot reading, the Emperor can signal the need for structure and guidance in one’s life.

Card V: The Hierophant

The fifth card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck is known as The Hierophant. This card is sometimes referred to as The High Priest, and it represents organized religion and traditional values. The Hierophant is depicted as a religious figure, dressed in elaborate robes, sitting on a throne between two pillars. His hand is raised in a blessing, and in front of him are two acolytes or followers.

Symbolism:
– The pillars represent the duality of nature or the opposing forces that exist in the universe.
– The Hierophant’s blessing hand represents spiritual guidance and leadership.
– The acolytes represent the followers or students of the Hierophant’s teachings.

Meaning:
The Hierophant card is associated with religious or spiritual guidance, institutions, and conformity to traditional values. It can also represent a need to seek guidance or advice from a higher authority figure. This card can indicate a time of seeking a deeper sense of meaning or purpose in one’s life, and may suggest the need to follow a spiritual path.

In a reading, The Hierophant can signify a need to adhere to tradition or to conform to social norms, often at the expense of one’s own beliefs or desires. However, this card can also suggest a time to seek or accept guidance from a spiritual teacher, mentor, or leader.

The Hierophant represents the pursuit of knowledge and understanding through both conventional and unconventional channels, and finding harmony between the two.

Card VI: The Lovers

The Lovers is the sixth card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck. This card represents partnerships, choices, and duality- the balance between the conscious and the subconscious mind.

The imagery in the card displays a man and a woman standing in a garden within a sacred space. Behind them, there is an angel figure with outspread wings. The woman gazes at the man, while the man looks at the angel. The angel towers above, representing a higher power that guides and protects them. The tree next to the man represents the Tree of Knowledge or the Tree of Life.

The Lovers represents the following key meanings:

• Love
• Choices
• Union
• Marriage
• Harmony

The card conveys a sense of choice and balance, where one has to make a decision between right and wrong. The Lovers may signify a coming together or a separation of two opposites, representing forces that cannot exist without each other.

It can also represent a time of significance change or a turning point in life. It may represent the perfect time to explore new ventures and to take risks. The Lovers encourage you to be open to new ideas and to trust your instincts.

In a tarot reading, the appearance of the Lovers card suggests that the querent should listen to their inner guidance while considering emotional connections with others. It may also represent a symbol of coming together and making a commitment, whether it’s in a romantic context or a business partnership.

Card VII: The Chariot

The seventh tarot card in the Major Arcana in the Gilded Tarot Deck is a powerful image that portrays a figure riding a chariot adorned with astrological symbols. Here is a detailed analysis of the meaning and symbolism present in this card.

• Symbolism of the Chariot: In the Gilded Tarot Deck, the Chariot card depicts a victorious general riding a chariot with two sphinxes. The sphinxes represent the opposing forces in the universe, such as light and darkness, good and evil, and the positive and negative energies. The chariot represents the general’s ability to harness and control these opposing forces to achieve success and move forward towards his goals.
• Meaning of the Chariot: The Chariot card is a symbol of success, achievement, and victory. It represents the power of the individual to overcome obstacles and adversity by using their will and determination. This card signifies the importance of staying focused and staying the course to achieve one’s goals, even when faced with difficulties.
• Message of the Chariot: If the Chariot card appears in a tarot reading, it is urging the seeker to be more determined and self-disciplined in their actions. They must be willing to face and overcome obstacles and setbacks to achieve their goals. This card also suggests moving forward with confidence and purpose, trusting in one’s abilities and talents.
• Reversed Meaning of the Chariot: When the Chariot card appears reversed in a tarot reading, it can indicate a lack of direction and focus. The seeker may be feeling stuck or unable to move forward due to a lack of motivation or self-belief. This card can also suggest obstacles and challenges that are difficult to overcome or a lack of control in one’s life.

The Chariot card is a symbol of strength, determination, and victory. It represents the power of the individual to harness their will and overcome obstacles to achieve success. If this card appears in a tarot reading, it is encouraging the seeker to stay focused and trust in their abilities to achieve their goals.

Card VIII: Strength

Moving on to the eighth card of the Major Arcana in the Gilded Tarot Deck, we have a depiction of Strength. This card features a woman with flowing blonde hair and a gentle expression, taming a lion. The woman is dressed in a white gown, signifying purity and innocence, and she wears a wreath of flowers on her head, signifying a connection with nature. The lion represents strength, power, and primal instincts. The image on the card is a beautiful representation of the relationship between the woman and the lion, where despite its raw strength and power, the woman is able to tame it using her gentle approach.

To further understand the symbolism behind the Strength card, let’s take a closer look at the imagery and meaning presented in the following table:

Symbolism:	Meaning:
Woman	Represents the conscious mind and intuition, as well as compassion and empathy
Lion	Represents primal instincts, power, and strength
Grapes	Represents abundance and the harvest, as well as the rewards of hard work
Pillars	Represent stability and the duality of life (light and dark, good and evil)
Infinity symbol	Represents the eternal cycle of life and death, as well as the interconnectedness of all things

As we can see from the table, the Strength card is rich in symbolism, with each element contributing to its overall meaning. In general, the card represents the mastery of primal instincts through compassion and intuition. It is a reminder that brute force is not always effective and that a gentle, patient approach can yield better results in the long run. It also signifies the importance of staying grounded and stable in the face of adversity, and understanding that all things are interconnected and cyclical.

The Strength card in the Gilded Tarot Deck is a beautiful and powerful representation of the relationship between strength and compassion, and the importance of balance and stability in life. Its rich symbolism provides a wealth of insights and guidance for those seeking to tap into their own inner strength and make the most of their lives.

Card IX: The Hermit

Card IX of the Gilded Tarot deck is known as The Hermit, also described as The Seeker or The Guide. This card portrays a solitary figure holding a staff, standing on top of a mountain. The Hermit represents a time of introspection and self-discovery, where one must withdraw from the world to find their inner truth. Let’s take a closer look at the symbolism in this card:

The Symbol	The Meaning
The Staff	The staff represents authority, strength, and guidance. The Hermit carries this symbol to guide him on his journey towards self-discovery.
The Mountain	The mountain is a symbol of isolation and challenge. The Hermit must climb this mountain alone to reach his destination, much like how we must face our personal challenges on our own.
The Lantern	The lantern held by The Hermit represents his inner light, the wisdom he has gained through his journey. This light can guide others who seek his guidance, but it can also be a warning to those who are not ready to face their inner truths.

In a tarot reading, The Hermit may signify a need for introspection or inner guidance. It may also suggest a time of solitude or withdrawal, where one needs to take a step back and reflect on their actions and decisions. The Hermit asks you to trust your inner guidance, to find the answers within yourself rather than relying on external sources.

The Hermit card offers a message of self-discovery, independence, and enlightenment. It encourages us to look within ourselves, to find our own truth, and to trust our inner voice.

Card X: The Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune is the tenth card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck. This card depicts a large wheel turning, with a variety of figures attached to it. In the background, there is a cityscape, with a castle prominently featured. Let’s explore the different aspects of this card in more detail:

Symbol	Meaning
The Wheel	The wheel in this card represents the cyclical nature of life. It reminds us that everything is constantly changing, and that we should be prepared for both good and bad times.
The Figures	The figures attached to the wheel represent the ups and downs of life. Here we see a king, a queen, a sphinx, and a snake. Each of these figures represents a different aspect of life, such as power, beauty, wisdom, and danger.
The City	The city in the background represents civilization and society. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, and that we are all part of a larger community.
The Castle	The castle represents our hopes and dreams. It reminds us that we should not give up on our ambitions, even when faced with adversity.

The Wheel of Fortune is a reminder to stay grounded and humble during times of success, and to stay hopeful during times of adversity. It teaches us that life is a cycle of ups and downs, but that we have the power to navigate it successfully if we stay mindful and focused.

Card XI: Justice

Justice is the eleventh card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck. This card is depicted by a robed woman who holds a sword in her right hand and a scale in her left. She represents the concept of fairness and balance.

In the upright position, the Justice card signifies truth, cause and effect, responsibility, and accountability. It suggests that you are evaluating a situation based on objective and rational thinking. It encourages you to take a stance that is guided by moral principles and to do what is right.

On the other hand, if the Justice card appears in reverse, it can indicate injustice, dishonesty, imbalance, and lack of accountability. It can point towards a situation that is not transparent and urges you to take action towards restoring balance.

Upright Meaning	Reverse Meaning
The Justice card signifies truth, cause and effect, responsibility, and accountability.	The Justice card can indicate injustice, dishonesty, imbalance, and lack of accountability.
It suggests that you are evaluating a situation based on objective and rational thinking.	The Justice card can point towards a situation that is not transparent and urges you to take action towards restoring balance.
It encourages you to take a stance that is guided by moral principles and to do what is right.

The Justice card is a reminder to remain fair and just in all of our dealings. It calls for us to act with integrity and to be mindful of the consequences of our actions.

Card XII: The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man is the twelfth card of the Major Arcana in the Gilded Tarot deck. This card is often associated with a change in perspective, sacrifice, and letting go.

Appearance: The card depicts a man hanging upside down by one foot from a tree. His other leg is crossed, forming a four shape, and his arms are tied behind his back. He has a serene expression on his face, suggesting that he has accepted his position.

Symbolism: The Hanged Man represents suspension and surrender. The man in the card has willingly given up his control and is open to seeing things from a new perspective. He has released any attachment to his former beliefs and is ready to embrace change. The tree he is hanging from represents growth and the cycle of life.

Meaning: The Hanged Man calls for the querent to let go of control and embrace a new perspective. This can be a difficult and uncomfortable process, but it is necessary for growth and transformation. It is a time to surrender and trust in the universe, even if it means letting go of something important. The card suggests that the querent needs to take a step back and re-evaluate their situation in order to move forward.

When The Hanged Man appears in a reading, it may signal a period of waiting or a sacrifice that needs to be made in order to achieve a greater goal. It may also suggest that the querent needs to take a break and re-evaluate their priorities. The card reminds us that sometimes the most important growth happens when we let go of control and surrender to the flow of life.

To sum up, The Hanged Man represents surrender, sacrifice, and a new perspective. The card offers a reminder that sometimes, in order to move forward, we need to release control and trust in the universe.

Card XIII: Death

The thirteenth card of the Major Arcana in the Gilded Tarot Deck is often the subject of fear and uncertainty for many. However, it is essential to understand that Death in the tarot does not necessarily signify a physical death. Instead, it symbolizes the death of old ways, habits, and beliefs, making way for new beginnings and opportunities.

In the Gilded Tarot Deck, the Death card features a figure of a skeletal knight, riding a white horse. The horse represents purity and the knight represents the idea that death is the ultimate equalizer; it comes for us all. The knight holds a black banner featuring a white rose, which symbolizes purity, beauty, and rebirth. The banner also features a rising sun, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life, and a boat representing the River Styx that is said to lead souls to their final resting place.

Underneath the horse, lies a king who symbolizes the inevitability of death, no matter how powerful one might be. In the background, there is a scene depicting the end of an era – the sun setting on a city or civilization, symbolizing the end of the old and the beginning of the new.

The Death card in the Gilded Tarot Deck represents embracing change, letting go of what no longer serves us, and finding new opportunities for growth and renewal. It reminds us that giving up the old and embracing the new can be frightening, but it is a necessary part of life that leads to greater personal transformation.

Card XIV: Temperance

The fourteenth major arcana card in the Gilded Tarot Deck is related to the concept of Temperance. This card depicts an angelic figure holding two cups, pouring water from one to the other. The image suggests a balance between principles and a flow of energies, highlighting the need for moderation and harmony in various aspects of life.

Some of the key aspects associated with the Temperance card include:

• Moderation: The card reminds us to maintain balance and temperance in our actions and decisions, avoiding extremes and finding a middle ground. It is a call for a moderate approach and avoiding overindulgence.
• Harmony: Temperance also calls for bringing together different elements of life in a peaceful and harmonious way, working towards a greater balance and wholeness in life.
• Patience: This card suggests that the best outcomes can be achieved with patience and persistence, as the flow of energy and balance takes time to develop.
• Spirituality: As an angelic figure, Temperance also points to a spiritual message in the reading, highlighting the need for a higher perspective and a connection with the divine.

When the Temperance card appears in a reading, it may suggest a need for balance and moderation in one’s life, or the need to find harmony between different aspects of life such as work and personal life, or spirituality and material pursuits. It can also indicate a need for patience and persistence in achieving one’s goals, and a reminder to stay connected to one’s spiritual side.

All in all, while the Temperance card may seem simple at first glance, it carries with it a profound message about balance, harmony, and the importance of moderation in all aspects of life.

Card XV: The Devil

The Devil is the fifteenth card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck. It is a complex card that represents temptation, dark impulses, and bondage.

Symbolism
The imagery of the Devil card is striking and intimidating. A horned, winged figure, possibly an interpretation of the devil himself, is depicted as the card’s central figure. The chained humans at his feet represent addiction or enslavement to our desires.

The inverted pentagram above the Devil’s head is often associated with satanic traditions and suggests spiritual rebellion. The torches held by the figures in the background symbolize knowledge and enlightenment but are held upside-down, indicating that corrupt knowledge may be at play.

Interpretation
The Devil represents the darker side of our nature and warns us against indulging in destructive behaviors. It urges us to be aware of our own addictions, attachments, and negative patterns.

This card invites us to reflect on our fears and limitations, and overcome them by tapping into our inner strength and willpower. It challenges us to confront our shadow selves and take control of our lives.

If you draw the Devil card in a reading, you might be warned against falling into toxic relationships or making harmful decisions that could compromise your well-being. It signals a need for moderation and self-control.

Reversed Meaning
Reversed, the Devil suggests a break from negative patterns and a desire to change for the better. It is a sign that you are on the right track towards achieving your goals and pursuing a healthier lifestyle.

However, be cautious of being too self-righteous or judgmental towards others who may still be struggling with their own demons. The Devil card reminds us to practice self-compassion and empathy towards ourselves and others.

Card XVI: The Tower

The Tower is the 16th card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck. It depicts a tall tower being struck by lightning, and people falling out of it. The card signifies sudden and unexpected change, upheaval, and chaos. The tower represents established structures, beliefs, or situations that are built on a faulty foundation and are therefore bound to collapse eventually.

The Tower is a particularly perplexing card, as it often comes as a surprise and can be an overwhelming force for those affected by its energy. Its symbolism elicits a sense of danger and destruction, and its interpretation can be scary for those who are unprepared to face the upheaval it represents.

The following are some possible interpretations of The Tower:

• The Tower can indicate a sudden and unanticipated change in one’s life, such as the loss of a job, a sudden breakup, or a natural disaster.
• The card can represent the destruction of an established system or structure that no longer serves its purpose, such as a company or a government.
• The Tower can also signify the sudden release of repressed emotions or physical tension, similar to a volcanic eruption.
• Alternatively, The Tower can represent the need for one to take a step back and reassess their life, to identify the faulty foundations that have been built upon and make the necessary changes to rebuild on a stronger, more stable ground.

Whatever the interpretation, The Tower is a powerful reminder that change is constant and can strike at any moment. While it can be a terrifying force to face, it can also be an opportunity for growth and transformation, leading to a brighter future.

Card XVII: The Star

The Star is the seventeenth card of the Major Arcana in the Gilded Tarot deck. It depicts a naked woman kneeling by a pool of water under a starry sky. The woman is pouring water from two pitchers, one into the pool and the other onto the ground. The card conveys a sense of hope, renewal, and inspiration.

Card Name	The Star
Card Number	XVII
Keywords	Hope, Renewal, Inspiration
Element	Air
Astrology	Aquarius
Meaning	The Star is a card of hope and inspiration, and it represents a renewed sense of faith and enthusiasm after a period of difficulty. The woman in the card is a symbol of the divine feminine, pouring water onto both the earth and the pool, which represents the depth of the unconscious mind.
Reversed	When The Star appears reversed, it may indicate a lack of faith or a feeling of hopelessness. It may also suggest a fear of the unknown and a reluctance to let go of the past.

The Star is associated with the element of Air, which represents the realm of the mind and intellect. It is also linked to the astrological sign of Aquarius, which is associated with innovation, progress, and humanitarianism. The card encourages us to embrace new ideas and ways of thinking, and to have the courage to explore uncharted territories.

The Star is a highly positive card in the Major Arcana, and its appearance in a reading often indicates a period of renewed hope and inspiration after a difficult time. It suggests that we are on the right path and that we should trust our intuition and inner guidance. When reversed, however, The Star can indicate a need to rekindle our faith and confidence in ourselves, and to let go of negative beliefs and pessimism.

Card XVIII: The Moon

The Moon is the eighteenth card of the Major Arcana and is full of hidden symbolism and meaning. This card is often associated with confusion, fear, and anxiety due to its depiction of a dark and mysterious night sky. Let’s explore the various elements present in this card.

The imagery

The Moon card features a moonlit night sky with a prominent full moon in the center. Two pillars stand tall, flanking a path that leads to a body of water. A crayfish can be seen crawling out of the water, heading towards land. In the distance, there are trees and mountains. The entire scene is suffused with a sense of eeriness and mystery.

The symbolism

The moon has long been associated with intuition and the subconscious mind, and this symbolism is present in this card as well. The two pillars represent masculine and feminine energies, which need to be balanced for spiritual growth. The path between them symbolizes our journey through life, and the body of water is a representation of our emotions and subconscious mind. The crayfish represents our deepest fears and anxieties, and its appearance suggests that they are coming to the surface.

The interpretation

When The Moon appears in a tarot reading, it suggests that the querent is going through a period of uncertainty and turmoil. Their fears and anxieties may be holding them back, and they may feel uncertain about their path in life. However, this card also offers hope, suggesting that by confronting their fears and embracing their intuition, they can move towards a place of greater understanding and self-awareness.

The Moon card is an incredibly powerful and meaningful card in the Major Arcana. Its symbolism and imagery offer deep insights into the human psyche, and its interpretation can help guide individuals towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Card XIX: The Sun

The Sun card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck represents positivity, vitality, joy, and success. This card has a bright and radiant appearance, showing a child riding a white horse under a shining sun with sunflowers in the background. Here are the key features and interpretations of the card:

• Optimism: The Sun is all about hope and positivity. It is a sign that things are going right, that your hard work and persistence are paying off, and that you should keep maintaining your positive outlook on life.
• Success: The Sun represents success and the achievement of your goals. It is telling you that your plans and actions have been successful, and that you should celebrate your achievements.
• Child-like innocence: The child in the card represents the joy and purity of childhood. It reminds you to embrace life with innocence, open-mindedness, and curiosity.
• Bright Future: The Sun symbolizes a bright future and the promise of a new day. It suggests that you should look forward to the future with a sense of optimism and enthusiasm.
• Energy: The Sun is a symbol of vitality and energy. It encourages you to be active, take on new challenges, and enjoy life to the fullest.

In a Tarot reading, if the Sun card appears, it is a sign that you are on the right path and that success is within your reach. It is a time for joy, growth, and positivity. However, be cautious not to let your enthusiasm turn to overconfidence or arrogance. Stay grounded, stay humble, and enjoy the abundance of the present.

Card XX: Judgment

The Judgment card is the twentieth card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck. It is a card of awakening, rebirth, and transformation. This card represents a moment of awakening, where old patterns and beliefs are shed, and new and better experiences can take their place.

Here are some key details about the Judgment card:

• Symbolism: The Judgment card depicts the Archangel Gabriel blowing his trumpet to signal the end of times. People of all walks of life arise from their graves, reborn and ready for judgment day. The symbolism of this card represents a spiritual awakening and the shedding of old beliefs and patterns.
• Meaning: The Judgment card in the Gilded Tarot Deck represents new beginnings, second chances, and a fresh start. This card encourages the querent to let go of old beliefs and to embrace new possibilities. It is a time to awaken to one’s higher self and to make positive changes that align with one’s true purpose.
• Reversed: When the Judgment card appears reversed, it may indicate that the querent is resisting change or that they are stuck in old patterns or beliefs. It may also signal a fear of the unknown and a reluctance to take risks. This card encourages the querent to be open to new experiences and to trust that positive changes are on the horizon.

The Judgment card in the Gilded Tarot Deck is a powerful reminder of the importance of letting go of the past and embracing new beginnings. It signals a time of transformation and spiritual awakening, where old patterns and beliefs are shed, and new and better experiences can take their place.

Card XXI: The World

The final card in the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck is represented by The World. This card encompasses the completion of a journey, achieving a goal, and the fulfillment of an endeavor. The card is symbolized by the image of a woman surrounded by a laurel wreath holding a wand and a globe.

The four corners of the card show symbols of the four elements – earth, air, fire, and water, which represent stability, communication, creativity, and emotion, respectively. The overall image conveys a sense of completeness and wholeness.

When this card appears in a reading, it indicates a successful culmination of a project or a journey. It may also signify a sense of balance and fulfillment in one’s life. It is a reminder that one has the power to influence their world and that their efforts will pay off in the end. Through hard work and perseverance, one can reach their goals and experience a sense of triumph.

In summary, The World is a powerful card that signifies the completion of a journey and the attainment of a goal. It represents a sense of wholeness and balance in one’s life and reminds us that we have the power to shape our own world.

Conclusion

After exploring the Major Arcana of the Gilded Tarot Deck, one cannot help but be amazed at the depth and intricacy of these cards. Each card tells a story and offers insights into the human experience. The deck’s stunning artwork, combined with the symbolism of each card, creates a powerful tool for divination and introspection.

From the Fool, who represents new beginnings and the potential for unlimited growth, to the World, which represents completion and achievement, the Major Arcana provides a roadmap for our journey through life. It challenges us to confront our fears, embrace our strengths, and learn valuable lessons along the way.

Of course, as with any form of divination, the Gilded Tarot Deck should be approached with an open mind and a healthy dose of skepticism. However, even if one does not believe in the supernatural or divine origin of the deck, the Major Arcana can still serve as a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth.

In conclusion, the Gilded Tarot Deck’s Major Arcana offers a fascinating glimpse into the human psyche and our collective experience. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a newcomer to the world of divination, the deck has much to offer. So, take some time to explore the cards and see what insights they have to offer you. You may be surprised by what you discover.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Gilded Tarot deck?

The Gilded Tarot deck is a visually stunning deck of tarot cards designed by Ciro Marchetti. The deck is known for its vibrant colors and intricate images.

What is the Major Arcana?

The Major Arcana is a set of 22 cards in a tarot deck that represent major life events, archetypal energies, and universal themes.

What is the significance of the Fool card?

The Fool card is the first card in the Major Arcana and represents new beginnings, taking risks, and trusting the journey ahead.

What is the symbolism behind the Magician card?

The Magician card represents manifestation, transformation, and using one’s talents and skills to create one’s reality.

What does the High Priestess card represent?

The High Priestess card symbolizes intuition, inner knowledge, and the mysteries of the unconscious mind.

What is the Empress card all about?

The Empress card represents fertility, abundance, and nurturing energy. It can also relate to creativity and artistic expression.

What is the meaning behind the Emperor card?

The Emperor card represents authority, structure, and the ability to take action and make decisions. It is often associated with leadership and masculinity.

What is the message of the Tower card?

The Tower card often suggests a sudden change or upheaval that can be difficult to navigate, but ultimately leads to growth and transformation.

What does the Sun card symbolize?

The Sun card represents success, happiness, and positivity. It is associated with achievement and reaching one’s goals.

What is the World card all about?

The World card represents completion, fulfillment, and achievement. It is often seen as the final card in the Major Arcana and symbolizes reaching a state of wholeness and perfection.

References

• Gilded Tarot Meanings
• Niki de Saint Phalle