Major Arcana Cards & Their Meanings: The Empress, The Hanged Man, The Tower

As we delve into the mysterious world of tarot, the Major Arcana cards hold a significant place in interpretations and readings. Amongst these powerful cards are The Empress, The Hanged Man, and The Tower. Each of these cards has its own unique symbolism and meaning. Perhaps you’ve had a reading before and one of these cards appeared, or maybe you’re just beginning to explore the art of tarot. Regardless, in this article, we will take a closer look at these three Major Arcana cards, their symbolism, interpretation, and relevance in tarot readings. So, sit back, shuffle your deck, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of tarot cards.

The Empress

The Empress card is one of the Major Arcana cards in the tarot deck. It symbolizes fertility, motherhood, abundance, and creativity. The card depicts a powerful queen sitting on a throne in the midst of lush greenery, surrounded by an abundance of fruits and vegetation. The heart-shaped shield on her throne is a symbol of love and nurturing, while the wheat on her crown represents abundance and prosperity.
In terms of interpretation, The Empress signifies a time of growth, nurturing, and creativity. Its appearance in a reading could indicate the need to embrace one’s creative pursuits, focus on self-care, or embrace motherhood. This card represents the strong, nurturing feminine energy, and it suggests that the querent may need to tap into this energy in order to achieve their goals.
In tarot readings, The Empress card is often linked to fertility, abundance, and creativity. It may indicate a time of pregnancy, or a creative project that has the potential to yield great results. The Empress is a powerful symbol of feminine energy and power, so it may also suggest that the querent should embrace their own femininity and become more centered and grounded in their own power. Understanding the symbolism and interpretation of The Empress is crucial for tarot readers and enthusiasts, as it can provide deep insights into the querent’s life.

Symbolism

The symbolism in the tarot cards is an essential aspect of divination, as it provides insight into the subconscious. Symbolism serves as a language of the subconscious, which enables tarot readers to draw on the energy and intuition of the universe to understand the meaning of each card. It is important to note that different tarot decks may have variations in their symbolism. The Empress, The Hanged Man, and The Tower are among the Major Arcana tarot cards that have distinct symbols.

The Empress card typically features a woman wearing a crown of stars, seated on a throne surrounded by nature. Her throne is adorned with a symbol of Venus, and she holds a scepter and a shield. The Empress symbolizes abundance, fertility, nurturing, and maternal instincts. The starry crown represents her connection to the universe, and the shield emphasizes her protection of the vulnerable and weak.

The Hanged Man card often features a man hanging upside down by one foot from a tree, with his hands sometimes bound behind his back. This image may seem gruesome, but it represents surrender and letting go. The Hanged Man is not in despair, but rather in a state of acceptance of his situation, which leads to enlightenment. The tree represents the world, and the man’s position suggests a new perspective and understanding of life’s challenges.

The Tower card usually shows a tower being struck by lightning, with people falling out of the tower. The Tower represents chaos, epiphany, and necessary upheaval. The lightning represents a shock or awakening, providing clarity and insight. The falling people symbolize the destruction of old thoughts and beliefs, making way for new beginnings.

Understanding the symbolism in each card is crucial when interpreting their meanings, and how they relate to the querent’s life and situation. It is also essential to consider the context of the card in the reading, whether it is in the past, present, or future position. Each card of the tarot has multiple layers of meaning, which makes them a powerful tool for divination, introspection, and guidance.

For further understanding of tarot card symbolism, please refer to our article on Major and Minor Arcana in Tarot.

Interpretation

Interpretation of the Major Arcana cards is always a matter of personal experience, subjective understanding, and intuition on the part of the tarot reader. The following interpretations of The Empress, The Hanged Man, and The Tower cards are just some general guidelines.

One interpretation of The Empress card is that it represents growth, fertility, and nurturing. It can show the importance of connecting with nature, being creative and artistic, or embodying motherly or feminine virtues. On the other hand, it may also indicate indulgence, laziness, or a too comfortable lifestyle. The card could mean that a person should take care of themselves more or establish new relationships or creative projects.

The Hanged Man card is often interpreted as a symbol of patience, suspension, and letting go. A person might have to slow down, surrender, or accept things as they are. If they look at the situation from a different perspective, they might find some hidden wisdom or spiritual insights. However, the card can also mean confusion, sacrifice, or martyrdom. It might suggest that a person needs to change their attitude or behaviour and take responsibility for their own actions.

The Tower card could represent sudden change, upheaval, and chaos. It might indicate a crisis, shock, or destruction in one’s life, such as the loss of a job, a relationship or a home. The card can also imply the need for purification, transformation, or liberation from old patterns and beliefs. On the other hand, it can reveal one’s own fear of change or fear of the unknown. Hence, the card’s interpretation is not entirely negative, but it could signify that a person will overcome great obstacles to reach higher knowledge or spiritual enlightenment.

Remember that tarot card interpretations are highly affected by other cards in the reading and the circumstances surrounding the question. Hence, one card’s meaning and symbolism can differ from one tarot reading to another. To make sense of all these meanings, it’s essential to be familiar with other tarot cards and their interpretations. For example, exploring the Fool card could help identify one’s own journey or the importance of Minor Arcana tarot in readings. Understanding Wands Minor Arcana could shed light on creative or intuitive expression, while the role of Court Cards in Minor Arcana could reveal hidden or influential personalities in specific situations.

In general, tarot card reading requires careful interpretation of the Major and Minor Arcana cards to make better decisions, gain self-knowledge, or find answers to life’s difficult questions.

Relevance in tarot readings

The Empress represents all things maternal, nurturing, and creative. In a tarot reading, this card could indicate pregnancy, motherhood, fertility, or a strong connection to nature. It is also a symbol of abundance and prosperity, suggesting that good things will come to those who work hard. The Empress is often associated with the zodiac sign of Taurus.

The Hanged Man represents sacrifice and surrender. In a tarot reading, this card could indicate a need to let go of control or a difficult situation. It’s a reminder to look at things from a different perspective, and that sometimes surrendering to the present moment can lead to greater clarity and growth. The Hanged Man is associated with the zodiac sign of Neptune.

The Tower represents upheaval and sudden change. In a tarot reading, this card could indicate a time of crisis or chaos, but also an opportunity for growth and transformation. It’s a warning to confront the issues at hand, and that sometimes destruction is necessary for rebuilding. The Tower is associated with the zodiac sign of Mars.

These three cards each represent different aspects of life and can offer valuable insights in a tarot reading. Whether it’s the nurturing energy of The Empress, the surrender of The Hanged Man, or the transformation of The Tower, each card has a unique message to offer.

While the Major Arcana cards often get the most attention in tarot readings, it’s important not to overlook the significance of the Minor Arcana. The Minor Arcana consists of four suits: Wands, Pentacles, Cups, and Swords, and each suit represents different aspects of daily life. Understanding the role of the Minor Arcana can add depth and nuance to a tarot reading.

The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man is an intriguing Tarot card that is commonly depicted as a person who is suspended upside down. The symbolism of this card is associated with sacrifice, surrender, letting go, and gaining a new perspective. The Hanged Man is typically seen as a representation of a situation where one must let go of their current beliefs and perceptions in order to achieve a new understanding. The interpretation of this card can vary, but it often signifies a time of waiting and patience, as well as a willingness to give up control in order to move forward. In tarot readings, The Hanged Man is often seen as a warning that a difficult period may be coming, and that the querent may need to sacrifice something in order to gain something else. The Hanged Man is a complex and thought-provoking card that encourages the querent to look beyond the surface and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their situation.

Symbolism

The symbols on each tarot card carry a specific meaning that provides insight into the card’s message. The Empress, for example, is a card of fertility and growth. She is typically depicted surrounded by lush gardens, symbolizing abundance and fertility. The Hanged Man, on the other hand, is a card of sacrifice and suspension. The upside-down figure represents surrender and letting go. The Tower is a card of upheaval and destruction, with lightning striking a tall structure, indicating a sudden and violent change. Each symbol has a specific meaning that tarot readers interpret to provide guidance and insight into a person’s life. Understanding the symbolism of tarot cards is essential for reading and interpreting them accurately. To understand the symbolism of the Major and Minor Arcana better, you can explore the Fool card or check out Wands in the Minor Arcana or Court Cards in the Minor Arcana.

Interpretation

Interpretation of tarot cards is a complex process of analyzing the symbolism and meaning behind each card and how it pertains to a specific situation or question. Here is a breakdown of the interpretation of the three Major Arcana cards – The Empress, The Hanged Man, and The Tower.

The Empress

The Empress card is a representation of femininity, abundance, and nurturing. Its appearance in a tarot reading suggests a time of growth, fertility, and creativity. The interpretation of The Empress card can vary depending on its placement in the spread and the question being asked, but some common interpretations include:

• Positive: The Empress represents the nurturing, caring, and compassionate qualities of the maternal figure. In a tarot reading, it can indicate a time of abundance, prosperity, and growth. This card can also signify a time of creativity, particularly in the arts, and suggests that the seeker is surrounded by beauty and grace.
• Negative: The Empress can also represent overindulgence, laziness, and a lack of focus. In a tarot reading, it can indicate a potential for addiction or self-indulgence, particularly in relation to food, drink, or comfort. This card can also suggest a need to be more disciplined and focused in one’s endeavors.

The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man card is a representation of surrender, sacrifice, and release. Its appearance in a tarot reading suggests a time of letting go, being in limbo, or feeling stuck. The interpretation of The Hanged Man card can vary depending on its placement in the spread and the question being asked, but some common interpretations include:

• Positive: The Hanged Man represents a need to let go of old patterns and beliefs in order to move forward. In a tarot reading, it can indicate a time of spiritual growth, insight, and enlightenment. This card can also suggest a willingness to sacrifice in order to achieve a greater goal.
• Negative: The Hanged Man can also represent a sense of feeling trapped, powerless, or stuck. In a tarot reading, it can indicate a time of stagnation or a need to release control. This card can also suggest a fear of change or a sense of martyrdom.

The Tower

The Tower card is a representation of chaos, destruction, and upheaval. Its appearance in a tarot reading suggests a time of crisis, shock, or downfall. The interpretation of The Tower card can vary depending on its placement in the spread and the question being asked, but some common interpretations include:

• Positive: The Tower represents a need to break free from old patterns and beliefs in order to build a new foundation. In a tarot reading, it can indicate a time of transformation, rebirth, and renewal. This card can also suggest a necessary upheaval in order to create a new and improved situation.
• Negative: The Tower can also represent a time of chaos, destruction, and crisis. In a tarot reading, it can indicate a time of sudden and unexpected change that may be difficult to handle. This card can also suggest a need to be prepared for unexpected events or to be careful of one’s actions.

Interpretation of tarot cards can be both intricate and highly subjective. Understanding the symbolism and meanings behind each Major Arcana card can provide deeper insights into your life and guide you towards a more enlightened path. When interpreting tarot cards, it is important to consider the context of the reading and the specific question being asked in order to derive the most accurate and useful insights.

Relevance in tarot readings

In tarot readings, The Empress can represent fertility, nature, and abundance. If the card shows up in the present or future position, it may suggest that the querent is in a period of prosperity or about to enter one. It can also represent creativity, so if someone is asking about a project or business venture, this card may indicate that it will be successful.

For The Hanged Man, it is a card that can indicate the need for sacrifice or surrender. In tarot readings, this card can emphasize the importance of taking a different perspective. The querent may need to let go

of old ways of thinking that are no longer serving them. It can also indicate a period of waiting or delay, so if someone is asking about a particular situation, it may suggest that they need to exercise patience.

As for The Tower, it is a card that can represent chaos, upheaval, or sudden change. In tarot readings, this card can indicate a major disruption in the querent’s life, whether it be a sudden job loss, a breakup, or an unforeseen event. However, The Tower is also a card of transformation and rebirth. It may indicate that the querent needs to go through a period of discomfort in order to grow and change.

These cards can have a significant impact on a tarot reading. It’s essential to understand their meanings and symbolism to offer proper insight to the querent. Tarot readings can provide guidance and clarity, and the relevance of these cards lies in their ability to speak to our subconscious and offer insight into our lives.

The Tower

The Tower card in the Major Arcana is infamous for depicting a tall tower being struck by lightning, with people falling out of it. This card symbolizes chaos, sudden change, upheaval, and destruction. The Tower represents a time of crisis and destruction that is unavoidable, as it signifies a necessary chaotic event needed for growth and change, as painful as it may be. In tarot readings, this card can be a warning of impending chaos or sudden change, but it can also be an opportunity to rebuild and start anew. The Tower card reminds us that sometimes destruction is needed before new growth and opportunities can arise, as difficult as it may be to accept.

Symbolism

Symbolism in the Major Arcana cards holds a great deal of significance in the practice of tarot reading. Each card is rich with symbolic representation, offering insight into our deepest fears, desires, and motivations.

The Empress: The Empress is often depicted as a mother figure, representing abundance, fertility, and nurturing. Her crown of 12 stars suggests her connection to the 12 zodiac signs and the natural world. The wheat she holds symbolizes growth and prosperity, and the heart-shaped shield with the symbol of Venus represents love and union. The Empress represents the power of feminine energy and embodies the creative force of motherhood.

The Hanged Man: The Hanged Man is an enigmatic card that invites the reader to look beyond what is immediately visible. The card shows a man hanging upside down from a T-shaped cross, with one leg crossed over the other. He appears to be suspended in mid-air and is often associated with the Norse god Odin, who hanged himself from the world tree to gain knowledge. The Hanged Man represents the sacrifice of the ego and the importance of surrendering to the unknown.

The Tower: The Tower is a card that represents destruction and upheaval. A tall tower is being struck by lightning, with flames and debris falling from its windows. The crown-shaped battlements suggest that the tower represents a symbol of authority or power, which is being challenged or destroyed. The falling figures suggest the downfall of those who wield this power. The Tower represents the shattering of illusions and the revelation of truth, and reminds us that sometimes a breakdown is necessary for progress to be made.

Symbolism in tarot cards is an integral aspect of understanding their meanings and gaining insight into our innermost selves. Each card holds a unique symbolism, illuminating different aspects of the human experience with rich and evocative imagery.

Interpretation

Interpretation is a crucial aspect of understanding Major Arcana cards’ meaning. In the case of The Empress, The Hanged Man, and The Tower, interpretation is the key to unlocking their message. Here is a breakdown of each card’s interpretation:

The Empress Interpretation:

Upright:	The Empress represents abundance, fertility, motherhood, and nurturing. It signifies a time of growth and prosperity in one’s life. It can also indicate a need to tap into one’s creative side and connect with the natural world.
Reversed:	When reversed, The Empress indicates a lack of nurturing and abundance. There may be issues with fertility or creative blocks. It can also signify neglect or even smothering in a mother or motherly figure relationship.

The Hanged Man Interpretation:

Upright:	The Hanged Man represents a period of surrender and letting go. It symbolizes a need to pause and reflect before moving forward. It can also indicate a new perspective or sacrifice is needed for growth and progress.
Reversed:	When reversed, The Hanged Man suggests a resistance to surrender and change. It can be a sign of stubbornness or an inability to let go of the past. There may be a fear of moving on, which can lead to stagnation and missed opportunities.

The Tower Interpretation:

Upright:	The Tower represents upheaval, change, and destruction. It signals a time of crisis and upheaval that can lead to a new beginning. It can also symbolize a need to surrender old ways of thinking and embrace change.
Reversed:	When reversed, The Tower can indicate a reluctance to change or a missed opportunity for growth. It can also suggest a delay in the upheaval or a temporary relief from a crisis. However, it is essential to remain alert as the crisis may still be imminent.

Interpretation plays a crucial role in deciphering Major Arcana cards’ meanings. Whether upright or reversed, each card tells a unique story that requires careful interpretation. By understanding the cards’ symbolism and interpreting them in the context of the tarot reading, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Relevance in tarot readings

The Empress is a card that symbolizes nurturing and motherhood. When it appears in a tarot reading, it is often interpreted as signifying fertility, abundance, and growth. This card can suggest pregnancy, childbirth, or motherhood and may indicate the need to focus on nurturing oneself or loved ones. It can also suggest prosperity and success in business or creative endeavors, as well as a need to connect with nature and the natural world.

The Hanged Man, despite its unsettling imagery, is a card that often signifies surrender and letting go. It may suggest a need to release control, stop resisting, and find a way to accept the current situation. In a tarot reading, this card may indicate a need to sacrifice in order to achieve a greater goal or to trust the process and have faith that everything will work out in the end. It can also suggest a temporary pause or suspension that allows for reflection and contemplation.

The Tower is a card that represents sudden upheaval and destruction. In a tarot reading, it can suggest a significant change or upheaval that may be challenging but ultimately necessary for growth and transformation. This card may indicate a major disruption or crisis that is beyond one’s control, but also has the potential to lead to a new beginning. It may suggest the need to let go of old patterns or beliefs and embrace change in order to move forward.

The relevance of these three cards in tarot readings lies in the insights they offer into various aspects of human experience, such as nurturing, surrender, and upheaval. Whether read in isolation or in combination with other cards, they can offer guidance and direction in times of uncertainty or change. By understanding the symbolism and interpretation of these cards, one can gain deeper insights into themselves and their situation, allowing them to make informed decisions and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

Conclusion

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Major Arcana cards – The Empress, The Hanged Man, and The Tower – hold significant symbolism and interpretative value in tarot readings. Each card has a unique meaning that can be interpreted differently depending on the context of the reading.

The Empress card represents fertility, nature, and abundance, and it holds great relevance in readings dealing with family, relationships, and creativity. The Hanged Man symbolizes sacrifice, patience, and letting go, and it is often associated with a period of waiting, spiritual growth, and self-reflection. The Tower card brings sudden change and upheaval and can signal a time of disruption, crisis, or transformative growth.

It is important to remember that tarot readings are not meant to provide definitive answers but rather to offer guidance and insight on a particular situation or challenge. The interpretation of the cards depends on the reader’s intuition, experience, and understanding of their symbolism.

Whether you are a seasoned tarot reader or a beginner, understanding the Major Arcana cards and their meanings can deepen your appreciation for this ancient divinatory practice and help you gain a new perspective on the challenges and opportunities that life brings.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Major Arcana cards and their meanings:

What are the Major Arcana cards in tarot?

The Major Arcana cards are a set of 22 cards that represent major life events and archetypes in the tarot. They include cards such as The Fool, The Magician, The Empress, and The Tower.

What does The Empress card symbolize?

The Empress card symbolizes femininity, motherhood, abundance, and creativity. It is often associated with nurturing and growth.

What does The Hanged Man card symbolize?

The Hanged Man card often symbolizes sacrifice, surrender, and letting go. It can also represent a period of suspension or waiting.

What does The Tower card symbolize?

The Tower card symbolizes upheaval, chaos, and sudden change. It can also represent a revelation or awakening.

What does it mean if a card appears upside-down in a tarot reading?

An upside-down card, also known as a reversed card, can indicate a blockage or obstacle in the energy of the card. It can also suggest a need to look at the situation from a different perspective.

How do I interpret a tarot card reading?

Interpreting a tarot card reading involves looking at the individual cards, the positions they were drawn in, and any patterns or themes that emerge. It is also important to trust your intuition and draw on your own personal experiences and knowledge of the cards.

Can tarot cards predict the future?

Tarot cards are not a tool for predicting the future with absolute certainty. Instead, they provide insight and guidance for navigating the present and future based on the energies and influences present in the current moment.

Can anyone read tarot cards?

While anyone can learn to read tarot cards, it is important to approach the practice with respect, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. It is also important to remember that tarot readings should not replace professional advice or medical treatment.

How do I choose a tarot deck?

Choosing a tarot deck is a personal decision that should be based on the individual’s preferences and connection with the cards. Some people prefer traditional decks with rich symbolism, while others may prefer more modern decks with abstract imagery. It can also be helpful to research different decks and read reviews before making a decision.

Do I need to be psychic to read tarot cards?

Being psychic is not a prerequisite for reading tarot cards. While some people may have a natural intuitive ability, tarot reading is a skill that can be developed with practice and study. It is important to approach the practice with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

References

• The Hanged Man Meaning – Major Arcana Tarot Card …
• Tarot Card Meanings: Understanding Major Arcana Cards