A deck of tarot cards is divided into two separate groups, the minor arcana and the major arcana. The two groups together total 78 cards. The major difference between the two groups is more than just the obvious differences in appearance. They each have their own particular reason for being turned, from the major to minor events in a persons life.
When having a Tarot reading it is the Major Arcana cards that a person should give the most importance to. These cards deal with things that can have a big effect on the future such as making big decisions or the right choices at the right time.
It is hard not to take notice of Major Arcana cards as they stand out with their bright vivid coloring and design. I'm sure this is intentional so as alert both the Tarot card reader and client of the cards importance and ensure they take note.
The major arcana cards consist of a total of 22 cards. They are numbered from zero to 21. On the number zero card is The Fool. The highest of the major arcana cards is the number 21, which is on The World card. As previously stated, these cards are a representation of the major dealings in the individuals life, or their life path. On the zero card The Fool stands for the beginning or starting point and The World is a symbol for the ending or the finishing point. The remaining cards show the trials, tribulations and life lessons that the individual needs to learn. These lessons can range from addiction, which is represented by The Devil card to love which is represented by The Lovers card.
Take notice when one of the Major Arcana cards shows up as the cards is telling you of something important in you're life. It can relate to anything be it good or bad but the fact it has shown up means you should focus on this aspect. there may be a big decision that nees to be made or a situation to be addressed so that you can move forward.
The majority of the cards are in the Minor Arcana (56) and pertain to situations and events that occur day to day.The things that Minor Arcana cards reveal are able to be altered by an individual. A Tarot reader will point these out to you during a reading.
There are also four groups within the Minor Arcana and it is not unusual for these groups tot change their symbols during a reading to allow the Tarot reader to get a better grasp of the meaning. Simply put the four groups are: 'Cups' that are a sign of conflict. Swords that relate to relationships. 'Pentangles' that symbolize money. And 'Wands' that relate to ideas.
When someone is having a reading it is common for both Minor and Major Arcana cards to show up. In general because Major Arcana cards are dealing with destiny they are unable to be changed and their importance should not be underestimated. The decisions of a person can alter the minor arcana cards and are modified by the reader as information is gained.