The Fool’s Journey – Symbolism Behind the Major Arcana
A story of transformation told through symbols and soul
The Fool stands on the edge of a cliff, a small satchel slung over his shoulder, a white rose in his hand, and trust in his heart. With his loyal companion by his side and the sun at his back, he takes a step into the unknown — and so the journey begins.
This path, known as The Fool’s Journey, is the heartbeat of the tarot. Each card of the Major Arcana marks a stage along this soul-led adventure — and within each stage lies a rich tapestry of symbols waiting to guide us, challenge us, and awaken us.

The Fool isn’t foolish — he’s open. The symbols in his card remind us of innocence, potential, and trust. His little pack suggests that he already has all he needs. The white rose he carries symbolises purity, and the dog at his heels speaks of instinct and protection. Together, they step into life’s great mystery.
Soon, he meets The Magician, who stands before a table adorned with a cup, a wand, a sword, and a pentacle — tools representing each element and suit. The Magician’s raised arm channels energy from above to below, a symbol of manifestation and focused intention. The lemniscate floats above his head, whispering of infinite potential.
Not long after, he encounters The High Priestess, seated between two great pillars — one black, one white. She holds ancient knowledge, hidden behind a veil patterned with pomegranates. Her crescent moon crown and scroll suggest that not all truths are revealed through logic — some must be felt.
Then comes The Empress, radiant in a field of wheat beneath a star-crowned sky. She embodies abundance, nurture, and divine creation. The Fool learns to feel deeply, to connect with beauty, to rest in the fertile embrace of the Earth.
But with creation must come structure. Enter The Emperor, stern and steady on his throne adorned with ram heads. Here the Fool learns about boundaries, stability, and leadership. The world begins to take form.
He is then guided by The Hierophant, a figure of tradition and spiritual teaching. The crossed keys at his feet symbolise the unlocking of sacred wisdom. The Fool absorbs lessons that have been passed down through generations — some to hold close, others to question.
His heart stirs as he stands before The Lovers, faced with a choice. In the garden of Eden, beneath the watchful eye of an angel, he begins to understand union — not just of romance, but of values, desires, and sacred decision-making.
With new clarity, he mounts The Chariot, pulled by two opposing sphinxes. Though there are no reins in his hands, he learns to steer through willpower, not force. The stars above remind him that his journey is both earthly and divine.
In a quiet glade, he meets Strength — not a warrior, but a maiden, gently taming a lion with love. Her symbol of infinity hovers above her head. The Fool realises that true strength lies not in control, but compassion.
Seeking solitude, he climbs a mountain and meets The Hermit, lantern in hand, offering light born from reflection. The Fool learns to pause, to listen within, to trust the silence.
As he descends, The Wheel of Fortune turns before him. Creatures of the four corners spin with the wheel. The Fool begins to understand the rhythm of change — that fortune rises and falls, and nothing stays the same.
Next comes Justice, seated with sword and scales. Here, the Fool is asked to examine cause and effect. What has been sown must be reaped. It is a moment of clarity and balance.
Then comes a choice: to let go. The Hanged One appears suspended, calm, turned upside down to gain a new view. The Fool learns surrender, sacrifice, and perspective.
Darkness follows. Death arrives not as an end, but as transformation. A white rose blooms once again. The sun rises behind the scene, reminding the Fool that every ending brings a beginning.
From the ashes, Temperance emerges — an angel blending fire and water, foot in water and on land. The Fool learns the art of balance, of integration, of healing.
But then the shadow calls. The Devil binds figures in illusion, but their chains are loose. The Fool begins to see how fear and desire can entrap — and how awareness can set him free.
Then the storm hits. The Tower crumbles under lightning’s strike. The Fool falls. Everything he clung to is shaken. But in that collapse is truth, and in truth — liberation.
When he wakes, he is beneath the stars. The Star shines above, and he feels hope again. He kneels, vulnerable and whole. The waters he pours nourish both earth and spirit.
Then comes The Moon, and with it, uncertainty. The path winds between towers. A crayfish crawls from the depths. The Fool must navigate dreams, illusions, and emotional tides.
Eventually, the sun rises. The Sun brings clarity, joy, and childlike freedom. The Fool rides forward, no longer questioning his worth. The sunflowers bloom behind him — symbols of life and vitality.
As he nears the end, Judgement calls. An angel’s trumpet sounds, and the Fool is asked to rise, to shed the old, to be reborn. He sees himself more clearly now.
And finally, he reaches The World. Wreathed in victory, surrounded by the four elemental beings, the dancer floats — whole, complete, and yet… ready to begin again.
Symbols as Soul Markers
The symbols in the Major Arcana aren’t just ancient — they’re alive. They’re woven into your dreams, your choices, your cycles of becoming. When we follow the Fool’s journey, we follow our own. And when we learn to recognise the symbols along the way, we gain tools not just for divination, but for transformation.
Which part of the journey are you on today?
If you’d like to know more about the Fool’s Journey, check out the upcoming masterclass here