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What are the meanings of the A.E. Waite Tarot Deck?

Tarot Wisdom 3 min read

TL;DR

The A.E. Waite Tarot deck, often referred to as the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, offers rich symbolic meanings across its Major and Minor Arcana, reflecting archetypal energies, personal growth, and life's journey.

Core Meaning

The A.E. Waite Tarot deck, meticulously designed by Pamela Colman Smith under the guidance of Arthur Edward Waite, is a cornerstone of modern Tarot interpretation. Its strength lies in its rich, narrative imagery, particularly in the Minor Arcana, which depicts scenes rather than just symbols. This deck visualizes archetypal energies and universal human experiences, serving as a profound tool for introspection and guidance. Each card, from the Major Arcana's life lessons to the Minor Arcana's daily events, offers insights into the querent's inner world and external circumstances.

Love & Relationships

In love and relationships, the A.E. Waite deck provides nuanced perspectives. Cards like the Two of Cups often signify mutual affection, partnership, and harmony. The Lovers card can point to significant choices in relationships or the union of souls. For singles, it may indicate the potential for new connections or the need to understand one's own desires. For couples, it can highlight areas of deep connection, potential challenges to navigate together, or the need for balanced commitment.

Career & Finance

Professionally and financially, the A.E. Waite Tarot can illuminate paths to success and identify potential obstacles. Cards such as the Ace of Pentacles suggest new financial opportunities or the beginning of a stable venture. The Ten of Pentacles often represents long-term security, inheritance, or generational wealth. The Queen of Swords, while sometimes appearing stern, can advise on clear, logical decision-making in business, while the Emperor may signify structure, authority, and the need for strong leadership in one's career.

Actionable Advice

When consulting the A.E. Waite Tarot, focus on the narrative within the cards. Observe the figures, their actions, the environment, and the symbolism. Ask yourself how these elements resonate with your current situation. For example, if the Three of Swords appears, acknowledge any emotional pain or difficult truths, and consider how to process them constructively. If the Wheel of Fortune turns up, embrace change and understand that cycles are natural. The deck encourages self-reflection and proactive engagement with the insights it offers.

🃏 Related Cards to Watch For

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The Fool

New beginnings, innocence, spontaneity, faith, the unknown.

The High Priestess

Intuition, mystery, subconscious, wisdom, hidden knowledge.

The World

Completion, accomplishment, integration, fulfillment, successful conclusion.

What are the meanings of the A.E. Waite Tarot Deck? | Tarot Wisdom | TaroTarot.cards