In the Angelic Tarot Card Meanings Index below, you will find keywords for each of the cards. Click on the card title to go to a page with in-depth card meanings. Please note that I do not recommend learning tarot only by memorising keywords. However, keywords can sometimes help trigger deeper insights and provide clarity when we feel the cards are not making much sense.
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Intuition and Correspondences
Keywords can also add to our internal database of Tarot knowledge. I like to think of each keyword as a memory hook that you can use to sort situations and things you encounter in everyday life.
A better way to learn card meanings is to use your own intuition in combination with learning Astro-Tarot and angelic correspondences. Learning Tarot correspondences is a lifelong pursuit and extremely valuable once we start using the Tarot for pathworking and psychospiritual development.
The aim of any serious student of the Tarot should be to establish a strong energetic connection with each of the full spectrum of meanings for each of the 78 Keys. This is how you can truly make the Tarot work for you. Please be patient as this level of mastery usually takes many years to achieve.
Check out my FREE Tarot Resources that will help you master the Tarot!
Why I don’t Include Reversed Card Meanings
You will notice that I have not included reversed Tarot card meanings here. This is because I believe that the upright card contains the full spectrum of meanings and that turning cards upside down can block natural visual clues. A better way of reading the cards is to learn to sense the flow of energy between you, your question and the vibration of each arcanum, as well as how the energy flows between the cards.
Major Arcana Angelic Tarot Card Meanings
The Major Arcana details the Fool’s Journey through life. This journey leads The Fool to encounter each of the archetypes that reside in the Universal Subconscious Mind. They represent the big life lessons we must each navigate. However, it’s not a linear journey and especially when it comes to our Shadow Card, for instance, we may need to revisit the lesson. The same is often true for any of the Karmic Cards.
THE FOOL
Astrological correspondence: Uranus
Element: Air
Archangel: Uriel
Keywords: innocence, new beginnings, freedom, blind faith, originality, a childlike sense of wonder, foolishness, boldness, carelessness, feeling carefree, the bizarre, adventure
THE MAGICIAN
Astrological correspondence: Mercury
Archangel: Raphael
Keywords: communication, adaptation, cunning, skill, mastery, craft, trickery, indecision, deceit, magic, willpower, taking action, psychopomp, medium, scribe, spelling, spellcasting, initiating
THE HIGH PRIESTESS
Astrological correspondence: The Moon
Archangel: Gabriel
Keywords: divine mysteries, sacred knowledge, understanding, seership, divine feminine, intuition, prophecy, the subconscious, a need for approval, codependency, emotional imbalances, jealousy
THE EMPRESS
Astrological correspondence: Venus
Archangel: Haniel aka Anael
Keywords: beauty, creativity, abundance, fertility, nurturing, pleasure, sensuality, harmony, balance, motherhood, infidelity, smothering, superficial, laziness, codependency, luxury, flirting, chaos
THE EMPEROR
Astrological correspondence: Aries
Archangel: Sariel
Keywords: fatherhood, father issues, organisation, ambition, structure, rational thought, authority, leadership, irresponsibility, anger issues, abuse of power, inflexibility, micromanagement
THE HIEROPHANT
Astrological correspondence: Taurus
Archangel: Sandalphon
Keywords: tradition, teaching, legacy, religion, education, convention, fanaticism, blind devotion, servitude, society, weight gain, accumulation, stability, institutions, tried and tested, beliefs, values
THE LOVERS
Astrological correspondence: Gemini
Archangel: Jophiel
Keywords: choice, friendship, fact-gathering, transcendence, alchemy, objectivity, duality, love relationship, true love, conflict, discernment, a relationship ending, indecision, poor choices
THE CHARIOT
Astrological correspondence: Cancer
Archangel: Metatron
Keywords: willpower, self-control, self-discipline, drive, co-creating destiny, conflict resolution, success, lack of focus, loss of direction, pressure, determination, manipulation, lack of self-discipline
STRENGTH
Astrological correspondence: Leo
Archangel: Ariel
Keywords: strength, magnanimity, power, courage, conviction, compassion, doubt, cowardice, blind rage, weakness, pride, kindness, attraction, playfulness, creativity, higher self vs ego
THE HERMIT
Astrological correspondence: Virgo
Archangel: Raziel
Keywords: contemplation, guidance, solitude, reflection, wisdom, deliberation, insight, teaching, mentorship, self-awareness, service, isolation, withdrawal, feeling rejected, excessive introspection
THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE
Astrological correspondence: Jupiter
Archangel: Zadkiel
Keywords: good fortune, unexpected rewards, luck, timing, cycles, divine intervention, success, opportunity, expansion, unexpected problems, loss, overindulging, karma, destiny, unpredictability
JUSTICE
Astrological correspondence: Libra
Archangel: Raguel
Keywords: justice, legal matters, karma, accountability, marriage, fairness, divorce, lawsuits, harmony, homeostasis, dispute, equality, inequality, decision-making, injustice
THE HANGED MAN
Astrological correspondence: Neptune
Element: Water
Archangel: Asariel
Keywords: a new perspective, dreams, illusion, delusion, sacrifice, victimhood, initiation, feeling stuck, depression, devotion, compassion/higher love
DEATH
Astrological correspondence: Scorpio
Keywords: change, transformation, spiritual growth and rebirth, death of the ego, closure, initiation, endings, release, letting go, clinging to the past, stagnancy, refusal to change, obsession
TEMPERANCE
Astrological correspondence: Sagittarius
Archangel: The Angel of Temperance
Keywords: art, alchemy, amalgamation compromise, vision, union, moderation, harmony, cooperation, serenity, healing, impatience, discord, competition, frustration, clumsiness, lack of foresight
XV THE DEVIL
Astrological correspondence: Capricorn
Archangel: The Higher Self
Keywords: temptation, addiction, codependency, abuse, chaos, overcoming temptation, freedom, facing your fear, shadow work, soul alchemy, order out of chaos, guardian of the threshold
THE TOWER
Astrological correspondence: Mars
Archangel: Chamuel
Keywords: trauma, destruction, disruption, crisis, loss, acts of God, danger, accident, puberty (boys), suffering, surgery, war, natural disasters, testosterone, erectile dysfunction, liberation, rebuilding
THE STAR
Astrological correspondence: Aquarius
Archangel: The Angel of Grace
Keywords: hope, renewed faith, optimism, help, harmony, community, awakening, grace, transparency, outsider, aloof, disappointment, negativity, hopelessness, despair
THE MOON
Astrological correspondence: Pisces
Archangel: Barachiel
Keywords: illusion, delusion, fantasy, imagination, inner reflection, intuition, psychic development, creativity, secrets, fear, anxiety, betrayal, secrets revealed, awareness, addiction, confusion
THE SUN
Astrological correspondence: The Sun
Archangel: Michael
Keywords: happiness, success, radiance, vitality, energy, positivity, clarity, reason, rewards, prosperity, enlightenment, glory, courage, victory, burnout, pride, self-centredness
JUDGEMENT
Astrological correspondence: Pluto
Element: Fire
Archangel: Jeremiel
Keywords: renewal, awakening, alignment with one’s life purpose, finality, a life-changing choice, summation, releasing the past, remorse, regrets, a resolution, indecision, life review, being judged
THE WORLD
Astrological correspondence: Saturn
Element: Earth
Archangel: Holy Sophia
Keywords: cycles, nature, completion, wholeness, perfection, attainment, integration, achievement, transcendence, self-realisation, recognition, stagnation, lack of closure, unfinished business, karma
Minor Arcana Angelic Tarot Card Meanings
Suit of Wands – Archangel Michael
The Suit of Wands corresponds to the Element of Fire. The cardinal direction is South and the ruling Archangel is Archangel Michael.
In Tarot readings, Wands cards can show us drive, inspiration, motivation, the competitive edge (or lack thereof) and our alignment with our life purpose.
Element: Fire
Keywords: optimism, inspiration, boldness, action, energy, confidence, passion, sexual attraction a new venture, sap rising, impotence, pessimism, powerlessness, impulsiveness, burnout, unfocused energy
TWO OF WANDS (Mars in Aries)
Keywords: determination, taking action, making bold moves, sparring partner, long-term planning, steady course, equal partnership, balancing the energy, loss of interest, straying, misgivings, conflict, domination
THREE OF WANDS (Sun in Aries)
Keywords: enterprise, networking, travel, leading by example, foresight, confidence, progress, expansion, creativity, opportunities abroad, creative block, arrogance, unrealistic expectations
FOUR OF WANDS (Venus in Aries)
Keywords: celebration, joy, successful completion of a project, stability, deepening commitment, achievements, harmony, wedding, moving in together, exhausted resources, lack of freedom, delays
FIVE OF WANDS (Saturn in Leo)
Keywords: rivalry, conflict, obstacles, lack of cooperation, stagnation, challenge, struggle, opposition, relief, uprising, creative blocks, infertility, healthy competition, knuckling down, problem-solving
SIX OF WANDS (Jupiter in Leo)
Keywords: triumph, admiration, success, conquest, achievement, reward, victory, pride, defeat, submission, arrogance, subjugation, needing validation, feeling unappreciated
SEVEN OF WANDS (Mars in Leo)
Keywords: courage, determination, (self-)protection, standing up for oneself, opposition, fighting for a cause, passivity, vulnerability, self-doubt, giving up
EIGHT OF WANDS (Mercury in Sagittarius)
Keywords: speed, focus, action, destination, frank communication, immediacy, excitement, acting/speaking without thinking, messages, messengers, slowing down, apathy, distractions
NINE OF WANDS (Moon in Sagittarius)
Keywords: close to success, being guarded, boundaries, refusal to compromise, defenceless, mustering strength, allowing the past to dictate the future, feeling drained
TEN OF WANDS (Saturn in Sagittarius)
Keywords: oppression, a need to delegate, burdens, being under pressure, overwhelm, blocked inspiration, burn-out, lack of support, all work and no play, a strong sense of responsibility
Court Cards
PAGE OF WANDS (Earth of Fire)
Keywords: good news, pleasure, explorer, joyful, playfulness, optimism, bold, vigour, excitement, irresponsibility, immaturity, brash, foolhardiness, excitable, impetuous
KNIGHT OF WANDS (Leo – Air of Fire)
Keywords: adventure, grand gestures, foolish haste, conquest, seduction, insensitivity, self-assurance, courage, bragging, empty promises, player
QUEEN OF WANDS (Aries – Water of Fire)
Keywords: charismatic, passionate, confident, influential, courage, success, creativity, kindness, independence, warmth, jealousy, diva, demanding, irritability, self-centred, intimidating, impulsive
KING OF WANDS (Sagittarius – Fire of Fire)
Keywords: visionary ability, ambition, passion, focus on the bigger picture and possibilities, creativity, leadership, influence, optimism, charisma, professionalism, education, insensitivity, ruthlessness
Suit of Cups – Archangel Gabriel
The Suit of Cups corresponds to the Element of Water. The cardinal direction is West and the ruling Archangel is Archangel Gabriel.
In Tarot readings, the Cups cards can show us emotion, feelings, intuition, receptivity, and love & relationship themes.
Element: Water
Keywords: new or renewed love, unconditional love, compassion pleasure, devotion, joy, adoration, communion, living water, bliss, holiness, conception, birth, disconnected, lack of faith, heartbreak
TWO OF CUPS (Venus in Cancer)
Keywords: partnership, marriage, harmony, bond, collaboration, exchange of energy, merging, intimacy, friendship, engagement, divorce, conflict, disagreement, a relationship or friendship ending
THREE OF CUPS (Mercury in Cancer)
Keywords: friendship, community, celebration, anniversary, partying, dancing, wedding, pregnancy, happiness, affection, joy, ceremony, creative flow, outreach, overindulgence, promiscuity, triangulation (psychology)
FOUR OF CUPS (Moon in Cancer)
Keywords: apathy, dissatisfaction, stagnation, indifference, boredom, lack of motivation, tears, withdrawal, empty feelings, renewal, end of discontent, appreciation, release, emotional healing
FIVE OF CUPS (Mars in Scorpio)
Keywords: loss, regret, disappointment, grief, dejection, helplessness, discouragement, set-backs, wallowing, feeling unappreciated, lack of faith, apology, condolence, hope, satisfaction
SIX OF CUPS (Sun in Scorpio)
Keywords: the past, looking back, nostalgia, innocence, old friends, nurturing emotional bonds, karmic ties, friendships rekindled, soul mates, childhood, not letting go of the past, attachment issues
SEVEN OF CUPS (Venus in Scorpio)
Keywords: attachment, addiction, jealousy, consciousness-altering substances, confusion, debauchery, bewilderment, escapism, illusion, envy, daydreaming, clarity, direction, resolve
EIGHT OF CUPS (Saturn in Pisces)
Keywords: moving on, leaving, searching for meaning, breakup, disappointment, restlessness, feeling stuck, commitment phobia, resolving karmic issues/lessons, divine discontent
NINE OF CUPS (Jupiter in Pisces)
Keywords: celebration, contentment, gratitude, emotional well-being, wishes fulfilled, joy, pleasure in the little things, gluttony, smugness, false contentment, excess, obesity, greed
TEN OF CUPS (Mars in Pisces)
Keywords: communion, gratitude, community, true love, bliss, marriage, harmony, lasting happiness, opposition, dissolution, family strife, differences, oneness, realisation, spirit warriors
Court Cards
PAGE OF CUPS (Earth of Water)
Keywords: imagination, creativity, romantic messages, innocence, party invites, intuition, playfulness, vulnerability, youthfulness, immaturity, procrastination, laziness, insecurity, lost in fantasy, naivety
KNIGHT OF CUPS (Scorpio – Air of Water)
Keywords: arduous suitor, passion, romance, an offer, sensitivity, empathetic, intuitive, dreamer, poetry, artistic person, seduction, devotion, flattery, jealousy, moodiness, deception, a conman
QUEEN OF CUPS (Cancer – Water of Water)
Keywords: imaginative, emotionally intelligent, empathetic, psychic ability, devotion, intuitive, compassion, self-reflection, HSP, virtue, understanding, gullibility, dependency, manipulative, fickle
KING OF CUPS (Pisces – Fire of Water)
Keywords: emotional maturity, caretaker, counsellor, caring, open-minded, compassionate, generous, liberal, creative, moody, narcissism, sleaziness, apathy, dishonesty, addictive personality
Suit of Swords – Archangel Raphael
The Suit of Swords corresponds to the Element of Air. The cardinal direction is East and the ruling Archangel is Archangel Raphael.
In Tarot readings, Swords cards can show us mental activity, new ideas, innovation, problem-solving ability and issues around communication.
Element: Air Cardinal Direction: East
Keywords: mental energy, inspired thought, innovation, new ideas, a solution, focus, breakthrough, clarity, brilliance, victory, claircognisance, justice, cord-cutting, forcefulness, dullness, injustice
TWO OF SWORDS (Moon in Libra)
Keywords: equilibrium, stalemate, impasse, fence-sitting, balance, being in limbo, uncertainty, indecision, friendship, delay, false friends, a forced decision, avoiding responsibility, peace, repose
THREE OF SWORDS (Saturn in Libra)
Keywords: heartache, infidelity, unreciprocated love, tears, isolation, loss, sorrow, separation, despair, anguish, grief, pain ending, forgiveness, letting go, karmic rebalancing, harmony restored
FOUR OF SWORDS (Jupiter in Libra)
Keywords: rest, relaxation, reflection, illness, recovery, withdrawal, idleness, introspection, bed rest, inaction, retreat, mindfulness, relief, recuperation, solitude, meditation, healing, revitalisation, holiday
FIVE OF SWORDS (Venus in Aquarius)
Keywords: defeat, hollow victory, betrayal, sabotage, difficult lessons, self-sabotage, a sneak attack, conflict, vindication, traitor exposed, cutting one’s losses, walking away, conflict avoidance
SIX OF SWORDS (Mercury in Aquarius)
Keywords: problem-solving, assistance, science, publishing, editing, social media, overseas travel, objectivity, resolution, smooth sailing, safe harbour, rough seas, starting over, cancelled trip, regret
SEVEN OF SWORDS (Moon in Aquarius)
Keywords: cunning, making plans, foresight, conspiracy theories, trickery, theft, cheating, cleverness, covetous desire, avoidance, constructive criticism, strategy, quick thinking, analysis, taking notes
EIGHT OF SWORDS (Jupiter in Gemini)
Keywords: self-imposed restrictions, mental confinement, looping thoughts, blame, feeling trapped, bondage, forced restraint, release, empowerment, overcoming obstacles, mental freedom
NINE OF SWORDS (Mars in Gemini)
Keywords: anxiety, despair, worry, mental anguish, sleeplessness, guilt, depression, hopelessness, faith, trust, unfounded fears, promise, finding perspective, piercing the illusion, end to suffering
TEN OF SWORDS (Sun in Gemini)
Keywords: rock bottom, throwing in the towel, sorrow, overwhelming challenges, betrayal, death, tears, failure, pain, perseverance, acceptance, release, transformation, turning things around, new beginnings
Court Cards
PAGE OF SWORDS (Earth of Air)
Keywords: intellectual curiosity, questioning, research, journalism, discernment, a spy, vigilance, upsetting news, penetrating insight, quick changes, decisiveness, conspiracy, gossip, blackmail
KNIGHT OF SWORDS (Aquarius – Air of Air)
Keywords: idealist, humanitarian, rebel, argumentative, aloof, competitive, egalitarian, all-or-nothing attitude, black-or-white mentality, confrontation, radical, ideas person
QUEEN OF SWORDS (Libra – Water of Air)
Keywords: wise, independent, sarcastic, widowhood, analytical, resilient, truthful, great communicator, writer, loss, keen insight, determination, cruelty, intolerance, resentment, cold, detached, barrenness
KING OF SWORDS (Gemini – Fire of Air)
Keywords: authority, command, logic, objectivity, law, fairness, order, analytical thinking, balanced judgement, clarity, sound advice, cynicism, intimidation, injustice, aloof, a keen mind but a cold heart
Suit of Pentacles – Archangel Uriel
The Suit of Pentacles corresponds to the Element of Earth. The cardinal direction is North and the ruling Archangel is Archangel Uriel.
In Tarot readings, Pentacles cards can render themes like physical health & well-being, money matters, financial security, and issues around work and our daily routine.
Element: Earth
Keywords: money, miracle, manifesting, creation, a gift, the seed of prosperity, successful new beginnings, sound investments, greed, loss, poverty
TWO OF PENTACLES (Jupiter in Capricorn)
Keywords: adaptability, stress, material expansion, lots of balls in the air, ups and downs, loss of balance, juggling finances, messages, age-related changes, debt, making choices on the fly, flux
THREE OF PENTACLES (Mars in Capricorn)
Keywords: accomplishment, teamwork, strong chemistry, high standards, dignity, career opportunity, advancement, pulling rank, poor effort, lack of ambition
FOUR OF PENTACLES (Sun in Capricorn)
Keywords: boundaries, stability, power, satisfaction, guarding one’s possessions, security, a miserly disposition, money troubles, tightening one’s belt
FIVE OF PENTACLES (Mercury in Taurus)
Keywords: poverty consciousness, worry, dis-ease, seeking help, neglect of the body, feelings of unworthiness, fear of rejection, refusing to seek help, not feeling supported in life
SIX OF PENTACLES (Moon in Taurus)
Keywords: presents, gifts, generosity, fairness, social responsibility, a bonus, an inheritance, charity, appreciation, gratitude, giving more than you receive, wastefulness, financial instability, stinginess
SEVEN OF PENTACLES (Saturn in Taurus)
Keywords: assessment, growth, patience, rewards, accumulation, diligence, foresight, waiting, planning, perseverance, nurturing, hopelessness, pause, delay, harvest (good or bad)
EIGHT OF PENTACLES (Sun in Virgo)
Keywords: craftsmanship, skill development, detail-oriented, diligence, training, ambition, apprenticeship, productivity, labour, fulfilling work, artisan, monotony, a pretender, misuse/lack of skills, perfectionism
NINE OF PENTACLES (Venus in Virgo)
Keywords: culmination, contentment, pinnacle experience, financial independence, self-confidence, self-sufficiency, well-deserved success, pride, luxury, showing off, financial setbacks, isolation, overspending
TEN OF PENTACLES (Mercury in Virgo)
Keywords: stability, generational issues, reunion, inheritance, bloodline, legacy, long-term success, comfort, wealth, security, home, old money, money problems, family disputes
Court Cards
PAGE OF PENTACLES (Earth of Earth)
Keywords: studious, dependable, practical, material manifestation, conservative, common sense, trustworthiness, convention, perseverance, apathy, boredom, stubbornness, dullness, routine, stoicism
KNIGHT OF PENTACLES (Taurus – Air of Earth)
Keywords: studious, dependable, practical, material manifestation, conservative, common sense, trustworthiness, convention, perseverance, apathy, boredom, stubbornness, dullness, routine, stoicism
QUEEN OF PENTACLES (Capricorn – Water of Earth)
Keywords: nurturing, fertility, provider, practical, generosity, fidelity, sensuality, resourcefulness, hardworking, wealth, entitlement, greed, irresponsibility
KING OF PENTACLES (Virgo)
Keywords: commitment, organisation, responsibility, financial acumen, stability, dependable, loyal, good business person, common-sensical, materialistic, greed, short-sightedness, pedantic, workaholic
Zodiac Correspondences
- Aries – The Emperor
- Taurus – The Hierophant
- Gemini – The Lovers
- Cancer – The Chariot
- Leo – Strength
- Virgo – The Hermit
- Libra – Justice
- Scorpio – Death
- Sagittarius – Temperance
- Capricorn – The Devil
- Aquarius – The Star
- Pisces – The Moon
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