The Minor Arcana

The minor arcana is a term used in tarot card readings to describe one of the two main categories of cards, the other being the major arcana. The minor arcana consists of 56 cards, divided into four suits: swords, wands, cups, and pentacles. Each suit contains 14 cards, including 10 numbered cards and four court cards.


The numbered cards in each suit represent different levels of experience or challenges that a person may face in their life. The court cards represent specific individuals, such as a king, queen, knight, or page, and can indicate the influence of a particular person or energy in a situation.


In general, the swords suit is associated with mental clarity, communication, and conflict resolution. The wands suit is associated with creativity, inspiration, and action. The cups suit is associated with emotions, relationships, and intuition. The pentacles suit is associated with material resources, practical matters, and manifestation.


In a tarot reading, the minor arcana cards are often used to provide details and nuances about a situation or individual. The combination of cards drawn can provide insight into the challenges, opportunities, and potential outcomes in a person’s life.