Meaning of Numbers in Tarot

By understanding these number vibrations, you can deepen your interpretations and see connections between cards beyond the imagery—unlocking the magic of numerology woven into the Tarot deck!

Here’s a breakdown of what the numbers represent in the Tarot:

Number 1 in Tarot:

1 – New beginnings and individuality
In the Tarot deck, cards numbered 1 are all about beginnings, potential, and new energy. They represent the spark that ignites a journey, the seed of possibility ready to grow. Here’s a guide to the number 1 cards you’ll meet across the suits and the Major Arcana:

Major Arcana – Card I The Magician

The number one is the spark of creation, embodying fresh starts, leadership, and the power of independence. It’s all about stepping into your own light and claiming your unique path. Imagine The Magician card, numbered 1 in the Major Arcana, radiating that “I can do this” vibe — confident, resourceful, and ready to transform ideas into reality.

• Theme: Manifestation, mastery, and creative power

• Vibe: You’ve got all the tools, talent, and mojo you need — time to make magic happen!

Number 1 in the Minor Arcana

Each suit has an Ace (which equals the number 1) and each brings a fresh start with a flavor of its own:

• Ace of Wands
  Element: Fire
  Meaning: New inspiration, passion, and bold beginnings — the spark to chase your wildest goals.

• Ace of Cups
  Element: Water
  Meaning: Emotional renewal, love blooming, and deep feelings emerging — open your heart!

• Ace of Swords
  Element: Air
  Meaning: Fresh clarity, mental breakthroughs, and cutting through confusion — your razor-sharp ideas take flight.

• Ace of Pentacles
  Element: Earth
  Meaning: New financial opportunities, grounded starts, and material abundance — plant your seeds for success.

In short: When you see the number one, it’s a cosmic nudge to embrace your originality and take the lead in your journey. Whether you’re launching a new project, starting a personal transformation, or simply craving a fresh outlook, this number invites you to trust your own power and creativity.

The number 1 cards are your cosmic green lights urging you to start something new, channel your unique power, and embrace the exciting potential ahead. So go ahead, pick a card, and let that fresh energy inspire a fantastic new chapter!

The Number 2 in Tarot: Duality and Balance

The number 2 in Tarot is the cosmic dance of pairs — two sides, two shoes, two halves of a whole. It’s all about duality, partnership, choices, and harmony. Imagine yin and yang swirling in perfect balance or the scales tipping ever so gently when you’re faced with an important decision. That’s the energy of 2!

Major Arcana: Number 2

In the Major Arcana, the number 2 is embodied by The High Priestess. She is the mysterious gatekeeper of intuition, secrets, and the hidden self. This card invites you to embrace duality within: conscious and unconscious, seen and unseen. Her power lies in balance—between knowledge and mystery, action and stillness.

Number 2 in the Minor Arcana

In the Minor Arcana, cards numbered 2 continue the theme of pairs and balance but bring it into everyday scenarios:

• Two of Cups: Symbolizes partnerships, romantic connection, and mutual attraction. It’s the sweet harmony of two souls meeting.

• Two of Swords: Represents tough choices and the need to weigh options carefully. Blindfolded, it reminds you to look inward when the path forward isn't clear.

• Two of Pentacles: The juggling act of life’s demands, reminding you to find balance amidst chaos.

• Two of Wands: The spark of planning and decision-making, standing at the crossroads of ambition and opportunity.

Number 2 in Tarot asks you to celebrate the power of pairs — whether in relationships, decisions, or within yourself. It’s an invitation to find harmony in duality and to trust the balance that dance brings to your journey. When you see a 2, think: How can I harmonize these opposite forces in my life today?

The Number 3 in Tarot:

3 – Growth and creativity. Three brings expansion and collaboration. It’s a number that says, “Let’s build something together!” Cards with the number 3 usually highlight teamwork, birth, or creative projects flourishing.

Major Arcana: Number 3 – The Empress

The Empress bursts onto the scene as the ultimate symbol of creativity, abundance, and nurturing energy. She’s your cosmic garden goddess, encouraging you to embrace growth, fertility, and the joyous flow of life. When The Empress appears in your reading, think lush fields, blooming flowers, and the rich fruits of your labor. It’s a green light for creativity, self-care, and connecting with nature. Whether you’re literally expecting new life or simply birthing fresh ideas, her vibe is all about nurturing those seeds and watching them flourish.

Number 3 in the Minor Arcana

Number 3 cards in the Minor Arcana symbolize growth, expansion, and the first tangible results of your efforts. Unlike the pure potential of the 2s or the initiation energy of the Aces, the 3s show you are building on your foundation. Each suit adds its flavor:

• Three of Wands: Your plans are starting to pay off, and horizons are expanding. Adventure and enterprise call!

• Three of Cups: Celebration, friendship, and joyful collaboration. Raise a glass—the party’s just begun!

• Three of Swords: Heartache and emotional pain, but also the necessary growth that comes with facing tough truths.

• Three of Pentacles: Teamwork and skill come together. Your hard work and talents are recognized and rewarded.

In all, 3s herald the exciting phase where your efforts begin to blossom—time to nurture those first fruits and keep the momentum going!

The Number 4 in Tarot: The Emperor Stability and Foundation

The number 4 shouts “steady as she goes!” It’s all about structure, security, and reliability. Picture a table with four legs — solid, dependable, and ready to hold whatever life places on it. In Tarot, this number is the bedrock for growth and achievement, reminding us that before we soar, we need a strong foundation.

Number 4 in the Major Arcana

In the Major Arcana, the number 4 often resonates with themes of authority, order, and stability. Cards like The Emperor (IV) embody leadership, control, and the power that comes from building a safe, structured environment. It’s the firm ground beneath your ambitions, the blueprint behind your dreams.

Number 4 in the Minor Arcana

Across the suits in the Minor Arcana, the 4s consistently signal moments to pause and consolidate:

• Four of Wands – Celebration of stability, such as home and community joy.

• Four of Cups – Reflection on emotional stability and reassessment.

• Four of Swords – Rest and recovery, securing mental groundwork.

• Four of Pentacles – Financial security and holding on to what’s valuable.

Each invites you to honor the sturdiness in your life — whether that’s in your emotions, ambitions, rest, or resources. So, when the number 4 pops up in your Tarot draw, think strong roots. It’s the universe’s wink that you’re building something worthwhile — steady, solid, and ready to rise!

The Number 5 in Tarot: Change and Challenge

The number 5 in Tarot is all about shaking things up. It marks a time of conflict, struggle, or necessary adaptation. When the number 5 appears in your reading, get ready for a bit of turbulence — but don’t worry, this storm clears the way for growth and transformation.

Major Arcana: Number 5

In the Major Arcana, number 5 is represented by The Hierophant. This card often points to a clash between tradition and innovation, or a challenge to established beliefs. It’s about confronting authority or societal norms, pushing you to question what you’ve accepted as truth. The struggle is real, but it’s a vital step toward personal and spiritual development.

Number 5 in the Minor Arcana

In the Minor Arcana, every suit’s 5 card echoes this theme of change and challenge:

• Five of Wands: Conflict and competition — sparring ideas, clashing egos, creative tension.

• Five of Cups: Emotional loss and disappointment — mourning what’s gone but reminding you to focus on what remains.

• Five of Swords: Defeat or hollow victory — learning when to fight and when to let go.

• Five of Pentacles: Hardship and scarcity — a reminder that tough times are temporary and support is available.

Each 5 asks you to face difficulties head-on, adapt, and ultimately emerge stronger and wiser. Remember: The Number 5 is the universe’s nudge to embrace change, even when it feels uncomfortable. Growth often demands a little chaos!

The Number 6 in Tarot – Harmony and Healing

Six is the magic number of balance, harmony, and gentle healing in the Tarot world. It acts like a soothing balm, reminding us that peace is not just a dream but a very real, attainable state. When you see the number 6, think of relationships flourishing through compassion, understanding, and care.

Major Arcana: Number 6 – The Lovers

This card dives deep into meaningful connections, choices of the heart, and harmony in duality. It’s about aligning your values with love and making heartfelt decisions that bring soul-level peace.

Number 6 in the Minor Arcana

Whether it’s Six of Cups, Six of Pentacles, or Six of Swords, this number carries the theme of restoring balance:

• Six of Cups: Nostalgia, kindness, and emotional harmony.

• Six of Pentacles: Generosity, giving and receiving, and fairness.

• Six of Swords: Transitioning towards calmer waters and healing.

In every suit, the 6 whispers the importance of nurturing relationships and finding the middle ground. It’s your cosmic nudge toward peace, encouragement, and emotional restoration. Keep an eye out for this harmonious number in your readings—it’s here to help you heal and grow!

The Number 7 in Tarot: Reflection and Mystery

Seven is the magical number of introspection and spiritual growth. It calls to the wisdom seekers among us, hinting at moments where pausing to reflect unlocks deeper understanding. Whether you find it in the Major or Minor Arcana, the 7 always whispers secrets about puzzles waiting to be solved and mysteries begging to be unraveled.

Major Arcana: Number 7 – The Chariot

In the Major Arcana, the 7 is represented by The Chariot, a card all about determination, control, and triumph over challenges. While it carries the energy of movement and victory, it also invites you to harness your inner strength through thoughtful reflection and focus. Here, seven balances action with the mystery of self-discipline and spiritual willpower.

Number 7 in the Minor Arcana

In the Minor Arcana, the number 7 appears across all four suits, each carrying the theme of reflection paired with its element:

• Seven of Cups: Dreamy and mysterious, urging careful thought amidst illusions and choices.

• Seven of Pentacles: Patient reflection on growth and the fruits of your labor.

• Seven of Swords: Cunning and strategy, pondering how to navigate challenges with wisdom.

• Seven of Wands: Standing your ground, requiring courage and inner strength.

Wherever it shows up, the 7 nudges you to slow down, reevaluate, and dive deeper into what’s beneath the surface. It's the number for the spiritual Sherlock Holmes in all of us!

The Number 8 in Tarot: Power and Abundance

The number 8 is a superstar in the tarot world, shining bright with themes of strength, success, and abundance. It embodies mastery—whether that’s over a skill, situation, or even oneself. Think of it as a cosmic high-five for achieving flow and balance in your life.

Major Arcana: Number 8

The eighth card in the Major Arcana is Strength. This card highlights inner courage, resilience, and gentle power. It reminds you that true strength is not about force but about patience, compassion, and confidence. Picture the infinity symbol floating above a calm lion tamer—that’s number 8 energy: infinite, steady, and confident.

Number 8 in the Minor Arcana

In the Minor Arcana, eights carry the vibe of financial gain, progress, and momentum. These cards are all about dynamic energy and advancement.

• Eight of Pentacles - mastery through hard work.

• Eight of Cups - moving on to better things.

• Eight of Wands - fast movement and communication.

• Eight of Swords – breaking free from doubt and restriction.

What Does 8 Mean for You?

When the number 8 appears in your reading, expect themes of:

• Power: Taking control and owning your path.

• Abundance: Prosperity is on the horizon—whether that’s money, love, or creativity.

• Flow: Things are cycling smoothly; trust the process.

• Mastery: You’re leveling up in life’s game.

Embrace the flow of number 8 and watch as strength and success follow you like your tarot shadow!

The Number 9 in Tarot – Completion and Attainment

Number 9 is that sweet spot in the Tarot deck where things start to wrap up nicely. It signals fulfillment, reflection, and the satisfying feeling of nearing the end of a chapter. Think of it as the “almost there” stage—where your hard work and lessons learned come together, prepping you for whatever exciting new journey lies ahead.

Major Arcana: Number 9

In the Major Arcana, number 9 is represented by The Hermit. This card highlights introspection, wisdom, and inner guidance. The Hermit is a master in his own realm, needing nothing from the outside world. It’s about stepping back from the hustle and bustle to seek clarity from within, often signaling that you’re ready to complete a phase through self-discovery.

Number 9 in the Minor Arcana

In the Minor Arcana suits (Cups, Pentacles, Swords, Wands), the number 9 holds similar themes of nearing completion and reflection but with specific flavors depending on the suit:

• 9 of Cups: Joyful satisfaction, wishes coming true, emotional fulfillment.

• 9 of Pentacles: Independence, financial gain, enjoying the fruits of your labor.

• 9 of Swords: Anxiety or worry reaching a peak—highlighting the need to face fears before moving forward.

• 9 of Wands: Resilience and persistence, holding your ground just before the final push.

Nine is that tantalizing “almost done” number, reminding you to celebrate how far you’ve come and get ready to leap into the next adventure with confidence!

The Number 10 in Tarot:

10 – New cycles and renewal
Ten marks the end of a cycle and the start of a new one. It’s a full circle moment, encouraging letting go and embracing fresh beginnings.

In Tarot, the number 10 is a powerful symbol of completion, culmination, and the end of a cycle. Each suit’s 10 card carries its own unique flavour, embodying the peak of that suit’s elemental journey before transitioning into the next phase. Here’s a playful peek at the 10 cards across the deck:

Major Arcana: Number 10 The Wheel of Fortune

The number 10 in the Major Arcana is the Wheel of Fortune — a card all about cycles, fate, and the ever-turning nature of life. It reminds us that change is constant, fortunes rise and fall, and luck can flip at any moment. Get ready for a spin on life’s carousel!

Number 10 in the Minor Arcana

1. Ten of Wands
Burdened but determined, this card shows carrying heavy responsibilities or stress. It’s the final push toward finishing a massive project - yes, you’re weighed down, but victory is near!

2. Ten of Cups
The ultimate card for emotional fulfilment and family happiness. Picture rainbow-hued joy and deep connections, signalling harmony in your relationships and contentment at home.

3. Ten of Swords
Ouch, it’s often seen as the “ouch card.” It represents painful endings or hitting rock bottom. But don’t despair — after every ending, a new beginning is on the horizon.

4. Ten of Pentacles
This card is all about legacy, wealth, and long-term security. Think generations of stability, family traditions, and the comforts of earthly abundance.

Each 10 card marks an endpoint where something reaches its fullest expression, whether it’s completion of a task, emotional fulfilment, painful conclusion, or material prosperity. They invite you to acknowledge what’s been achieved or let go, then prepare for your next exciting chapter!

In Tarot, these numbers help guide the story each card tells, making your reading not just a glimpse at the future but a rich narrative full of insights and fun discoveries!