Tarot cards have been utilized for centuries as a profound instrument for self-reflection, divination, and spiritual guidance. The deck comprises 78 cards, each possessing unique imagery, symbolism, and narrative depth. Within this structure, the 22 Major Arcana cards represent life’s karmic and spiritual lessons, depicting the stages encountered while searching for greater meaning and understanding. Conversely, the 56 Minor Arcana cards reflect the trials and tribulations of daily life, highlighting practical aspects and current issues with temporary or minor influence. This system serves as a "storybook of our life," a mirror to the soul that reveals the exact lessons needed to master in order to live an inspired life.
Certain tarot enthusiasts believe that specific cards are more closely associated with the months of the year. By looking at these correspondences, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the influences and themes that may unfold during those times. These cards symbolize new beginnings, harmony, inspiration, growth, and balance—themes often associated with the changing seasons. Whether seeking guidance or looking to tap into the energies of a specific month, these tarot cards can serve as powerful tools for self-reflection and exploration.
January: The Wheel of Fortune
The tarot card that corresponds with the month of January is The Wheel of Fortune. This card represents the cyclical nature of life, change, and fate. Just as the wheel turns, lives go through cycles of birth, growth, decay, and death. In January, as the new year begins, this card encourages reflection on the past and necessary changes for the future. It asks individuals to consider what patterns or cycles they may be caught in, and how to break free from them to create a more fulfilling and vibrant life. The Wheel of Fortune emphasizes the power to shape one's own destiny while encouraging trust in the journey and openness to the unexpected.
February: The Queen of Swords and the Three of Cups
February is a month of transition from the cold winter to the blossoming of spring. While there is no single universally associated tarot card for this month, several cards hold themes that resonate with its energy. The Queen of Swords represents strength, clarity, and the ability to make rational decisions. This card symbolizes the need to make clear and focused decisions during this time of transition, trusting in one's own strength and wisdom.
Additionally, the Three of Cups is often associated with February. This card symbolizes celebration, friendship, and joyous occasions, signifying a time of socializing and having fun with loved ones. The Two of Cups is also frequently linked to February due to its representation of connections and relationships, fitting for a month often associated with love and romance.
March: The Emperor
The tarot card corresponding with March is The Emperor. As the fourth card of the Major Arcana, this card represents authority, leadership, and structure. It signifies a time of taking control of one's life and making important decisions. The Emperor often depicts a powerful figure sitting on a throne with a sceptre and an orb, representing control and dominion over the physical world. The emphasis on structure and order indicates the need for organization and discipline during March. This card encourages taking control, making responsible decisions, and asserting authority. The energy of The Emperor provides the confidence and determination needed to achieve goals and create a solid foundation for the future, symbolizing the energy and power of the beginning of spring and the renewal of life.
April: The Hierophant, The Fool, The Two of Cups, and The Ace of Wands
April is a time of renewal and new possibilities as the seasons transition. Several cards can be associated with this month. The Hierophant represents tradition, spirituality, and learning from past experiences, signifying a time of seeking guidance and wisdom from a mentor or teacher.
The Fool symbolizes new beginnings and taking risks. This card encourages embracing the energy of April and being open to new experiences and opportunities. Another card associated with April is the Two of Cups, which represents harmony, balance, and mutual connection. As the weather warms, there is a greater sense of unity and connection, reminding individuals to strengthen relationships and find common ground.
Furthermore, the Ace of Wands is linked to April. This card represents inspiration, passion, and new beginnings. As days grow longer and the weather becomes more favorable, there is a surge of creative energy and motivation, which the Ace of Wands embodies.
May: The Empress and The Lovers
For the month of May, the corresponding tarot card is The Empress. The Empress is the embodiment of femininity, abundance, and nurturing energy. Often associated with fertility, growth, and creativity, this card signifies a time of abundance, prosperity, and the nurturing of new projects and ideas. In the tarot deck, The Empress is often depicted sitting on a throne surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers, symbolizing the abundance and fertility associated with the card. She represents the earth mother and the nurturer, encouraging connection with one's own nurturing instincts and trusting in the ability to create and manifest abundance.
May is also associated with The Lovers. This card symbolizes love, harmony, and partnerships. It signifies a time of making important choices regarding relationships and finding balance between the heart and mind.
The Structure of the Tarot
To understand these monthly correspondences, it is helpful to understand the structure of the tarot deck. The deck is divided into the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Minor Arcana further divides into 16 Tarot Court Cards, representing 16 different personality characteristics individuals may choose to express at any given time. Additionally, there are 40 numbered cards organized into four Suits—Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands—each with 10 cards representing various situations encountered day-to-day.
Conclusion
The association of tarot cards with specific months offers a unique lens through which to view the energies of the year. From the cyclical changes of January's Wheel of Fortune to the nurturing abundance of May's Empress, these cards provide symbolic guidance for navigating the themes of each season. By engaging with these correspondences, individuals can utilize the tarot as a tool for deeper self-reflection and alignment with the natural cycles of life.