Astrological Correspondences in Tarot: Integrating Zodiac Signs, Planets, and Elements

Tarot and astrology are two profound systems of divination that, when combined, offer enriched insights into the human experience. Understanding the astrological correspondences of Tarot cards—linking zodiac signs, planets, and elements—can deepen your interpretations and provide a more nuanced perspective in readings.

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Major Arcana: Associations with Zodiac Signs and Planets

The 22 Major Arcana cards are each associated with specific zodiac signs, planets, or elements, reflecting universal archetypes and energies. Here’s a breakdown of these associations:

• The Fool: Air (Element)
• The Magician: Mercury (Planet)
• The High Priestess: Moon (Planet)
• The Empress: Venus (Planet)
• The Emperor: Aries (Zodiac Sign)
• The Hierophant: Taurus (Zodiac Sign)
• The Lovers: Gemini (Zodiac Sign)
• The Chariot: Cancer (Zodiac Sign)
• Strength: Leo (Zodiac Sign)
• The Hermit: Virgo (Zodiac Sign)
• Wheel of Fortune: Jupiter (Planet)
• Justice: Libra (Zodiac Sign)
• The Hanged Man: Water (Element)
• Death: Scorpio (Zodiac Sign)
• Temperance: Sagittarius (Zodiac Sign)
• The Devil: Capricorn (Zodiac Sign)
• The Tower: Mars (Planet)
• The Star: Aquarius (Zodiac Sign)
• The Moon: Pisces (Zodiac Sign)
• The Sun: Sun (Planet)
• Judgement: Fire (Element)
• The World: Saturn (Planet)

These associations align each Major Arcana card with specific astrological energies, enriching their symbolism and interpretative depth.

Minor Arcana: Decans and Elements

The Minor Arcana consists of four suits—Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles—each linked to one of the four classical elements:

• Wands: Fire
• Cups: Water
• Swords: Air
• Pentacles: Earth

Each suit contains ten numbered cards (Ace to 10), corresponding to the ten sephiroth of the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. Additionally, these cards are associated with the 36 decans of the zodiac, with each decan representing a 10-degree segment of a zodiac sign. This association ties each card to specific astrological energies, influencing their interpretation.

Court Cards: Zodiac Sign Associations

The Court Cards—Page, Knight, Queen, and King—also have astrological correspondences. Each court card represents a specific modality and element, aligning with particular zodiac signs:

• Kings: Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn)
• Queens: Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius)
• Knights: Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces)
• Pages: Elemental energies without specific zodiac associations

These associations provide insights into personality traits and behavioral tendencies in readings.

Integrating Astrology into Tarot Readings

Incorporating astrological correspondences into Tarot readings can enhance the depth and accuracy of interpretations. Recognizing the planetary, zodiac, and elemental associations of each card allows for a more comprehensive analysis of the querent's situation, offering tailored guidance and insights.