The Tarot have been used for centuries to predict the future and answer our deepest questions. The traditional deck contains 78 cards — the 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards.
While the Minor Arcana can help shed light on the actions and decisions we make every day, the Major Arcana helps us understand our life’s purpose. Each card represents situations we face through our journey and the lessons we all must learn.
Here is a closer look at our next card in the deck, the Lovers.
THE LOVERS
The Lovers are together in harmonious union. It’s a meaningful connection built on love and attraction. Yet, their relationship runs deeper than romance. They are a balance meant to mirror the duality within all of us — the yin and yang. The Lovers have decisions to make and must weigh their options alongside their values.
THE IMAGERY
The Lovers appear as a naked man and woman standing in a garden, like Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. And like the biblical couple, there is an apple tree with a serpent wrapped around its trunk, which stands behind the woman. Behind the man is a tree made of flames. The snake in the tree represents the pleasures that tempt us all. The tree of flames stands for passion. Above them is the angel Raphael, which symbolizes spirituality. Following the gaze of each of them connects physical pleasure, emotional passion and spiritual needs.
THE MEANING
The appearance of the Lovers can be two-fold. It’s assumed to refer to love, which it may. It often represents a genuine connection between you and a loved one. This person is your soulmate, though it may not be a romantic relationship. However, the Lovers also has a distinctly different meaning. It often appears in a spread when a difficult choice lies ahead. The path forward will not be an easy road, yet there is no reward without risk. Don’t fear the Lovers — just take care when making your decision.
THE REVERSE
In reverse, the Lovers indicate internal conflict. You’re unhappy with a decision you’ve made or are dissatisfied with your life’s current course. Just remember, that you are in control of your destiny and have the power to change directions.
