The Fool’s journey is a metaphor for our own journeys. He is the unexpected hero and his quest is always one of purpose. He is the seeker, ultimately trying to find meaning for his life. He is on the path of self-development and spiritual enlightenment. He represents chaos before order, impulse before rational thinking, and innocence before experience. The Fool represents the childlike spirit within us all.

The Fool is the only card in the deck that is, in essence, numberless. The Fool appears both at the beginning or ending of a life cycle. Therefore, he does not need to be assigned a number. He is the child embarking on a new journey. He can be the first card of the Major Arcana or he can be the last. However, he can also appear in any major life transitions. The fact that he is numberless serves an important purpose. He can show up at any point in one’s journey. He is there to remind you to follow your heart and stay true to who you are.

In a Tarot reading, the Fool can suggest a new beginning or ending of a phase of life. In some cases there can be an unexpected influence that can change the direction of the querent’s (the person being read for) life path. Often the querent may find him or herself faced with an important decision that can have profound results. Depending on which cards surround The Fool, a warning or change of direction may be warranted. Although The Fool can be the free thinker and creative dreamer, he may also be reckless and irresponsible. The nature and meaning of The Fool card is often determined by the other cards flanking it in a Tarot reading.

Upright Fool Tarot Card Meanings in a Tarot Reading

In its upright position, The Fool represents the journey into the unfamiliar. An unexpected opportunity may arise or a life changing decision might have to be made. There may be a new relationship on the horizon or a new, unconventional person may be entering your life. The Fool suggests that you may also need a change of perspective, one that is more true to your heart. This perspective may require you to find a more child-like approach to a new situation or utilize more flexible, innovative thinking. This may be a creative time for you and you can expect some uncertainty. In a Tarot reading, The Fool also indicates a period of doubt. This is a time to take a leap of faith. Occasionally, The Fool may indicate an upcoming trip or travel of some kind.

• Follow your heart
• Be willing to take some risks
• Keep an open mind
• A new beginning
• New opportunities
• Spontaneity

Reversed Fool Tarot Card Meanings in a Tarot Reading

In Tarot reading, The Fool in a reversed position may advise you that you are taking too many risks. You must carefully examine the situation at hand and pause before taking any action. If you are impulsive, the outcome can be unfavorable. You may also want to take into account that your judgment may be impaired, and you are not seeing the situation as it truly is.

Lastly, The Fool reversed can indicate a fear of the unknown. This fear is the ultimate trap, preventing you from moving forward into a new and more beneficial life cycle. It is important to recognize the significance of this fear and how it hinders your view of the world. Pay particular attention to the opportunities you may have passed on because of your feelings of apprehension. Often, this can reveal major barriers in your life.

• A fear of the unknown
• Too much risk taking
• Lack of clarity
• Being impulsive or reckless
• Irresponsibility

To learn more about tarot card meanings and symbolism, please visit Carolyn’s free tarot guide.