A standard deck of Tarot cards is divided into 2 different groups, the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Minor Arcana look very similar to any regular deck of playing cards. There are 4 suits, with 14 cards each. The Major Arcana features elaborately drawn scenes representing grand ideas like the World, Justice, Death, and the Moon. There are 22 cards in the Major Arcana, and each one is assigned a number because numerology is also a big part of Tarot divination. At the very beginning, the number 0 is assigned to The Fool.
The Fool may seem negative given modern connotations, but it actually signifies a new beginning. The Fool is starting a journey, and he has tremendous potential, as nothing has come yet to impede his progress. He is a fool because he is not experienced, but that lack of experience means he is also not yet corrupted. The Fool’s card represents us at our most hopeful moment. And we should jump into our new adventure with positivity and passion. The card is about acting in the moment and without reservation. While this is not how most of us live life, it is not necessarily a bad thing on many occasions.
The first card in the Tarot is not all sunshine and roses. The Fool also comes with a warning for all the encouragement he offers. Do not be careless in your endeavors. While you should be fearless, you should not take unnecessary risks. Be encouraged. Be inspired. But do not be foolhardy as you face the challenges ahead.
Historically, the Fool served to amuse nobles and royals at their castles. In addition, he was a comedian and entertainer for dinner and other hosted events. This brings us to another important idea to pull from their card. When the Fool appears, have fun. Whatever your new adventure will be, enjoy it. Make the most of it. Be a free spirit and just see where it takes you. Having fun on an adventure is different from making stupid decisions. Never willingly put yourself in danger, but do enjoy what is happening, even if it is difficult. The card is about living in the present.
It is easy to lose yourself in the tedious work of day-to-day life. We are often worried about making ends meet, and we forget to find time to enjoy life. The new beginning that the Fool brings is a chance to let go of all that stress. Look up with new eyes and remember what it is to be innocent and explore. This is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and the things that bring you happiness. Be fearless. Make the most of it. And don’t be afraid to try something new! The Fool is not foolish, just uncorrupted, get back to that point in your own life.