The Fool
Tarot Card Meanings
The Fool inspires courage, for he understands that every day is a chance to open up new areas in your life, and with that comes a mixture of anticipation, wonder, awe and curiosity.
The Fool Tarot Card Description
The Fool has no particular position in the order of the Tarot cards because it is numbered 0—the number of limitless possibilities. The Major Arcana can either start with The Fool or end with The Fool. Since The Fool is ever present and so doesn’t require a number, The Major Arcana is frequently thought of as The Fool’s journey through life.
The Fool Tarot card features a young man embarking on a new adventure while standing on the edge of a cliff. He appears to be unaware of the fact that he is about to jump off a cliff into the abyss as he looks up toward the sky (and the Universe).
His modest knapsack, which isn’t very large (lets he’s a minimalist) rests over his shoulder and is filled with everything he needs. His purity and innocence are symbolized by the white rose in his left hand. The small white dog at his feet, which stands for loyalty and protection and encourages him to move forward and learn the lessons he came to learn, also serves as a motivating factor. The difficulties ahead are represented by the mountains in The Fool’s background. They are forever present, but The Fool doesn’t care about them right now; he’s more focused on starting his adventure.
NOTE: The Tarot card meaning description is based on the Rider Waite cards.
The Fool Keywords
Upright Keywords:
- Beginnings
- Freedom
- Innocence
- Adventure
- A free Spirit
- Spontaneity
Reversed Keywords:
- Reckless
- Careless
- Distracted
- Risk-Taking
- Foolish
Upright Fool Meaning
The Fool is a card of fresh starts, possibilities, and potential. You are starting your journey, standing at the edge of the cliff, about to take your first step into the unknown, just like the young man. No matter how crazy this leap of faith may seem to you, you are being called to commit yourself and follow your heart even though you are not exactly sure where you are going. You need to have faith in the direction the universe is leading you right now.
The Fool advises you to go into this new journey with an open, curious mind and a sense of excitement. Throw caution to the wind and prepare yourself to embrace the unknown, putting all worries, fears, and anxieties about what might or might not happen behind you. This is about having new experiences, developing personally, and going on adventures.
It’s now or never! Even if you don’t feel fully prepared or ready for what is about to happen (who knows what it might be! ), take that leap of faith. What the heck are you waiting for? Do you believe that starting requires having everything planned out in advance? No way! Not The Fool, though.
He invites you to embark on your journey with only the things that are necessary for you. You don’t have to hold off until you have all the knowledge, resources, and tools you might need, or wait for someone to give you the go-ahead. You’re prepared! This is the signal you have been looking for if you were!
Right now, you are in a period of great potential and opportunity. Everything is possible, and the world is your oyster. Utilize your imagination while adding a dash of spontaneity to make the most of this special moment and powerfully express your fresh ideas.
The Fool is here to invite you to unwind, play, and enjoy yourself. Live each day as a giant experiment and go with the flow of whatever comes your way. This card encourages you to connect with the energy that permeates you and surrounds you while embracing your lovely, carefree spirit. Enter a realm of wonder, curiosity, and intrigue to reach your full potential. Live your life as if you were a kid again. Increase your laughter, dance, and let your heart soar.
If you are having trouble in your life with dread, worry, or self-doubt, this card is a great one to reflect on. Your mentor is the Fool because he or she is bold and carefree. He represents your true self, your unbridled spirit, your inner child, and your playful soul. Remember The Fool’s message whenever you feel afraid because he exhorts you to face your fear and move forward regardless! Though you can never predict the future, like The Fool, you must take a leap of faith in the hopes that the Universe will catch you and guide you on your journey. Try your luck and see what transpires.
Reversed Fool Meaning
The Fool Reversed suggests that even though you have an idea for a new undertaking, you aren’t quite ready to “birth” it into the world. You might be concerned that you are unfit or that you lack the resources, knowledge, and tools required to complete this project successfully. You might also feel as though the time isn’t right. You are preventing yourself from moving forward because something is holding you back. For the time being, you might decide to keep this new opportunity to yourself, or you might decide to “park” it until a better moment.
You might be anxious about the future and wonder, “What have I gotten myself into? Consequently, you have reached a standstill and are hesitant to take any actions whose results you are unsure of. This essentially comes down to the desire for total control. Contrast this with the knowledge that the Universe is on your side and that you can move forward even though you are unsure of what will happen next.
On the other hand, The Fool Reversed can indicate that you are acting carelessly and taking too many risks. You might act recklessly and irresponsibly in an effort to live “in the moment” and be spontaneous and adventurous, completely oblivious to the consequences of your choices. Consider the bigger picture and how you can maintain The Fool’s free spirit without causing harm to others.
The reversal implies that you are investigating this spirit on a more introspective and quiet level, which is consistent with The Fool Upright’s playful and enjoyable energy. For instance, you might dance like no one is looking in your bedroom rather than letting your hair down and getting up on stage. Consider adding more play to your daily routine, even if you start by doing it alone at first.