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The Fool Tarot Card: Symbolism, Interpretation & Reversed Meaning

Writer's picture: Jessica SinclairJessica Sinclair
The Fool tarot card or what is the meaning of the Fool tarot card in a tarot reading

Ah, The Fool! A wonderful card that marks the beginning of the Major Arcana and the Fool’s Journey—the story arc woven through the Major Arcana cards. This journey represents the soul’s biggest lessons, inviting us to strip away layers of expectation without needing to define ourselves by the outcome.


The Fool embodies the number “0,” symbolising infinite potential. When he appears, he spreads his arms wide, embracing the possibilities of the present moment. He invites you to stand at the edge of what’s beginning in your life with an open heart, welcoming the new and unknown.



The meaning of The Fool tarot card encourages you to embrace where you are, whether it’s the start of a new project, relationship, or a leap into uncharted territory. He asks you to trust the journey without needing every detail planned. It’s a call to take risks on something exciting, even if you don’t have everything mapped out. He reminds you that it’s okay not to know exactly where you’ll land—sometimes, the act of leaping is enough.


He whispers, “Leap, and the net will appear.”


Symbolism & Imagery


In traditional depictions, The Fool carries a small bag on a stick—only the essentials. He travels light, leaving behind unnecessary baggage. Standing at the cliff’s edge, arms outstretched, head tilted toward the sky, he exudes a sense of trust and openness. His stance reminds us of the need for lightness, optimism, and faith when stepping into the unknown.

The Fool from Robin Wood tarot deck or what is the interpretation of The Fool tarot card in a tarot reading


Some may see The Fool as reckless, but we must embrace a sense of carefree wonder to explore the great unknown. When he appears in your reading, he encourages you to surrender to the mystery of life. Approach the edge with curiosity and trust, as this is how you’ll receive the gifts the Universe is offering.









The Fool Tarot Card Meaning in Reverse


When reading reversed cards, consider where The Fool appears in your spread and how it interacts with surrounding cards. This will guide you to the most relevant interpretation.


the Fool tarot card from the Rider Waite tarot deck in reverse or what does the fool in reverse mean in a tarot reading

An Obstacle on Your Path

Perhaps you’re hesitating at the edge, wanting certainty before taking the leap. You may be trying to control the outcome or ensure everything goes exactly as planned. If so, The Fool reversed urges you to let go of this need for control. Trust the process—clinging to certainty may be what’s holding you back.


The Shadow Side

Alternatively, The Fool reversed can signal impulsive actions driven by discomfort with the present moment. If frustration or restlessness is pushing you to force something before it’s ready, step back and reassess. Acting from agitation can lead to missteps—take a breath before making your move.



 
 
 

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