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This is what popular Tarot cards really mean — including Death

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Tarot is about self-discovery and empowerment. Here, Living360 explains what the most-Googled Tarot cards really mean.

So, you pulled the Death card and now you’re convinced your doom is imminent? Relax. Tarot isn’t about predicting the future — at least, not in the way Hollywood would have you believe. Instead, it’s a powerful tool for self-reflection, offering direction and clarity when you need it most.

According to Antonella, a professional astrologer at Psychic World, that’s one of the biggest misconceptions people have.

“The common misconception is that Tarot cards predict the future. In reality, they offer guidance, support and validation,” she says. “Think of them as a form of self-care that helps you navigate life’s twists and turns.”

So, if you’re dipping your toes into the world of Tarot, it helps to understand what some of the most popular cards really mean — and how they can help you find clarity.

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Tarot cards
This is what the most popular cards really mean (Picture: Freepik)

What does The Sun card mean?

If you pull The Sun, congratulations! This is one of the happiest cards in the deck, symbolising success, joy and optimism. It’s a sign that good vibes are on their way, and any struggles you’ve faced are finally coming to an end.

Antonella explains: “The upright Sun represents brightness, harmony and a hopeful outlook. It signifies the end of a struggle and encourages you to embrace the optimism for what’s ahead.”

But if The Sun appears reversed, it might mean you’re struggling to see the bright side. According to Antonella, “It can indicate sadness or a setback, but it’s also a reminder that things will change. It encourages you to have faith in yourself and trust that better days are coming.”

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Sun tarot card
This is one of the happiest cards in the deck (Picture: Pexels)

What does the Wheel of Fortune card mean?

Life is a rollercoaster and the Wheel of Fortune is here to remind you of that. This card represents luck, destiny and big changes ahead — often for the better. It’s a sign to go with the flow and embrace new opportunities.

“The Wheel of Fortune symbolises the lack of control we sometimes have in life,” says Antonella. “It suggests that a major shift is coming, and while you can’t always control the outcome, you’re encouraged to trust in fate and let it guide you.”

If it’s reversed, you might be resisting change — and that only makes things harder.

“When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed, it can mean you’re holding onto the past or resisting a necessary change. It’s a reminder that although change can be scary, it often leads to new and exciting experiences,” she adds.

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What does the Justice card mean?

You reap what you sow. Justice is all about truth, fairness and accountability. It reminds you that your choices have consequences and honesty is always the best policy.

“Justice highlights the importance of fairness and integrity,” Antonella explains. “It encourages you to think carefully about your actions and to understand that what you put out into the world will come back to you.”

When reversed, this card could mean you’re being treated unfairly — or, plot twist — you’re avoiding responsibility for your actions. Antonella puts it bluntly: “The reversed Justice card is a sign to take accountability for your mistakes. It’s never too late to own up to them, reflect and grow.”

What does the Death card mean?

Despite its dramatic name, Death doesn’t mean doom and gloom. Instead, it’s about endings, transformation and fresh starts. Think of it as a cosmic nudge to let go of what’s no longer serving you and to step into something better.

“The Death card symbolises the end of one chapter and the beginning of another,” says Antonella. “It’s a reminder to release anything that’s holding you back and to embrace the transformation that awaits.”

If it’s reversed, you may be resisting a necessary shift. “A reversed Death card suggests you’re struggling to let go,” Antonella notes. “It’s a sign to stop fighting change and instead view it as an opportunity for growth.”

 

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What does The Star card mean?

Need a little inspiration? The Star is your reminder that hope, renewal and positivity are on the horizon. This card signals a time of healing and optimism — perfect for a post-breakup glow-up or a major life pivot.

“The Star card is all about renewed power, faith and strength,” Antonella says. “It’s a symbol that things are getting better. After a period of hardship, it offers hope and encourages you to believe in the good things to come.”

But if it’s reversed, you might be feeling a little lost. According to Antonella, “The reversed Star indicates a loss of faith or feeling disheartened. But it’s also a reminder to focus on yourself, replenish your energy and trust that brighter days are ahead.”

Buy a beginner’s pack of Tarot cards from WHSmith for £19.99.

Feature image credit: Pexels

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