How-to Guides · 8 min · 2026-07-18
Numbers are the key to deeper understanding of the meanings of tarot cards. This article teaches you how to read the number energies from the Major Arcana to the Minor Arcana, saving you from having to memorize each card individually.
In tarot, numbers are more than just symbols — they carry their own energy that helps you better understand the profound message of each card. Instead of memorizing 78 cards, you can focus on the energy of the numbers, then combine with other factors (card suits, images) to get a comprehensive answer.
Energy: Action, creativity, independence, strong will.
The number 1 represents the starting point of everything. It is the moment when you decide to start something new, focusing all your will on one goal. In life, this number appears when you prepare for new steps.
Energy: Balance, choice, cooperation, subconscious.
The number 2 speaks of the coexistence of two opposing laws (yin and yang). This is a period of choice, when you have to consider two paths. It also refers to waiting and inner wisdom.
Energy: Growth, expression, abundance, social communication.
When 1 (beginning) combines with 2 (balance), the number 3 is born — the manifestation of creativity. This is the moment when ideas begin to come true, initial results appear.
Energy: Order, structure, limitation, stability.
Number 4 builds the foundation — the rules, the framework, the controls. It provides stability but can also lead to rigidity.
Energy: Change, challenge, freedom, adaptation.
Number 5 is the "breaker" of the structures of number 4. It brings instability, but also an opportunity for you to grow and adapt to new things.
Energy: Adjustment, responsibility, love, communication.
After experiencing the conflict of number 5, number 6 seeks to rebalance. This is a time of emotional choices, family responsibilities, and care.
Energy: Evaluation, self-reflection, spirituality, wisdom.
Number 7 is the moment of stopping. This is not the time to act, but the time to look back at what has been done and prepare for the next stage.
Energy: Power, cause and effect, infinite, transformation.
The number 8 (horizontal like the infinity sign) represents strong energy, the ability to overcome difficulties through internal force. It also talks about the transformation between matter and spirit.
Energy: Accomplishment, wisdom, loneliness, compassion.
The number 9 is the end of a cycle. You have accumulated enough experience and are ready to enter a new stage. It's also time for you to share that experience with others. A useful check is to name the visible action on the card before choosing advice.
Energy: Loops, fate, reincarnation.
Energy: Spiritual balance, truth, cause and effect.
Energy: Sacrifice, change of perspective, waiting.
Energy: Complete ending, transformation, rebirth.
Energy: Filtered, neutral, harmonious.
Energy: Material attachments, desires, temptations.
Energy: Sudden events, awakenings, destruction and reconstruction.
Energy: Hope, inspiration, tranquility.
Energy: Illusion, fear, subconscious, instability.
Energy: Success, joy, clarity, vitality.
Energy: Inviting, reviving, deciding.
Energy: Fulfillment, accomplishment, perfect ending.
Energy: Infinite potential, chaos, primordial trust.
The number 0 is not in a fixed position — it can be at the beginning (a departure step) or at the end (a simple return). It is endless possibilities. When several cards repeat a theme, treat the pattern as emphasis rather than certainty. For a cleaner reading, translate the symbol into one observable choice or behavior.
In the Minor Arcana, numbers have the same meaning as in the Major Arcana, but the suit (Wands, Cups, Swords, Coins) determines the area in which that energy manifests.
Energy: New opportunities, sparks of inspiration, pure potential.
Energy: Relationships, decision making, duality, waiting for the right moment.
Energy: Collaboration, growth, celebration, preliminary success.
Energy: Conservatism, rest, hardening, possibly boredom or hindrance.
Energy: Instability, challenge, loss, but also opportunity for change.
Energy: Communication, care, memories, smooth flow.
Energy: Thinking, strategizing, facing challenges, needing perseverance.
Energy: Fast movement, repetitive work, skill mastery.
Energy: Approaching the peak, satisfied, but also feeling lonely.
Energy: Cycle ends, fullness, possibly undue burden. For a cleaner reading, translate the symbol into one observable choice or behavior. If the card feels abstract, ask what it changes in the next small decision.
When you encounter cards with double-digit numbers, you can add the digits together to find the "core energy".
Example 1: Death (13) - Calculate: 1 + 3 = 4 - Answer: Death talks about the end, but inside it contains the energy of number 4 (structure). This suggests that the collapse of the old way is to build a new, more organized way.
Example 2: Star (17) - Calculate: 1 + 7 = 8 - Answer: The Star carries hope, and the core energy is 8 (inner strength). It suggests that hope comes from perseverance and the infinite possibilities within you.
Example 3: Sun (19) - Calculate: 1 + 9 = 10 → 1 + 0 = 1 - Answer: The Sun is the pinnacle of success, and when recalculated, it returns to number 1 — pure creativity and vitality.
When you draw a card, start by remembering the general meaning of the number. For example, seeing the number 5, immediately think "conflict" or "change".
The number is only partial. The suit will tell you which areas are affected:
If you draw a sequence of cards from 1 to 10 in the same suit, it shows a complete cycle of life — from beginning to completion.
By mastering the power of numbers, you: - No need to memorize: You don't have to memorize the 78 cards, just understand the logic behind them. - Faster explanation: You can quickly connect the elements and come up with a reasonable answer. - Deeper understanding: Numbers reveal the hidden structure of the cards, helping you read the cards with a more comprehensive vision.
Read deeper
Reference source: zhihu.com — Comprehensive guide to Numbers in Tarot
Reading note: Check these meanings against the cards beside them before settling on one keyword.
Source: Zhihu
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