THE FOOL

The Spirit of the Aether

Card Number: 0
Element: 7, Air Hebrew Letter: X, aleph
Hebrew Letter Meaning: Mother letter: Ox; Value: 1
Path 11: Kether (1, Crown—Primum mobile) to Chokmah (2, Wisdom— Zodiac)
Color Scales in the Four Worlds: Bright pale yellow. Sky blue. Blue emerald green. Emerald, ecked gold
Themes and Keywords: All and nothing. Zero. Beginnings. Emanation.
Deity. Creation. Fertility. Air. Breath. Silence. Nascence. Folly and madness vs holy wisdom. Innocence.
Ignorance. Going forth.
ASTROLOGY/ELEMENT
The Fool corresponds to the element air, the suit of the mind and reason. Air contains the elements re
and water, yet the Fool's esoteric title is The Spirit of Aether. Aether is somewhat akin to air. The
theoretical substance aether, or ether, was once believed to be a universal elastic medium for the
transmission
of electromagnetic wave forms. Distributed throughout all
matter and permeating all space, it was only assumed to be there, as it was invisible, weightless,
frictionless, and undetectable. Transmitting light and heat, it was also referred to as luminiferous aether.
Aristotle believed that aethyr extended from the xed stars down to the moon. The ancient Greeks used
the term to refer to the "upper air," the region of space beyond the atmosphere, the blue heavens, and the
clear upper air personi ed. (It's also a term for a highly volatile, ammable, liquid anesthetic.)
In metaphysics the term also sometimes refers to Spirit, or the fth element, and to the void or vacuum.
In Enochian tradition it is the succession of worlds within, surrounding, and extending beyond the
material world. All this agrees with the Fool's association with Kether, the sephira of the primum mobile,
the outermost moving sphere in the geocentric model of the universe, and with the three veils
surrounding the Qabalistic Tree of Life.
Modern astrologers usually assign Uranus, or sometimes Pluto, to the Fool. Because of its association with
zero, the Fool also has a resonance with the Aries Point, the point at zero degrees of Aries in the zodiac
where the zodiac, and the season of spring, begins.
MYTHOLOGY/ALCHEMY
Both innocent and virile, the Fool is associated with Dionysus or Bacchus, the god of wine and revelry, of
fertility, religious ecstasy, and ritual madness. Dionysus is said to be a god of epiphany. An epiphany, or
revelation, refers to inspiration received from divinity. His appearance is said to induce a frenzy in his
followers akin to divine madness, freeing them from self-conscious cares, fears, and oppressions. His
iconography includes pine cones, grapes, gs, ivy, tigers, leopards, and serpents.
Depictions of Dionysus either show him as a mature bearded man, a sensuous and attractive beardless
youth, a ridiculously garbed or partially nude androgynous youth, or an e eminate male. Crowley's 777
lists the correct design of the tarot Fool as "a bearded Ancient seen in pro le," and though we see him as a
bearded jester in some Marseilles decks, modern decks portray him as either a Harlequin, an androgynous
youth, or as a sort of "Green Man of the Spring Festival." 3
The Orphic " rst Dionysus," Zagreus the horned, was an underworld god dismembered by the Titans and
reborn, paralleling the story of the Egyptian Osiris. The Fool is also associated with Zeus Arrhenothelus,
the primordial Lord of Air who embodies the concept that the original god (Tetragrammaton) was both
male and female. Though sources list Dionysus as being born after being sewn into Zeus's "thigh"—or
testicles—the oracle of Apollo declared Zeus, Hades, and Dionysus "three gods in one godhead"
overseeing birth, death, and reincarnation.*
The Fool has resonance with Parsifal, the Fisher King, and the Grail Quest. Tales of wandering princes
who marry the king's daughter and become king are applicable to the Fool's story.
As the absence of speech and the indrawn breath, the Fool also has associations with Harpocrates, god of
silence.
QABALAH-PATH 11
The Fool represents the letter aleph (X), one of the three mother letters of the Hebrew alphabet: aleph
corresponds to the element of air, mem (*) to water, and shin (2) to re. Aleph means "ox" or "bull." Both,
like Pan or Bacchus gures, are ancient symbols of fertility and generative powerapt beginnings for the
story of creation. Aleph's shape depicts a point unfolding in four directions and set in motion-the whirling
swastika once revered as a solar symbol before being co-opted in the modern age for darker purposes.
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 Airy aleph also corresponds to the chest, where people take air into their lungs as their rst act as living
beings. This is the same indrawn breath taken before speech (1-the Magician or Magus). In this silence is
contained everything that follows-the beginning and
end of all the universe.
The Tree of Life, or all creation, emanates from three "veils of
nothingness," known as Ain (nothingness or "nothing that is not"), Ain Soph (in nity or "nothing without
limit"), and Ain Soph Aur (limitless light).
From these veils then contracts the rst sephira, Kether—a dimensionless point of light or "crown." The
Fool's path on the Tree of Life runs from Kether to the second sephira, Chokmah (wisdom), from the
Middle Pillar to the Pillar of Force. As the rst path on the Tree, it represents "Qabalistic Zero"—the
negative space from which all else emanates.
the Tetragrammaton, letter yod () is said to reside in Chokmah, with its tip in Kether.
RIDER-WAITE-SMITH SYMBOLISM
This iconic image of the Fool holds a number of hidden references to the Tree of Life. The white sun at the
upper right refers to Kether, the rst sephira. Its fourteen rays may refer to 1 (Kether) + 2 (Chokmah) + 11
(path number). The line of the image passes from the sun to the lower left, re ecting the Fool's path from
an inside-the-Tree perspective. He could be about to step into the abyss of Da'ath, the void below the
supernal sephiroth. Or he might be stepping all the way down to Malkuth, which is symbolized by his
white rose. The rose, whose scent he may have just sni ed, is white, as is his shirt and his dog—all
conveying purity of intent.
Ten eight-spoked wheels adorn his tunic: there are ten wheels for the ten sephiroth and eight spokes for
the wheel of Spirit, the compass rose, and the eightfold model of consciousness.
His cli top altitude, the yellow color of the background, his carefree mien, and the feather in his cap all
point to the element of air; the feather's red color symbolizes the life force. We'll see it again in the Death
and Sun cards. The Fool's elaborate tunic alludes to both the raiment of court jesters and the rags and
tatters of the itinerant madman pictured in earlier versions of the Fool. Finally, his little dog is another
holdover from early tarot,though its role—to attack (as in older versions), to warn, or merely to gambol
about—is ambiguous.
RELATED CARDS
In a sense, you could say that all cards are contained in the Fool as he is the as-yet-unrealized potential of
all that will follow. But he is also the representative of elemental air, in the same way that the Hanged Man
stands for elemental water, and Judgement/Aeon for elemental re.
As elemental air, he has a speci c connection to the three major arcana of air: Justice/Adjustment (Libra),
the Star (Aquarius), and the Lovers (Gemini). Although he begins his journey as a blank slate, he will in
time learn to weigh his options, navigate toward goals, and make informed choices. His story is a
way nding from folly to wisdom; from ignorance to knowledge. Indeed, his mirror image on the Tree, the
Magician, is de ned by knowledgeability.
The intellectual, airy suit of Swords also re ects this perilous voyage of free will. When the Fool grasps the
Ace of Swords for the rst time, he becomes literally willful: he has an intention and the will to carry it
out. In the 2, 3, and 4 of Swords (Peace/Sorrow/Truce), he will encounter his rst crossroads, his rst
crisis, and his rst compromise. In the 5, 6, and 7 (Defeat/Science/Futility, he will counter risk with goal
setting and schemes of varying success. Finally, in the 8, 9, and 10 (Interference/Cruelty/Ruin), he faces a
paralyzing choice, kills o some options, and thus commits to an outcome. For better or worse, it is the
collapse of a quantum state into a certainty.
THE FOOL
The Fool tarot card is numbered 0. It may depict a gure resembling a court jester, or a symbol related to
the jester. In many popular decks, the gure appears to be on a journey. Sometimes, The Fool st des icted
vera diskoward, not watching the path ahead. Due to this inattentiveness, The
Interpretation
You, lucky duck, are at the very beginning of an exciting, life-changing journey.
You're about to go through a metamorphosis! Hooray! This can refer to many di erent types of exciting
adventures. Are you in the planning stages of a big project at work? Maybe you're just starting your self-
care journey and are imple. menting new routines to improve your mental, physical, or spiritual health.
Have “you recently entered into a new relationship that just feels so right? The Fool tarot card can even
indicate literal travel!
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 No matter where you’re headed or what you’re up to, The Fool is eager (and just a little naïve) as they
bravely step out into the great unknown. The Fool trusts that the universe will catch them if they fall, and
it will! This card is telling you that the universe has your back. Now this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look
before you leap. What’s the old saying? Oh, yes: “Pray, but row away from rocks.” Be sensible. This card
tells you to go forth courageously into new adventures, but remember to remain self-aware enough to stay
out of any potentially sticky situations.

Self-Care Card Activities

Mind: Prepare for your “foolhardy” adventure by incorporating some self-care rituals that center your
mind. For example, try writing down your goals for the day in a daily planner or journal.
Body: Mornings can be hectic, and many people don’t make time to eat a well-balanced breakfast. Try
waking up a little earlier than usual and eating a delicious, healthy breakfast to set yourself up for a
positive[…]”

0 The Fool
THE FOOL
Key words: Potential, choices, innocence, new beginnings
Image: A young man stands on the edge of a precipice carrying his worldly possessions. A dog barks at his
feet, warning him of the dangers that may lie ahead.
The Fool appears in a reading when the querent (seeker) is ready for change. This card is associated with
the start of a new journey or venture.
There is an air of innocence about this card, and it is important that your feet are rmly on the ground
before you take the next step. The presence of he Fool energy around you implies that the changes ahead
have an element of risk attached to them, or that you are hesitant about making a decision.
However, it is likely that now is the right time to make major changes, and you are ready to throw caution
to the wind and take a leap of faith. If you are feeling restricted, or that you have been stuck in a rut, now
is the right time to leave your comfort zone behind and look for new opportunities.
The Fool has great ambitions and is looking forwards to the next step of his journey. However, it may be
that you are blinded by the positive aspects of what lies ahead so it is important that, before you make a
major decision, you take the time to weigh up all of your options.
The Fool's journey is often full of potential, but how you handle your options will decide whether this has a
positive or negative outcome. The Fool encourages us to confront our fears, which is something you may
feel reluctant to do, but you need to overcome this and act for the bene t of your emotional and physical
wellbeing.
you are likely to be feeling impulsive and looking forwards to a new Challenge. This can be an inspiring and
adventurous time. but make sure you are prepared for what lies ahead.
One thing is certain: you are ready for change when the Fool appears. Just be prepared to take some time
to weigh up the pros and cons before you leap into the unknown, and remember that this can be a phase
that is full of new adventures and opportunities.
Reversed: Foolish, reckless, taking risks
A rmation: My life is an adventure. I ask for guidance so that the opportunity to follow my true path
becomes clear to me.?
THE FOOL.
The Fool represents the rst step towards knowledge, peace and liberation.
This card depicts a traveller standing at the edge of a cli , gazing into space while a dog barks at his heels.
In his left hand is a white rose, and a wand across his right shoulder holds a bag containing his belongings.
The sun shines brightly and re ects on the snow-covered mountains nearby. He is living for the moment,
experiencing the power of the present.
People who live in the past or the future may consider him foolish for being so focused on the present, as
they do not see that the greatest power we have in life is what we have at this moment. We cannot change
the past and often an absolutely certain future eludes us, but we can change the present.
What we do, feel and believe at this moment is something over which we have control.
Only the sun behind him knows where he came from and where he is going. The Fool doesn't know and he
doesn't care. The white rose in his hand represents innocence. He is about to step o the cli into the
void. He
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 He carries much knowledge from his past (past lives and past experience in this current life), which is
contained in the bag attached to his wand. The dog also represents the past, but in the form of a past
which calls you back and prevents you from experiencing the present. It does not take much e ort to live
in the past, romanticising, regretting or even wallowing, for there is little risk involved in this. Real risk
lies in the present. The Fool is not afraid to accept such risks.
The zero above him is without beginning and without end. So too are his lessons. If he were to step o the
cli and lose his life, or fail to learn the lesson (that is, to trust that life will support him), he is likely to be
given another chance to learn it through a di erent set of circumstances, a di erent time or even a
di erent life. Because of this, he has no fear.
Small children often have such innocence, expecting life to be kind to them always. Everything is new to
them and they want to explore. As adults we can lose this spontaneity, but when the Fool appears in a
spread this need to take a risk and live in the moment is evident.
What could be more foolish than to use a magic wand to carry your bags?
Or not to look where you are going? The Fool doesn't care for the commonsense required to function in the
everyday world; to him life is lled with magic moments, which commonsense only makes invisible. The
Fool is what the outside world sees when it looks upon someone who is truly enlightened. The Fool is what
the average man sees when he meets a wise man.
General meaning
The Fool is a card for spontaneous action. A time to leap out of a situation, or a time to enjoy the day for
what it is. It is a positive card for travel,suggesting that you will be living in the moment and feeling
connected with life.
'Su cient to the day, the joys therein' is an old saying that ts this card.
The Fool can appear when you are about to take a risk which those around you would caution against. For
example, 'Oh, I don't think it's a good time to be changing jobs with all the unemployment out there, or
'What! You left your partner? What on earth were you thinking?'
Take the risk. Do it anyway. The Fool suggests that the road to ful lment is through spontaneous action
and that long-term plans will be crystalised later on.
Relationship meaning
The Fool in a relationship reading suggests a period of living in the present or acting spontaneously. You
may be about to elope, or you could be about to meet a partner while travelling, or a partner who prefers
to live in the present rather than plan for the future.
The Fool can sometimes describe a partner who is unpredictable, innocent, or who is not committed to
long-term plans and relationships. The fool describes a time to take a risk or a leap of faith. At this time
you cannot know the rewards action will produce for you.
The Fool reversed
When reversed, the Fool suggests that you are seeking to be free of responsibility when commitment is
required of you. You are looking for an easy way out, but this is not the right time to do so. It is time to
commit yourself to the future or to resolve past situations before you can return to
before you can safely proceed.
The Fool reversed can suggest a failure to act on intuition, or an avoidance of responsibilities. You may
long to be free, to forget the past and ignore the future, but this is not the time. Sometimes it can describe
not taking a chance at some crucial time due to fear, or sticking to plans laid down, or relying too much on
other people's advice.Timing is the key here. Poor timing is evident when the Fool appears reversed.
Either not acting when opportunities present themselves, or acting when the time was inappropriate.
During a talk I delivered on the Tarot, a woman asked me about a reading I had given her six months
before. I had described a ery man in his twenties, with blue eyes and red to brown hair, and possibly a
Sagittarian (the Knight of Wands and Temperance cards). I said he was likely to appear in her life soon and
she would have an opportunity to have a love relationship with him.
She met a man who tted exactly the description I had given her. She was keen to go out with him, until
she discovered that he was a Virgo. She passed up the opportunity and waited for the Sagittarian I had
predicted.
She asked me if I thought it was wise of her to do this, as no Sagittarian had since appeared.
I was surprised that someone would interpret a reading so literally, and I pointed out that four out of ve
characteristics are not bad for a prediction. I suggested that she had overlooked the word 'possibly' in the
reading.
Whatever happened to free will?
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 In consulting me for a Tarot reading, it seems this woman had surrendered her free will completely. When
the time came for her to move into a situation which may have bene ted her, she relied too heavily upon
the advice I had given her and too little on her own judgement. This is an example of the Fool reversed.
The Fool
Card Number 0
URANUS
The Fool steps forward, face tilted to the sky, oblivious to the fact that he might be stepping over a cli .
He carries a bag attached to a wand, which symbolizes his past experiences and potential. He's moving
forward, without a care in the world, open to any and all adventures that might be coming his way.Iis
faithful companion, a little white dog, nips at his heels. Is the dog warnin im that he's about to go over the
edge? Or is the dog happy to join him fo this wild ride?
This card symbolizes a new phase in life, a journey, risk, and innocence. It's a sign that now you must take
a brave leap of faith, even if you're not sure where you will land. Instead, remain open to what's ahead
and trust that this path may lead you in an exciting new direction. The Fool always walks where angels
fear to tread.
Other ways of looking at this card: living in the moment, taking a new route, a spiritual journey,
innocence, lack of worldly experience, trusting in the goodness of the Universe, a minimalist lifestyle,
doing what's totally unfamiliar, the “beginner's mind.”
The reversed Fool pulls back from the ledge. Instead of leaping forth with total trust and love, he's
hesitant. Fearful. Not ready to take the plunge. In a divinatory reading, this reversal says: You must look
before you leap. Or maybe not take that chance at all. This can also symbolize your abandoning a
situation . . . or your inability to trust your instincts.
While caution and fear are typical interpretations, the other side of this card is reckless behavior. That
person who drinks too much and insists on driving home only to get pulled over and thrown in jail? That is
the Fool reversed in action.
How to embody the energy of this card: Take a deep breath and do something entirely out of your comfort
zone. Karaoke is perfect! Stepping onto a stage with the risk of feeling foolish—that's the Fool in a
nutshell. Grab a sensible pal (your own version of the little white dog), hit the local karaoke spot, and sing
your hearts out!A question to ponder: What is the biggest risk you've ever taken?
Sit with the Fool card for a few minutes. Which symbol stands out? Take out your journal and begin to ri
on that symbol. Make a note of anything that comes to mind. Let your words ow without stopping to
edit.
Just write what you feel. Put this away and then re ect on your words at a later date. What did you
uncover? What kind of connection did you make to this card.
BEGINNINGS
Upright: Now is the time to begin something new! You may not feel 100 percent ready, but trust that
you'll gure things out along the way. If you've been waiting for a sign, The Fool is it! Action: Take a cue
from Queen Elsa in Frozen and step bravely "into the unknooooown!" You've got this.
Reversed: You feel the stirrings of beginning a new journey, but you haven't taken the leap yet.
Alternatively, the reversed Fool can represent taking too many risks or acting recklessly. Action: Know
that there is no perfect time to wait for and that the Universe will help guide you along the way once you
take your rst step.
CAREER
Upright: If you've been looking for a sign to switch things up with your job, The Fool suggests it's probably
time. Action: Embrace changes and opportunity with courage and faith.
Reversed: Things feeling zzzzz at work and you're ready for a change? Or maybe there's something you
want to pursue, but you're feeling afraid of taking the rst step to go after it. Action: The restless energy
of The Fool reversed asks you to stop holding back. Go for it!
MONEY
Upright: The world is your nancial oyster! Possibility, opportunity, and optimism surround your nances.
You may also feel spontaneous with your money and use it to begin a new adventure, such as taking a trip
or signing up for a class. Action: Have faith that you have all you need! Allow yourself to use money to
bring joy and happiness right now.
Reversed: Watch for too many "add to cart" situations! The reversed Fool warns against reckless spending
or nancial decisions. Action: Resist impulse purchases and carefully consider investments and large
purchases.It may also be bene cial to create a budget.
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LOVE
Upright: When it comes to love, The Fool wears rose-colored glasses— things are looking cheery! In a
relationship, this card can signal that a new level, such as an engagement or pregnancy, is approaching. If
single, a fun and carefree relationship may be in your future. Action: Trust yourself and your heart as you
embrace new opportunities and your next chapter.
Reversed: Within a relationship, this card can signify that either your ol your partner doesn't take the
relationship seriously or that the relationship itself is more about fun; you or your partner may be too
immature for a serious relationship right now. If single, you may be meeting noncommittal partners.
Action: Take o the rose-colored glasses and see the relationship clearly.
FRIENDS & FAMILY
Upright: Now is a time to open yourself to meeting new friends! Action:
Introduce yourself to new people and see where the possibilities take you.
Adopt The Fool's charismatic and outgoing qualities for a night out.
Reversed: You may be feeling isolated from your friends and family as you embark on a new journey.
Action: Make an e ort to reach out and connect.
HEALTH
Upright: Generally a positive card, The Fool represents good health. Take time to rest and recover before
beginning a new journey. As The Fool represents new beginnings, it can indicate pregnancy. Action: Take
time to rest and keep up positive lifestyle habits.
Reversed: In a reversed position, The Fool can be careless. This card is an indicator of being too lax and
lacking discipline with your health care or routine. Action: Recommit to your health. Now is a great time
to start positive health habits!
HIGHER GUIDANCE
Upright: You're supported by the Universe and your guides as you embark on this new journey. Action:
Now is the time to take a leap of faith! Even if you're feeling nervous and unprepared, try. Have faith that
what is for you will work out.
Reversed: Your guides are asking you to step back and look carefully at your situation before proceeding.
It's good to live in the moment, but make sure you're making informed choices. Action: Ensure that you're
not acting hastily or carelessly as you move forward.
OUTCOME
Upright: The future is full of possibility! Action: Act wisely and thoughtfully, and you've got the Universe
at your feet.
Reversed: Recklessness or a lack of planning may bring about a less-than-deal outcome in this situation.
Action: Take time to ensure each step yo ake along your journey is intentional, meaningful, and well
thought out.
The Fool
Card Number o
Uranus
The Fool indicates a new journey. You can put the past in the past... and start moving toward a new life.
The path has been long and hard, but now you're free. Your life is opening up to many new experiences.
You'll want to take only the tools you need going forward. After all, a fresh start doesn't require much
baggage. The less, the better. Consider this the rst day of the rest of your life. The Fool can also repre-
sent freedom. You're leaving a situation and beginning with a clean slate. The future is yours to write. This
card can also indicate the rst steps on a spiritual or healing journey.
You are on the precipice, a place where you must take a leap into the unknown. Let go of your
preconceived notions and enter this time with a beginner's mind. Where will you go from here? What new
things will you discover? These adventures are meant to be enjoyed, not feared. The possibilities are
endless, but rst you must trust the Universe as you step o . Trusting isn't about being naive. Instead, it's
a willingness to see what may happen rather than trying to control the situation. The Fool is innocent, just
as we are in any new experience. You don't need to know what's ahead, nor do you have to bring your past
experiences into the situation. Let nothing color your mind as you spread your wings and welcome the
new possibilities.
Reversed: Life seems stuck at the moment. Not much is changing, and you must remain patient. It's also
possible you're not ready to make a change. If that is the case, give yourself as much time as you need or
ask for support. If you are fearful, go within and ask yourself what is causing this. Is it the fear of loss or of
not being in control? Is it because you can't see where you're going? No matter what holds you back, you
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 can nd a way to move through this energy. A risk may be required-or perhaps it's not time for risking
anything. Instead, you might need to take a step back to examine how you feel and what you need to take
with you before the journey begins. The Fool reversed can also mean a somber attitude that leaves no
room for spontaneity or joy. Can you nd playfulness at this time? Loosen up and do not fear appearing
foolish.
Journaling prompt: What parts of the past can I safely release?
Practice: Take the Fool card in your hands. Breathe deeply and recall a time when you needed to have
complete faith in a situation or person. Open your eyes and scan the card. What stands out? Let that
become your spiritual sign from the Universe. For example, say you are drawn to the feather. So when
you’re out and about, look for feathers.Those are your personal messages from the Universe.
Pro tip: Sometimes, the Fool can indicate the afterlife. I’ve seen this card come up when a loved one wants
to assure the querent they are “free” and o on a new journey.This message can be reassuring for a
querent who has been struggling to accept a loss.
The dog can also symbolize pets who have crossed over, which is helpful for folks who are grieving a
beloved animal companion.
0. The Fool
A FRESH START
THE FOOL.
Astrological Associations
Celestial Body
Uranus
Zodiac Sign
Aquarius
Keywords
New beginnings, leap of faith, potential, innocence, spontaneity, taking calculated risks.
Understanding the Fool
The Fool, the star of the tarot show, is depicted as a young, carefree man carrying a small knapsack full of
worldly possessions and tools that he is bringing with him from his past life on his new adventure. He is
standing on the edge of a rocky cli with no visible safety net requiring him to take a leap of faith. Behind
him is his guard dog and spirit companion guiding him into this new phase of his journey of life. The
mountains represent the potential for achievement and success. The ower represents the Fool’s childlike
innocence and purity as his carefree nature has caused him to stop to smell the roses as he walks up to the
edge of the cli . Although the Fool is not carrying a map to tell him where he is going, the sun is
illuminating the way guiding him on his new path.
Card Meaning
You are the Fool! People oftentimes view the musings of tarot to be talking about some far out elusive
spiritual concept. I am here to burst that bubble.
This card represents you (the person asking the question), the Fool, embarking on something new in life.
The Fool is the only card in the deck without a number. Its zero forms a complete circle and signi es the
untapped potential at the beginning of a journey. The Fool teaches you to take a leap of faith and trust in
yourself as you begin a new cycle, seek new opportunities, and navigate new experiences, phases, and
possible challenges.
Notice the Fool has a tiny bag and is not carrying luggage. It is okay to leave things, people, and baggage
behind. Take only the things that serve your highest good and are meant for your greatest potential into
your new phase of life. As the Fool, you must learn to let go of fear and take risks.
Being too comfortable in your routine and familiar surroundings can make you become stagnant and
hinder your growth. When was the last time you allowed your courage and optimism to try something
new to overrule your fear of failure? It is time for you to be the Fool and take that leap of faith.
tudy Tip: Notice that now he has both shoes on as he will have lost part of a shoe ater in his journey (see
Seven of Wands).
Keywords: Taking risks, Leaps of faith, New beginnings, Freedom, Foolishness, Rede ning oneself,
Innocence, Spontaneity
Element: Air
Numbered at zero, this is the rst card in the deck and marks the true beginning of our journey. Our
protagonist in the tarot, The Fool, looks and then immediately leaps with little regard for consequences,
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 trusting that he will learn along the way. As readers, we embody this archetype every time we sit to pull
cards and connect the messages with our memories and experiences.
The Fool is on a quest to discover his personal identity, divine purpose, and spiritual evolution through
connection to himself and others. This card displays a character who is young and foolish, but he's also
quite brave and wise because he has a willingness to trust and surrender, which we know takes great
vulnerability.
Since it represents a time for new beginnings, I consider this card a chance to rede ne ourselves or wipe
the slate clean, no longer judging the past and instead hopping spontaneously and enthusiastically into the
future.
It's a fantastic card to pull if you've been calling in change, newness, and redirection. Sometimes the
beginner knows better than the worried and fearful expert. Ignorance is bliss, isn't it? The Fool enjoys his
journey unin uenced by others.
There are a few visual notes and symbols that reiterate this energy. First, The Fool stands at the edge of a
mountain range, and mountains represent challenges and obstacles in the tarot. Surrounded by an
abundance of yellow, the skies are clear and the sun beats down on him, enveloping his energy and aura
with optimism and positivity. Carrying just a small pack of belongings, he is choosing to take very little
with him into this new chapter, planning to gather and nd all he needs along the way. His companion, a
dog, stays loyal and close to his feet, but he's also giving a warning, reminding The Fool he's courageous
but not invincible.
A rmation for The Fool
“I embrace the unknown because I learn more about myself each
time I leap.”
Connect to Your Story
In your journal, write about a time where you tried something new before
you were ready.
The Fool
Shorthand: “Look out, world, here I come! I’m ready for anything! I can
start brand-new and there’s nothing to be afraid of. If I fall, I may
bounce, but I won’t break.”
Traditional: The rst principle. Chaos before order is created. Enthusiasm
for something new. A sense of adventure. A completely fresh start. Not
needing much more than the shirt on your back to leave your comfort zone.
The Fool Reversed
Shorthand: “Suppose I fail? Oh, no, suppose I can’t do this? I’m just not
ready for a huge leap into a new life. Am I being reckless? Am I being
rash?”
Traditional: Not ready to do the next big thing. Afraid to start a big new
thing.
O, The Fool
ARCHETYPAL UNDERSTANDING: "CHILD"
A soul walks down a path, the wind whistling in his ears. An innocent child plays in a eld of wild owers
and looks straight into the eyes of a brown bear without fear. A madman wanders into town. A court jester
dances before the king and queen of a medieval court.
A hobbled creature sits in an insane asylum mumbling
THE FOOL.
to himself. A man throws away his fortune in the name of a love that will never be his.
The Fool is childlike because he is open to all
experiences as they greet him. His previous lessons are carried in his bag without clouding his judgment as
he moves forward. His dog re ects the creative principle of the universe. It is companionship and a
knowingness that you are never truly alone; you are connected to all things. This knowledge gives you the
strength and ability to move forward with ease and face anything that appears on your chosen path. The
Fool in search of experience remains open to unexpected possibility.
OCCULT MEANING
The beginning is the end, the end is the beginning. The Fool is given number zero. Zero connects, like a
necklace clasp, to the World card usually portrayed inside an oval-shaped wreath. Describing the Fool on
the beginning of his journey, Arthur Waite says that "he will return [to the sun behind him] by another
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 path after many days." For the occultist, the Fool begins on his path down toward the material world from
the highest spiritual plane. He hovers like soul consciousness before its human birth. To the yogi, the Fool
re ects the bliss body. He is a spirit in search of form and shape.
FORTUNETELLING MEANING
Folly. Foolish behavior. Immaturity. Ridiculous behavior. Silly. Empty-headed.
SHADOW SIDE (REVERSAL)
A refusal to start fresh. An unwillingness to let go of the past. Allowing oneself to be stuck in a rut. Not
willing to risk yourself. Cutting o your nose to spite your face. Acting childishly when you know better.
Feigning ignorance purposefully to avoid responsibility.
I avoid responsibility when I...
New beginnings, new moons, rst day of spring. It is the ability to be surprised and delighted by life.
Turning over a new page.
An adventure I've always desired is...
ASTROLOGICAL INFLUENCE
The bright originality of Uranus infuses the card with a erce independent spirit. Everything is possible.
WRITING PROMPTS
When I am in the mountains, I feel like...
The experience of last year taught me...
I can let go of the past by...
How DOES THE FOOL AcT As...
◦ a learning or growing moment?
◦ a past, present, or future experience?
◦ an expression of your soul?
◦ a suggestion, idea, or solution?
THE FOOL•
The rst card in the Major Arcana, The Fool begins your journey toward wisdom. The Fool represents
innocence and faith, the naive con dence of youth. Shown as a young traveler, he embarks on an
adventure without a care in the world, unconcerned about the potential dangers that lurk ahead on the
path. In some decks, he appears as a happy-go-lucky young male standing at the edge of a cli , just about
to step o into the great unknown. Often he carries all his worldly possessions tied in a small bag on a stick
over his shoulder, like a hobo, suggesting he doesn't have a lot of
"baggage" yet and is open to life's experiences. In some decks, he's accompanied by a dog or another
animal, which represents natural instincts. The Fool symbolizes the blind leap of faith we all must take
upon entering the journey of life.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
—LAO Tzu
Upright
When The Fool appears in a reading, it usually means you're about to embark on a new way of life. You're
open to new experiences and to discovering what lies around the bend. Even if you're not sure about the
path you've chosen, you have faith that everything will turn out well. You probably feel out of sync with
the rest of the world, but in a good way. You hear the beat of a di erent drummer, and you're ready to
march to it.
◦ In a reading about money, The Fool urges caution. You may be too trusting, or you may be
naive when it comes to handling nancial matters. This card can also represent the rst stage
of a business or investment—examine details carefully. Pay attention to your intuition, not
only logic.
◦ If the reading is about your work, The Fool can indicate starting a new job, project, or business
venture; beginning a course of study; or going on a business trip. You're looking forward to
this adventure or new direction and its possibilities. Embrace the opportunity with an open
mind—you have a lot to learn.
◦ In a reading about love, this card often means beginning a romance or moving into a new stage
in an existing partnership. A new relationship may feel "fated," as if you've met your
soulmate. Enjoy this period of joy, openness, and excitement.
"The quest for meaning always takes us into the unknown."
—F. ASTER BARNWELL, THE PILGRIM'S COMPANION
Reversed
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 If The Fool is reversed, you may feel restless and bored, eager to try something new, but now's probably
not the right time to act. I think of this as the "don't quit your day job card." That's not to say what vou
want is wrong-headed, but you need consider the pros and cons carefully before you walk o that cli .
◦ In a reading about money, you may not have all the information you need to make a well-
founded decision. An impulsive action could lead to a fall. Someone may take advantage of
your innocence. The reversed Fool can also mean you're vacillating or overly cautious about
money
◦ If the reading is about your job, your current situation has probably led to a dead end or you've
grown bored with the career path you're on. It’s time to strike out in a new direction. Don’t do
this hastily, however.Gather information and explore possibilities.
◦ In a reading about love, this card can warn you to look more closely at a partner or relationship
—things may not be what you think. The reversed Fool may also indicate the end of a
relationship and greater freedom as a result. Think before you act, however, for you might
regret a breakup undertaken hastily.
The Symbols
The Fool steps toward the edge of a precipice.There are mountains in
the background, representing attainment, realization, or a mystical journey.The Fool isn’t empty-handed.
He’s got a bag embroidered with the protective Eye of Horus and carrying universal instinct and memory.
The Fool trusts his instincts. He pursues his dreams even when the world is laughing, because the Fool
believes.
When the card is reversed, the Fool might be foolishly or naively trusting. After all, he is about to step o
a cli . But the little dog by his side barks a warning, so he doesn’t fall. As in all reversals, a reversed Fool
card could also indicate his energy is being repressed or blocked.
What Does This Card Mean for You?
In life, we need to take risks to move forward. Every journey starts with a
step and a risk, a question that won’t be answered until you reach the end.This Tarot card asks us to
consider how this energy is (or is not) playing out in our lives.
How is the Fool’s spontaneous energy a ecting the situation at hand?
Are you closed up, unwilling to risk, to play, to follow your instincts? Or is
something (perhaps ego?) stopping you from taking that leap?
Like a hobo, he carries all his worldly possessions tied in a small bag on a stick over his shoulder. He may
carry a rose, symbol of love, or a traveler's sta . Often he is dressed in bright colors, and the card's general
impression is cheerful and sunny. In some decks he is accompanied by a dog, which symbolizes natural
instincts. The dog gambols about The Fool, sometimes pulling him back from the danger ahead,
suggesting that our instincts, if followed, provide us with guidance on our life journeys.
Ordinarily, The Fool is shown as a person full of con dence often the con dence of youth—and trust in the
universe. He symbolizes that blind leap of faith that we all must take upon entering the journey of life
itself.
Interpretation
When The Fool appears in a reading, it symbolizes embarking on a new way of life. This may involve a
physical journey, moving to a new place, starting a new job, or getting married or divorced. Often, the
appearance of The Fool indicates a person who is beginning a spiritual path, who has absolute faith in the
universe. In such a case, the person has no fear and feels that everything will turn out well. The person
may be in touch with the intuitive realm, or she may simply be naive about the future. The Fool represents
a state of openness and faith that she'll be supported in her
Mythologically, The Fool is linked to Dionysus, the early Greek god of sacred revels in honor of the Great
Goddess. In medieval courts, the king's fool, or jester, was given license to make fun of everything and
everybody with no threat of punishment. His was a special role in a time when simpletons, or fools, were
believed to possess divine madness, and irrational behavior was thought to be the result of possession by a
god or spirit. The Fool is also associated with the Green Man of the Celt tradition, a god of fertility and
Nature's ability to restore itself.
Upright
At this time, you are out of sync with the rest of the world, but in a positive way. You may want to go out
on your own, "Full speed ahead and damn the torpedoes." Or you may feel isolated from the group, a
loner.
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 Your experience of the current situation is di erent from those around you-you feel as if you are marching
to a di erent drummer, and you probably are. Listen to that drummer, for this is the beat of your authentic
self, trying to get your attention.
Reversed
The time for independent action may not be right. You must discriminate
between your personal fantasies—of going o on an adventure or chucking it all for a new track—and
reality. The advice “Don’t quit your day job” may apply here: This is not to say that what you want to do is
invalid, only that you must consider all of the pros and cons carefully.
O THE FOOL
Alternative Names: The Jester, The Idiot
Number: 0 (can also be considered XXII or unnumbered, depending on the deck)
Numerology Link: None of and all of the other major arcana cards
Astrological Sign or Planet: Uranus
Element: Air
Hebrew Letter: Aleph
Symbol: The ox
Meaning: Instinct
Tree of Life Pathway: First, between Kether and Chockmah Chakra: Crown, for spiritual connection, and
base, for survival Key Meanings: Innocence, risk, and beginnings
THE FOOL.
UNDERSTANDING THE FOOL
The Fool is the innocent adventurer, about to begin an important journey.
With a head full of hope, he is idealistic rather than practical; he is certainly not dressed for travel. The
little dog at his heels tries to warn him of impending peril, but the Fool is blissfully ignorant of the risk he
takes in stepping o a cli . He is about to encounter danger, but how else can he make his way in the
world?
We all begin life as a zero, a tiny egg of potential. The Fool is the cosmic egg, symbolized by the shape of
his number, O. As he journeys through the major arcana sequence, he is a part of every card, but he also
stands outside the sequence without a formal value. An absolute beginner, he is about to explore the
world, gain experience, and leave behind his status as a zero, a no-being. He will travel lightly, without
the baggage of commitment. The Fool is the dreamer, lead only by his needs and desires.
Usually depicted as a youth, the Fool must grow to become a man in the next card in the tarot sequence:
the Magician-an individual who knows life and has identi ed what he needs to succeed in it. The Fool on
his journey will collect, in his bag, the four symbols of the minor arcana suits (the Cup, Sword, Pentacle,
and Wand): These items are the essence of his survival-the Cup to drink from; the Sword to defend
himself; the Pentacle, a coin, for victuals; and the Wand to connect him with his higher self. At this stage
of his journey, he is yet to discover the power and meaning of these objects; when he fully understands
their purpose, he may progress to the next stage of life, ready to morph into card I, the Magician. Even
though his number is zero, his preceding card is the World, card XXI. Some tarotists even assign him
number XXII/0, to show that the Fool is both the end and the beginning of the card sequence.
THE FOOL'S ASTROLOGY
The Fool's element is Air, which is tting, given he is about to step o a precipice into the ether and on his
travels will go wherever the wind blows.
While the Fool is not linked with a zodiac sign, he does have a planet, Uranus, which symbolizes
independence and a free spirit.
THE FOOL AND KABBALA
The Fool's letter is Aleph, the rst letter of the Hebrew alphabet. It has no sound—it is the breath, the chi,
the life force of the universe. Life begins with a breath, as the Fool is the beginner in life. Aleph commonly
means ox, for endurance, and also instinct, which drives the Fool on his journey.
On the Tree of Life, he is placed on the rst pathway between the spheres of Kether and Chockmah-
denoting his journey from creation to wisdom.UPRIGHT MEANING
The upright fool signi es calculated risk. It's never too late to begin anew and follow your heart's desire.
The journey ahead is not without danger, but it is time to take a leap of faith. This card augers well for
those embarking on new enterprises and educational courses, provided sensible planning is in place; this
is a time for optimism and a fresh perspective.
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The Fool brings an opportunity to start over and feel young again or excited at the prospect of a new way
of living; the Fool is an embodiment of your spirit, whether male or female, ready to explore and discover.
Whatever you start now will go well, provided you do look before you leap
⁃ but once the decision is made, it's time to push forward and not look back; have courage,
commit to your path, and be fully in the moment. The Fool's appearance in a reading can bring
a sigh of relief, in that there is now a way ahead. Welcome in the new and travel lightly.
Here are some insights the Fool can o er in particular areas of life:
◦ Home: The Fool can show a young person leaving home for the rst time. Also, surprise
visitors could call. You may also have younger guests in your home.
◦ Relationships: A new relationship—go with the ow at this point.
◦ Career and money: You may have sabbatical or a new opportunity in your current job or a new
career or enterprise. Prioritizing your workload is also the key to moving ahead swiftly.
REVERSED MEANING
Is what you're proposing —or a situation o ered to you —a leap too far?
The Fool reversed brings out his irresponsible side, as his mouth works ahead of his brain. Without
thinking through the downsides, the Fool makes decisions that are not wise. The reversed Fool leaps
without awareness and so becomes the literal idiot, sabotaging his chances due to desperation and
irrationality. Think carefully before agreeing a new approach to work and hold back from emotional
commitments until you are sure of your ground.
HIS WISDOM MESSAGE
Leap, but look rst.
THE FOOL'S SYMBOLS
In the Rider-Waite tarot, the Fool appears with these magical symbols.
Some of them reappear in other major arcana cards, so learn to recognize then and you"l soon nd you can
apply your knowlodge throughout the
◦ The dog represents instinct and self-preservation. The animal tries to warn the Fool that he is
about to walk o a cli , but the Fool is oblivious to his warning.
See this symbol on card XVIII, The Moon.
◦ The white rose or butter y: The white rose stands for purity and innocence. Some cards show
the Fool with a butter y, a symbol of dreams and spirit.
See the white rose symbol on card XIII, Death.
◦ The bundle: The Fool carries little in his bundle-just his essentials and four talismans, the
symbols of the minor arcana.
◦ The white sun: This is a symbol of consciousness, of the workings of the mind that are directly
expressed. As the sun rises, it illuminates the Fool's world, showing it all in the best possible
light. The sun is white, which links with the Fool's chakra of the crown and his purity of spirit.
See the golden sun on card VI, The Lovers; XIV, Temperance; XIII,
Death; XVIII, The Moon; and XIX, The Sun.
◦ The red feather: The red feather in the Fool's cap denotes his life force.
See this symbol on card XIX, The Sun, and XIII, Death.
THE HISTORICAL FOOL: IDIOT AND JOKER
In the earliest tarots, the Visconti-Sforza, the Fool looks very di erent from the jester-boy we
see on twentieth-century decks. With feathers in his hair and his breeches down to his
knees, the historical Fool is a gure of ridicule—the village idiot, without dignity—yet the
overarching theme of the Fool of Renaissance Europe was as a signi er of Lent. The seven
chicken feathers in his hair and his traveler’s bundle represent a poor man. He is not a court
jester but rather a symbol of poverty, a temporary reminder that worldly goods are not
everything; what is in our hearts is more important.
The Fool archetype was part of the Roman festival of Saturnalia in which the
major arcana characters paraded in chariots while the Fool ran around to tease and torment
them. This is another reason why he is unnumbered—he had no o icial place in the
procession. The Fool survives today as the Joker in the standard 52 cards.
THE FOOL ’S REFLECTIONS
The beginner aspect of the Fool is held in the minor arcana’s four Aces: the Ace of Cups (new love), the
Ace of Pentacles (new money), the Ace of Wands (new initiatives), and the Ace of Swords (new success);
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 He is also re ected in the Three of Wands, for travel, and the Eight of Wands, for movement, messages,
and activity.
THE FOOL.
#0 • THE FOOL
MAJOR ARCANA
Astrological Correlation: Air and Uranus
You must be quite the Fool to begin this journey, my love. I don't mean to insult you, but it is precisely this
ignorance to both your past and future that allows you to have the courage to step into a new beginning in
your present. Look here, how the Fool walks with their chest open and proud. They are led by the heart.
Are you foolish enough to be led by your heart? Are you ignorant enough to trust a feeling? To follow the
vague and uncharted territory of who you really are?
Those that have had the courage to do so are often dismissed as fools by the predictable and socially
conventional. Predictability and logic are the enemy of the Fool and, consequently, the enemy of new
beginnings. So ripe with potential is this card that it is not even the rst card of the tarot, it is represented
by zero, which holds both the beginning and the end-and is the chrysalis of an individual called to know
themselves.
The Fool's correlation with the numeral O is highly symbolic, for it speaks to the in nite potential of empty
space. The profound idea that I can only exist because there was rst nothing, a void. If you seek a new
beginning in your life, my love, meditate on this concept. Have you truly created a space, a nothingness
from which the new can be born? To create this nothingness, you must be willing to accept your own
ignorance, to accept your own "not knowing" of everything. When we do this, curiosity can return into
our lives, and curiosity is the path that the Fool treads. After all, was it not a little bit of curiosity that led
you here to me?
Never forget the Fool in your heart, my love. The part of you that is restless, seeking new heights and
horizons to traverse, seeking to test the limits of who you really are. They will whisper things to you like
"Why not?" and "What do you have to lose?" For the Fool has no baggage, no memory of wounds or
identities that would inhibit their ability to follow the quest of their heart.
In every moment, the Fool is reborn-and so are you. All that is required is that you allow yourself to leave
behind the weight of who you have always believed yourself to be and of who you have always believed
yourself to become. Be here. Be ignorant. Be open to an adventure with no destination, where the
excitement is in every step of not knowing ... where Der Weg ist das Ziel. This is why the Fool appears to
be almost dancing. They are in perfect rhythm with the ow of life, much like the nal archetype of the
major arcana ... but you will meet them later.
Astrologically, the Fool has always been associated with the element of air, and aptly so, for they are the
breath of life itself. The essence of consciousness as a force that propels us to discover ourselves. The
S. The esence
rst gasp that spells both our life and death, the bridge between divinity and the mortal realm. Do you feel
yourself being formed and reformed with every breath? Do you feel how much potential is carried in the
breath in your belly and in everything you will ever utter in this life by using it?
In recent times, the Fool has also been associated with the planet Uranus, which astrologically is the
planet of superconsciousness.
The stroke of genius. The spontaneous lightning strike of change that brings us into a higher state of
awareness. Like the planet Uranus, the Fool is chaotic, unpredictable and eager for change.
They are the power of acting on the odd thought that penetrates straight to the truth of your soul and
de es the predictable and uninspired timeline of your existing reality.
Are you beginning to see how giant of a fool you are, my love? How much genius runs through your veins
and you being completely
ignorant of it? You are not foolish because you lack intelligence, you are foolish because you have the
powers of a god and you don't even know it.
And is this not one of the great joys of life? To awaken to the superpowers that we always had within us,
but had no idea how to use or control. Too many of us buy into our own foolishness: "I'm just a [insert
limiting identity]," "It's just not me ...," "I could never ..." We remain in our chrysalis and never even begin
the quest to truly understanding ourselves. Everyone is born and will die a fool, my love, but foolishness
that stems from the regret of not following your heart is the most punishing kind. Let the Fool clear your
mind of all your doubts and fears from the past and future; remember that these spaces cannot coexist
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with the miraculous potential of your present. You are not de ned by who you were and who you think
you will be. You have the capacity to re-create yourself in every step, if that is what you so choose.
The Uranian aspect of the Fool is revolutionary, radical and unable to conform to any paths that are not of
their own making. Is it not profound that such a powerful force of change and creation exists within your
every breath? Is it not in nitely empowering to realize that you are of superconsciousness? That you have
the capacity to think thoughts that could jump you into potentials that you never before thought possible
for you and your life?
Look around you, my love, the Fools in your life will be revealed to you by the spring in their step. The
carefree strut of a soul that is following the excitingly unpredictable path of their own making.
Am I exciting you, my love? Are you not excited by the idea of having no idea of where you will be by the
end of our journey together? Are you not liberated by the fact that your "not knowing" is a gift that allows
you to transcend the chains of a preordained destiny? You are here, my love, you are in nitely here. You
are being created with every step, every leap of faith. Will you leap into life with me now? Will you lead
with your heart? Will you take the chance to nd out what adventures await you? If so, let us continue!
IN A READING...
ASTROLOGICAL INFLUENCE-AIR AND URANUS: The element of Air
represents movement, communication, new ideas and adaptability. Where is there a sense of a "change of
wind" in the subject's life? The planet Uranus brings activation, unexpected breakthroughs and sudden
shifts to the subject's experience.
Surrounding or clarifying cards may give more information as to what expression this breakthrough will
take. Uranus illuminates the genius and pure potential of a subject. Re ect on where in life they are now
ready to experience radical change and liberation.

UPRIGHT (DIRECT): New beginnings. Breakthrough. Leap of faith.

Liberation. Being born again. New adventures and experiences.
Starting again. Divine intervention. Freedom. Spontaneity. Sudden
burst of freedom.
REVERSED (RETROGRADE): Plans coming together. Yearning for
freedom. Hesitation. Fear of a fresh start. Returning to simple
things. Rediscovering your inspiration. Restlessness. Hiding new
plans. Change of direction. Preparing for your great escape. The
element of surprise.
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO TAROT CARD MEANINGS | 11
O. THE FOOL
KEYWORDS
Upright: Beginnings, innocence, spontaneity, a free spirit.
Reversed: Holding back, recklessness, risk-taking.
QUOTES
"There are two mistakes one can make along the road to truth...not going all the way, and not starting." -
Buddha
"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." - Lao Tzu
"The knack of ying is learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss." - Douglas Adams (Author
of The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.)
THE FOOL
DESCRIPTION
The Fool is numbered 0 - the number of unlimited potential - and so does not have a speci c place in the
sequence of the Tarot cards. The Fool can be placed either at the beginning of the Major Arcana or at the
end. The Major Arcana is often considered the Fool's journey through ife and as such, he is ever present
and therefore needs no number
in the Fool Tarot card, a young man stands on the edge of a cli , without a care in the world s he sets out
on a new adventure. He is gazing upwards toward the sky (and the Universe and is seemingly unaware
that he is about to skip o a precipice into the unknown. Over his shoulder rests a modest knapsack
containing everything he needs - which isn't much (let's say he's a minimalist). The white rose in his left
hand represents his purity and innocence And at his feet is a small white dog, representing loyalty and
protection, that encourages him to charge forward and learn the lessons he came to learn. The mountains
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 behind the Fool ymbolise the challenges yet to come. They are forever present, but the Fool doesn't car
bout them right now; he's more focused on starting his expedition UPRIGHT TAROT CARD MEANINGS
General
The Fool is a card of new beginnings, opportunity and potential. Just like the young man, you are at the
outset of your journey, standing at the cli 's edge, and about to take your rst step into the unknown.
Even though you don't know exactly where you are going, you are being called to commit yourself and
follow your heart, no matter how crazy this leap of faith might seem to you. Now is a time when you need
to trust where the Universe is taking you.
As you undertake this new journey, the Fool encourages you to have an open, curious mind and a sense of
excitement. Throw caution to the wind and be ready to embrace the unknown, leaving behind any fear,
worry or anxiety about what may or may not happen. This is about new experiences, personal growth,
development, and adventure.
The time is NOW! Take that leap of faith, even if you do not feel 100% ready or equipped for what is
coming (who knows what it could be?!). Seriously, what are you waiting for? Do you think you need to
have everything mapped out before you can begin? No way! Not with the Fool. He ventures out on his
journey with just his essential belongings - and now he invites you to do the same. You don't need to wait
for someone to give you the green light or hold o until you have all the skills, tools and resources you
think you might need. You are ready! If you've been watching for a sign, this is it!
This is a time of great potential and opportunity for you right now. The world is your oyster, and anything
can happen. Use your creative mind with a dash of spontaneity to make the most of this magical time and
bring forth your new ideas in powerful ways.
The Fool is your invitation to relax, play, and have fun. Treat life like one big experiment and feel yourself
in the ow of whatever comes your way. This card asks you to embrace your beautiful, carefree spirit,
allowing yourself to connect to the energy that surrounds you and ows through you. Tap into your fullest
potential by stepping into a place of wonderment, curiosity and intrigue. Live life as though you were a
child once again. Laugh more, dance, and let your heart go free.
This is an excellent card to meditate on if you are struggling with dread, worry or self-doubt in your life.
The Fool is your guide, as someone who is daring and carefree. He is the embodiment of who you really
are - your free spirit, your inner child, and your playful soul.
Any time you experience fear, remember the essence of the Fool as he encourages you to acknowledge
that fear and do it anyway! You never know what the future holds, but like the Fool, you must step into
the unknown, trusting that the Universe will catch you and escort you along the way. Take a chance and
see what happens.
Career, Work and Finances
In the spirit of fresh beginnings, the Fool can often suggest the start of a new career path or a
new job. This is likely to be an area where you have limited experience, but you are eager to
learn. It might be an internship, a new industry, or a complete career change.
The Fool can also represent an entrepreneurial spirit. New ideas and possibilities inspire
you to begin an enterprise or business. You may consider leaving your current job to pursue
your dreams of starting a company or embarking on a new career journey. A word of caution,
however: you may be susceptible to ‘get rich quick’ schemes that leave you high and dry, so
do your research before investing.
Personality Types
The Fool’s personality is carefree, curious, adventurous, unconventional, fun and playful. He
is a risk-taker and is exciting to be around, even if a little unpredictable. He will open your
eyes to a whole new world lled with possibilities you could never have imagined. His lust for
life is undeniable, accompanied by a hunger for knowledge and a passion for ideas. Together
you will discover your sprightly side as this person loves to have fun and wants to make you
laugh.
The Fool can represent someone who is naive, gullible, and even child-like in their way of
thinking. He is a dreamer, one who lives in their own happy world and may be oblivious to
the tougher realities of life.
Relationships and Love
The Fool often signi es the early stages of a new relationship when you are getting to know
each other and being more vulnerable with each other. You may be afraid to let go and
explore the possibilities together, but this tension and fear urge you forward and entice you
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Alternatively, you may not be ready for a commitment just yet, even though others are asking
it of you. Maybe you feel more attracted to the single lifestyle, where you can come and go
as you please and explore multiple relationships at the same time. You are seeking fun and
spontaneity rather than something more serious.
If you are in a relationship, you may desire to step out on your own and date other people.
You may be on the verge of wanting to start your journey but just do not know how to make
it happen. Or, you may just want to introduce more fun and playfulness into your existing
relationship.
Spirituality
In spiritual readings, the Fool is a sign that you are learning to trust the Universe and listen
to your intuition as you take this leap of faith. You are in ow with the Universal energies and
engaged in a dance with life itself. The more you let go and surrender to the ‘now’, the more
potential you allow into your path. It is as if you are experiencing life for the rst time, as you
are intensely present and opening yourself up to the wonders of the world around you.
You may also be open to exploring many metaphysical belief systems in the quest to nd what
resonates with you. While friends and family may not understand your spiritual journey, you
feel compelled to deepen your knowledge and explore new philosophies.
Well-being and Health
As a risk-taker, the Fool can imply that you are more accident-prone than most, so be careful
about engaging in high-risk activities and make a plan before taking that big leap.
If you’ve been having health issues, the Fool can be a signal that your health and well-being
is going in a positive direction. Perhaps you’re trying a new treatment, or you’ve gained a
fresh perspective that will support your health.
Journaling Prompts
What might happen if I were to trust in the Universe and take that rst step?

How can I add more playfulness and spontaneity into my life?

What new beginnings are available to me right now?

What is my pure, untapped potential?

Suggested Card Combinations

Fool + Star – Blind faith (in a positive sense) and a belief in new possibilities, transformation,
and change.
Fool + Judgement – Rebirth, the dawning of a new possibility or personal transformation.
Fool + World – One journey is ending, while a new one is about to begin.
Fool + Two of Swords – Reluctance to take the rst step or a calculated risk.
Fool + Three of Wands – Expanding horizons and entering new territories. Potential for travel.
REVERSED TAROT CARD MEANINGS
The Fool reversed suggests that you have conceived of a new project but aren’t ready to
‘birth’ it into the world just yet. You may worry that you are not t or that you don’t have all
the tools, skills and resources you need to make this project a success. Or perhaps you have
a sense that the timing isn’t right. Something is holding you back, and you are preventing
yourself from moving forward. You may choose to keep this new opportunity to yourself for
now, or you might be ‘parking’ it until a better time.
You may fear the unknown, wondering, ‘What am I getting myself into?’ As a result, you have
come to a standstill, worried about taking any action where you don’t know the outcome.
This often boils down to the need to control everything. Balance this out with knowing that
the Universe has your back and you can take this step forward, even if you are unsure of
exactly what will happen next.
On the ip side, the reversed Fool can show that you are taking too many risks and acting
recklessly. In your attempt to live ‘in the moment’ and be spontaneous and adventurous, you
may do so in total disregard of the consequences of your actions and engaging in activities
that put both yourself and others at risk. Look at the bigger picture and consider how you can
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In light of the playful and fun energy of the upright Fool, the reversal suggests you are
exploring this spirit on a more personal and quiet level. For example, instead of letting down
your hair and dancing up on stage, you are dancing in your bedroom like no-one is watching.
Look at how you can bring more play into your daily life, even if you start out by doing it in
private.
Suggested Card Combinations
Fool reversed + Devil – Short-term thinking for personal gain but a longer-term detriment.
Fool reversed + Six of Cups reversed – Naive and immature; reverting to child-like behaviour.
Fool reversed + Page of Cups reversed – Naive yet hopeful that a negative situation may turn
positive once again. You might end up disappointed.
Basic meaning
Zero as an aim and the search for the absolute: inner calm (see the white sun) allows one to dispense with
external models and hard and-fast expectations. Calm and freedom create a great openness.
Connections and synchronicities come into being between the
individual and the whole.
One can call it the Forrest Gump principle: just being in the right
place at the right time. One cannot achieve and bring about more than that. And less would be to
renounce existing possibilities.
• Spiritual experience
The power of now!
• As the card for the day
• Don’t let yourself be driven around the bend. It is foolish to worry
about events or consequences which simply cannot be weighed up right now.
• As a prognosis / tendency
The ful llment of essential wishes makes you—in a positive sense happy and devoid of desire.
• For love and relationships
Two Fools in love are like two nothings that link up to make a
lemniscate—the horizontal eight which stands for in nity.
• For success and happiness
As a Fool it is your privilege not to know the answers and to learn new things.
THE FOOL - 0
THE FOOL •
The Fool is unnumbered, and so he can be placed at the start or end of the Major deck. He is placed where
the Major Arcana starts, before The Magician, and ends, after The World, representing a cycle of life, area
of life, or experience. Zero, 'O', represents nothing, chaos, potential, and it is from nothing that anything
is possible. He is instinct, possibility, and no limitations, which brings us the formation and the onset of
new and sudden events. The Fool is the leap of faith we may need between each card as we travel through
life and situations.
The Fool is ruled by Uranus and associated with Aquarius, yet some say he has no sign attributed to him,
as he can be placed anywhere within the deck as he travels through it experiencing life.
The Fool shows us the image of a man looking to the sunny sky, seemingly unaware of the cli edge.
The Fool's youthful appearance represents positivity and enthusiasm and a childlike, playful, innocent
outlook on life. He wears colourful clothes, indicating he has a lack of insight or thought concerning his
actions as he acts on pure impulse. His tunic has a ripe pomegranate pattern symbolising abundance, yet
most are not in full seed leaving him full of potential, readiness and enthusiasm. The lining of his tunic is
orange, a colour that brings optimism,
fun and enthusiasm. His tunic represents productive
energy which wants to rush towards what is desired, especially if it's new, enticing and waiting to be
experienced or attempted. Together, the pomegranates and orange show indulgent and enjoyable energy.
Under his tunic, he wears a white shirt, which shows his innocence as it is closest to his body. At heart,
this card is pure in its nature, driven more by instinct than anything else.
Around his waist, he wears a yellow belt made of seven small balls. Some authors say these are bells,
which playfully announce his arrival, while others see them as planets. They may represent the seventh
planet, Uranus, which The Fool is ruled by and is a sign of his unpredictable, imaginative, and original
personality.
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is going, he trusts the faith he has that the experience will be worth it. The Fool is surrounded by magnetic
energy that, as yet, has no real concrete de nition. The excitement of new possibilities being within his
grasp means that he is willing to su er the unknown just to see them implemented instead of wasted. He
brings a time to leave the past behind, to take a deep breath and move forward.
The Fool's black hat is surrounded by a laurel wreath showing his presumption that he will succeed, and
the red feather shows desire as well as representing his mental desire to create something new. It is this
desire fuelled by instincts and a willingness to explore that pushes him forward.
Being black, the hat itself shows his mind holds potential as black absorbs all other colours, so therefore
holds all the possibilities available in life. You may notice in this original image shown that his laurel crown
is blue. Blue about the head shows a mind which is serene, meditative, calm and lost in moment.
In his right hand, the side of our emotions and dreams, he holds a black magician's wand that shows he
has power; latent and unknown, maybe - but present. The colour, like his hat, symbolises potential and
here carries his past experiences which he wishes to take with him as he nds somewhere new to explore.
He may have given little thought as to the way ahead as he is working from a need to discover and
experience. He hopes his journey will enable him to add to the bag he carries, as The Fool aims to enjoy
and learn, as that is where success lies for him.
On the bag facing left is the head of an eagle, symbolising the ascending spirit. His bag sits under the sun,
ring his imagination, burning him from within to move and gravitate towards something new. It looks
like a satchel, which suggests a student of life, learning and soaking up experiences.
Eagles soar, giving The Fool a burning desire to make changes, as he wants to see and do it all. Eagles,
along with the scorpion and phoenix, are linked to the sign of Scorpio, an aspect of The Fool that acts,
strikes and dives into something in an instant from its panoramic view, yet even he cannot guarantee the
outcome should The Fool jump as he faces in the opposite direction and sits under the glare of the sun.
In his left, logical, hand, he gently holds a white rose between his thumb and nger in a position called the
Gyan Mudra, a traditional eastern meditation hand gesture that focuses the mind. Together, these tell of
The Fool's intentions which are pure and from the heart; even though they have no founding in actual
experience or maturity, it shows simplicity and trust in the unknown. He does not wish to think too deeply
but ows with the energy he feels propelled by, preferring to be mindful and to live in the
The Fool's dog also symbolises his instincts, some could say his ego, which urges him towards the
dangerous edge of the rocks. Yet dogs are companions, friends to be trusted, loyal and faithful, lending
feelings of safety to The Fool's actions and desires. The dog jumps up at him and might be trying to warn
him of the fall ahead and to look before he leaps, but The Fool gazes upwards into the expense of the sky,
oblivious to any danger.
His upwards gaze is to the heavens, telling us he is full of dreams and high aspirations. He is not
considering failure nor concerned at the height of the cli , nor the ground he will land upon; it's the idea
and the inspiration which lead him into this impulsive action. The Fool states that when you are without
the relevant experience you can only gain by jumping in at the deep end and at least trying.
The mountains behind him warn of the possible dangers his situation might bring, but he ignores the
signs, just feeling the positive sun on his back, happy, enthusiastic, and willing to try. The rocky cli he is
about to jump over tells of the unknown, and although anything might greet him once over the edge, The
Fool is still happy to walk or jump over, seemingly without fear. The Fool is going to enter the thrill of the
cli drop, armed simply with an incurable desire to understand, and learn with his innocent outlook.
Behind him is a stone hut; we can only see a portion, yet there seems to be just a door. He has emerged
from a womb-like place, dark, safe, and secure.
In a way, born and inexperienced into the world, ready for change and the chance to lead him to what is
new.
I don't feel that The Fool is particularly brave, nor stupid, but innocent and naive about the possibility of
fear and failure. To The Fool, the cli doesn't represent panic, danger or the unknown; instead, it is
merely a way to somewhere else. So surely only a fool would jump and risk failure? Or could it be that The
Fool has a strong desire to take the risk, feel the adventure and see what is past the obstacle that, to
others, the cli would represent? He may also feel that he has nothing to lose and everything to gain just
from the experience alone.
The Fool's card is instinctual, impulsive, and spirited. His essence is both inspirational and explosive. He
has been o ered an opportunity, or
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 discovered one, and is bold enough to leave where he is to go and explore it. His ideas and desires may not
be totally clear to him, and he may also be unaware of where they will lead him, as once he jumps as he
has no idea if he will have a soft or hard landing, but he is going to do it anyway. The Fool does not give us
time to think about things, he is pure enthusiasm.
Acting, not thinking.
Suddenly, anything is possible. He is like a bubble of excitement!
IN A NUTSHELL
Hold your nose and jump in, be brave, throw caution to the wind and take a chance for the sake of it. This
is not a time to think, but to grab opportunities or ideas and run with them, allow actions to take you to
where they will lead.
Leave the past behind, allowing excitement to lead you forwards. Be impulsive! Start afresh.
The Fool - 0: Upright
THE FOOL.
The Fool brings a time to enjoy life for the moment, to dive into new circumstances and opportunities
without consideration or apprehension for what the future may or may not bring.
Spontaneous and unpremeditated actions will be called for to bring about desired results. The Fool's arrival
tells us that dreams should be tested, and any desires should be made a goal; new pathways will require
faith and action to make them happen.
This card can also be an indication that free will is needed and should be implemented rather than waiting
for 'something' to happen! If no opening Page 29 of 651
is present, make one.
The Fool o ers new probabilities and new beginnings, the type that brings fresh new challenges as The
Fool brings originality.
When The Fool appears in a Tarot spread, situations will change suddenly and events will take on new
directions as ideas and opportunities come to light seemingly out of nowhere, out of the blue, and when
unexpected in uences come into one's life or situations.
The Fool brings major choices and avenues of change for those who are brave enough to take them. He
brings situations where thinking is not an option, or where we need to grasp an opportunity and worry
about the outcome later.
The Fool manifests a strong desire and an instinctual need to accept any change, and you will know that
whatever the outcome those changes just must be made. This card shows the energy is there along with
the enthusiasm and drive to make such decisions and changes. All that one has to do and will feel naturally
impelled to do is make that vital and exciting next step.
There is a need to take risks and abandon old restricting views even though it means putting your trust in
the unknown and following your destiny. A time to just jump in!
Children and those young at heart are represented by The Fool and the card could show the in uence of a
younger person a ecting your decisions.
The young have an innocent excitement and a desire to learn by moving forward without restrictions
presented by the past, or from present fears.
They possess an innocent curiosity about life, as they live in the moment.
The Fool - 0: Reversed
Reversed, this card points to acting the fool, as it can indicate that you are acting in an irresponsible
manner and not listening to the views of others.
This will result in recklessness, making rash or even dangerous or stupid decisions; there will be
impatience and daydreaming when facing reality is called for.
Yet, it can also show someone who is being over-cautious and missing opportunities due to a fear of
responsibility or the outcome, leaving you overshadowed by your inability to rise to a challenge.
Opportunities that arise will cause concern and worry. You may be left feeling unprepared, stupid and
super cial when new chances for change present themselves, or when you wish to make changes for
yourself.
If opportunities make you feel this way, then it is not the time to act, anc one should look deeper into the
situation with thought and consideration for what the change will really bring. Your fears show that you
are not ready or brave enough to accept the outcome and that looking at your fears will reveal a lot about
yourself.
When The Fool appears reversed, do not trust your own judgement, nor commit to anything of value as
you will not give it your 'all'. Restlessness or thinking the grass is greener on the other side will lead you to
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 let yourself or others down.On a simpler note, the reversed Fool can mean silly, rash, impulsive and
immature actions being taken.
and nothing more. They don't lug around their failures and their fears. They step forward with total faith
that, somehow, everything will work out.
Sure, the Fool is about to step o the edge of a cli , but they aren't concerned. They truly believe the
universe has their back. There's no way they could come to any harm. Or could they?
In truth, the Fool could be walking forward into something spectacular or something devastating. Those
who see how big the risks are see only a fool.
Those who nd the Fool's openhearted enthusiasm for life inspirational— and who wish they could trust
so easily—see a genius.
The Fool also brings a lot of new beginning energy to the tarot. After all, even the card's number is the
absolute beginning: zero—the number that comes before one! This card points us in the direction of new
beginnings.
The Fool reminds me of Zen Buddhism's beginner's mind concept, which describes the beauty and power
in approaching any part of life as if you are a beginner, even when you aren't. This card invites you to
consider the beauty and power of setting aside preconceived ideas or worries so that you can have an
experience. It's incredible what you can accomplish when you assume you know nothing and open
yourself up to everything.
Oh, and one more thing: the Fool is not alone. They have a companion.
In the card you see here, our Fool's companion is a u y white dog, full of energy, bounding beside our
Fool and yapping away. I like to think of the Fool's companion as their instinct: the part of them that will
warn them of real danger or encourage them if the way is clear—if they pay attention, that is.
The unknown future of the Fool is what I nd so thrilling. The Fool is not a planner; they are a doer and are
open to whatever life throws at them, good or bad. The Fool is spontaneous, a free spirit.
As a blessing, the Fool invites you to take a glorious, openhearted leap of faith without worrying whether
other people might think you foolish for doing so. The risk is worth the reward!
As an obstacle, the Fool can represent the fears that stop you from taking risks, opening your heart,
trusting, or taking a step forward on a new path.
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Being blocked from trust and openness or letting past failures get in your head and in your way can
undoubtedly present obstacles. The Fool as an obstacle can also be about being reckless and ignoring your
instincts about red ags or pitfalls out of a stubborn desire to pretend everything is better than it is.
With the Fool card, there is always an element of danger. How you approach or interpret the card will
depend on whether the threat you perceive is worth facing or better avoided. Based on this, risk works
best for me as a keyword for the Fool.
Consider what word might work for you if risk doesn't t the bill. Here are a few other words that you may
want to consider:
Naivete/Innocence
Naivete, the quality of being naive, describes the result of someone lacking in life experience, or at least
lacking in the type of life experiences that make one more cautious, making it an excellent keyword for the
Fool.
The word innocence, like naivete, suggests someone relatively untested by life. It also suggests the idea of
purity or a blank slate, which can be a helpful way to look at the Fool.
Beginning/Beginner
The words beginning and beginner work well to capture the starting energy of the Fool. If this quality of
the Fool jumps out, either of these keywords will work well for you.
Trust/Faith
Trust and faith are interesting words for the Fool because they remind us of the interpretation of the Fool
as a leap of faith.
THE MAJOR ARCANA
0—THE FOOL
The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct acting from
inner necessity. The creative mind plays with the objects it loves.
—Carl Jung
freedom / risk / impulse / trust / naïve / inner child / ignorance / adventure / joyful / child / journeyer /
precipice / unhurt / ready / new soul / beginning / bursting / enthusiasm
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Card Meaning
The Fool symbolizes the leap into incarnation. As card zero, he is an outlier of the Major Arcana, the
beginning before the beginning. A sponge, a blank slate for the experiences laid out for him in the
following cards. Possessing the energy of the newborn, The Fool is both cosmically connected—new
enough to hold on to the memory of the divine oneness from which he came-and fearless possessing no
knowledge of the world he is about to step into and therefore too uninformed to be afraid.
Traditionally, The Fool is about to take a leap o a cli . Most depictions include a warning symbol
cautioning him against the leap, commonly in the form of a dog nipping at his feet. This warning does not
come from us. It is not our intuition or inner voice. It is the collective warning of societal programming,
learned fear and deeply ingrained self-doubt. Embodying the energy of The Fool is an act of self-trust so
radical that it allows us to take risks that may seem crazy to others. When we align with The Fool, we do
not doubt ourselves, even if it feels like we should. He invites us to set aside our pride and everything we
think we know in exchange for the possibility of a new beginning. However, this is not always appropriate
action. The question we must consider upon meeting The Fool is when does it serve us to go into a
situation unbiased and when is it wiser to make decisions based on our experience. While The Fool has
many merits, he is entirely devoid of wisdom, and therefore his fearlessness can put him in danger if
employed in the wrong circumstances.
In my experience, The Fool represents a risk worth taking.
Symbolizing pre-creation and cosmic consciousness, he awakens our spiritual memory and prepares us for
new opportunity. We are likely to surprise ourselves here. So used to using our ego as a compass, The Fool
activates a completely di erent navigation system. Every cell in our body longs for this unexpected
journey for which we have no road map and no destination. Our bones are buzzing with purpose that we
cannot fathom with our mind or articulate with our ego. And yet, we must jump. To defy this instinct is to
deny life itself.
There are hints, feelings and inclinations this next step is right, but nothing quanti able. This is why The
Fool has historically represented madness and insanity, because his choice de es logic and reason. He is
total impulse, pure spontaneity, eternally leaping into the present moment.
Anecdote
Quitting my job wasn’t what grown-ups would call a “good idea.”I’d been working for a little over a year
and got a promotion a few months before I received my tarot deck. I had a sure thing, a steady paycheck,
coworkers I loved, a boss I respected, health insurance and the emotional security essential to an early-
twenties recent-grad who was totally freaked out about whether or not I could ever successfully adult.
When I gave my two weeks’ notice, I had two hundred dollars in my bank account and absolutely zero idea
of what came next. But I had to jump. It wasn’t an option. In all honesty, it took about an hour of owning a
tarot deck to know that this would take me in new and unexpected directions, that the job I worked so
hard to get instantly became a dream belonging to some former version of me.It was the craziest thing I’ve
ever done, and the best decision I’ve ever made.
In a Reading
The Fool often shows up as an opportunity for a major new beginning that requires taking a leap, or a risk.
An upcoming birth or fertile ground for new creative endeavors. It could symbolize a move, a career
change or unexpectedly falling in love. An urging to stop taking yourself so seriously, to avoid getting
bogged down by details, preconceived notions or fear. Look at a situation with fresh eyes. Listen to your
gut. Be open to a new experience, or to being surprised. Consider always the positioning of The Fool—
what direction is he facing? What card is he leaping into? What position is he in in the greater context of
the spread? If surrounded by ominous cards, it may be a warning that now is not the best time to take a
leap, or imply naivety or ignorance to the pitfalls of a situation. The Fool encourages spontaneous and
impulsive action over rational planning.
I WILL embrace new beginnings.
• Re ections
What would an adventure look like for me?
An adventure can be as big as taking a trip to someplace completely unfamiliar or as small
as taking a different route to work than you usually do. What would an ideal adventure look
like for you? In what ways could you incorporate that spirit of adventure into your everyday
life today?
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Routine and structure are important parts of life, but the Fool challenges us not to cling to
our routines so much that we let new opportunities pass us by. Whether your daily planner
is your bible or you're allergic to schedules, we all have to be exible from time to time. In
what ways can you be more open to new possibilities today? Is there a speci c routine or
ritual that you can loosen your grip on (even just a little) to leave room for new
developments?
How can I invite curiosity into my day?
The word curiosity always makes me think of someone clutching a magnifying glass,
examining the smallest details of the world we take for granted. But you don't have to be a
character from a children's book or Sherlock Holmes to be curious and inquisitive. It's so
easy to let the world pass by as you go about your daily life. How can curiosity be part of
your day? Perhaps it's as simple as people watching at the bus stop on your way to work
or asking a coworker to tell you more about the family photo on their desk. In what ways
might you cultivate that beginner's mind, that inquisitive approach to the world?
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Actions
Break Your Media Routines
Effort Level: Low OOOOO
In a world where we have instantaneous access to almost any type of media, we all have
genres that we tend to stick to. (And with good reason-think how overwhelmed we'd get if
we didn't have preferences to guide us!) But there could be new favorites waiting for us
within genres that we've completely written off. So, for this activity, we'll challenge
ourselves to venture into a genre that we rarely explore.
For the sake of this example, we're going to work with music. Load up whatever music
service you use regularly (Spotify, iTunes, YouTube Music, etc.). Take a moment to identify
the genres that you tend to comfortably live in. For instance, my go-tos tend to be
instrumental soundtracks, musicals, and indie. Then, identify a genre that you would
typically never venture into. I might choose punk or country, for example. With an open
mind (as free and innocent as the Fool!) select an artist or playlist from one of these
genres and listen to a couple of songs.
It's entirely possible that you'll hate the songs and will decide to never try this genre again-
that's okay! The point of the exercise is to channel that Fool energy into something small
but signi cant: taking a risk, exploring a frontier that is new and uncharted for you, and
approaching it with an open mind. And who knows, maybe you'll nd a song or an artist
that you don't mind or (gasp!) even LIKE!
The beauty of this exercise is that it can work equally well for almost any
form of media. If you’re low on time, music, poetry, or artwork are perfect
to explore. If you have a little more time to play with, choose a movie, TV
show, or book that you’d typically never pick up. Figure out what works
for you and your day and dive into something brand new with the Fool’s
joyful abandon.
Plan a Solo Adventure
Effort Level: Medium to high OOOOO
First of all, identify someplace that you've never visited before that sounds interesting to
you. This someplace can be as simple as a store or park in your hometown, or as
elaborate as a city across the country that you've always wanted to travel to. Whatever
works best for you and your resources (both in terms of time and nances). The key,
though, is to choose a place that is brand new to you.
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If you happen to have enough time to visit this place today, go for it! But more likely this
will take a bit of planning and preparation, especially if you've chosen a location that
requires signi cant travel. This may seem counterintuitive for the Fool, who thrives in
spontaneity. But even adventurers who are heading into uncharted territory keep a
compass in their pocket, and so you may imagine your plan as your compass.
Ideally, this is an adventure that you will undertake alone. But if, for whatever reason, you
need to take a companion with you, try to choose someone who will let you take the lead.
Because when you arrive at your chosen someplace, your challenge is to just...wander.
Let go of any preconceived notions you may have had. Let your curiosity be your guide
and explore with fresh new eyes, like a child full of wonder. Remember, for a child or a
Fool, even someplace as mundane as a grocery store can be brand new! Catch your
breath at the beauty of a blossoming tree or a colorful painting. Laugh with abandon at the
antics of a street performer.
Marvel at the tapestry of sounds and energies that surround you in a crowded place. Tune
into the voice of your inner child and follow wherever they lead you.
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