The Fool Tarot Card Meanings
"The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool."
~ William Shakespeare (1564 - 1616)
As You Like It, Act 5 scene 1
The Fool Tarot Card Meanings
The Fool Keywords
UPRIGHT: New beginnings, spontaneity, free spirit, innocence, idealism, adventure
REVERSED: Carelessness, recklessness, holding back, lack of commitment, foolishness
THE FOOL DESCRIPTION
The Fool is the first card in the Major Arcana. This tarot card is represented by the number 0. The number which encompasses everything and also nothing, both the beginning and the end. The number of infinite potential.
The Fool Tarot card illustrates a young man standing on the edge of cliff, without a care in the world. He sets off on a new adventure, looking upward at the sky, unaware that he is about to drop off the edge into the unknown. He carries with him a small knapsack, not much to his name as he begins his journey. He also holds a white flower in his hand, representing his innocence and purity. At his feet is a small white dog, providing loyalty and protection as he treks forward on his path. The mountains behind him indicate the challenges that lie ahead of the fool as he abounds on this journey into the unknown.
The Fool Upright
The Fool is a card of of opportunity and new beginnings. You are setting out on a journey that is rife with potential, taking a step into the unknown. Just like The Fool, you may not know your exact direction, but you still take a blind leap of faith. Trust that you are on the correct path.
This card encourages curiosity and an open mind. Embrace the unknown and leave behind all fear and worry. You cannot grow within a comfort zone, and this is the time to step out of what seems safe.
Although it is important to have plenty of order and routine in our lives, The Fool encourages you to incorporate a sense of spontaneity in some way. Sometimes, the most extraordinary experiences occur when we come out of our shell and break the monotony.
Have you been in need to let loose lately? The Fool comes to you a sign that it's time enjoy life a little. It's time to let go, have fun, and dance with life. Allow your inner child to lead for once, as you experiment your way through life and see where it may lead you.
Although self-doubt and fear may be present, The Fool reminds you of your power and gives you the courage to move through life despite the challenges that appear. While you acknowledge the existence of your fear, you simply let it take the passenger seat on your drive through life.
The Fool Reversed
The Fool reverse presents a moment of recklessness. You are pursuing spontaneity with over confidence and lacking in calculated risk taking. In doing so, there is a disregard for any consequences that may be a result of your imprudent actions.
This card can also highlight a lack of action in your life. You may be so fearful of taking risks that it is causing stagnation. Release the need to control every single aspect of a situation, and you might find that events unfold as they are meant.
You have a new idea but aren't ready for it to be seen by the world just yet. Whether the timing isn't right or you don't have everything you need, something is holding you back. This is not a time to move forward with gusto, but to assess and halt plans until the time is right.
The Fool reversed doesn't only indicate negative characteristics. Reversals can also communicate an inward interpretation. Letting your hair down isn't only executed in a flamboyant manner, you can also institute more fun in life in a self-contained way.