In addition to the Ace through Ten cards, each tarot suit has four Court Cards. Traditionally, they are called The Page, Knight, Queen, and King. These titles vary depending on which deck you use. Read on to learn more about the Tarot Court Cards.
Tarot Court Cards
Unlike the Minor Arcana which represents situations in life, the Court Cards represent people. They could represent a person in our life or characteristics of ourselves that we need to manifest or change to help our situation.
When reversed, they may act as a warning about the energy we shouldn’t embody or an individual we should be aware of. Depending on the situation their energy is holding us back or can be helpful.
The Tarot Deck used in my photos is The Moonchild Tarot by Danielle Noel.
Let’s get into all the Court Cards!
Pages
The Tarot court cards known as Pages represent the youthful, eager energy. When the Page of any suit appears in a reading, it suggests a need to delve into a matter, to study and understand it fully.
The Page court cards have the qualities of being an observer and a student, with enthusiasm for learning. This card represents being open to messages or new ways of thinking. However, it also carries an element of naivety and innocence. Similar to a child or inner child, eager and excited but inexperienced.
The Page encourages embracing this state of curiosity and readiness for something new, even if it involves taking risks.
In a Tarot reading, the Pages can indicate both opportunities and potential risks. They symbolize the beginnings of a journey or venture, where one is still learning and figuring things out.
Overall, the Pages serve as reminders to embrace the joy of learning, to be receptive to new ideas, and to approach challenges with a blend of innocence and curiosity.
Knights
The Knights in Tarot, represent pure energy and action within their respective suits. When a Knight card appears in a reading, it signifies being deeply involved and committed to matters associated with that suit.
Knights highlight where you are putting your energies and focus, showcasing a blend of courage, passion, and determination. However, they also carry traits like being headstrong, rash, or even self-centered, reminding us of the need to balance bold action and thoughtful consideration.
Knights often symbolize movement, travel, and the readiness for the next step in a journey or adventure.
In Tarot readings, the Knights are akin to adolescents, eager to prove their worth and make a mark on the world. They remind us that growth often comes through facing challenges and stepping out of our comfort zones.
Overall, the Knights in Tarot encourage us to harness our inner courage, act with purpose, and stay committed to our goals while remaining open to learning and growth along the way.
Queen
The Queens in Tarot embodies inner and personal power, particularly in the realms of nurturing and development. They often symbolize mothers or those with strong mothering habits, highlighting the ability to nurture and grow things within their respective suits.
However, it’s important to note that the Queens don’t necessarily represent women; they can signify anyone who embodies the qualities of nurturing, cultural integration, and the ability to administer and channel power compassionately.
These cards rule from the heart, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, creativity, and intuitive understanding in their approach to life.
Queens in Tarot are spiritually connected individuals who often tap into their intuition and inner wisdom. These cards remind us of the power of creativity, intuition, and empathy, encouraging us to lead with compassion and understanding.
King
The Kings in Tarot symbolize mastery and authority within their respective suits. These cards signify individuals with experience, power, and status, often portraying figures like bosses, fathers, or authority figures.
However, it’s essential to note that the Kings don’t necessarily represent men; they can indicate anyone who holds a position of authority and influence.
Kings are known for their logical and external approach, emphasizing control, order, and structure. They create and maintain boundaries, protecting the integrity of their suit while upholding established rules and traditions.
In Tarot readings, the Kings can represent both aspects of yourself and others, highlighting the need to assert authority and take control of situations. While they bring a sense of security and stability, Kings can also be rigid or limited by the rules they’ve established. These cards encourage us to embrace our authority and leadership abilities, guiding us to make decisions with confidence and create order within our lives.
Overall, the Kings remind us of the importance of balance between authority and flexibility, offering a powerful archetype for embodying mastery and responsibility in various aspects of life.
Tarot Court Cards: Practical Ways to Learn Them
The Court Cards are usually challenging for tarot beginners to grasp. I wrote this post in hopes of helping others like me who struggle with their meanings in tarot readings.
Think of Them as a Family –
Imagine the court cards as members of a family, each suit forming a distinct family unit with shared values. The Pages can be likened to young children, representing curiosity, innocence, and a fresh perspective.
The Knights take on the role of teenagers. They symbolize adventurous spirits, passion, and the drive to prove themselves. Like teenagers, the Knights are eager to take on challenges, seek new experiences, and assert their independence.
The Queens and Kings are the parents of the Tarot family. They bring a sense of maturity, authority, and wisdom to the table. The Queens nurture and support growth, fostering emotional intelligence and creativity. The Kings provide structure, order, and leadership, ensuring that decisions are made with logic and practicality.
Assign People to Each Card–
Think about people you know who remind you of each tarot court card, like a family member or a character from a movie you enjoy, such as Harry Potter or Star Wars. When you associate each card with someone familiar, it helps you remember meanings. For example, you might connect the Page of Cups with your younger sibling who is curious and imaginative, or the King of Swords with a teacher or mentor who is wise and logical.
By creating these personal connections, work with each card’s symbolism in a meaningful way. This process not only helps in memorization but also deepens your understanding of the cards’ nuances.
When you perform tarot readings in the future, having these associations in mind will make it easier for you to recall and interpret the traits of the court cards, adding depth and insight to your readings.
| Court | Wands | Cups | Swords | Pentacles |
| Page | optimistic, courageous | shy, idealist, dreamer | curious, witty, | academic, practical, loyal |
| Knight | brave, confident, unpredictable | moody, charmer, poetic | determined, restless, swift | patient, skilled, cautious |
| Queen | warm, fun, sensual | loving, tender, supportive | integrity, truthful, aloof | prestige, generous, friendly |
| King | honorable, visionary, hot-tempered | wise, sincere, tolerent | stern, disciplined, logical | protector, traditional, ambitious |
