The Bruegel Tarot Major Arcana is a unique deck that blends fortune-telling, medieval proverbs, and the artistry of Pieter Bruegel. Each card reflects themes of daily life, wisdom, and folly, offering insight into the future through symbolic imagery. This deck is perfect for those who appreciate historical depth in their Tarot readings, as it connects traditional divination with folk wisdom.
These historical proverbs reflect the symbolism of the Bruegel Tarot, drawing inspiration from 16th-century European wisdom. Many align with the moral lessons depicted in Bruegel’s paintings, offering deep insights into human nature and fate.
The Fool 
“He who follows fools is a fool himself.”
(Reflects naivety, carelessness, and the unpredictability of life.)
“A fool and his money are soon parted.”
(Symbolizes reckless behavior and foolish mistakes.)
The Fool in the Tarot is a card of boundless possibilities and the unpredictability of life’s journey. It represents stepping into the unknown, often driven by a mix of naivety, excitement, and a hint of recklessness. Imagine a person setting off on a road trip without a map, fueled by a desire for adventure but unaware of the potential detours or dangers ahead.
The Fool embodies this spirit—a leap of faith tempered by the risk of missteps. It can signal a fresh start in relationships, such as meeting someone new or embarking on an unexpected romance. However, this card warns of naive hopes and misplaced trust. In life, the Fool may mirror moments when blind optimism leads to errors, or when poor effort and lack of preparation result in missed opportunities.
Your reading suggests embracing the journey but staying alert for deceit or false promises. While the Fool represents freedom and spontaneity, it also carries the shadow of loneliness and feeling lost if caution is ignored. This card advises balancing curiosity with prudence, reminding You that even in uncertainty, wisdom can illuminate the path forward.
The Magician 
“Nothing is impossible to the willing mind.”
(Represents mastery, skill, and the power of creation.)
“The hand is quicker than the eye.”
(Reflects deception, trickery, and illusion.)
The Magician in the Tarot is a master of potential, representing the ability to harness tools and skills to manifest dreams. He stands as a reminder of human ingenuity and resourcefulness, embodying the power of transformation. This card often surfaces when you are on the cusp of new opportunities—whether in love, work, or personal growth.
Imagine an artist standing before a blank canvas, knowing they can create something extraordinary but feeling the weight of responsibility to act. The Magician urges you to focus on your capabilities and take decisive action. However, his shadow warns of cunning and trickery. In relationships, this could indicate someone using charm to manipulate or deceive, leaving a partner with a guilty feeling of being fooled.
In career or finances, it might suggest fraudulent action or unhealthy behavior to gain an edge. The Magician’s duality teaches that while ambition and skill can open doors, they must be wielded with integrity. The advice here is clear: harness your talents but remain honest and avoid shortcuts. Trust in your abilities, but ensure your actions align with higher principles.
The High Priestess 
“Deep waters run still.”
(Represents hidden knowledge, intuition, and wisdom.)
“Silence is the fence around wisdom.”
(Highlights secrecy, inner knowing, and sacred mysteries.)
The High Priestess in the Tarot embodies intuition, hidden wisdom, and the mysteries of the subconscious. She invites you to look beneath the surface, to listen to whispers of insight that often go unnoticed. Imagine a woman sitting by a quiet lake at dusk, the still waters reflecting her contemplative face—this is the essence of the High Priestess. Her presence suggests that answers lie within, urging you to trust your instincts, especially in matters of love and relationships.
In a reading, this card may highlight emotional complexities, such as suppressed feelings or the unspoken dynamics in a partnership. It can also warn of secrets, deception, or avoidance of important truths. The High Priestess teaches that while prudence and discretion are virtues, they should not lead to isolation or mistrust.
In real-life scenarios, she encourages taking time for self-reflection, perhaps journaling or meditating to uncover deeper truths. She offers the wisdom to navigate complicated emotional landscapes, whether it’s navigating a tricky love triangle or confronting feelings of insecurity. The advice is clear: embrace the unknown, but stay grounded in self-awareness and integrity.
The Empress 
“Where there is love, there is plenty.”
(Represents fertility, abundance, and maternal care.)
“A fruitful tree grows from strong roots.”
(Symbolizes the nurturing aspect of the Empress and natural prosperity.)
The Empress in the Tarot is a symbol of creation, abundance, and nurturing energy. She represents the fertile ground where dreams take root and flourish, whether in relationships, family, or creative endeavors. Imagine a lush garden bursting with life, tended by a wise caretaker who knows when to sow and when to reap—this is the Empress’s essence.
Her presence in a reading often indicates growth, such as the deepening of a relationship or the birth of a creative idea. However, the Empress also warns of potential challenges, such as possessiveness or overly controlling tendencies. In love, she might symbolize a rival or influential third party causing tension. Her shadow side can reflect indulgence or the frustration of unmet expectations, leading to feelings of abandonment or resentment.
The Empress advises cultivating patience and maintaining balance. She reminds you that love and creativity thrive when nurtured but can wilt under neglect or selfishness. Whether you’re navigating a new romance, expanding a family, or pursuing a creative goal, the Empress encourages you to stay grounded, act with kindness, and trust in the natural rhythms of life.
The Emperor
“He who rules, must first learn to obey.”
(Represents authority, discipline, and structured leadership.)
“A kingdom divided against itself cannot stand.”
(Highlights the importance of order and control in maintaining stability.)
The Emperor in the Tarot represents authority, stability, and the structure needed to achieve long-term success. He is the architect of order, symbolizing the discipline required to turn chaos into harmony. Picture a towering mountain, unyielding and steadfast, offering a sense of security—this is the Emperor’s energy. In a reading, he often appears when you need to establish boundaries, take control of a situation, or assert your authority.
In relationships, the Emperor can reflect a partner who is protective but also prone to rigidity or fear of vulnerability. He may signal a period of emotional distance, as one partner struggles with control or anxiety about their role in the relationship. The shadow of the Emperor warns of overly authoritarian behavior, leading to frustration or conflict.
His lesson is to balance strength with empathy, ensuring that leadership doesn’t become domination. The Emperor’s advice is practical: embrace responsibility and lead with fairness. Whether managing finances, resolving family issues, or pursuing personal goals, the Emperor assures you that discipline and determination will pave the way to success.
The Hierophant
“Old customs and habits die hard.”
(Represents tradition, religious authority, and adherence to doctrine.)
“To break a vow is to break oneself.”
(Signifies moral duty, spiritual discipline, and faithfulness to beliefs.)
The Hierophant in the Tarot symbolizes tradition, spiritual guidance, and the pursuit of higher understanding. He represents the wisdom found in established systems, such as religion, education, or cultural practices. Imagine a mentor guiding a student, offering insights that illuminate the path forward—this is the Hierophant’s role.
In relationships, this card often points to shared values, such as marriage or long-term commitment. However, it can also signal challenges, such as societal expectations or judgments from others. The Hierophant warns against blindly following rules or allowing external pressures to dictate your choices. In some cases, it reflects guilt or insecurity stemming from not meeting others’ expectations.
The Hierophant advises seeking wisdom from trusted sources while remaining true to your inner compass. Whether facing a moral dilemma or navigating a relationship under scrutiny, this card reminds you that growth comes from integrating knowledge with personal authenticity. His message is clear: respect tradition, but don’t let it stifle your unique path.
The Lovers
“He who marries for love, shall have happy days.”
(Represents relationships, deep connections, and choices of the heart.)
“One who chases two hares catches none.”
(Symbolizes the importance of commitment and choosing wisely.)
The Lovers in the Tarot symbolize choice, harmony, and the complexities of relationships. They embody the magnetic pull between opposites and the joy of union, but also the trials that come with making meaningful decisions. Imagine standing at a fork in the road, each path representing a different aspect of love—this is the energy of the Lovers.
In a reading, this card often points to romantic connections, whether a new relationship blossoming or the rekindling of passion in an established one. However, the Lovers also highlight challenges, such as unbalanced affection or the temptation of a third party. It may reflect feelings of betrayal, guilt, or the sadness of unmet expectations.
The Lovers teach that love requires vulnerability, trust, and the courage to make choices that align with your values. Their advice is to embrace connection but remain mindful of boundaries and communication. Whether navigating a love triangle, facing a breakup, or celebrating new romance, this card urges you to honor both your heart and your integrity.
The Chariot
“He who hesitates is lost.”
(Represents victory through determination and control.)
“Fortune favors the bold.”
(Reflects the pursuit of success through courage and self-discipline.)
The Chariot in the Tarot represents determination, control, and triumph through focused willpower. It symbolizes the ability to overcome obstacles by maintaining balance and discipline, much like a skilled charioteer steering powerful horses down a challenging path. Imagine standing on the edge of a battlefield, armed with the knowledge that every decision, no matter how small, will determine victory or defeat.
This card calls for unwavering focus and the courage to confront life’s hurdles head-on. In relationships, the Chariot often appears when navigating conflicts or power struggles. It may suggest overcoming possessiveness, deception, or emotional distance to establish harmony. However, it also warns of the danger of losing sight of personal goals in pursuit of control.
The Chariot advises you to align your inner strength with external actions, reminding you that triumph comes from balance—not domination. Whether facing professional challenges, emotional turmoil, or the uncertainty of a new journey, the Chariot assures you that with focus and resilience, success is within reach.
Strength
“A gentle hand can lead even an angry bull.”
(Represents patience, courage, and inner resilience.)
“Strength does not come from physical capacity, but from an indomitable will.”
(Symbolizes overcoming challenges through perseverance and moral fortitude.)
Strength in the Tarot embodies the quiet power of inner courage and patience. It reflects the ability to face adversity with grace and composure, channeling determination without resorting to aggression. Picture a serene figure calming a lion—not through force but through understanding and mutual respect.
This card speaks of self-mastery, urging you to overcome fears, anxieties, or frustrations by drawing on your inner reserves. In love, Strength highlights the importance of emotional compatibility and patience, particularly in challenging times. It may also point to overcoming sexual or emotional incompatibility through open communication and understanding.
Strength’s shadow side warns of avoiding confrontation or suppressing true feelings, leading to internal frustration or unresolved tension. The card advises embracing vulnerability as a source of power and using compassion as a tool to heal relationships and navigate life’s trials. Whether you’re facing personal struggles or external conflicts, Strength assures you that kindness and resilience will guide you to success.
The Hermit
“A wise man sits alone and thinks.”
(Represents introspection, wisdom, and solitary reflection.)
“He who seeks wisdom must first walk alone.”
(Signifies searching for enlightenment and spiritual growth.)
The Hermit in the Tarot represents solitude, introspection, and the search for deeper truths. It invites you to step away from the noise of the world and embark on an inner journey of self-discovery.
Imagine a lone traveler walking a moonlit path, holding a lantern that illuminates only the next step. The Hermit’s energy encourages you to embrace stillness and listen to your inner voice. In relationships, the Hermit may signal a period of emotional distance or separation, often necessary for personal growth. It can reflect feelings of loneliness or the need to reassess priorities, particularly when faced with conflicts or misunderstandings.
This card advises taking a step back to gain clarity, reminding you that sometimes retreating is the only way to advance. Whether you’re navigating a breakup, a career transition, or a spiritual awakening, the Hermit assures you that wisdom and purpose await those who dare to seek it.
The Wheel of Fortune
“What goes up must come down.”
(Represents the ever-changing cycles of fate and destiny.)
“Fortune and misfortune are two sides of the same coin.”
(Symbolizes the unpredictability of life’s highs and lows.)
The Wheel of Fortune in the Tarot is a symbol of change, destiny, and the cycles of life. It reflects the constant ebb and flow of fortune, where moments of triumph and challenge are inextricably linked. Picture a great wheel spinning in the sky, its movement unpredictable yet inevitable.
This card often signals a turning point, where the choices you make can lead to significant transformations. In relationships, the Wheel of Fortune may indicate unexpected shifts, such as the arrival of a new love or the rekindling of an old flame.
However, it also warns of the unpredictability of emotions and circumstances, urging you to adapt and remain flexible. This card advises embracing change as an opportunity for growth, reminding you that every ending is a new beginning. Whether facing career upheavals, personal struggles, or moments of serendipity, the Wheel of Fortune encourages you to trust in life’s greater plan.
Justice
“As you sow, so shall you reap.”
(Represents fairness, truth, and karma.)
“A man without justice is a beast in disguise.”
(Highlights the importance of ethical behavior and righteousness.)
Justice in the Tarot embodies fairness, accountability, and the pursuit of truth. It serves as a reminder that every action has consequences, and balance must be restored to maintain harmony. Imagine a judge weighing evidence in a courtroom, striving to deliver a verdict that reflects both compassion and integrity. In relationships, Justice may point to resolving conflicts, addressing past grievances, or reassessing commitments.
It can also highlight the importance of honesty and transparency, particularly when trust has been broken. The shadow of Justice warns of bias, inequality, or the temptation to avoid accountability, leading to further discord.
This card advises embracing responsibility and making decisions with clarity and fairness. Whether you’re seeking closure, addressing a moral dilemma, or navigating a challenging situation, Justice assures you that truth and balance will prevail when guided by integrity.
The Hanged Man
“Sometimes you must lose to gain.”
(Represents self-sacrifice, patience, and seeing the world differently.)
“The world turns upside down before it sets itself right.”
(Signifies enduring hardship for the sake of spiritual or personal growth.)
The Hanged Man in the Tarot symbolizes surrender, perspective, and transformation through sacrifice. It represents the need to let go of control and embrace a new way of seeing the world. Picture a figure suspended upside down, their altered viewpoint revealing insights that were previously hidden. In relationships, the Hanged Man may signal the need to release expectations or reassess priorities to create harmony.
It can also point to feelings of being stuck or sacrificing too much without reciprocation. The shadow of the Hanged Man warns against resisting change or clinging to outdated patterns, leading to stagnation. This card advises embracing stillness and allowing transformation to unfold naturally. Whether you’re facing personal challenges, career obstacles, or emotional dilemmas, the Hanged Man assures you that surrendering to the flow will bring clarity and renewal.
Death
“Every end is a new beginning.”
(Represents transformation, rebirth, and necessary endings.)
“The grave is the door to another life.”
(Symbolizes the transition from one phase to another.)
Death in the Tarot signifies transformation, endings, and the profound renewal that follows. It is not a literal death but the closing of one chapter to allow another to begin. Picture a barren field, desolate after a harvest, with the promise of fertile soil ready for new seeds.
Death represents the necessary process of letting go, shedding the old to make room for the new. In relationships, it may signify a breakup, the end of a toxic dynamic, or the painful but liberating realization that certain bonds no longer serve your growth. However, this card also brings hope, signaling that endings are the first step toward new beginnings.
It advises embracing change rather than resisting it, even when it feels daunting. Death’s energy reminds you that transformation, though often difficult, is the only path to personal evolution. Whether facing a career shift, personal loss, or a moment of profound self-discovery, this card assures you that the future holds opportunities for growth and renewal.
Temperance
“Moderation in all things.”
(Represents balance, patience, and self-restraint.)
“He who takes too large a step falls into the ditch.”
(Signifies the dangers of excess and the importance of careful actions.)
Temperance in the Tarot symbolizes balance, harmony, and the art of blending opposites. It reflects the need for moderation and the wisdom to find a middle path between extremes. Imagine an alchemist mixing elements in perfect proportion, creating something greater than the sum of its parts. In relationships, Temperance suggests the importance of patience, understanding, and compromise.
It speaks to the delicate dance of two individuals finding balance without losing their individuality. This card often appears during times of emotional or spiritual healing, encouraging you to cultivate inner peace. The shadow of Temperance warns against overindulgence or losing oneself in the pursuit of perfection.
It advises integrating all aspects of your life—work, love, and personal growth—into a harmonious whole. Whether navigating conflicts, pursuing a creative project, or finding equilibrium amidst chaos, Temperance assures you that with patience and persistence, harmony can be achieved.
The Devil
“He who plays with fire will get burned.”
(Represents temptation, addiction, and unhealthy desires.)
“Chains of habit are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken.”
(Symbolizes the traps of materialism and indulgence.)
The Devil in the Tarot represents temptation, attachment, and the darker aspects of desire. It reflects the chains we create through unhealthy behavior, whether in relationships, habits, or material pursuits. Picture a figure bound to an imposing presence, their chains symbolic of addiction, dependency, or fear.
In love, the Devil may highlight passionate but toxic relationships, where lust and control overshadow genuine connection. It serves as a warning against losing yourself in obsessive emotions or power struggles. On a broader level, this card asks you to confront your inner demons, challenging you to break free from limiting beliefs or destructive patterns.
The Devil is not just a symbol of warning but also of empowerment—encouraging you to take responsibility for your choices and reclaim your autonomy. Whether facing personal struggles, emotional entanglements, or material temptations, this card invites you to rise above your fears and rediscover your freedom.
The Tower
“Pride comes before a fall.”
(Represents destruction, sudden change, and downfall.)
“A house built on sand shall not stand.”
(Signifies the collapse of unstable foundations.)
The Tower in the Tarot embodies sudden upheaval, revelations, and the collapse of false structures. It represents the unexpected moments in life that force you to confront harsh truths and rebuild on a stronger foundation. Imagine a towering structure struck by lightning, crumbling as its vulnerabilities are exposed. In relationships, the Tower may signify a shocking revelation, a breakup, or the realization that a partnership is built on shaky ground.
Though painful, this card carries the promise of growth through destruction, urging you to release illusions and embrace authenticity. The shadow of the Tower warns against clinging to outdated ideas or resisting necessary change, which only prolongs the inevitable.
It advises you to face life’s storms with courage, knowing that every ending paves the way for a new beginning. Whether dealing with emotional turmoil, career setbacks, or unexpected challenges, the Tower assures you that resilience and adaptability will lead to transformation.
The Star
“After the storm comes the calm.”
(Represents hope, renewal, and guidance.)
“A light shines brightest in the darkest night.”
(Signifies inspiration and spiritual enlightenment.)
The Star in the Tarot is a beacon of hope, inspiration, and renewal. It represents the light that guides you through darkness, reminding you that even amidst despair, there is always a reason to believe in brighter days. Picture a serene figure pouring water into a flowing stream, symbolizing the endless cycle of renewal and the interconnectedness of all things.
In relationships, the Star suggests healing and optimism, whether through reconciliation or the courage to start anew. It encourages you to embrace vulnerability and trust in the universe’s plan. This card often appears after a period of struggle, offering reassurance that the worst is behind you.
It advises focusing on personal growth and aligning with your highest aspirations. Whether pursuing a creative dream, navigating emotional recovery, or seeking clarity in uncertain times, the Star assures you that hope and guidance are always within reach.
The Moon
“All that glitters is not gold.”
(Represents illusions, deception, and the subconscious mind.)
“When the wolf howls, the sheep should beware.”
(Signifies uncertainty, hidden truths, and unseen dangers.)
The Moon in the Tarot symbolizes illusion, intuition, and the mysteries of the subconscious. It reflects the foggy landscapes of doubt and uncertainty, where emotions run deep and logic takes a backseat. Picture a moonlit path winding through shadows, where each step feels uncertain, yet every step brings you closer to clarity. In relationships, the Moon may signal misunderstandings, hidden motives, or feelings of confusion.
It invites you to trust your instincts and look beyond appearances, as not everything is as it seems. This card warns against succumbing to fear or letting insecurities cloud your judgment, urging you to navigate life’s uncertainties with intuition and courage. Whether exploring the depths of your psyche, facing emotional challenges, or uncovering hidden truths, the Moon encourages you to embrace the unknown and trust in your inner light.
The Sun
“The sun shines for all.”
(Represents success, joy, and vitality.)
“Light dispels all shadows.”
(Symbolizes truth, happiness, and divine clarity.)
The Sun in the Tarot represents joy, clarity, and the boundless energy of life. It is a card of celebration and success, reflecting the warmth and vitality that comes from living authentically. Imagine a bright, radiant sun illuminating every corner of your life, dispelling darkness and bringing happiness.
In relationships, the Sun signals harmony, mutual understanding, and a deep sense of connection. It encourages you to embrace love with open arms, free from fear or hesitation. This card also speaks of personal empowerment, reminding you to bask in your achievements and celebrate your journey. Whether pursuing a goal, nurturing a partnership, or finding your purpose, the Sun assures you that success and fulfillment are yours to claim.
Judgement
“He who stands still, falls behind.”
(Represents renewal, reflection, and a call to action.)
“The past is a lesson, not a prison.”
(Signifies redemption, transformation, and self-awareness.)
Judgement in the Tarot represents renewal, accountability, and the call to embrace your true purpose. It is a card of awakening, urging you to rise above past mistakes and step into your highest potential. Picture a trumpet’s clarion call, summoning you to leave behind old patterns and embrace transformation.
In relationships, Judgement may signal reconciliation, the closure of past wounds, or the decision to move forward with clarity. This card advises embracing self-reflection and taking responsibility for your choices, as only through honesty and accountability can true growth occur. Whether facing career decisions, personal challenges, or emotional healing, Judgement assures you that renewal and purpose are within your grasp.
The World
“The journey is the reward.”
(Represents fulfillment, wholeness, and the completion of a cycle.)
“He who has traveled much knows much.”
(Symbolizes wisdom gained from life experiences and ultimate success.)
The World in the Tarot is the culmination of a journey, symbolizing completion, fulfillment, and harmony. It reflects the interconnectedness of all things and the joy of achieving a long-sought goal. Picture a figure standing at the center of a cosmic dance, embodying unity and wholeness. In relationships, the World signifies a deep sense of connection and mutual understanding, often marking a new chapter of stability and growth.
This card also speaks of personal success, urging you to celebrate your achievements and share your gifts with the world. Whether completing a project, finding love, or embracing a spiritual awakening, the World assures you that the journey has been worth it.
For example, The Fool embodies the saying, “A fool and his money are soon parted,” emphasizing impulsivity and naivety. The Magician reflects, “Knowledge is power,” highlighting skill and resourcefulness. The Wheel of Fortune reminds us, “What goes up must come down,” predicting cycles of change and fate in a reading. Justice aligns with, “As you sow, so shall you reap,” reinforcing the idea of karma and balance.
In Bruegel Tarot readings, these proverbs add layers of meaning, making the deck ideal for online or personal predictions. Whether exploring love, career, or spiritual growth, this Tarot deck provides both insight and timeless wisdom. Its rich, historical approach makes it a valuable tool for Tarot card readings and fortune-telling, helping seekers navigate life’s complexities.
