The Etteilla Tarot Deck is a unique and historically significant tool for divination, especially noted for its innovative interpretation of the Major Arcana. Created by Jean-Baptiste Alliette, also known as Etteilla, in the late 18th century, this deck departed from traditional Tarot designs by emphasizing Egyptian mythology and predictive readings.
Grand Etteilla Tarot Major Arcana – Meaning and Keywords
The Grand Etteilla Tarot is a powerful divination tool that provides deep insight into one’s destiny & future. Unlike traditional tarot decks, this system follows a unique structure, incorporating esoteric wisdom, astrology, and numerology. Each Tarot Card in the Major Arcana carries profound symbolism, reflecting life’s spiritual lessons, challenges, and transformative experiences. Whether you are seeking answers about love, career, or personal growth, these cards hold the key to understanding the past, present, and future.
In Tarot Reading, the Major Arcana represents significant life events and karmic lessons rather than day-to-day occurrences. When these cards appear in a spread, they indicate major turning points, personal evolution, and universal forces shaping one’s path. The Grand Etteilla Tarot offers a unique perspective, with its own set of Tarot Card Meanings, making it a valuable system for those interested in deep spiritual exploration and fortune-telling.
For those interested in a free tarot reading, the Grand Etteilla deck provides insight into tarot cards prediction, helping querents make informed decisions about their journey. Whether using this deck for tarot reading free or professional sessions, understanding its structure and meanings will enhance the accuracy and depth of each reading.
The Magician
The Magician in the Rider-Waite Tarot corresponds to Light, Fire in the Grand Etteilla system. This card represents power, initiative, and mastery over the elements. It embodies creation, willpower, and the ability to manifest ideas into reality. The presence of fire symbolizes energy, transformation, and the spark of inspiration that ignites action. The Magician holds the tools of all four suits—Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles—signifying complete control over the forces of nature and destiny.
In a reading, this card suggests a time of great potential and opportunity. It encourages the querent to take charge, use their skills, and harness their talents to achieve their goals. The Magician’s confidence and resourcefulness highlight the importance of clear intentions and focused effort. However, in a reversed position, this card warns of manipulation, deceit, and misuse of power. It cautions against illusion and the temptation to use charm or cunning for selfish gains.
The Magician also connects to fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and creativity in Tarot predictions. It is associated with the fire element in Tarot, symbolizing ambition, confidence, and leadership. This card reminds the querent that their potential is limitless if they believe in their abilities and take action.
The High Priestess
The High Priestess, known as Plants, Water in Grand Etteilla, represents intuition, mystery, and the subconscious mind. The connection to water emphasizes emotional depth, introspection, and spiritual wisdom. She is the guardian of hidden knowledge, representing the sacred feminine and the balance between light and dark.
When the High Priestess appears in a Tarot reading, it suggests a need for patience and trust in one’s inner voice. She encourages reflection, meditation, and the pursuit of esoteric wisdom. This card often appears when secrets are being revealed or when the querent must rely on instinct rather than logic. In relationships, it may indicate unspoken feelings, while in career readings, it points to hidden opportunities or undiscovered talents.
Reversed, the High Priestess warns of confusion, emotional blockages, or ignored intuition. It may signify deception, either by oneself or others. This card urges the querent to trust their inner wisdom and not be swayed by external influences.
The High Priestess is crucial in Tarot Reading, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment, intuition, and hidden knowledge. It is linked to the water element in Tarot, emphasizing emotions, dreams, and psychic awareness. This card invites the querent to embrace the unknown and seek answers beyond the material world.
Grand Etteilla – The Empress
The Empress, associated with Sky, Air in Grand Etteilla, embodies fertility, abundance, and nurturing energy. She is the mother figure of the Tarot, symbolizing growth, nature, and creative expression. The connection to air represents intelligence, communication, and the flow of ideas, blending with her earthy, sensual energy to create balance.
In readings, the Empress signifies prosperity, beauty, and harmony. She encourages the querent to embrace their creativity, nurture relationships, and appreciate life’s pleasures. This card is often linked to pregnancy, artistic success, and material well-being. It also highlights the importance of self-care and emotional fulfillment.
When reversed, the Empress warns of stagnation, insecurity, or dependence on others. It may indicate blocked creativity, a lack of self-worth, or difficulties in relationships. The querent is urged to reconnect with their inner abundance and trust in their ability to grow and thrive.
The Empress is significant in Tarot predictions, representing nurturing, creation, and love. It aligns with fortune-telling, Tarot cards prediction, and feminine energy in Tarot Reading. This card reassures the querent that they are in a period of expansion and should embrace the blessings that life offers.
The Emperor
The Emperor, known as Earth, Animals, Man in Grand Etteilla, stands for authority, structure, and stability. He is the archetype of leadership and discipline, representing the need for order and control. His association with Earth reinforces his grounded, practical nature, emphasizing responsibility, logic, and material success.
When the Emperor appears in a reading, it signals a time for strategic planning and taking command of a situation. It suggests leadership, career advancement, or the establishment of long-term security. This card may also represent a father figure or mentor who provides guidance and support.
Reversed, the Emperor warns of rigidity, dominance, or abuse of power. It may indicate a controlling authority figure, financial struggles, or an inability to take decisive action. The querent is advised to reassess their approach and embrace flexibility where needed.
The Emperor is essential in Career Tarot Reading, representing leadership, success, and stability. It is closely linked to action and ambition in Tarot, urging the querent to step into their power and build a strong foundation for the future.
The Hierophant
The Hierophant, represented by Stars in Grand Etteilla, symbolizes tradition, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. He is the bridge between the divine and the material world, offering teachings, religious values, and structured belief systems. The connection to stars suggests destiny, higher knowledge, and universal truth.
In a reading, the Hierophant points to mentorship, formal education, or spiritual awakening. It may indicate adherence to societal norms or the need to seek guidance from an experienced authority. This card encourages the querent to embrace tradition while also questioning outdated beliefs.
Reversed, the Hierophant warns of dogma, rebellion, or deception within institutions. It may signal conflicts with authority, a crisis of faith, or a need to break free from limiting structures. The querent is urged to find their own path and trust in their personal spiritual journey.
The Hierophant plays a crucial role in Tarot Reading, symbolizing wisdom, tradition, and guidance. It is associated with fortune-telling, spiritual awakening, and structured beliefs in Tarot predictions. This card reminds the querent to seek knowledge and align with their higher purpose.
The Lovers
The Lovers card, associated with Birds and Fishes in Grand Etteilla, represents love, relationships, and important choices. Birds symbolize freedom, communication, and spiritual connections, while fishes signify emotional depth, intuition, and abundance. Together, they reflect the delicate balance between heart and mind in matters of love and destiny.
In a Tarot reading, The Lovers indicate deep emotional bonds, romantic unions, and strong partnerships. This card suggests harmony in relationships and the need for honesty, mutual respect, and understanding. Beyond love, it also represents moral dilemmas and life-changing decisions that require careful contemplation.
When reversed, The Lovers warn of misalignment, disharmony, or indecision. It may indicate conflicts in relationships, unfaithfulness, or difficulties in choosing the right path. The querent is advised to reconnect with their values and ensure that their decisions align with their true desires.
The Lovers card is vital in Tarot predictions, symbolizing romantic connections, emotional choices, and unity. It is linked to fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and relationships in Tarot. This card encourages the querent to embrace love and follow their heart while maintaining balance in their personal and spiritual journey.
The Chariot – Grand Etteilla Tarot
Meaning and Symbolism
The Chariot in the Grand Etteilla Tarot represents determination, victory, and the ability to overcome obstacles. It signifies a journey—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—toward a specific goal. This card symbolizes the willpower, discipline, and confidence required to navigate life’s challenges. In fortune-telling, it often appears when someone is gaining control over their destiny, taking charge of their circumstances, or preparing for an important transition.
The Chariot is also a card of balance between opposing forces, indicating the need to align ambition with patience, logic with emotion, and action with strategy. The Grand Etteilla system often associates it with movement, progress, and travel, whether metaphorical or literal.
Upright Meaning
When upright, the Chariot suggests a time of triumph and rapid progress. It indicates self-discipline, focus, and unwavering determination to achieve goals. This card is an omen of success through hard work, reminding the querent to remain resilient and confident in their abilities. It can also foretell travel, relocation, or new ventures that require careful navigation.
This card encourages a take-charge attitude, urging the querent to harness their inner strength and push forward despite any obstacles. In matters of love, the Chariot can signal a relationship moving forward, overcoming past struggles, or two partners working together toward a common goal. In career readings, it represents ambition, promotions, or successful business expansion.
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, the Chariot warns of a lack of control, direction, or focus. It can indicate hesitation, recklessness, or internal conflict preventing success. The querent may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to steer their life in the right direction. This card also suggests delays, frustration, or plans not going as expected.
The reversed Chariot can also point to emotional instability, impulsive decisions, or an inability to balance opposing forces. It urges the querent to reassess their goals, regain control, and find a more strategic approach before moving forward.
Justice
The Justice card, unchanged in both Grand Etteilla and Rider-Waite, signifies truth, fairness, and accountability. It is the card of karma, ethical choices, and moral responsibility, ensuring that all actions have consequences. Justice is often depicted with a sword and scales, symbolizing intellect and balance in decision-making.
When Justice appears in a Tarot reading, it calls for objectivity and integrity. It suggests legal matters, contracts, or ethical dilemmas that require a just resolution. This card encourages the querent to seek truth, stand by their principles, and accept responsibility for their choices. It also signifies clarity and the revelation of hidden truths.
Reversed, Justice warns of dishonesty, unfair treatment, or legal troubles. It may indicate bias, corruption, or an inability to see the truth. The querent is advised to remain patient, seek impartial advice, and avoid deceitful actions.
The Justice card plays a crucial role in Tarot Reading, symbolizing truth, ethics, and legal matters. It is closely tied to fortune-telling, Tarot cards prediction, and fairness in Tarot meanings. This card reassures the querent that integrity and wisdom will ultimately lead to the right outcome.
Temperance
The Temperance card, identical in both Grand Etteilla and Rider-Waite, embodies balance, patience, and moderation. It represents the harmonious blending of opposites, inner peace, and spiritual growth. Temperance is often depicted as an angel mixing liquids between two cups, symbolizing equilibrium and alchemy.
In a reading, Temperance encourages the querent to find balance in all aspects of life—emotions, career, relationships, and health. It advises patience and adaptability, reminding one to avoid extremes and embrace a holistic approach. This card is also a sign of healing, self-control, and divine guidance.
Reversed, Temperance warns of imbalance, recklessness, or excessive behavior. It may indicate conflicts, poor judgment, or resistance to change. The querent is encouraged to reassess their actions and restore harmony in their life.
The Temperance card is crucial in Tarot predictions, representing healing, patience, and moderation. It is linked to fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and spiritual harmony in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that balance and careful adjustments will lead to long-term success and fulfillment.
Strength
The Strength card, consistent in both Grand Etteilla and Rider-Waite, signifies courage, resilience, and inner power. It represents emotional and physical endurance, as well as the ability to overcome obstacles through patience and determination. Strength is often depicted as a woman taming a lion, symbolizing the mastery of one’s instincts through compassion and wisdom.
When Strength appears in a Tarot reading, it encourages the querent to trust their inner fortitude. It signifies perseverance, self-discipline, and the confidence to face challenges with grace. This card often appears when one needs to take control of their emotions or approach a difficult situation with calm authority.
Reversed, Strength warns of self-doubt, weakness, or impulsive actions. It may indicate a loss of confidence, unchecked anger, or struggles in controlling one’s emotions. The querent is advised to practice patience, trust in their abilities, and harness their inner strength wisely.
The Strength card plays an essential role in Tarot predictions, symbolizing bravery, self-control, and endurance. It is connected to fortune-telling, Tarot cards prediction, and personal empowerment in Tarot Reading. This card reassures the querent that resilience and kindness will lead to triumph over adversity.
The Hermit
The Hermit, known as Prudence in Grand Etteilla, represents introspection, solitude, and wisdom. He is the seeker of truth, illuminating the path for others through self-discovery and inner knowledge. This card encourages retreat from the external world to gain insight and clarity.
When the Hermit appears in a reading, it suggests a time for reflection and soul-searching. It advises the querent to seek answers within, embrace solitude, and trust their own wisdom. This card often appears during periods of transformation, urging one to detach from distractions and focus on personal growth.
Reversed, the Hermit warns of isolation, loneliness, or excessive withdrawal. It may indicate fear of change, stagnation, or reluctance to seek help. The querent is encouraged to find balance between solitude and social connection.
The Hermit card is significant in Tarot predictions, symbolizing wisdom, guidance, and introspection. It is associated with fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and deep self-discovery in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that solitude and patience will lead to enlightenment and clarity.
The Wheel of Fortune
The Wheel of Fortune, corresponding to Unforeseen Events in Grand Etteilla, signifies destiny, cycles of life, and unexpected changes. It represents the ever-turning wheel of fate, reminding us that change is inevitable and that both good and bad times are temporary.
In a reading, The Wheel of Fortune suggests a major shift in life circumstances. It can indicate sudden luck, a twist of fate, or a turning point that brings opportunities or challenges. This card encourages the querent to embrace change and trust in the greater plan of the universe.
Reversed, The Wheel of Fortune warns of resistance to change, bad luck, or feeling stuck in a cycle. It may indicate delays, missed opportunities, or setbacks that require patience. The querent is advised to remain adaptable and learn from the lessons of fate.
The Wheel of Fortune plays a crucial role in Tarot predictions, symbolizing luck, change, and destiny. It is associated with fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and unexpected events in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that life is always moving forward, and every turn of the wheel brings new possibilities.
The Hanged Man
The Hanged Man, known as Illness in Grand Etteilla, represents sacrifice, surrender, and seeing things from a different perspective. It symbolizes a pause in action, deep contemplation, and the need for patience during a challenging time.
When The Hanged Man appears in a reading, it suggests that the querent may be feeling stuck or uncertain about their next move. However, this period of stagnation is necessary for growth. It encourages surrender, letting go of control, and embracing a new way of thinking.
Reversed, The Hanged Man warns of resistance to change, fear of sacrifice, or an unwillingness to accept a new perspective. It may indicate delays, indecision, or feeling trapped by circumstances. The querent is advised to embrace flexibility and trust in the process of transformation.
The Hanged Man is significant in Tarot predictions, symbolizing spiritual awakening, sacrifice, and inner transformation. It is linked to fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and profound self-reflection in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that patience and a shift in mindset will bring clarity and enlightenment.
The Tower
The Tower, corresponding to Lawsuit in Grand Etteilla, represents sudden upheaval, chaos, and destruction of false foundations. It is a card of revelation, often bringing dramatic change that forces necessary transformation.
When The Tower appears in a reading, it signifies a major shake-up—whether in personal beliefs, relationships, or career. This card often appears before a moment of crisis or when external forces drastically alter the querent’s reality. Though unsettling, The Tower clears away illusions and makes way for growth.
Reversed, The Tower warns of fear of change, denial, or avoiding necessary transformation. It may indicate internal turmoil, hidden truths coming to light, or a slow breakdown rather than a sudden collapse. The querent is advised to embrace change rather than resist it.
The Tower card plays a crucial role in Tarot predictions, symbolizing sudden transformation, revelation, and breaking illusions. It is connected to fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and upheaval in Tarot meanings. This card reassures the querent that even destruction can pave the way for rebirth and renewal.
Death
The Death card, consistent in both Grand Etteilla and Rider-Waite, symbolizes transformation, endings, and new beginnings. Though often feared, Death does not mean literal demise—it represents profound change, rebirth, and the shedding of old patterns.
In a Tarot reading, Death signals the end of a chapter, allowing something new to take its place. It may indicate personal transformation, the closing of a relationship or career path, or an inner awakening. This card encourages the querent to embrace change and let go of what no longer serves them.
Reversed, Death warns of resistance to transformation, stagnation, or fear of letting go. It may indicate holding onto the past or delaying inevitable changes. The querent is advised to release what is hindering their growth and trust in the natural cycles of life.
The Death card is vital in Tarot predictions, symbolizing endings, renewal, and rebirth. It is associated with fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and profound life changes in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that every ending leads to a fresh start and new opportunities.
The Devil
The Devil, known as Betrayal in Grand Etteilla, represents temptation, addiction, materialism, and unhealthy attachments. It signifies being trapped in destructive patterns, whether in relationships, behaviors, or negative thought cycles.
In a Tarot reading, The Devil warns of manipulation, deceit, or toxic influences. It suggests the querent may be bound to something that no longer serves them—whether it’s an addiction, a controlling person, or a limiting belief system. Recognizing these chains is the first step toward breaking free.
Reversed, The Devil signals liberation, self-awareness, and overcoming unhealthy dependencies. It indicates the querent is beginning to see through illusions and is ready to reclaim their power. It is a card of personal transformation, where one breaks free from self-imposed limitations.
The Devil is a significant card in Tarot predictions, symbolizing manipulation, unhealthy relationships, and temptation. It is connected to fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and recognizing deceit in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that awareness is key to escaping toxic cycles and reclaiming personal freedom.
The Moon
The Moon, corresponding to Poverty in Grand Etteilla, represents illusions, fears, and subconscious influences. It signifies uncertainty, confusion, and the presence of hidden truths that may distort reality.
In a Tarot reading, The Moon suggests that not everything is as it seems. The querent may be dealing with deception, anxiety, or emotional turbulence. Dreams and intuition are heightened, but so are doubts and misunderstandings. This card encourages trusting instincts rather than external appearances.
Reversed, The Moon signals clarity, revelation, and the lifting of illusions. It suggests that hidden truths are coming to light, allowing the querent to see things more clearly. Emotional turmoil begins to settle, and intuition becomes a guiding force rather than a source of fear.
The Moon plays a crucial role in Tarot predictions, symbolizing secrets, deception, and subconscious fears. It is linked to fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and overcoming illusions in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that truth will eventually surface, providing the clarity needed to move forward.
The Sun
The Sun, known as Wealth in Grand Etteilla, is the most positive card in the deck. It represents joy, success, enlightenment, and abundance. This card symbolizes warmth, vitality, and a period of happiness where everything falls into place.
When The Sun appears in a Tarot reading, it signifies optimism, good fortune, and the achievement of goals. It encourages the querent to embrace life with confidence and enthusiasm. This card is a powerful omen of success in relationships, career, and personal growth.
Reversed, The Sun still carries positive energy, but it may indicate minor setbacks, temporary disappointment, or an overinflated ego. The querent is advised to maintain a balanced perspective and not let temporary delays discourage them.
The Sun is a powerful card in Tarot predictions, symbolizing happiness, clarity, and success. It is associated with fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and achieving abundance in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that bright days are ahead, bringing joy and fulfillment.
Judgement
The Judgement card, corresponding to Quarrel in Grand Etteilla, represents awakening, transformation, and final decisions. It signifies a moment of reckoning where past actions lead to important realizations and new beginnings.
In a Tarot reading, Judgement suggests the querent is at a crossroads, ready to step into a new phase of life. It encourages reflection, self-evaluation, and embracing personal truths. This card can also indicate reconciliation or resolving long-standing conflicts.
Reversed, Judgement warns of self-doubt, avoidance, or reluctance to accept change. It may indicate a failure to learn from past mistakes or a fear of facing consequences. The querent is advised to take responsibility for their actions and trust in their ability to move forward.
The Judgement card is essential in Tarot predictions, symbolizing renewal, clarity, and spiritual awakening. It is linked to fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and major life transitions in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that transformation is necessary for growth, and embracing change leads to liberation.
The World – Grand Etteilla Tarot
Meaning and Symbolism
The World in the Grand Etteilla Tarot signifies completion, fulfillment, and ultimate success. It represents the culmination of a journey, the realization of a long-term goal, or a deep sense of accomplishment. In fortune-telling, this card often appears when a person has achieved their dreams, overcome challenges, and reached a state of personal or professional satisfaction.
The World is associated with wholeness, harmony, and integration, indicating that all elements of life are aligning in perfect balance. It is a card of victory, travel, and recognition, symbolizing the successful completion of a cycle and the beginning of new opportunities.
Upright Meaning
When upright, the World suggests a time of great achievement, celebration, and closure. It indicates that hard work and perseverance have paid off, bringing a deep sense of joy and fulfillment. The querent may be completing a major project, reaching an important milestone, or experiencing a significant life transition.
In love readings, the World signifies a strong, stable relationship, possibly leading to marriage or long-term commitment. In career readings, it represents reaching the peak of success, receiving recognition, or completing an important phase of work. This card can also indicate travel, new experiences, and expanding one’s horizons.
The World encourages the querent to embrace their achievements, celebrate their success, and prepare for the next chapter of life. It is a card of wisdom, experience, and realizing one’s true potential.
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, the World warns of unfinished business, delays, or feeling stuck in a cycle. It can indicate a lack of closure, setbacks, or a sense of incompleteness. The querent may feel frustrated, unfulfilled, or unable to fully achieve their goals.
This card suggests the need to reassess plans, tie up loose ends, and find closure before moving forward. In relationships, the reversed World can indicate a fear of commitment, stagnation, or unresolved issues preventing true harmony. In career readings, it may signal delays in promotions, uncompleted projects, or a lack of recognition for one’s efforts.
The reversed World urges the querent to stay patient, remain persistent, and find ways to overcome obstacles before expecting the next phase of life to unfold.
The Fool
The Fool, known as Madness in Grand Etteilla, represents new beginnings, adventure, and limitless potential. It symbolizes a carefree spirit, innocence, and the courage to take risks without fear of the unknown.
In a Tarot reading, The Fool encourages spontaneity and stepping into the unknown with faith. It suggests the querent is embarking on a new journey—whether it’s a relationship, career, or personal growth. This card invites trust in the process and embracing life’s adventures.
Reversed, The Fool warns of recklessness, poor judgment, or naivety. It may indicate a lack of preparation or ignoring potential consequences. The querent is advised to take a calculated approach while maintaining an open heart.
The Fool is a vital card in Tarot predictions, symbolizing fresh starts, potential, and embracing new opportunities. It is associated with fortune-telling, Tarot reading free, and stepping into the unknown in Tarot. This card reassures the querent that every journey begins with a single step, and trusting the process leads to extraordinary growth.
The Major Arcana in the Etteilla deck reflects a blend of mystical symbolism and practical foresight, offering profound insights into life’s spiritual and material dimensions.
Unlike the traditional 22 cards found in other decks, the Etteilla Tarot reorders the Major Arcana to prioritize its connection with the “Book of Thoth,” an ancient Egyptian text said to contain the wisdom of creation and fate. Each card is designed to provide direct answers, making it especially useful for Tarot Reading, free Tarot predictions, and complex spreads.
The imagery in the Major Arcana often incorporates allegorical elements tied to creation, cosmic forces, and human destiny. With dual meanings (upright and reversed), these cards deliver nuanced interpretations that resonate deeply with the querent’s situation.
For those seeking clarity in online Tarot or in-depth explorations of their spiritual path, the Major Arcana in the Etteilla Tarot Deck serves as a powerful guide, merging ancient wisdom with practical divination.
