The Fool

(The Jester, Madman, Beggar, Vagabond)

Zero

A “Yes” card

Element: Air

Dominant Energy: Masculine

Zodiac: Aquarius

Ruling Planet: Uranus

Deity: Dionysus

Crystals: Clear Quartz, Green Tourmaline

Chakra: Root

Kabbalistic Letter: Aleph

Path on the Tree of Life:

First Path - Kether (Crown) to Hokhmah (Wisdom) 

Keywords:

Upright: New beginnings, confidence, fun, divine trust

Reversed: Impulsiveness, naivety, distraction, lack of realism

Description: 

The Fool is the beginning of the tarot and the beginning of life’s journey. As the tarot brings us some direction to the web of life, the Fool indicates a decision to leave the past behind and take a divine leap of faith in a new direction with complete trust in Source (one’s Higher Self). This card encourages us to go forward with a child-like wonder and an open heart, unafraid of all of the possibilities ahead. The Fool has no concern for the weight and responsibilities/expectations of the material/physical world. 

Upright Interpretation:

This card heralds a new way of life. This could be indicative of a spiritual journey, as it is the first card in the life path (or web of life), or it could foretell the start of a new project, career, relationship, adventure, etc. You’re out of sync with the world around you but this is a blessing. You’re allowing yourself to step into alignment, making for a very exciting time of open possibilities. Chances are you’re drawn to solitude during this period and it feels natural. Your perspective is shifting, and you may be outgrowing old thought patterns. During a transition like this, it’s wise to take time to reflect and connect with your most authentic self. You’re ignoring all doubts and fears of the Shadow and Ego (natural instincts, represented by the dog in the Rider-Waite deck) because you trust in your Higher Self (Source, the Universe). You know you are safe to let your inner child wander free and dream. This is an extremely positive card, indicative of good news, an open and playful heart, and child-like, abundant energy. Leave behind all that no longer serves you and trust that you already have all that you need.

Important Note:

The Fool can be a warning card depending on your situation. You may want to exercise caution by taking a step back and re-evaluating all the factors of the situation in a different light before taking the leap.

Reversed Interpretation:

Consider your current perspective. It’s likely that you may need to sharply define the boundaries between reality and fantasy in order to move on from your current situation or blockage. You may be lacking the necessary security and support to move forward independently. Look to others in this time. Your aim is valid, but now is the time for “realism”. This card may foretell of immaturity in the situation and call you forward to act as the “adult” rather than the “child” or “fool”. Take all sides of the situation into account and move forward with focus and grace. This may be a good time to observe and recognize your doubts and fears as they may be more valid than you realize. Are you ignoring your responsibilities? If you don’t tie up the loose ends in your life they may create tangles.

Wicked Perspective:

I’ve heard the Fool described as having been in possession of divine madness. I absolutely adore this concept because deciding to step away from the herd and follow your soul’s purpose can be a maddening process; in fact, all of spirituality itself feels this way at one point or another. But the Fool is unconcerned, moving forward willingly with an attitude of divine acceptance. The optimism of the Fool is truly inspiring. This card also hints at the abundance of life by challenging us to trust in our ability to use our instincts to provide for us. 

When the Fool appears to us reversed, I think it’s important to tap into the Ego and listen to what it’s trying to tell us beneath its panicked overlay. The Ego, like all things, has a purpose in our lives, and achieving inner peace means learning to accept the validity of each moving variable within ourselves, including that of the ominous, Big Bad Ego. Hear it out. It may simply be cautioning you to find a more stable foothold before putting all of your weight on that questionable rock.