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The 20th Major Arcana card is considered one of the most controversial in the deck. It is often misinterpreted, with most readers focusing solely on its seemingly negative connotations. The name Judgement evokes associations with divine punishment or the reckoning of sins. However, the true essence of this card is far more profound. It calls the querent to face their past, take responsibility for their actions, and open their heart to others with honesty and courage.
Every interpretation begins with the card’s imagery. Here, the Day of Judgement has already arrived. A central figure-blonde-haired Archangel Gabriel-blows his trumpet. Yet, his face shows no cruelty or anger. The people beneath him raise their hands, not in fear, but in acceptance. They are naked, symbolizing their liberation from material concerns and earthly illusions. Men, women, and children are all depicted-emphasizing that no one escapes judgment, regardless of age or status.
The card is sometimes found under different names: The Last Judgement, Resurrection, Awakening, Rebirth, or simply Judgement. This Arcana heralds transformation. It urges the querent to bring their hidden truths into the light, to confess, to confront past actions with sincerity. Through this process of inner revelation, one can cleanse the soul and mind-preparing to step into a new phase of life.
The meaning of Judgement in Tarot depends on its position in the spread, surrounding cards, and context. Understanding its symbolism fully is essential to receive the messages and guidance it offers from the universe.
How Judgement Interacts with Other Tarot Cards
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MagicianThere may be a promotion. However, the changes will be slow, so patience is required.
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High PriestessIf some secret is gnawing at you, it will be revealed soon. If there is uncertainty, the situation will clarify.
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EmpressThis is a great sign for couples wishing to have a child: there will be a new addition to the family soon.
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HierophantThe problem that troubles the querent will be resolved.
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LoversA decisive decision will need to be made soon. A meeting with the right person is expected.
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ChariotThe matter will end successfully. The main thing is not to tell anyone about your plans so that ill-wishers do not spoil anything.
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StrengthTo achieve the desired, you need to gather all your resources together.
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TemperanceThe changes will be so swift and radical that the querent will not be able to cope with them.
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StarThe mistakes of the past will soon make themselves known. However, everything will end well. The querent will be able to believe in themselves.
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MoonA misunderstanding will arise between partners. Fear of failure will appear.
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SunEfforts will be crowned with success. The querent can expect to be appreciated for their worth.
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WorldThe fortune-teller will be able to take control of the situation. Their achievements will finally be recognized and appreciated.
When paired with Court Cards, the Judgement card can carry both positive and negative meanings, depending on the suit.
Pentacles (Earth) tend to shift the meaning of Judgement toward matters of love and relationships. These combinations may suggest the arrival of a new admirer, intense feelings, celibacy, or even separation, depending on the card’s nature and position.
Wands (Fire) prepare the querent for upcoming challenges and often advise seeking support from close friends or loved ones. These combinations speak of inner strength and the importance of teamwork in facing trials.
Cups (Water) highlight emotional and family-related themes. When Judgement appears with Court Cards of the Cups suit, it may indicate events such as the birth of a child with hereditary conditions or adoption — moments of emotional depth and transformation.
Swords (Air) and Judgement together often point to tension or struggle. Depending on the specific card, this pairing could symbolize betrayal, confusion, illness, or even false accusations — a warning to tread carefully.
The Reversed Judgement Card: What It Really Means
In its reversed position, Judgement is generally considered a negative card — though not overtly so. While it still signals inevitable transformation, it also reveals the querent’s resistance to change. The reversed Judgement suggests an unwillingness to acknowledge past mistakes or take responsibility for one’s actions. This avoidance can block future happiness. Sooner or later, a reckoning will come — and it’s best to be prepared.
As the 20th Major Arcana, Judgement still implies that the querent has the tools and inner strength to transition smoothly into a new life chapter. However, they may be too focused on perceived obstacles to see the opportunities ahead. The card urges self-reflection: what inner fears, self-doubt, or limiting beliefs are holding you back?
In The Magic Book of Tarot: Predicting Destiny, author Daniela Chris interprets the reversed Judgement as a warning against fear of change. Change is coming whether you’re ready or not — so why resist? The longer the querent delays, the harder it will be to break free from stagnation. This card recommends a gratitude practice: make a list of lessons learned and people who’ve impacted your journey. This simple act of reflection can help bring clarity, acceptance, and courage to move forward.
The meaning of The Judgment card in relationships
In a love reading, The Judgment card is ambiguous. It does not give querents clear answers. It only indicates a direction and makes one think. However, The Judgment Tarot card in relationships generally signifies that changes are coming soon, regardless of the question asked by the querent: whether to maintain the union or to part ways forever. It is the heart that should guide the right decision. To find a solution, you need to listen to your own feelings and to your partner.
- . Ambiguous encounter. At first glance, it may seem that the new acquaintance could become the one and only soulmate. However, the cards advise paying close attention to him: there is something suspicious in his behavior.
- . A fateful encounter. Singles can cheer up: they will meet their destiny soon. The card symbolizes positive changes in all areas of life, and romantic matters will not be an exception. These relationships will be trusting and harmonious.
- . An important decision. The card advises reevaluating your values. Perhaps you should pay attention to another person and start considering their needs.
The reversed Judgment card in relationships has a rather unpleasant interpretation for a person in love. Most likely, the object of their desire does not feel mutual affection. There is no true love in this union. There is attachment and friendly involvement. The card advises to think: “Is it worth settling for less?”
The Judgment Tarot card: a spread on a man’s feelings
The card numbered 20 is one of the most just in the deck. It appears to sort all feelings into order. The Judgment card describes a man who is in distressed feelings. He may have recently experienced a difficult breakup. There is a possibility that he is not yet ready for a serious relationship. Currently, he is experiencing mixed feelings. His mind and heart are in turmoil. But The Judgment Tarot card indicates that soon he will be able to understand what he truly wants from life. A new love will replace the old one. In the near future, he may be ready for a new relationship.
The Judgment card suggests that the man is interested in the woman asking. However, it is not worth being 100% sure that this gentleman is the one. The chances that he considers this lady his destiny are as high as the likelihood that he will be unable to take a serious step. Card 20 advises the woman to be decisive. Sometimes, men need to be pushed in the right direction.
The Judgment Tarot card: meaning in feelings
The owner of the energy of the Judgment card is a person with a broad soul. They feel a connection with a large number of people – with their entire family, and sometimes with the whole nation. For them, relationships with relatives are important, including distant ones. They feel the need to resolve family conflicts. If someone from their relatives has disappeared from their view, intentionally or by chance, the Person-Judge will definitely want to find them. Such a person can become the head of the family, regardless of gender.
The Judgment Tarot card describes feelings that arise as a result of serious emotional upheavals. If you are asking about another person and the 20th arcana appears, it means that the person in question is currently in a state of awakening. What they experienced in the recent past has made them completely rethink their place in the world. They may not yet fully understand what they feel. If we are talking about feelings of a potential partner in love, it can be said that there is interest, which has not yet reached the stage of “falling in love.” Probably, the breakup they went through is to blame, and they have not yet fully accepted it.
The Judgment Tarot card: a spread on thoughts
The Resurrection arcana describes a person who thinks on a grand scale. They consider themselves the head of the family. Their mind is filled with thoughts of the well-being not only of their own family but also of their people. Such a person is wise beyond their years. Their judgments are deep, and their ideas are original. They manage to see things from completely unique perspectives. Those around them always turn to them for support and advice.
The thoughts of The Judgment Tarot card often lie “dormant.” The arcana describes a person awakening from sleep. In a thoughts spread, the card indicates that the individual has finally realized that it is time to move forward. Active actions are needed. Changes are coming, and one must be well prepared for them. The card describes the moment when thoughts materialize into actions. The universe has given the person all the opportunities to improve their life, and it depends on them how they will use these opportunities.
The energy of Judgment fosters thoughts of one’s own uniqueness. The person begins to think they are superior to others. They tend to criticize others for any mistakes. At the same time, they do not notice their own flaws. They dismiss others’ ideas, considering them foolish and unworkable. They are prone to see hidden threats in everything. Stubbornness often hinders the broadening of horizons.
The Judgment Tarot card: advice
The Tarot cards are not only consulted for answers to urgent questions but also for advice. Querents often ask: “What should I do in this situation?” Regardless of the circumstances, the Judgment card offers this advice: “To achieve what you want, you need to change your perspective.” The card suggests looking at the situation from a different angle. Now is the time to act against your usual habits.
The card indicates that the querent is currently making decisions somewhat irresponsibly. However, a life-changing choice is imminent. The arcana advises being cautious in such matters. Do not dig yourself into a hole.
- . The Lovers card advises them to consider what they expect from the relationship. They should not dissolve completely into their partner. There should be room for healthy egoism in love.
- . In a health spread, the arcana advises preparing for treatment. If something is bothering you, it is better to consult a doctor.
In Vitaly Zaitchenko’s work “The Wite Tarot and Beyond, Wise Guidance Sent by the Cards,” the twentieth arcana advises tuning into a positive wave. To ensure changes pass smoothly, it is necessary to fill oneself with bright energy. It is important to get rid of any negative feelings: guilt, shame, timidity. For lovers, the card recommends trusting their partner, and for career-oriented individuals, to complete all started tasks.
The Judgment Tarot card: description of a woman
The woman endowed with the energy of The Judgment Tarot card is the head of the family. She does not want to be a second fiddle in the orchestra. It is important for her to assert authority and take responsibility for her kin. She is wise beyond her years. People often come to her for advice because they know she can find an answer to any question. She is capable of resolving any family conflict.
The woman of Resurrection is attractive to the opposite sex. Despite this, she may find it difficult to build long-term relationships. Few men can compete with her: she will draw attention to herself. A suitor next to her may feel inadequate.
The woman of The Judgment always thinks and acts on a grand scale. She can view situations from different, unique, and original perspectives. She is unafraid of change: she accepts it as a matter of course. Any challenge sent by the universe, The Judgment Tarot woman perceives as a life lesson.
Among the shortcomings of such women are arrogance. They consider themselves superior to others. Such a woman is not afraid to say everything she thinks about her interlocutor because she is confident she has the right. Her other flaws include aggressiveness, low motivation, skepticism, and indecisiveness.
The Judgment Tarot card: a spread on health
- . Physical limitations related to illnesses. There may be a flare-up of allergic reactions, painful menstrual cycles, frequent headaches.
- . A transition from a healthy state to a serious condition. A crisis may occur.
- . A serious illness. Preparation for a long-term treatment is necessary, which may not yield results.
However, the Judgment Tarot card sends a positive message regarding health: it advises listening to your body. If you do not start taking care of yourself now, serious problems may arise in the future, which will be difficult to handle. In the reversed position, The Resurrection suggests preparing for a long-term treatment. Recovery will take much longer than previously expected.
The Judgment Tarot card: a spread on the future
Thanks to Tarot cards, people can lift the veil and look ahead. “What does tomorrow hold for me?” – the magical arcana can provide an answer to this question. However, if a card depicting Judgment appears in the spread, the querent usually starts to tense up. Can an arcana that celebrates retribution for sins really promise something good?
But in the world of Tarot, not everything is so straightforward. The Judgment card in the deck is considered one of the most profound and multifaceted. If the seeker sees it in the spread, they should be prepared for a new chapter in their life to begin soon. The universe requires them to rethink the past, recognize their mistakes, and see them as vital lessons. The Tarot Judgment promises a positive outcome for the future if the inquirer shows perseverance and correctly interprets the signs of fate.
The Resurrection card reminds the seeker of justice. All actions should be viewed critically. However, the arcana does not call for harsh punishment. It advises accepting what has already happened and trying to see the truth.
Tarot Judgment: a spread for work
- . Yesterday’s students who are undecided about their profession are encouraged by the card to consider creative specialties or public activities. The card indicates that one should only think about their calling. It is not advisable to focus on the status of the profession or the opinions of others.
- . For people who have long chosen their path, Judgment predicts radical changes. A sudden career jump is possible, as well as a desire to radically change the field of activity.
- . For those in creative professions, the card promises colossal success in the near future. This could be a successful film premiere or the release of a book.
The reversed Resurrection also does not promise anything bad. It urges the querent to forget their mistakes, admit guilt, and forgive offenses. The card advises to believe in your strength: everything will work out.
Tarot Judgment: Yes/No divination
Tarot cards can be used to get answers in a “Yes” or “No” format. The interpretation depends on the position of the arcana. However, in the case of Tarot Judgment, yes/no is a bit more complicated. The card does not give unambiguous answers. In the traditional position, Resurrection means “Most likely.” The card does not provide a clear positive answer. It hints at a favorable outcome of the event but urges the querent not to be 100% confident in it. Moreover, “Yes” can turn into “No” not due to external circumstances but at the request of the seeker themselves.
Since Judgment always signifies change, the card encourages making a decisive step and leaving the past behind. But because everything depends on the actions of the querent, it leaves the future vague.
In the reversed position, Tarot Judgment leans more toward the second option. It indicates the querent’s reluctance to take responsibility for their actions. The card urges the seeker to free themselves from external influence. It’s worth asking yourself: “Am I too often turning to others for advice?” Perhaps it’s time to listen to your inner voice.
Tarot Judgment: description of appearance
“How will my other half look?” is one of the most popular questions asked by seekers. With the help of Tarot cards, you can get an approximate description of your potential partner. The twentieth arcana, Resurrection, describes an attractive person of sanguine or phlegmatic type. The main characteristics of the Tarot Judgment regarding appearance are listed in the table:
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AgeThe arcana describes a quite mature person. Most often, they are around 30 years old. They appear older than their actual age. Experience and wisdom, which come with age, can be read in their eyes.
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HairThe 20th Major Arcana represents a light-haired person. Their hair is more likely curly than straight. Usually, they have chestnut or blond hair.
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EyesThe person with the energy of the twentieth arcana has light eyes: gray, blue, or gray-blue. Their gaze is piercing, wise, and attentive. It seems as if they are constantly watching their interlocutor and reading their soul.
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FaceResurrection describes a person with neat lips—neither large nor too small. There may be a small bump on the nose. The opposite sex is attracted to their prominent cheekbones. The nose is small and tidy.
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SkinOn the face and body of the person, certain characteristic features may be noticeable. For example, scars or burn marks. Women are enthusiasts of cosmetic procedures.
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BuildSuch a person has a tall stature. Always above average. Their build is solid. They are fit but not overly muscular.
The person with the energy of Tarot Judgment has a conservative appearance. They are not a fan of sporty style. They prefer to wear classic suits. If they wear jeans and a sweater, then only high-quality and expensive ones. It is important for them to display status and belonging to a higher social class.
Tarot Judgment: personality description
- . With wisdom. A person with the energy of the 20th arcana is a philosopher. Their judgments are profound. They can view a situation from different angles. They understand that changes are irreversible and accept them calmly and confidently.
- . With intelligence. Tarot Judgment describes an innovator capable of breakthroughs in the field of science. They excel at analysis and can handle large amounts of information.
- . With awakening. The bearer of the Judgment arcana does not immediately reveal their talents. Sometimes, it takes time for them to discover their abilities and strengths. However, then they begin to accelerate and reach unprecedented heights.
The “minus” state of a person endowed with the energy of Tarot Judgment is characterized by intolerance to progress, arrogance, a sense of uselessness, indecisiveness, and skepticism. The individual is in a state of dormancy. Their talents are not activated. They cannot take a step toward their destiny. They ignore signs of fate or pretend they do not exist. All of this drains their life energy and prevents them from fulfilling their destined mission.
