When it comes to the world of tarot, the symbolism and importance of numbers cannot be overstated. Each number holds a unique significance and can greatly impact the interpretation of a reading. In both numerology and tarot, the number 3 is associated with creativity, growth, and manifestation. In this blog, we will explore the meaning behind the number 3 in tarot and how it can enhance your understanding of the cards.

(We’ve already done deep dives on the number one and number two in previous blog posts)

The Numerology of the Number 3

Numerology in Tarot is the practice of assigning numerical values to the cards in a Tarot deck and interpreting their meanings based on those values. Each card in the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana is associated with a number, which can provide additional insights into the card's symbolism and significance. Numerology in Tarot can be used to identify patterns and themes in a reading, as well as to gain a deeper understanding of the messages and guidance that the cards are offering. It is often used in conjunction with other Tarot reading techniques to provide a more comprehensive reading.

The number 3 is considered a powerful and auspicious number in numerology. It is associated with creativity, self-expression, and abundance. In many cultures, it is believed that everything in the universe is made up of three elements - positive, negative, and neutral. The number 3 is also said to represent the mind, body, and spirit, as well as the past, present, and future. People who are born under the influence of the number 3 are often seen as optimistic, enthusiastic, and sociable, with a natural talent for communication and self-expression.

3 in the Major Arcana

In the major arcana of tarot, the number 3 is officially represented by the third card - The Empress. This card is associated with femininity, nurturing, and abundance. The Empress is depicted as a mother figure, symbolizing fertility, creativity, and the power of nature. She is often shown surrounded by lush gardens, fields, and forests, representing the abundance and prosperity that she brings. The numerology of 3 in the major arcana suggests that this is a time of growth, creativity, and self-expression. It is a time to embrace your inner creativity and nurture your ideas, giving them the time and space they need to grow. The Empress encourages you to connect with your feminine energy, embrace your nurturing side, and trust in the abundance of the universe.

While the Empress has the official number 3, there are a couple of other cards that can be linked to the number 3 as well.

In the major arcana of tarot, the number 3 is not directly associated with The Hanged Man, which is represented by the twelfth card. However, some numerologists consider the number 3 to be present in The Hanged Man because 1+2=3. Therefore, there may be some numerological significance to the number 3 in relation to The Hanged Man.

The Hanged Man is often associated with sacrifice, surrender, and letting go. The card depicts a man hanging upside down from a tree, with his legs crossed and his hands behind his back. This posture represents a willingness to let go of control and surrender to a higher power. The numerology of 3 in this context suggests that the sacrifice and surrender depicted in The Hanged Man can lead to growth and transformation. It is a reminder that sometimes we need to let go of our old ways of thinking and being in order to make room for new perspectives and experiences. The Hanged Man encourages us to embrace the unknown, trust in the process of life, and have faith that everything will work out in the end.

Another card not directly associated with the number 3 is The World card, which is represented by the twenty-first card. However, some numerologists consider the number 3 to be present in The World card because 2+1=3. Therefore, there may be some numerological significance to the number 3 in relation to The World card.

The World card represents completion, fulfillment, and achievement. It depicts a figure surrounded by a laurel wreath, symbolizing victory and success. The numerology of 3 in this context suggests that the completion and fulfillment depicted in The World card are the result of a harmonious balance between mind, body, and spirit. It is a reminder that success and achievement are not just about external accomplishments, but also about inner peace and balance. The World card encourages us to celebrate our achievements, acknowledge our growth and progress, and embrace new beginnings with confidence and joy. It is a card of wholeness, integration, and unity, reminding us that everything in life is interconnected and interdependent.

3 in the Minor Arcana

In the minor arcana of the tarot, the number 3 is associated with the suit of Wands. The suit of Wands is related to the element of fire, representing creativity, passion, and inspiration. The numerology of 3 in this context suggests that the energy of fire is amplified and intensified, leading to a burst of creativity and self-expression.

The three of Wands is a card of expansion, growth, and exploration. It depicts a figure standing on a cliff, looking out over the horizon with three wands planted in the ground. This card represents the beginning of a new journey, the exploration of new horizons, and the expansion of one's creative potential. The numerology of 3 in this card suggests that the journey will be one of creativity, self-expression, and personal growth.

The three of Cups is another card in the minor arcana that is associated with the number 3. This card represents celebration, joy, and friendship. It depicts three figures raising their cups in a toast, surrounded by a lush garden and a flowing stream. The numerology of 3 in this card suggests that the celebration and joy depicted are the result of a harmonious balance between mind, body, and spirit. It is a reminder that true happiness comes from within and from our relationships with others.

The qualities of the number three are also reflected in the 3 of Pentacles, which is one of the cards in the Minor Arcana of Tarot. In this card, we see three figures working together to build something. This card represents the power of collaboration and the importance of teamwork. The numerology of 3 in this context suggests that when we work together with others, we can achieve great things. It is a reminder that we don't have to go it alone and that sometimes the best ideas and solutions come from working together with others. The 3 of Pentacles encourage us to embrace our creativity, work collaboratively, and trust in the power of teamwork to achieve our goals.

In the case of the 3 of Swords, this number takes on a more challenging meaning. This card depicts a heart pierced by three swords, symbolizing heartbreak, betrayal, and emotional pain. The numerology of 3 in this context suggests that this is a time of intense emotional growth and transformation. It is a reminder that sometimes we need to experience pain and heartbreak in order to learn and grow. The 3 of Swords encourages us to embrace our emotions, even the difficult ones, and to use this experience as an opportunity for growth and healing. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we can find strength and resilience.

Overall, the numerology of 3 in the minor arcana suggests that this number is associated with creativity, growth, expansion, and celebration. It symbolizes the power of fire and the potential for personal growth and self-expression.

In Tarot, the number 3 is associated with creativity, growth, expansion, and celebration. It is a number that represents the power of fire and the potential for personal growth and self-expression. Whether in the major arcana or the minor arcana, the numerology of 3 encourages us to embrace new beginnings, explore our creative potential, and find a balance between mind, body, and spirit. From the feminine energy of The Empress to the completion and fulfillment of The World, the numerology of 3 in tarot offers a powerful reminder that everything in life is interconnected and interdependent. By embracing the energy of 3, we can tap into our inner creativity, celebrate our achievements, and find joy in the journey of life.