In This Guide
What Are Eclipses in Tarot?
Eclipses are cosmic portals of transformation. In tarot, they represent moments when the veil between worlds thins, hidden truths are illuminated, and profound change becomes possible. Ancient cultures viewed eclipses as powerful omens, and modern tarot readers recognize them as potent times for divination.
During an eclipse, the normal flow of solar (conscious) and lunar (unconscious) energy is interrupted. This creates a liminal space where transformation accelerates, patterns become visible, and destiny shifts. Tarot readings during eclipse season carry extra weight and clarity.
Lunar vs Solar Eclipse Energy
Lunar Eclipses
Theme: Release, Endings, Emotional Illumination
- • Illuminate what's hidden in your emotional depths
- • Mark completions and culminations
- • Release what no longer serves you
- • Reveal subconscious patterns
- • Best for: Letting go readings
Solar Eclipses
Theme: New Beginnings, Identity Rebirth, Fresh Starts
- • Plant seeds for new cycles
- • Initiate major life changes
- • Transform your identity
- • Set powerful intentions
- • Best for: New chapter readings
The 6-Card Eclipse Transformation Spread
Our Eclipse Transformation Spread is specifically designed for eclipse energy. Each position addresses a different aspect of the transformation process, creating a complete picture of your eclipse journey.
Most Powerful Eclipse Cards
Certain tarot cards carry especially potent energy during eclipses. When these appear in your eclipse reading, pay extra attention to their message.
The Moon
Amplified during lunar eclipses. Hidden truths, intuition, shadow work.
The Sun
Amplified during solar eclipses. New identity, clarity, vitality.
Death
The ultimate eclipse card. Profound transformation and rebirth.
The Tower
Sudden revelations. Structures that need to fall.
The Star
Hope after the eclipse storm. Healing and renewal.
Judgement
Cosmic calling. Answer the summons to transform.
Wheel of Fortune
Destiny turning. Major fate shifts during eclipse.
The High Priestess
Intuitive downloads. Eclipse mysteries revealed.
2026 Eclipse Dates & Signs
Annular Solar Eclipse
February 17, 2026 • Aquarius
Total Lunar Eclipse
March 3, 2026 • Virgo
Total Solar Eclipse
August 12, 2026 • Leo
Partial Lunar Eclipse
August 28, 2026 • Pisces
Eclipse Tarot Rituals
Lunar Eclipse Release Ritual
- Cleanse your space and cards with smoke or sound
- Write down what you wish to release on paper
- Draw your 6-card Eclipse Spread
- Meditate on the "What to Release" card
- Safely burn the paper under the eclipse
- Thank the cards and close your ritual
Solar Eclipse Intention Ritual
- Cleanse your space during the eclipse
- Write your intentions for the new cycle
- Draw your 6-card Eclipse Spread
- Meditate on the "What to Embrace" and "Portal" cards
- Plant seeds (literal or metaphorical) with your intentions
- Keep your intention paper on your altar for 6 months
Shadow Work & Eclipses
Eclipses are prime time for shadow work. The temporary darkness created by an eclipse mirrors the shadow aspects of ourselves that usually remain hidden. Use your eclipse tarot reading to:
- Identify patterns: What keeps repeating in your readings and life?
- Face fears: Which cards trigger discomfort? That's where to look.
- Integrate opposites: How can you embrace both light and shadow?
- Release judgment: Your shadow isn't "bad" – it's unintegrated.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I do my eclipse tarot reading?
The most powerful time is within 48 hours of the eclipse peak. However, eclipse energy is felt 2 weeks before and after, so any time during eclipse season works well.
Can I do tarot during the actual eclipse?
Yes! Many readers find the moments during the eclipse especially potent. However, some traditions recommend avoiding divination during the exact peak. Trust your intuition.
How long do eclipse effects last?
Eclipse energy typically unfolds over 6 months until the next eclipse in that sign. Revisit your reading monthly to see how themes are developing.
Should I use a different spread for lunar vs solar?
Our 6-card spread works for both, but the interpretations shift. Lunar eclipses emphasize release, while solar eclipses emphasize new beginnings.
Free: 2026 Tarot Workbook with Moon Phases
Go deeper with monthly tarot spreads, moon phase guidance, and reflection prompts for every month of 2026.
- Monthly tarot spreads for every month of 2026
- Personal Year Card calculation worksheet
- Moon phase guidance for each month
- Quarterly reflection prompts