Introduction
Strength, card number VIII in the Major Arcana, symbolizes not just physical strength but also emotional and spiritual fortitude. It represents the power of inner strength to overcome challenges, compassion, patience, and control over one's instincts.
Main Image
An image of the Strength card from the Rider-Waite tarot deck, showing a serene woman calmly holding the jaws of a lion, symbolizing the control of one’s inner beast through gentle determination and inner calm.
Card Description
The Strength card portrays a woman gently closing the mouth of a lion. The lion, typically a symbol of fears, passions, and desires, is tamed not by force but by peace and understanding. The woman wears a lemniscate (infinity symbol) above her head, representing eternal wisdom and spiritual power. The serene landscape in the background suggests that true strength is achieved in harmony with one's surroundings.
General Meaning
Strength signifies courage, patience, control, and the triumph of the human spirit over life's obstacles. It encourages facing challenges with grace and compassion, and the mastery of one's emotions to navigate through difficult circumstances.
Love and Relationships
In love readings, Strength suggests the importance of compassion, understanding, and resilience in relationships. It indicates overcoming conflicts through empathy and patience, strengthening the bond between partners.
Career and Finances
For career and financial aspects, Strength advises perseverance and confidence. It calls for inner strength to tackle workplace challenges or financial difficulties, emphasizing integrity and endurance as keys to success.
Health
In a health context, Strength symbolizes the inner vitality needed to overcome physical challenges. It encourages healing through positive thinking, inner calm, and the willpower to maintain one’s well-being.
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, Strength warns of self-doubt, lack of control, or surrendering to lower instincts. It suggests a need to re-evaluate one's approach to overcoming personal battles, advocating for a return to inner balance.
Reflective Questions
- How can you harness your inner strength to face current challenges?
- Where in your life do you need to show more compassion or patience?
- What fears or passions are you working to control or overcome?
Closing Thoughts
Strength reminds us that true power resides within. By embracing our inner fortitude and approaching life with compassion and patience, we can overcome any obstacle and emerge stronger.
Call to Action
Reflect on a time when your inner strength guided you through a challenge. Share your experiences of how embracing patience and understanding has brought you closer to overcoming personal battles.
