Wands
Wands is the suit which embodies creative energy, inspiration, movement and action.
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Ace of Wands
Each of the Ace cards depicts the hand of a divine being holding the suit’s symbol, representing the suit’s essential energy. Aces also signify beginnings and potential, so the Ace of Wands brings fire and imagination to the beginning of a project, or creative pursuit. |
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Two of Wands
A man contemplates the horizon, a globe in his hand. The Two of Wands encourages us to consider creative ways to further an idea or bring a project to fruition. It also symbolizes the responsibility that comes with personal power. |
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Three of Wands
A man stands at a high vantage point watching ships head out or return from the sea. The Three of Wands represents the importance of carrying out one’s vision with foresight and waiting for the returns with patience. |
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Four of Wands
There is an outdoor celebration with the wands forming a four-posted structure supporting a canopy woven from grapevines. This card symbolizes a ceremony or gathering to celebrate a happy occasion or to rejoice in the harvest—the completion and success of a project. It can also symbolize a home life that breaks from tradition and cultivates creativity. |
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Five of Wands
The five figures present an ambiguous scene. They may be fighting or competing with sticks, or perhaps they are attempting to build a structure. Thus, The Five of Wands can represent conflict, a competitive situation, or a project lacking vision, cooperation, or leadership. |
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Six of Wands
A leader rides victoriously alongside his supporters. The Six of Wands conveys the importance of self-confidence, poise, and optimism. It also symbolizes recognition for one’s leadership abilities and/or accomplishments. |
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Seven of Wands
A man is standing on high ground in defensive battle with several figures below him. The Seven of Wands symbolizes the need to defend one’s rank, or actions, being assertive, or fighting for what you want or believe. |
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Eight of Wands
The eight wands in this card appear to be flying through the air towards their targets. The card symbolizes swift action—making quick decisions, a fast move, becoming instant friends, or jumping into a relationship. It also stands for communication—sending and receiving letters and messages, getting in touch, saying what we need to say and making sure our communication is well aimed. |
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Nine of Wands
A man is on guard, his head bandaged. The Nine of Wands symbolizes the strength and resiliency that can come from life’s painful lessons. The Nine of Wands can represent times when we feel guarded and cautious, warning us against constantly anticipating strife or the temptation to fence ourselves in completely. |
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Ten of Wands
A man is weighed down by the bundle of sticks he carries. The Ten of Wands stands for the times we take on more than we can handle and feel overwhelmed, overextended, burned out, or resentful of our obligations. This card encourages us to lighten our burdens by reassessing priorities, setting limits, and delegating responsibility. |
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Page of Wands
The Page of Wands stands in the desert regarding his wand with great pride. He represents a project in its infancy, or the lack of inhibition and vigor one needs to start a new endeavor. This card can also represent an announcement or important message. |
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Knight of Wands
The Knight of Wands is the only Knight who appears to be potentially out of control of his horse. This card represents a burst of unchanneled creative energy, or a person who is easily restless, gallant and daring—one who strikes out in a new direction without a map or plan. |
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Queen of Wands
The Queen of Wands holds a staff and a sunflower. This card represents a person who radiates warmth and sincerity, the wisdom, patience, and self-assurance that come with maturity—a person who, with a gentle touch, inspires and nurtures a creative spirit. |
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King of Wands
The King of Wands looks into the distance, his mind perhaps focused on a creative endeavor. This card symbolizes a person who has developed his talents to their full potential through self-discipline and perseverance—someone with little patience for those who expect things to come effortlessly. |
Illustrations from the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck reproduced by permission of U.S. Games Systems, Inc., Stamford, CT 06902 USA. Copyright 1971 by U.S. Games Systems, Inc. Further reproduction prohibited. The Rider-Waite Tarot Deck is a registered trademark of U.S. Games Systems, Inc.
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