The Chariot: A Guide to Tarot’s Symbol of Triumph

In the mystical realm of Tarot, the Chariot stands as a beacon of determination, willpower, and triumph. As the seventh card in the Major Arcana, it marks a significant point in the Fool’s journey. It symbolizes the moment when we harness our inner strength and overcome the challenges that stand in our way. The Chariot is a card of victory, but this victory is not handed to us on a silver platter. Instead, it is earned through our own grit and determination.

Chariot Keywords and General Associations

The chariot general

The Chariot is a card that exudes a sense of power and control. It’s about taking the reins of your life and steering your course with determination and focus. When the Chariot appears in a reading, it often signifies a time of struggle or competition. On the other hand, it also heralds the potential for victory if you can maintain control and stay the course.

  • Upright keywords: Determination, control, victory, willpower, self-discipline
  • Reversed keywords: Opposition, lack of direction, lack of control, defeat

The Chariot is associated with the element of Water, the planet Moon, and the zodiac sign Cancer. These associations imbue the card with a sense of emotional depth, intuition, and a strong connection to the subconscious.

Detailed Description of the Chariot Card

The chariot card

The Chariot card in the Rider-Waite-Colman tarot deck depicts a warrior standing inside a chariot, rising above a city. The warrior is adorned with armor decorated with crescent moons and other alchemical symbols. These images represent new journeys and spiritual transformation. Moreover, the star crown on his head signals victory, success, and enlightenment.

In front of the chariot are two sphinxes, one black and one white, representing our conscious and unconscious senses. The black sphinx symbolizes the moon, the feminine, and the unconscious. Meanwhile, the white sphinx represents the sun, the masculine, and the conscious. Together, they create a sense of harmony and balance.

The warrior must command these sphinxes with his willpower and determination to succeed. If they move in different directions, the chariot could be thrown off course. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the need for control and direction in our lives.

Meaning of the Chariot

Willpower, determination, and drive to succeed are all embodied in the powerful symbol of the Chariot card. This enigmatic card represents our constant struggle for control in life and ultimately our triumph over adversity. With its strong emphasis on action-oriented behavior and forward momentum towards fulfilling our destiny, we must steer ourselves towards a successful outcome with perseverance no matter what lies ahead.  

Indeed, while various contexts of a reading may influence interpretation- be it physical journeys or personal development – perseverance is fundamental in every instance when working with this dynamic Major Arcana card.

Interpretation of the Chariot

The chariot Major arcana card
F.I. Vandenborre, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Chariot’s interpretation can differ significantly depending on whether it appears in its upright or reversed position. Both positions offer valuable insights into different aspects of our lives, from our relationships to our careers and personal growth.

Upright Chariot

If you see the Chariot facing upright in a reading, take note! It signifies accomplishment and control. You’re driving through life’s journey with confidence towards what lies ahead by making decisive choices confidently. In terms of affectionate bonds between partners- this card reflects collaborative efforts between them towards substantial milestones by respecting each other’s desires. 

When it comes to workplace advancements or personal achievements- seeing an upright-oriented Chariot signifies success through hard work guided by discipline along this path; leading towards opportunities for progress within one’s profession.

Reversed Chariot

If you pull the reversed Chariot card during a tarot reading, brace yourself for uncertain times ahead. In essence, this inverted symbol represents a lack of control and direction in your life- causing confusion and chaos like multiple paths pulling at you all at once. Additionally, it might indicate that there’s an aspect(s)of your life where maintaining control is proving difficult. 

What about how it reflects on relationships? Suppose the reversed Chariot pops up in a relationship reading; then there’s likely an ongoing power struggle amongst partners or perhaps an imbalance between them – leading toward instability. 

Similarly- think about its impact regarding work/career matters; getting the reversed Chariot means limited progress or utter stagnation concerning career development- possibly feeling stuck right where you are!

So what can you do? Well we can’t say more without context but please understand that all cards can have both good and bad aspects attached – hence instead approach this situation with unbiased observation…it’s a sign for reassessing whether regaining control or taking an essential shift is necessary.

Comparing and Contrasting The Chariot with The Lovers and The Tower

Understanding the Chariot in relation to other cards in the Tarot deck can provide deeper insights into its meanings and interpretations. Let’s compare and contrast the it with two other Major Arcana cards: The Lovers and The Tower.

Compared with The Lovers

The Lovers card represents harmony, unity, and balance, while the Chariot is about control, determination, and victory. Both cards suggest a journey or a path, but while The Lovers emphasizes harmony and balance, the Chariot emphasizes control and direction. At the same time, the Lovers may suggest a choice to be made. On the other hand, the Chariot suggests the determination to follow through on a chosen path.

Compared with The Tower

The Tower represents sudden change, upheaval, and chaos, while the Chariot represents control, direction, and victory. The Tower suggests a sudden, unexpected change that may disrupt the status quo. On the other hand, the Chariot suggests steady, determined progress toward a goal. The Tower may indicate a need to let go and accept change, while the Chariot emphasizes the need for control and direction.

Chariot in Specific Readings

Tarot card reading

The Chariot’s interpretation can shift dramatically depending on the context of the reading. Whether it’s a yes-no reading, a love reading, or a work reading, the Chariot’s message can take on different nuances.

Yes-no readings

In yes-no readings, the Chariot generally leans towards a “yes” answer. However keep in mind when you hear such an affirmative answer from The Chariot it’s implying some action too.In other words,such an answer means you should couple your willpower with taking deeds into making certain that those favorable things do eventually happen.

The chariot yes or no

It seems like obstacles might lie on your path but surely they can be tackled.The ultimate goal here is for you to take charge of everything ahead to watch your efforts bloom.

Love readings

In the case of love readings, The Chariot indicates that there’s a partnership built into everything right now.It reveals to us that both persons in the relationship are truly working together towards achieving the same dream.Like an agreed destination on a journey, it’s vital for couples in a partnership to stay united while navigating their journey.Failure in doing so could be roadblocks on the way. 

The chariot relationship

In other words, both parties ought to feel like steering things together from their individual paths are possible and uplifting as a duo that shares common ground.A reversed position of this card could hint at power discrepancies or lack of communication which has caused an unhealthy imbalance.This marks as an important reminder for those who want to help themselves navigate their relationships.

Work readings

When it comes to work readings, the Chariot possesses a guiding light of positivity that signifies progress, accomplishment, and authority over the road ahead in one’s professional life. This suggests that an individual holds power over their career journey through grit and perseverance.

Despite this hold on their path, however, it remains crucial to remember that with great power comes great responsibility; encountering difficulties or obstacles need not deter your success but prompt your ability to navigate skillfully towards your goals. 

If you pull a reversed card of the Chariot during a work reading session this implies being stuck or at crossroads in a career path – indicating significance in taking stock of key decisions made thus far before either regaining control or heading down another route entirely.

Key Card Combinations with the Chariot

The Chariot’s meaning can be influenced by the cards that appear alongside it in a reading. Here are a few key card combinations and how they might alter the interpretation of the Chariot.

Chariot and the Fool

Fool

In a tarot reading, when both the Chariot and Fool are present, it implies an upcoming adventure spurred by determination and willpower. The Fool embodies starting anew on a fresh journey while the Chariot symbolizes steadfastness in seeing that journey through to completion. 

However, these two cards also caution against impulsive actions without caution. Although merging spontaneity of The Fools along with persistence of The Chariots can be influential, proceeding mindfully will avoid preventing any unexpected misfortunes throughout your travels.

Chariot and the Tower

Tower

If you draw both the Chariot and Tower cards during a reading, it may indicate a sudden shift or turmoil. Managing these experiences requires resilience and unwavering resolve to navigate through them successfully. 

While The Tower signifies unexpected change – which might come as a surprise, the Chariot stresses on one’s ability to stay in command and steer towards their goal despite any challenges along the way. 

On another note, this combination also reminds us that not all transitions are adverse; although upsetting disruptions might happen due to unexpected developments(The Tower), bringing order to chaos (via The Chariot) can strengthen us in ways we never thought possible.

Chariot and the Lovers

lovers

If both the Chariot and The Lovers appear in a reading, there might exist an association driven by mutual objectives and common unwavering determination. Unity and harmony are portrayed by the Lovers while commandment over direction falls under the Chariot’s authority. Such an amalgamation may suggest an unyielding partnership directed towards goals set together. But, this situation also anticipates equilibrium within it. 

Although perseverance of The Chariot plays a crucial role in advancing such relationships, harmony also holds massive importance represented by Lovers’ existence alongside them. Together they signify that successful partnerships require not only shared direction but also harmonious balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Chariot represent?

The Chariot represents determination, control, and victory. It suggests the need to take control of your life and steer your course with determination and willpower.

What does the Chariot mean in a love reading?

In a love reading, the Chariot can indicate a relationship that is driven by mutual goals and shared determination. It suggests a partnership where both individuals are working together to overcome obstacles and achieve a shared goal.

What does the Chariot mean in a career reading?

In a career reading, the Chariot is a positive sign, indicating progress, success, and control over your career path. It suggests that you are in the driver’s seat of your professional life, steering your career with determination and willpower.

What does the Chariot mean in a yes-no reading?

In a yes-no reading, the Chariot is generally seen as a positive card, indicating a “yes” answer. However, this “yes” comes with a caveat: it suggests that success or a positive outcome will require determination, willpower, and control.

Last Thoughts on the Chariot

The Chariot is a powerful card in the Tarot deck, which is known for its significant representation of determination, control, and victory. This particular card holds immense power in love life readings, career-related matters and even simple yes-or-no-style readings. Its message urges us to take full responsibility for steering our course through life with unwavering persistence and steadfast willpower; we are reminded that we hold ownership over our destinies. 

Despite obstacles encountered on this path, it challenges us to remain focused on our goals until they are achieved in full force- bringing about a true sense of triumph! Don’t forget these lessons from this exceptional symbol -allow its energy guide you towards success as you move forth in your Tarot journey.

Learn the Tarot with Online Flash Cards

Are you looking to dive into the world of tarot and master the meaning of each card? You should check out our post, “Learn The Tarot Cards – Online Flash Cards” by our own Tarot expert Ersa Fay. With interactive flash cards covering all 78 cards in the tarot, both the Minor and Major Arcana, you will learn key facts and the symbolism and meanings associated with each card. 

By using these flash cards, you’ll become more comfortable with performing your own readings and enhance your journey into the world of tarot. 

In the post, Ersa focuses on the iconic Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck, known for its rich imagery and profound symbolism. The captivating illustrations in this deck draw from various sources such as mythology, astrology, alchemy, and the Kabbalah, creating a visual language that resonates deeply with the human psyche. So, if you’re ready to start learning, don’t miss out on this fantastic resource. We hope you find it useful and remember to have fun with it!

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Maria Figueroa

Maria is a multifaceted individual who wears the hats of a professional astrologer, licensed psychologist, tarot reader, and angel number enthusiast. Since 2019, she has dedicated herself to writing horoscopes and articles on a variety of topics, including spiritual growth, mental health, and self-development. Her insightful writings reflect her deep understanding of the spiritual and psychological realms, providing valuable guidance to her readers. In addition to her writing, Maria also runs a private practice where she combines her expertise in psychology with her intuitive abilities. She uses her knowledge of astrology, tarot, and angel numbers to help individuals unlock their hidden potential and navigate through life's challenges. Her unique approach blends her psychological training with her spiritual insights, allowing her to provide holistic support to her clients. Through her work, Maria connects with people from all walks of life, offering personalized birth chart readings, helping individuals overcome personal obstacles, and sharing her wisdom through enlightening articles. Her goal is to empower others by providing them with the tools and insights they need to lead fulfilling lives and embark on their own spiritual journeys. A lover of astrology, tarot and numerology, Maria embraces the mystical and symbolic aspects of life and uses these powerful tools to deepen her understanding and connection with the Divine. Her unique combination of skills allows her to provide guidance and inspiration to those seeking a greater sense of purpose and direction.