Strength Tarot Card Meaning
This card features a simple composition, focusing on a woman and a lion, embodying a sustained posture with many profound layers of meaning. The woman, dressed in white robes, might be the woman clothed with the sun, taming a fiery red lion. The entire composition is set against a yellow background, symbolizing the bright spiritual force. The contrast between the vivid red and the light white tones represents an alchemical significance and is related to many cards in the Waite Tarot.
The woman, known as 'Strength,' controls the lion's mouth with her hands, showing no fear in the face of the fierce beast. She bends down to reach the lion's jaw with her right hand and places her left hand on the lion's head and upper jaw. Her right index finger is slightly bent, revealing a delicate aspect. As she gazes at the lion with closed eyes, seemingly in contemplation, her face shows a serene expression. These actions indicate that she has tamed the lion with 'beneficent fortitude.'
The lion's situation is quite interesting; its tail tucked between its hind legs suggests that it is completely under the woman's control and is in a state of submission. When an animal tucks its tail, it is showing weakness, and its wild and powerful nature is restrained. However, the lion's mouth was originally open, indicating the strength of its power, with the opening and closing of the mouth representing the release and containment of energy. Now the woman directly controls the opening and closing of the lion's mouth.
In ancient traditional Tarot cards, the hands are about to close the lion's mouth, which has a better symbolic meaning. Some esotericists depict the lion's mouth open, which is also valid as it expresses the same idea of control. The Waite Tarot depicts the mouth closing. This is just a frozen image; whether it is open or closed, it should indicate that both are appropriate, which more comprehensively shows the ability to control at will.
Above the woman's head is an infinity symbol, similar to 'The Magician.' She, a pure maiden, is the female counterpart to the Magician, leading to the mysterious power of women, equal to that of the Magician. The energy and magnetic field that the woman possesses are shown by the 'infinity' symbol on her head, representing the endless inner strength, indicating the operation of a cycle and the power of life and renewal, intersecting at a point in space and time, which is also a way of harmonizing yin and yang.
The woman's waist and head are adorned with garlands of flowers, a sash of roses wrapped around her body, similar to the ribbon on the woman in 'The World' card. This floral garland also alludes to the 'tow-chain' worn by novices of the Masonic class 'Master Mason,' as it is wrapped around the waist with the end hanging on the left, just as they wear it in some rituals, and the use of roses again emphasizes the connection to the Rosicrucians.
Thus, this is not an ordinary garland but one that hides deep mystical meanings, with a special role and efficacy. It connects the woman and the lion, serving as a pattern to convey energy, transferring the energy of the lion through the woman's body upwards, like the conduction of electricity, and connecting with the 'infinity' symbol at the top of her head. Therefore, the woman also wears a crown on her head, with two antenna-like branches pointing towards the infinity symbol. This also shows the flow of the aura during this state of operation.
Next, let's look at the relationship between the woman and the lion: the lion's eyes look up, meeting the woman's gaze. The woman and the lion seem to have merged through the entwining of the garland, with the two forces blending together. The harmony of these two forces is a high state, implying a 'Divine Law,' which actually comes from the meeting and touching of hearts. The woman's posture, like a gesture of gathering energy, seems to be drawing energy from the lion and also seems to be activating the 'infinity' symbol.
The woman's posture of taming the lion forms a very typical image: the lion represents a wild and natural force, and the human represents human or divine power. The two forces meet, and the human taming the lion indicates the ability to use its power and to combine and integrate the two. This is a posture of practice, a Western mystical method. The hand gestures are like the movements of Tai Chi, and overall, it is a state of advanced yoga. The 'infinity' symbol above the head depicts the transfer and elevation of the energy field.
In addition, we can see that the ground around the lion's paws is slightly uneven, depicting the lion's struggling posture, with the force of its paws causing the ground to rise where the claws grip. This indicates that its brute force can affect the surroundings, adding tension to the confrontational scene. The entire ground is covered with green grass, planted on soft soil, and the two masters practicing on it naturally alter the terrain. Against a bright sky, the area around the main picture - the woman and the lion - is brighter, reflecting the aura they create.
The overall composition of this card is particularly related to alchemy, with the flowers in the woman's hair and on her belt - red roses (and white roses), which are often a link to alchemy in the Waite Tarot. The overall color scheme is also a contrasting combination of red and white, a harmony of purity and passion. The woman, with an immovable posture, suppresses the lion, and in the background, there is a towering mountain, serving as another reflection of this scene. Observing the scene of this card: in the distance, there is a large mountain with several green trees in front. This blue, phallic-shaped hill is similar to the mountain on the Lovers card, with a connotation of passionate energy, but it also represents the hidden energy and explosive power, and it is a moment of potential energy and restraint.
The Woman
In the Strength card, the woman symbolizes gentleness, patience, compassion, and the softer side of human nature. Her act of closing the lion’s mouth not through force, but with a calm demeanor, speaks of inner strength and the ability to overcome obstacles or challenges through understanding and patience, rather than through brute force.
The Lion
The lion is traditionally a symbol of raw power, courage, and ferocity. In this card, it represents our animalistic tendencies and passions. The woman’s act of taming the lion signifies mastery over one’s own wilder instincts, harnessing them in a way that they serve rather than dominate. It’s a card that urges the balance between instinct and reason.
The Lemniscate (Infinity Symbol)
Above the woman’s head is the lemniscate, the same symbol seen in the Magician card, representing infinity and limitless potential. Here, it symbolizes a harmonious interaction between conscious understanding and unconscious instinct. It also speaks to the infinite power and potential that can be harnessed when we are able to bring our instincts into alignment with our higher values and understanding.
The Mountainous Background
The rugged landscape in the background suggests challenges and obstacles. Yet, the sky is clear, indicating that clarity and understanding reign in the situation at hand. The combination of the serene sky and the challenging mountains highlight the essence of the card: facing challenges with inner strength, clarity, and calm determination.
The Garland of Flowers
Wrapped around the woman is a garland of flowers, symbolizing victory, success, and the blossoming of one’s endeavors when they act with compassion and understanding. Flowers, with their gentle beauty, counteract the wild nature of the lion, suggesting that with patience and love, even the most challenging situations or primal instincts can be transformed into something beautiful and harmonious.
Keywords
Inner Strength, Courage, Compassion, Balance, Taming the Beast Within
General Overview
The Strength card stands as a beacon of inner power, resilience, and the mastery of self. It goes beyond the realm of physical might, diving deep into the spirit’s core, where raw emotions, desires, and fears reside. It represents the human ability to confront what’s within, achieving a balanced state of mind that ultimately radiates compassion and grace. The gentle taming of the lion is a powerful symbol of the unison of our primal instincts and higher self.
At times, life’s challenges may seem insurmountable, but Strength suggests an innate ability to handle them with grace. This card isn’t about brute force, but rather the strength of will, determination, and spirit. It’s about enduring hardship with a calm demeanor, understanding that true power arises from love and patience, not aggression. The triumph of spirit over matter is echoed in its imagery and its call.
Yhe Strength card serves as a mirror, reflecting our ability to harness our inner beast, channeling its energy constructively. The woman’s peaceful taming of the lion illustrates the profound strength found in gentleness, a reminder that our true power emerges when heart and soul work in harmony.
Character
Personality of the Individual
A person with heroic traits, courageous enough to face any challenge, even if sometimes a bit risky, still willing to take responsibility to complete things from beginning to end.
Work Philosophy
Very proactive at work, but sometimes a bit of a hero complex, wanting to complete things by oneself, and being very energetic and confident while working.
Emotional Outlook
Appears strong on the outside but still has very rich emotions inside, will cooperate with the other party, find a suitable way to get along together, and also has the ability to deal with various problems.
Financial Perspective
Does not place money in the most important position, but is very good at using money to achieve their goals, very generous to others, with a big brother-like magnanimous style.
How to Deal with the Individual
Such people are more concerned about face, so don't embarrass them in front of everyone, if there are matters to be coordinated privately, it will be easier to resolve.
Representative Figures
Animal tamers, pet owners, heroists, athletes, female bosses.
Work
Work Situation
The work situation is actually quite smooth, and there are quite a few opportunities to perform, you should seize the constantly emerging opportunities to climb to a higher level in your work.
How to Solve Work Difficulties
Some things need to be coordinated with others, sometimes you also need to consider the other party's position, find a method that both parties can accept to proceed smoothly.
Workplace Relationships
Everyone has a certain strength and pride, so you should have a broad mind to accept the parts where others are stronger than you, and truly appreciate the other party to truly appreciate each other.
How to Get Along with Your Boss
Many times, hard-line tactics are not necessarily the most effective, you should use methods to cater to their preferences, and a soft appeal may achieve unexpected results.
Job Prospects
The future development prospects of this job are good, but there will be quite a few competitors, you have to work harder than before to maintain the advantages you have established now.
Job Hunting/Changing Jobs
There should be quite good job opportunities now, maybe not very satisfactory, but you should seize the current opportunities, and it will be more worthwhile to get in.
Love
Love Situation
The current emotional situation is quite stable, you should take the initiative to give more love, so that people can feel the growth of this relationship, and bring more joy to each other.
Possibility of New Romance
New love interests should appear soon, it's just a matter of whether you subjectively accept them or not, this will be a relationship worth investing in, you can try to accept it.
View on This Relationship
This is a complementary combination, although the two people have many differences, they can cooperate with each other, sometimes you have to play the role of an animal tamer to teach the other party.
Sexual Attraction
There is a strong sexual attraction in this relationship, the two people cooperate well in the sexual aspect, so the sexual life will also become a positive process to enhance the feelings between the two parties.
How to Resolve Arguments
It is necessary to deal with problems with skill and wisdom, more importantly, remember the principle that softness can overcome hardness, dealing with problems in a direct conflict will only lead to injury.
Possibility of a Breakup
It's useless to just unilaterally announce a breakup, you still need to sit down with the other person to talk about a result, in fact, the relationship between the two people is still very close.
Possibility of Reconciliation
There is still a possibility of reconciliation between the two people, and there are many places where you can work hard, don't give up hope in a hurry, maybe the other party also wants to reconcile with you.
Friendship
Interpersonal Situation
Because you are kind to others, there are no big problems in interpersonal relationships, the more you give to others, the more help you will get from friends.
How to Resolve Misunderstandings with Friends
Try to think from the other person's perspective, maybe you can find a win-win solution, if you take the initiative to propose a request for reconciliation, the stalemate will be resolved soon.
Family
Family Situation
The family is now in a very harmonious and successful situation, everyone can share honors and benefits, if everyone cooperates and divides the work, there will be even greater success.
Relationship with Elders
You have a good relationship with the elders, you are very good at coquetting with them, so you will get a lot of care and attention, and they will also be willing to provide you with assistance.
Relationship with Peers
You are more like a leader among peers, you can give everyone advice, and you can also help others solve problems, so as long as you are there, you will be welcomed.
Relationship with Juniors
The younger family members all like to coquettish to you, because you are their savior in their hearts, no matter what kind of problem they encounter, you can usually help them solve it.
Academics
Academic Situation
Now the situation in learning is very smooth, and you can really learn what you should learn, if you continue to go on, you will get a lot of harvest.
Learning Methods
If you can cooperate with classmates, you will be more efficient in learning, so quickly put down your pride and start trying to cooperate with others.
Relationship with Teachers
It belongs to the teacher who is soft rather than hard, don't challenge his authority directly, if you make a mistake, admit it first and then plead with him, he will definitely forgive you.
Relationship with Classmates
You are a prominent figure among classmates, but you should avoid hurting others' self-esteem, consider others' positions before taking action.
Finance
Financial Situation
Now is a particularly good time for your financial situation, so you should save more capital for yourself at this time, don't spend all your money so quickly.
Investment Situation
Now is a time when you are suitable for investment, but you should be careful when encountering large amounts, if you can seek advice from experts, it will be more helpful to you.
Purchasing Strategy
At this time, purchasing must go through a negotiation process to get the most favorable conditions for you, even if you decide at the first moment, you should try to bargain.
Keywords
Lack of Courage, Inner Weakness, Insecurity, Overwhelm, Loss of Control
General Overview
When the Strength card is reversed, its benevolent energy of inner fortitude and balance seems to waver, suggesting periods of self-doubt, insecurity, and a sense of powerlessness. Rather than the gentle mastery over one’s inner beast, there might be struggles with emotional control, impulsivity, or even aggressive tendencies. It speaks of moments when we lose sight of our inner strength and allow external circumstances or internal tumult to overshadow our inherent resilience.
This card, in its inverted stance, is not a prediction of perpetual weakness, but rather a nudge to recognize the areas where one may need to regain balance and composure. It’s an invitation to introspect, understand, and harness one’s vulnerabilities and turn them into sources of strength. Confronting one’s fears, anxieties, and insecurities is the first step towards reclaiming one’s inner power.
The reversed Strength card could signify situations where too much strength or assertiveness might have turned into overbearing or domineering behavior. It serves as a gentle reminder that true strength lies not in overpowering others but in understanding and compassion.
Character
Personality of the Individual
Often self-centered when considering matters, can be seen as arrogant. When making decisions, they rarely take into account the positions of others and are prone to misuse their power.
Work Philosophy
Very executive in work, but often takes initiatives without thinking it through, seeking personal performance opportunities, which may lead to conflicts with colleagues.
Emotional Outlook
Appears strong on the outside, but is actually very fragile inside. Feels unappreciated in relationships and sometimes is unclear about their emotional needs.
Financial Perspective
Not very enthusiastic about making money, prefers to spend on luxury goods, may have many branded items but fails to accumulate wealth.
How to Deal with the Individual
May act arrogantly due to inner inferiority. Be gentle and patient in communication, especially when it comes to matters of face.
Representative Figures
Executor, performer, domineering person, abuser of power, henpecked husband.
Work
Work Situation
Currently dealing with a domineering boss at work, which is tiring. There are opportunities to perform, but it's mostly following orders.
How to Solve Work Difficulties
Courage is needed to stand one's ground, not to retreat because of gossip. Continuing with one's own methods will yield the best results.
Workplace Relationships
Workplace relationships are very tense, so be careful when dealing with others. Offending someone may lead to unnecessary rumors.
How to Get Along with Your Boss
Facing an autocratic boss, no matter how hard you work, it's futile. It's better to be obedient and follow their instructions to gain their appreciation.
Job Prospects
The job is not very stable in the future, but if you can overcome challenges, there will be good prospects. It depends on how dedicated you are to your work.
Job Hunting/Changing Jobs
Now is a good time to change. Choose job opportunities carefully. If you can't decide, it's recommended to choose independent tasks to avoid teamwork.
Love
Love Situation
The current emotional situation seems a bit out of control. Although both parties want to make the relationship more harmonious, they are at an impasse due to some issues.
Possibility of New Romance
There may be new romantic interests now, but they are not under your control. Waiting for someone to pursue you actively may lead to a more suitable partner.
View on This Relationship
Feels that the other party is very strong, but they are also unwilling to concede, so there are many places that need adjustment. Sometimes they have to deliberately please the other party.
Sexual Attraction
In this relationship, the sexual relationship is an important part. How to experience each other's love is a key to maintaining the relationship between two people.
How to Resolve Arguments
If conflict is inevitable, it should be allowed to erupt directly. Only by knowing the other party's real dissatisfaction can the problem be solved completely.
Possibility of a Breakup
If you want to break up now, it's best to list all the other party's problems. Even if you don't take the initiative to break up, the other party will be unable to bear it.
Possibility of Reconciliation
There are fundamental differences between the two, so even if they reconcile, there is no benefit. You should firmly refuse the other party and not give them another chance to hurt you.
Friendship
Interpersonal Situation
Be careful in interpersonal relationships, as someone may want to use you to achieve their goals. Even if it's not harmful to you, you will feel uncomfortable.
How to Resolve Misunderstandings with Friends
Pay attention to the damage caused by rumors. Talk to the other party directly to clarify the issue. Don't pass on messages through a third party, otherwise, things may get worse.
Family
Family Situation
There may be disputes over certain matters in the family now. At this time, you should face each other with a more tolerant attitude. Giving way a bit will have a good effect.
Relationship with Elders
In the eyes of the elders, you are a difficult person to educate. No matter what kind of advice they give, you rarely listen to them. Your views on many things are very different.
Relationship with Peers
You have few opportunities to interact with peers, mostly dealing with your own problems. Even if there are opportunities to cooperate with each other, most of them will not succeed.
Relationship with Juniors
You are very kind to the younger generation in the family, but it will also cause them to be spoiled. Instead, it will make you difficult to control. You should be stricter when educating them.
Academics
Academic Situation
Now encountering some difficulties in learning, it's hard to solve problems rationally, so it becomes emotional. You should ask classmates to help you solve the problem.
Learning Methods
Don't let yourself be too tired. If you feel you have no strength, you should take a rest. After you recover, your learning efficiency will improve.
Relationship with Teachers
It's useless to please teachers. You should strengthen your own academic strength. If you can have an outstanding performance, you will definitely get his affirmation.
Relationship with Classmates
There are rumors circulating among classmates that are not favorable to you. Find the source of the rumors and clarify them. Although this has no impact on your learning, it will affect your mood.
Finance
Financial Situation
The current financial situation is not bad, but it's not as good as you think. You should evaluate it rationally to avoid spending too much at once.
Investment Situation
The current investment profits are good, but it's important to know when to stop. Being too obsessed with current investments will cause harm to you, and it's not suitable to make new investments.
Purchasing Strategy
Be extra careful when purchasing at this time. If you can't decide, you should focus on brand and quality. If you are greedy for small benefits, sometimes it may be counterproductive.