The Chariot -

Tarot Card Meaning

Part of a full-series guide of all 78 Tarot Cards. See the full guide here.

Written by Made Musings

7. THE CHARIOT

At a glance:

The charioteer holds no reins, symbolizing control through sheer willpower.

Upright Keywords:
Willpower, creating a plan, direction, determination

Reversed Keywords:
stagnation, need to focus

Numerology:
7 - introspection, planning, analysis, wisdom

The Chariot: Upright Meaning

The Chariot card depicts a warrior driving a chariot under a canopy of stars. The charioteer holds no reins, symbolizing control through sheer willpower. Despite the sphinxes pulling the chariot in different directions, it is the warrior’s inner strength and determination that decide the course.

Think of The Chariot as a vehicle that gets you from Point A to Point B. It serves as a reminder that without direction and control, you will simply go nowhere. The Chariot card often presents itself when it’s time to "move" onto the next step in your journey. Whether it’s advancing in your career, evolving in your personal relationships, or growing spiritually, The Chariot encourages you to harness your inner strength, take control, and navigate your path with confidence and determination. Remember, your journey requires both a clear destination and the willpower to stay the course.

The Chariot is associated with the number 7, which embodies introspection, planning, and inner wisdom. Seven is a number linked to intuition, analysis, and a deep search for truth. It suggests that your journey to success will require careful planning and reliance on your inner compass. The Chariot encourages you to reflect on your path and strategize effectively in order to navigate through challenges.

Love/Relationships

The Chariot love meaning emphasizes the importance of clarity before moving onto the next stage. Be honest about your desires and ensure that your actions align with your true feelings. Are you ready for the next step? If you are, it’s time to take decisive action to build a relationship that reflects your authentic self. If you are single, The Chariot may indicate that it’s time to pursue a connection with confidence. 

Money/Career

When it comes to money and career, The Chariot symbolizes forward momentum and strategic direction. Take initiative to advance your career and meet those financial goals. Steer clear of office politics and other distractions that may hinder your progress. Instead, focus on your objectives and employ a disciplined approach to your work. Sometimes this comes in the form of analyzing data, like strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities. What milestones do you need to reach to move up? If you’re facing challenges, stay disciplined in order to safely navigate obstacles with resilience. Consider developing a concrete plan to reach your goals, such as making a business plan.

Spiritual/Self

If you’re on a journey of self-discovery, The Chariot is your sign to move forward and take the next steps. How else can you level up your personal growth? Maybe it’s time to get to hire that personal trainer at the gym, or perhaps your crafting tools are due for an upgrade. The Chariot’s message is clear: in order to maintain your direction, you must also keep moving forward.

“Think of The Chariot as a vehicle that gets you from Point A to Point B. It serves as a reminder that without direction and control, you will simply go nowhere. ”

Astrology

The Chariot is closely associated with the zodiac sign Cancer, symbolizing determination, protection, and emotional balance. Cancer’s influence brings a nurturing yet tenacious energy, encouraging you to pursue your goals with both sensitivity and strength. This alignment highlights the importance of balancing your emotional needs with your ambitions. Cancer’s intuitive nature supports the introspective qualities of The Chariot, urging you to trust your instincts and emotional intelligence as you chart your path.

Note: It's important to recognize that not everyone incorporates astrology into their Tarot readings. The extent to which astrological references are used can vary greatly among readers. Each reader has a unique approach; some may draw heavily on astrological archetypes, while others might not use them at all. This information is meant to offer an additional perspective that could be helpful in your interpretations by highlighting parallels between Tarot and Astrology.

Although some argue that astrology wasn't originally part of Tarot, more modern interpretations like the Rider Waite Smith and Thoth decks may have integrated astrological concepts to align with their modern time mystical beliefs. Many contemporary decks made in this current decade also feature astrological references. Ultimately, every individual develops their own unique relationship with both Tarot and Astrology.

Reversed Meaning

When The Chariot appears reversed, it may signal a loss of direction or control. This card could also suggest that your determination has turned into obsession, leading to burnout and lack of focus. Take a step back to reassess your situation and recalibrate your approach. Reflect on what’s truly important and find a way to harmonize opposing forces in your life.

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CARD SUMMARY

The Chariot’s message is clear: in order to maintain your direction, you must also keep moving forward.

Learn More about Tarot.

  • Your Guide to the Celtic Cross Tarot Spread.

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  • Access our Tarot Guide to all 78 card meanings.

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  • How to cleanse and prep your cards.

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  • Tarot Spreads for Guidance: A List of our Favorite Spreads for Newbies and Experts.

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  • Get a FREE digital Tarot cheatsheet.

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