The Wheel of Fortune -

Tarot Card Meaning

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

Written by Made Musings

10. THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE

At a glance:

The Wheel indicates a fated turning point in one's life, often bringing about significant changes and opportunities.

Upright Keywords:
Change, cycles, embracing fate/destiny

Reversed Keywords:
not letting go of control, setbacks

Numerology:
10 - completion and new beginnings

The Wheel of Fortune: Upright Meaning

The Wheel of Fortune tarot card features a large wheel adorned with mystical symbols, spinning in perpetual motion. Surrounding the wheel are various figures, including a sphinx, a serpent, and a jackal, representing the cycle of life and the interplay of fate and destiny. At its core, this card signifies the ever-turning cycles of life, reminding us that change is constant and that we are often at the mercy of fate's whims. When this card appears upright, it indicates a turning point in one's life, often bringing about significant changes and opportunities. However, just like a turning wheel, all things are temporary. Just like life, things are cyclical and one must let go of control and accept the present.

Just as The Fool in their journey learns that events unfold in their own time, so too does life. The Wheel of Fortune reminds us that everything happens as it should and follows a larger cosmic plan.

The Wheel of Fortune illustration is filled with tons of symbology. Let’s break it down:

  • The Wheel: Represents cycles and change.

  • Sphinx: Represents diversity, mystery, and esoteric knowledge. It serves as a guardian of hidden truths, symbolizing the importance of understanding and deciphering life's mysteries. The Spinx holds a sword, which is associated with truth and power.

  • Anubis: Anubis is depicted under The Wheel and is an ancient Egyptian god of the afterlife symbolizing protection, guidance, and transition. He represents the passage between the physical and spiritual realms, ensuring safe passage and transformation.

  • Snake: The snake is a symbol of rebirth, transformation, and healing. It embodies the cyclical nature of life, shedding old skin to embrace new growth and potential.

  • Symbols on The Wheel: Features Hebrew letters and Alchemy symbols related to the Name of God and the building blocks of life.

  • Four Animals in the Corner: Associated with either the 4 elements or the 4 zodiac signs Taurus (Earth Element), Leo (Fire Element), Scorpio (Water Element), and Aquarius (Air element)

  • The Torah: Each animal holds a Torah, which represents wisdom and knowledge.

In numerology, the number 10 represents both completion and new beginnings. It symbolizes the end of one cycle and the start of another, embodying the idea of continuous evolution. This dual aspect of completion and renewal ties in perfectly with the Wheel of Fortune card, which emphasizes life's cyclical nature.

Love/Relationships

The Wheel of Fortune love meaning indicates a period of change and transformation. This could mean that a current relationship is evolving into a new phase, or that fate has a new romantic opportunity in store for you. The most important thing to remember is to surrender to change with an open heart, as they are part of your journey toward what’s meant to be.

If you are single, you may have a fated encounter soon. Remain open to new possibilities and trust that the universe will bring the right person into your life at the right time. For those in relationships, it may be a good time to reflect on your bond and adapt to the evolving dynamics, ensuring that you grow together.

Money/Career

When it comes to money and career, the Wheel of Fortune is a harbinger of good fortune and positive change. You might experience a sudden opportunity for advancement, a new job offer, or a shift in your financial situation that brings greater stability and abundance. However, it's essential to remain adaptable and ready to seize opportunities as they arise. Keep your skills sharp and stay open to new learning experiences. Remember, while The Wheel brings good fortune, it also requires you to “roll with the opportunities” to capitalize on the opportunities presented.

Spiritual/Self

The Wheel of Fortune card encourages you to embrace the changes as “unseen forces” that are shaping your life. Just as a wheel turns, life will continuously bring new experiences and challenges to your personal journey of evolution. This is about trusting the process. Factors that are beyond you are at play, whether they be physical or cosmic forces, and The Wheel is a test of how open you are to fated events out of your control. Understanding and accepting the ebb and flow of life is key to achieving spiritual balance and personal growth.

“While The Wheel brings good fortune, it also requires you to “roll with the opportunities” to capitalize on the opportunities presented.”

Astrology

Astrologically, the Wheel of Fortune is associated with Jupiter, the planet of luck, growth, and expansion. Jupiter's influence brings optimism, good fortune, and the promise of new opportunities. This planetary connection underscores the card's themes of cyclical change and the ever-present potential for positive developments in your life. Just as Jupiter encourages exploration and growth, the Wheel of Fortune urges you to embrace change and trust in the journey ahead, knowing that each turn of the wheel brings new possibilities and growth.

The Rider Waite Smith Illustration also depicts different Zodiac signs in the four corners, such as Taurus (Earth Element), Leo (Fire Element), Scorpio (Water Element), and Aquarius (Air element). The Wheel is closely associated with Cosmic forces.

  • Bull = Taurus

  • Lion = Leo

  • Eagle/Phoenix = Scorpio (note: the sign of Scorpio is known for its ability to transform and transcend. Scorpio essentially starts off as a 1) Scorpio and then later evolves to a 2) Eagle/Higher Evolution and then 3) Phoenix/Spiritual Transformation and Rebirth)

  • Guardian Angel = Aquarius

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 Wheel of Fortune appears reversed, it signals a period of stagnation or resistance to change. You might feel stuck or as though you are at the mercy of external forces beyond your control. This reversed position serves as a reminder to focus on what you can control and to let go of the rest. Accept that life's cycles include ups and downs, and use this time to build resilience and adaptability. Remember: The Wheel is always turning, and eventually things will feel “up” again since that is the natural order of the world.

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CARD SUMMARY

Just like a turning wheel, all things are temporary. Like life, things are cyclical and one must let go of control and accept the present.

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