Wands in Tarot
The Wands suit in tarot is about drive, ambition, and creative energy. Wands symbolize the inner fire, our passion, and the motivation to act and create change. This suit reflects our will to follow our ambitions, striving to bring our ideas and dreams into the physical world. When Wands appear in a reading, they often speak of action, development, and what we are passionate about—the projects, goals, and visions that push us forward.
The suit reminds us that action and creative energy are crucial for achieving our goals but also warns us against burning out or losing balance in our eagerness. Wands show that through passion and drive, we can achieve success, but it also requires courage, perseverance, and a clear direction to avoid losing ourselves in the process. This suit is about movement, expansion, and following the spark within us that drives us to act.
Wands Tarot Cards and Their Meanings
Click on a card to read its meaning.
Wands
Examples of How to Interpret Tarot Readings with Wands Cards
Three-Card Spread: Career Ambition and Challenges
Past: Three of Wands
The Three of Wands shows that you’ve previously laid the groundwork for your success and are now waiting to see the results of your efforts. You’ve taken initiative, invested time and energy into a project or career, and now feel a sense of anticipation. This card represents the initial phase of expansion, where you’ve done your part and are now waiting for opportunities to come your way.
Present: Seven of Wands
Now, you find yourself in a position where you must defend what you’ve built. The Seven of Wands indicates that you are facing resistance or competition and need to stand up for your ideas, position, or project. In contrast to the Three of Wands, where the focus was on waiting for success, the Seven of Wands reminds you that you must be ready to fight for what you’ve accomplished. You are in a strong position, but you need to stay firm in your convictions and be prepared to defend your ideas against external challenges.
Future: Ten of Swords
The future may present a challenging period. The Ten of Swords warns of impending mental or emotional exhaustion. In relation to the Seven of Wands, this suggests that the struggle to hold on to your ambitions could become overwhelming. While Wands are about passion and drive, this card reminds you to be aware of when it’s time to let go. Pushing yourself too far could lead to mental and physical breakdowns.
Five-Card Spread: Following Your Dreams
Past: Ace of Cups
The Ace of Cups represents a time of emotional renewal. It could have been a new relationship, a creative project, or a passion that was awakened. This card indicates a period where your heart was filled with inspiration and hope.
Present: Eight of Wands
Right now, things are moving quickly. The Eight of Wands suggests that you are in a flow where events are unfolding rapidly. This may be a time when you see quick progress in a project or plan you’ve been working on. The Eight of Wands speaks of momentum—things are happening fast, and you need to be ready to act without hesitation. There is a sense that you’ve entered a flow where everything is falling into place, and your energy is high. But it’s also important to maintain focus to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
Obstacle: Four of Swords
The Four of Swords in this position suggests that you may need time for rest and reflection. Despite all the success and movement, there may be a tendency to ignore your own need for recovery. If you push yourself too hard, you could quickly burn out. The Four of Swords advises you to find time to recharge, even amid the pace and intensity of the Eight of Wands.
Advice: Six of Pentacles
The Six of Pentacles advises you to seek balance between giving and receiving. You may be in a position where you have resources to share, whether in the form of money, time, or energy. It’s a reminder that cooperation and reciprocity can help keep your energy flowing. Instead of trying to do everything yourself, it may be time to seek support or offer help to others to create balance in your life.
Future: Three of Wands
The future looks bright for your journey. The Three of Wands suggests that the seeds you plant now will begin to grow, and you will see the results of your hard work. The card represents growth, expansion, and new opportunities coming your way. If you maintain focus and follow the momentum represented by the Eight of Wands, while also ensuring rest and receiving support, you will be ready to reap the rewards the future has in store.
Four-Card Cross Spread: Finding the Courage to Act
Situation: Knight of Wands
You are now facing a situation where courage and determination are required. The Knight of Wands represents a time for action, where you must take control of your path and follow your passion. It’s a card that encourages bold, sometimes risky decisions, and to follow your heart without fear. You now feel a strong energy pulling you forward, and there’s a call to not hesitate.
Challenge: Two of Pentacles
The challenge here is to maintain balance between different aspects of your life. The Two of Pentacles suggests that you are juggling multiple responsibilities, and it can be difficult to find harmony between them. With the Knight of Wands driving you forward, you could easily become overwhelmed if you don’t find a way to balance your ambitions with your practical obligations.
Advice: Queen of Cups
The Queen of Cups advises you to listen to your emotions and act with compassion—both for yourself and others. While the energy of Wands is about acting and realizing ambitions, it’s important to stay in touch with your emotional needs. The Queen urges you to nurture your inner self and act with sensitivity rather than rushing forward without reflection.
Future: Ten of Wands
In the future, you may encounter a period of heavy responsibility. The Ten of Wands shows that while you are moving forward and achieving your goals, it may come with a sense of burden. You may find yourself carrying more than you expected, and it’s important not to take on too much. The card warns against carrying all the burdens alone—you may need to seek help or learn to delegate to avoid becoming overwhelmed.