# Strength ![Strength, classic RWS illustration](https://tarotatlas.wiki/media/cards/strength.webp) VIII / Major Arcana [Compare this card ↗](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/compare/?left=strength) [Major Arcana](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/major-arcana/) Classic RWS illustration · Modern interpretations ## Study notes ### Upright Meet difficulty with courage, patience and compassion. ### Reversed Self-doubt or poorly managed emotion can weaken confidence. ### A common misreading Strength concerns inner steadiness, not simply physical force or overpowering someone. ### Picture cue A calm woman holds a lion. ### An interpretation for study The description contrasts the lion's passion with the woman's composure. The complete passages below describe this edition’s interpretive themes. Possibility and symbolism are different from evidence about real events. ## Upright meaning couragebraveryconfidencecompassionself-confidenceinner power When you get the Strength card in an upright manner during your tarot reading, then it shows that you have inner strength and fortitude during moments of danger and distress. It shows that you have the ability to remain calm and strong even when your life is going through immense struggle. It also shows that you are a compassionate person and you always have time for other people even if it's at your own expense. Getting the strength card means that you are a very patient individual who is likely to accomplish anything that they put their mind to. Your resilience will greatly aid you, and your fearlessness means that you should have no issues speaking your mind. In this interpretation, compassion is linked with steadiness; it does not guarantee a reward or future stability. ## Reversed meaning self-doubtweaknesslow confidenceinadequacycowardiceforcefulness An upside down Strength card can mean that you are (or about to) experience an intense anger or fear in your life. You seem to be lacking the inner strength that this card normally represents, meaning you might be experiencing fear, and a lack of conviction and confidence in your own abilities. This can mean that you have forgotten all about your passions and the kind of joy, happiness, and fulfillment that came with doing what you love. A reversed strength card in a reading might also mean that one is experiencing depression because of a number of reasons and because of that, it is draining all of the happiness from their lives. One might end up being withdrawn from society because of the unhappiness or depression since they may feel people are the reason why they are so sad. It can also be a sign of jealousy, especially when everyone seems to be happy or excelling in every aspect of life while you are stagnating. This card indicates that you must learn to gain confidence in order to re-harness your inner strength. ## In the illustration In this tarot card, you will see a woman who calmly holds the jaws of a fully grown lion. Despite the fact that the lion looks menacing and strong, the woman seems to have dominion over it. What is captivating is how gracefully she controls the lion. She is calm and collected, which is representative for being in control and disciplined especially in times of great adversities. The fact that she is also holding the jaws of a lion also shows that she has courage. Her control of the lion without being too rough shows love and compassion. The blue background over the mountains shows stability and the kind of calmness that comes with being stable. The lion is a symbol of courage, passion and desire which are very much part of the human feelings that are necessary for survival. But if these feelings are not put in check can lead to our eventual destruction. ## Meanings in context These passages explore how the same symbolic themes are applied to different subjects. They are interpretive perspectives, not findings about a person or a future event. Love and relationships＋ ### Upright meaning You may find yourself in a passionate and fiery romance when you draw the Strength card in a love tarot reading. The intense feelings suggested by this card can indicate both a strong relationship, and also one that can be prone to anger, jealousy or other emotional explosions. There are both pros and cons with this kind of relationship. Alternatively, Strength’s tarot love meaning is one of compassion, empathy and inner strength; you may find that these qualities may support the relationships that you seek, or bring you and your existing partner closer together. Empathy may give you greater insight to both yours and your partner’s needs and insecurities. Should you find yourself in an argument or in heated moments, it may be better for you to treat each other with patience and gentleness, rather than allowing your anger to take control. ### Reversed meaning In a love tarot reading, when Strength is reversed, the card can signal a bit of codependency in your relationship. This may stem from some forms of insecurity that make it difficult for you and your partner to be more independent and pursue your own interests. Being full individuals with your own lives brings more to your partnership; it doesn’t detract from it. Make sure that there is a strong sense of trust in your partnership. A reversed Strength tarot love meaning can also indicate that force and power are becoming more apparent themes in your relationship. One partner may be becoming more and more domineering, instead of empathic and understanding. You may have to make sure that one partner’s needs aren’t being trampled over in favor of another’s.Career and work＋ ### Upright meaning If you could harness your animalistic instincts; your anger, your drive and passion, you can take big steps in your career. This doesn’t mean to let these instincts take over, but rather work in harmony with them, or channel them into productive use. Here is where you’ll be able to find your power; this card signals that you likely already have the talent and the skill, you only need to muster your courage to make big moves. If you’re looking for a promotion, do something to get noticed. If you’re looking to change your entire career, take the plunge and do it. If you’re dreaming about starting your own business, push yourself to take those next steps and just start. ### Reversed meaning Have your fears been standing in the way of your career aspirations? The reversed Strength card suggests that you may have everything you need in order to find success, except perhaps a healthy dose of confidence and belief in yourself. You may constantly second-guess yourself, letting your anxiety and self-doubt take control and prevent you from making the choices that can propel your career forward. If you actually took a closer look at yourself, you would find that you are more capable than you actually believe. Trust in your own abilities, and others will trust you as well.Money and resources＋ These passages describe attitudes toward resources. A card cannot establish a financial outcome or determine whether an investment is suitable. ### Upright meaning If you’ve been working well on controlling impulsive spending, it’s likely that you’ll find yourself in a comfortable position now. So long as you continue to exercise control, you should be fine. You may also be ready to make bold moves in terms of your purchases; perhaps putting your finances to work on something you’ve always been dreaming of. ### Reversed meaning Avoid compulsive spending now, as it can do more damage to your financial situation than usual. Alternatively this card can also suggest hesitancy about spending your money on things that can be helpful to you now, even if you may have an abundance of funds. There can be a feeling of financial insecurity, regardless of what your actual situation is.Feelings＋ A feelings interpretation cannot establish what another person thinks or feels. Compare the theme with direct communication and observable behaviour. ### Upright meaning When the upright Strength card appears in a reading about how someone feels about you, it reveals their deep admiration and respect for your resilience. They see you as a beacon of courage and compassion, drawing them closer to you. Their feelings are anchored in trust; they value your ability to face challenges with grace, which makes them feel secure in their connection with you. On your end, Strength indicates that you're experiencing a surge of self-confidence and emotional stability. You’re embracing vulnerability while understanding the importance of setting healthy boundaries. This balance empowers you to navigate your emotions effectively, fostering personal growth and deeper connections with those around you. ### Reversed meaning The appearance of the reversed Strength card points to someone who may be grappling with their emotions and lacks confidence in expressing them. They might feel overwhelmed or insecure, leading to a sense of vulnerability that makes it difficult for them to connect deeply. Their feelings could be clouded by self-doubt, causing them to hold back rather than fully embrace what they feel for you. With regard to your own feelings, the reversed Strength indicates an internal battle where you might be feeling weak or unsure of yourself. You could be grappling with insecurities that prevent you from asserting your needs or desires clearly. This card encourages you to confront these feelings head-on and find ways to reclaim your inner strength, allowing yourself the grace to heal and grow amidst uncertainty.Actions＋ ### Upright meaning When you draw the Strength card upright, it’s a powerful reminder to tap into your inner resilience and courage. Now is the time to confront challenges with grace and confidence, recognizing that true strength lies in compassion and patience. You should focus on nurturing relationships, offering support to those around you while also standing firm in your beliefs. Engage in activities that build both physical and emotional endurance, such as yoga or meditation, which can help center your energy. Additionally, consider volunteering or mentoring someone who could benefit from your guidance; this may not only strengthen bonds but also reinforce your sense of purpose. ### Reversed meaning When you draw the Strength card reversed, it signals that you may be feeling overwhelmed or lacking confidence in your current situation. It’s time to embrace vulnerability and acknowledge your fears instead of suppressing them. Focus on nurturing self-compassion and understanding that true strength lies in being honest with yourself. In practical terms, consider journaling about your feelings or seeking support from a trusted friend or mentor who can help you gain perspective. Engage in activities that build your inner resilience, such as meditation or gentle exercise, allowing you to reconnect with your core self and regain balance before moving forward confidently. These meanings describe interpretive traditions. Use them for study and reflection; they do not establish facts about future events. [Study guide →](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/study-guide/)[Practice with flashcards →](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/learn/)[Explore all spreads →](https://tarotatlas.wiki/en/spreads/)