Strength Tarot Card Meaning

Associations of the Strength Tarot Card

Number: 8

Planet: Sun

Hebrew Letter: Teth

Astrological Sign: Leo

Important Symbols

• A figure of perceived weakness showing dominance over a figure of perceived strength.
  • The “weaker” figure is displaying emotions of calm and confidence
  • The “stronger” figure is displaying emotions of surrender to the “weaker” figure.
• The “weaker” figure will share similar symbols with The Magician to suggest a spiritual connectedness with the divine. Emphasis will be placed on the figures use of their left hands, indicating mental strength, not physical strength.
• The “stronger” figure will strongly convey our animalistic passions, desires, lusts and raw motivations.

The Strength Archetype

The concept of Strength communicated in this card is not a message of pure, raw physical strength. Instead, it has us consider the inner and spiritual strength required to control our animalistic and raw desires.

Tarot Card Readings: What Does Strength Mean?

General Upright Interpretation

The Strength card represents all variations of the concept of “strength” as we know it, except physical strength. This means inner strength, mental strength, patience, and determination.

This card represents a “cool” head in moments of frustration or anger, guiding gently instead of pushing forcefully.

General Reverse Interpretation

In the reverse position, this card represents a lack of inner strength, the prevalence of weakness and inability to believe in yourself.

Journaling Prompts for The Strength Tarot Card

1. How would you describe your animalistic nature?
2. Do you rely too much on your instincts?
3. Have you ever expressed rage that resulted in abusiveness or violence?
4. Are you afraid of your animal nature?
5. Do you punish yourself too hastily for making mistakes?

Not Using the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot Deck and looking at the Strength Card?

Just because you’re not using the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, doesn’t mean you can’t use the resources on this site to help you.

Take some time to look at the imagery on your card. Here are some things to consider in addition to other materials you have to help you connect with the deck you are using if your deck is different than the one featured at the top of the page.

1. Identify the figures that give the first impression of weakness and strength.
2. Explain how the weaker figure is showing strength, and how the stronger figure is being submissive.