Seven of Wands
Words describing Seven of Wands: struggle, competition, determination, perseverance, challenge, defense, victory.
How to interpret Seven of Wands in tarot
Past
The Devil (upright)
Present
Eight of Swords (upright)
Future
Seven of Wands (reversed)
The Basic Meaning of the Card (Rider-Waite)
The Seven of Wands is the seventh card in the Tarot’s Minor Arcana within the Wand suit and symbolizes defense, courage, and determination. The card’s image shows a person standing on a hilltop and fighting against six wands below, suggesting that he is defending his position. It represents that sometimes we must stand up for ourselves and our beliefs, even when we face opposition and challenges.
Upright Meaning
When the Seven of Wands appears upright in a Tarot reading, it signifies a time of defense, courage, and determination. The card urges you to stand up for yourself and your beliefs, even when you face opposition or challenges. It is a time for being brave and fighting for what you believe in, as well as being determined and persistent in your efforts.
Reversed Meaning
If the Seven of Wands is reversed in a reading, it may indicate that you are feeling overwhelmed by opposition or having difficulty defending your position. It may also mean that you are unwilling to fight for your beliefs or feeling insecure about your ability to handle challenges. The card urges you to find courage and determination, as well as standing up for yourself and your beliefs, even when you face opposition and challenges.
Example of Interpretation
If the Seven of Wands appears in a reading alongside the Empress and Eight of Pentacles, it could be interpreted as standing up for yourself and your beliefs (Seven of Wands) will lead to personal growth and creativity (Empress). This will then lead to becoming more skilled in your work or craft (Eight of Pentacles), which will give you the opportunity to further develop your skills and become more successful in your field.
Psychological Interpretation
Archetypal Meanings
The Seven of Wands is a card that represents the archetype of challenge and competition. It is associated with the hero archetype, as the figure on the card is standing strong and determined, ready to defend their position against all odds. This card also embodies the archetypal energy of perseverance and resilience, as the figure is shown standing on higher ground, symbolizing a sense of inner strength and determination to overcome any obstacles.
Behavioral Patterns
When this card appears in a reading, it may indicate that the individual is facing a challenging situation or feeling the need to defend their beliefs or values. They may be experiencing a sense of competition or conflict, either externally or within themselves. This card can also suggest that the individual is driven by a strong sense of determination and willpower, and may be willing to fight for what they believe in.
Integration and Shadow Work
To work with the energies of the Seven of Wands, it is important to examine any underlying fears or insecurities that may be driving the need to defend oneself or compete with others. This card may also indicate a need to find a balance between standing up for oneself and being open to compromise. Shadow work may involve addressing any feelings of defensiveness or aggression and finding healthier ways to assert oneself and communicate boundaries.