XII
The Hanged Man
Symbols in the artwork
A figure hanging from a tree has a calm expression while hanging upside down. The bent other leg and the light around the head suggest a moment of thinking differently from a familiar posture. The arms pointing backward and the tree with budding leaves suggest taking time to observe rather than rushing. The stillness does not mean enduring pain or sacrifice. Take the time to consider from another perspective and think about what to do next.
Sources and interpretation
The original work covers wisdom, ordeal, sacrifice, and intuition, while the reversed covers selfishness and the crowd. Modern interpretations were referenced for new perspectives and unrewarding sacrifice/delay of decision.
Written with reference to Rider–Waite–Smith symbolism and modern interpretations.
A. E. Waite's original text · A. E. Waite's symbolism · Tina Gong / Labyrinthos modern interpretation
Upright
Voluntary sacrifice · Pausing and letting go · New perspective
Before continuing to exert effort in the same way, pause for a moment and consider other methods.
Core meaning
The Hanged Man symbolizes a new perspective gained by willingly pausing or letting go of something. Since sacrifice and waiting are key, do not limit this only to changing your thoughts.
The figure in the picture is looking at the world while hanging upside down. Things that were difficult to understand from your perspective might look different when considered from the other person's point of view. If you have decided to pause, set a time for what you will observe and when you will decide again. This way, you can use the time not just for vague waiting, but for organizing your thoughts.
What to keep in mind
You do not need to keep enduring uncomfortable things just because you are trying to think differently. Set a time for what you will observe and when you will decide again. Even if you need time to think, you can state what you dislike.
One small step today
Write down two things you felt you must do regarding a stuck issue. Think about what method would be possible if you could change one.
A question to consider
If I let go of the method I am holding onto, is there another path to the same goal?
A thought for today
Pausing for a moment might allow you to see methods you hadn't noticed before.
Reversed
Stagnation of delaying decisions · Unrewarding sacrifice · Difficulty letting go
If you don't know what you are waiting for, set a time to decide again and choose one thing to do now.
Core meaning
The reversed Hanged Man symbolizes stagnation in delaying necessary decisions and sacrifice without finding meaning. It can be read as clinging to something even when you know what you should let go of, or waiting without a reason for effort.
Conversely, you might be skipping the time needed for thorough consideration because you want to finish quickly. Rather than moving unconditionally or continuing to wait, separate what can be done now from what needs more confirmation. By starting with tasks that carry less burden and setting a time to review, you can move forward little by little without rushing.
What to keep in mind
The time spent waiting is not all in vain. However, it is also not necessary to continue just because you endured it for a long time. Look at what is needed for the future, rather than what has already been spent.
One small step today
Write down what you are waiting for and when you will decide regarding one postponed task. Also, choose a small task you can do today.
A question to consider
Is there something more I need to know, or am I waiting because it is easier to delay the decision?
A thought for today
If you know when and what will be decided, even stalled work can start again little by little.
Tarot offers a way to reflect on yourself through its symbols. Read it as a point of reference, not a certain prediction of the future or another person's feelings.