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Wheel of Fortune
Symbols in the artwork
The large wheel at the center and the changing moon remind us that situations are not always the same. The snake by the wheel, the ascending animal, and the figure holding a sword above are moving from different places. The winged figures reading books at the four corners suggest that even if the situation changes, we can hold onto what we have learned. While the celestial symbols can read about repetition and change, the picture does not tell us when or how good fortune will arrive.
Sources and interpretation
Referenced the original upright meanings of fate, success, and good fortune. The reversed meanings in the original deal with increase, abundance, and excess, which are different from modern misfortune and loss of control. The reversed meanings on this site follow a modern interpretation.
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
Turning point of fate · Cycle and change · Unexpected opportunity
If the situation has changed, rethink what you can do now.
Core meaning
The Wheel of Fortune symbolizes the cycles of life, turning points, and fate and change that cannot be determined by our own power. It contains unexpected opportunities and changes in circumstances, so do not read it as merely a simple schedule change.
Even if the situation changes, there are things I can still do. Rather than clinging to things that are difficult to change, try to find plans that can be adjusted now. A method that worked well before might not work today. Simply changing the order or time to fit the current situation can make it easier to take the next step.
What to keep in mind
A change in situation does not guarantee a good outcome. It is okay not to attach too much meaning to coincidental events. Look at both what is expected and what needs further investigation. Make big decisions based on actual information and your own circumstances.
One small step today
Write down one changed situation. List one thing to keep doing, one thing to change, and one thing to ask more about.
A question to consider
What are the standards I want to maintain even if the situation changes?
A thought for today
Even if the situation changes, you can find the next step you can take.
Reversed
Change that doesn't go as planned · Repeating difficulties · Obsession with control
If the same difficulties repeat, look for small parts you can change.
Core meaning
The reversed Wheel of Fortune follows the modern interpretation, symbolizing unwanted change, delay, and the repetition of similar difficulties. It also suggests that the desire to control everything can be reviewed, and it is not a premonition that bad luck will continue.
It is okay not to leave everything to fate, or to try to take full responsibility for all outcomes. If similar things repeat, write down where it started and how I responded. Next time, you can change one small thing, such as asking for favors earlier or confirming things in advance.
What to keep in mind
If you attribute everything that didn't go as planned to bad luck, you might miss something you can change. However, you do not need to take all surrounding circumstances as your responsibility. Find one thing you can do differently right now.
One small step today
Choose one recurring difficulty and write down what the situation was, how I acted, and what the result was. Decide on one thing to change next time.
A question to consider
Am I separating what is difficult for me to change from actions I can try?
A thought for today
By changing just one small thing, you can find a different way even in things that have always been the same.
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.