The Strength card in tarot invites us to look inward—beyond brute force and outward bravado—to discover the deep wellspring of inner strength we all possess. Whether you’re just starting your tarot journey or are a seasoned reader looking to deepen your understanding, exploring the meaning of the Strength tarot card can offer profound insights into emotional resilience, spiritual endurance, and personal growth.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the Strength tarot meaning from all angles: symbolism, upright and reversed interpretations, real-life applications, and how it shows up in diverse readings. By the end, you’ll know how to unlock your own inner courage, and how to help others do the same through tarot.
What Is the Strength Tarot Card?
The Strength tarot card is Major Arcana card number VIII (eight), although in some decks like the Thoth Tarot, it appears as card XI. A core archetype of emotional and spiritual fortitude, this card often appears when we or our querents are facing inner or outer challenges, not to signal defeat, but to highlight resilience, self-confidence, and compassion.
Whether it’s reminding you of your ability to remain calm during chaos or inviting you to handle conflicts gently rather than forcefully, the Strength card reflects authentic power,the kind that stems from within.
Symbolism of the Strength Card
To fully understand the Strength tarot meaning, we must first explore its rich symbolism:
- The Woman and the Lion: A calm woman gently holds the jaws of a powerful lion. This symbolizes taming impulsive emotions (lion) with grace and compassion (woman).
- The Infinity Symbol (∞): Hovering above her head, this symbol represents infinite potential and divine inner energy.
- White Robe and Belt of Flowers: These elements signify purity, innocence, and harmony with nature.
Mountainous Background: Represents the persistent, ever-present challenges of life—and the strength to overcome them.
Tarot author Eden Gray explained that this card is about “spiritual power overcoming material power,” a theme that still resonates in modern readings today.
Strength Tarot Upright Meaning
When Strength appears upright in a tarot spread, it typically carries a positive, empowering message. It urges you to respond to challenges not with aggression, but with patience, understanding, and dignity.
Core Meanings of the Upright Strength Card:
- Inner courage and quiet strength
- Compassion and patience with yourself and others
- Control over impulsive behaviors or reactions
- Spiritual resilience and personal power
Upright Strength in Love & Relationships
- You may need to practice empathy in a difficult relationship.
- Gentle communication can resolve current tensions.
- You’re more emotionally mature than you realize.
Upright Strength in Career & Work
- You’re being called to lead through inspiration, not fear.
- Stay calm under pressure, your coworkers are watching.
- A tough assignment will prove you’re more capable than you thought.
Upright Strength in Health & Wellness
- Healing happens faster when you approach it with positivity.
- Your mind-body connection is stronger than ever.
- Be patient with the process; consistency will yield strength.
Strength Tarot Reversed Meaning
When drawn in reverse, the Strength card can reveal a lack or misuse of inner strength. It may point to self-doubt, overwhelming emotions, or even passive-aggressive behavior.
Core Meanings of the Reversed Strength Card:
- Feeling insecure or emotionally fragile
- Difficulty managing anger or fear
- Pressure to appear stronger than you feel
- Avoidance of confrontation or vulnerability
Reversed Strength in Love & Relationships
- Emotional outbursts may be masking unmet needs.
- Lack of confidence could be causing tension with a partner.
- Codependency may be present—look inward for strength.
Reversed Strength in Career & Work
- Feeling overwhelmed? Take a step back to regroup.
- You might be bending to others’ will instead of asserting your own.
- Emotional burnout is possible—prioritize self-care.
Reversed Strength in Health & Wellness
- Facing chronic symptoms without support may wear you down.
- You may need to seek help instead of handling it all solo.
- Avoid giving up—healing requires emotional as well as physical strength.
Strength in Different Types of Tarot Readings
The Strength tarot card tends to emerge in situations where control, patience, and inner confidence are critical. Its message can shift depending on the type of reading.
In a 3-Card Past, Present, Future Reading:
Past: You’ve endured challenges that built character.
Present: You’re currently being tested; strength lies in compassion.
Future: A situation ahead will require self-restraint and courage.
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In a Celtic Cross Spread:
The placement in this more in-depth spread adds nuance. For example:
- As the Heart of the Matter: You’re developing emotional mastery.
- As Future Influence: You will find sustainable strength amid future trials.
- As Hopes & Fears: You’re afraid you don’t have what it takes—but you do.
Connecting Strength to Your Tarot Practice
To deepen your relationship with the **Strength tarot**, incorporate it into regular meditations or journaling prompts. Ask yourself:
- “Where have I shown strength lately?”
- “How can I lead with compassion rather than control?”
- “What’s one area where I need to exercise more patience?”
You can also use Strength as your **personal card of the year**, especially when seeking greater confidence, emotional regulation, or inner peace.
Remember: Strength isn’t about showing off—it’s about showing up, calmly and consistently, for yourself and others.
Try a Free 3-Card Tarot Reading
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Whether you’re exploring career options, navigating emotional challenges, or seeking spiritual clarity, this quick and insightful layout can point you in the right direction.
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Final Thoughts: Mastering the Strength Tarot Meaning
The Strength tarot card reminds us that real power comes from within—from patience, love, confidence, and trust in oneself. It teaches us how to embody emotional intelligence and how to navigate adversity with dignity. When it appears in your reading, take it as both affirmation and challenge: you have the courage you need—you only need to tap into it.
Integrating this card into your readings, meditations, and life won’t just improve your understanding of the tarot—it will empower you to rise with compassion each time life tests your mettle.
So whether you’re consulting a spread for yourself or offering insight to someone else, let the Strength card anchor you in calm confidence.