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Major arcana · VIII
Strength: tarot card meaning
Keywords: Courage, compassion, gentle power. The lion is tamed with a gentle hand. True strength is patience and a kind heart.
Upright meaning
The lion is tamed with a gentle hand. True strength is patience and a kind heart.
Reversed meaning
Self-doubt or raw frustration. Be tender with yourself; courage returns with rest.
Symbolism
A woman gently closes the jaws of a lion, an infinity sign above her head.
Its place in the Fool's journey
Quiet, compassionate strength rather than force.
Questions to reflect on
- Where in my life does "courage, compassion, gentle power" feel true right now?
- What would the upright meaning ask me to do this week?
- If the card felt reversed, what is blocking or delaying it?
Draw it yourself
Draw a free one-card, three-card or Celtic Cross reading in the Tarot Room. Traditional pairings for this card: Tiger's eye sphere, Cinnamon incense and All crystals.
Tarot decks and accessories
Strength: questions
What does Strength mean upright?
The lion is tamed with a gentle hand. True strength is patience and a kind heart.
What does Strength mean reversed?
Self-doubt or raw frustration. Be tender with yourself; courage returns with rest.
Is Strength a yes or no card?
Tarot isn't a yes/no oracle, but readers who use it that way usually read Strength upright as a gentle yes and reversed as 'wait'. Treat it as a prompt for reflection.
What number is Strength in the major arcana?
Strength is card VIII of the 22 major arcana. Quiet, compassionate strength rather than force.