🔱 Major Arcana Tarot card
The Wheel of Fortune’s Meaning
Representative of life’s natural rhythms, the Wheel of Fortune symbolizes auspicious beginnings. Typically, the events it predicts are favorable, yet as products of luck, they may also lie beyond your realm of influence. Focus your attention on nurturing the aspects within your control while learning to accept those beyond your grasp.
Visualized on the card is a colossal wheel adorned with three figures positioned at its outer edges. Inscribed on the wheel’s face are four Hebrew letters, YHVH (Yod Heh Vau Heh), symbolizing the unspoken name of God. The wheel also bears the letters TORA, potentially signifying “law,” or TAROT, or ROTA (Latin for “wheel”). The center of the wheel displays alchemical symbols representing mercury, sulfur, water, and salt, symbolizing the fundamental components of life and the four elements, denoting formative energy.
On the outer rim of the wheel, a serpent, embodying the Egyptian deity Typhon, descends on the left, representing the life force descending into the material realm. Conversely, on the right ascends Anubis, the Egyptian God of the dead, who guides souls to the underworld. Atop the wheel rests the Sphinx, a symbol of wisdom and strength.
In the wheel’s corners, four winged creatures are depicted, each associated with the four fixed signs of the Zodiac: Aquarius, Scorpio, Leo, and Taurus. These creatures, bearing the Torah, signify stability amid the flux of change, their wings emblematic of steadfastness amidst motion and transformation.
Symbolism & Interpretation of the Design
The Wheel: At the center of the card is a large wheel divided into different sections. It represents the cyclical nature of life, symbolizing the constant ebb and flow of fortune, luck, and circumstances.
Hebrew Letters: The letters YHVH (Yod Heh Vau Heh) are inscribed on the wheel’s face. They represent the unspoken name of God and suggest divine influence over the events depicted on the wheel.
TORA or TAROT: Additional letters on the wheel may spell out “TORA,” meaning “law” or “teaching,” or “TAROT,” referring to the Tarot deck itself. These letters emphasize the idea of guidance and wisdom being present in the unfolding of events.
Alchemical Symbols: Inside the wheel’s center are symbols representing mercury, sulfur, water, and salt. These are alchemical symbols representing the building blocks of life and the four elements: air, fire, water, and earth.
The Snake: Descending on the left side of the wheel is a serpent, often associated with the Egyptian god Typhon or representing the life force plunging into the material world. It symbolizes descent, change, and the darker aspects of existence.
Anubis: Ascending on the right side of the wheel is Anubis, the Egyptian God of the dead, who welcomes souls to the underworld. This symbolizes ascent, transformation, and the journey of the soul.
The Sphinx: At the top of the wheel sits the Sphinx, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. It represents knowledge, wisdom, and the mysteries of life.
Winged Creatures: In the corners of the card, four winged creatures are depicted, each associated with one of the fixed signs of the Zodiac: Aquarius, Scorpio, Leo, and Taurus. These creatures symbolize stability and balance amidst the ever-changing cycles of life.
UPRIGHT: Change, Destiny, Good luck, Life cycles, Karma, New direction, a turning point, fate, fortune.
REVERSED: Bad luck, resistance to change, breaking cycles, disorder, external forces, lack of control, disruption, unwelcome change, delays, set backs.
YES or NO Interpretations
The Wheel of Fortune stands for luck, changes, and a new direction in your life. While it also shows ups and downs, the overall feel of the card is a positive one indicating changes for the better and good fortune. The answer you are looking for is yes.
In the Past
The actions of your past are the seeds of your future success. To make progress, you must accept the changes coming.
In the Present
There is a beneficial change approaching, but keep in mind that luck is out of your control.
In the Future
The future will yield an opportunity to change paths towards personal growth and happiness. You must be ready to change your ways of thinking, because whether or not your actions bring success, they represent beneficial change.
Wheel Of Fortune Upright Meaning
The Wheel of Fortune symbolizes the eternal flux of life, highlighting the inevitability of change. If you’re facing challenges, take solace in the knowledge that the tough times are transient, and brighter days are on the horizon. Similarly, if you’re basking in success, remain mindful that the wheel will continue to turn, and circumstances may shift unexpectedly. This cyclical nature underscores the importance of savoring moments of joy and seizing opportunities while they’re present, as they may swiftly pass.
Often referred to as the wheel of karma, this card emphasizes the principle of reciprocity – what you put out into the world will return to you. Therefore, nurturing a spirit of kindness and generosity attracts positivity and abundance into your life. Conversely, negativity begets negativity. By radiating positivity and goodwill, you cultivate an environment conducive to happiness and fulfillment.
Maintaining optimism and trust in the Universe’s benevolence is key when the Wheel of Fortune appears. Engaging in practices like meditation and visualization can amplify your intentions for prosperity and abundance. Stay receptive to synchronicities and signs from the Universe, as they may offer guidance and unveil new opportunities for growth and transformation.
However, if you’re someone accustomed to control and stability, the Wheel of Fortune may be disconcerting. It signifies forces beyond your influence shaping your circumstances, presenting a challenge to relinquish control and adapt to the unpredictability of life. Embracing flexibility and resilience is essential in navigating through these periods of flux.
Moreover, the Wheel of Fortune heralds pivotal turning points in life’s journey. Unexpected opportunities may arise, offering the chance for profound change and growth. While daunting, view these moments as invitations to embrace new paths and embrace the unknown. By attuning to your intuition and aligning with the Universe’s guidance, you can navigate these transitions with grace and manifest favorable outcomes.
❤️🔥 Love & Relationships (Upright)
When the Wheel of Fortune appears upright in a relationship reading, it heralds a period of positive change and progression. This may manifest as taking the next step in your partnership, embarking on a new phase together, or initiating a joint project. However, it’s important to recognize that while change can be auspicious, it may also present challenges.
If you’ve been feeling discontented within your relationship, the Wheel of Fortune suggests a potential upheaval. This could entail both you and your partner actively working to address issues and implement necessary changes to enhance your connection, or it could signify the end of the relationship, paving the way for new opportunities and personal growth. Regardless of the outcome, trust that the changes instigated by the Wheel of Fortune are guiding you toward your destined path.
For singles, the Wheel of Fortune indicates that the universe is aligning to bring you the love you deserve, but it requires your active participation. This is an opportune time to venture out, meet new people, and be proactive in your search for love. Exercise discernment in determining what you truly desire in a partner, as the Wheel of Fortune signifies that you have the potential to attract exactly what you seek. Additionally, in the realm of destiny, this card hints at the possibility of encountering a soulmate. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, the appearance of the Wheel of Fortune suggests that you and your partner may be fated to be together. Consider examining supporting cards for further confirmation and insight into your romantic journey.
💸 Money & Career (Upright)
In the realm of career, once again, the upright Wheel of Fortune serves as an encouraging omen, signaling significant changes on the horizon. If you’ve harbored ambitions of venturing into entrepreneurship or contemplating a professional shift, the present moment is ripe for action. The cosmic forces are aligning to support your aspirations, urging you to seize the opportunity and pursue your career dreams with unwavering determination.
Even if you find yourself content and established in your current career path, the Wheel of Fortune foretells impending shifts. While these changes may initially present challenges, they ultimately pave the way for transformative growth and enhanced prospects. Embracing these changes and adopting a flexible approach will enable you to navigate through transitions more smoothly, positioning you for greater success in the long run.
Financially, the Wheel of Fortune also heralds change. If you’ve enjoyed a period of financial stability, it’s prudent to remain vigilant and prepare for unforeseen developments by setting aside a financial buffer. Conversely, if you’ve encountered financial hardships, the Wheel of Fortune assures that a turn for the better is imminent. Expect favorable financial circumstances and a stroke of good fortune to elevate your financial standing.
🍀 Health & Well-Being (Upright)
Once more, the Wheel of Fortune underscores the theme of change, this time within the realm of health. If you’ve been grappling with health challenges, a shift in fortune may be on the horizon, offering a glimmer of hope and improvement in your well-being. Conversely, you might encounter new health issues that prompt necessary lifestyle adjustments. For example, if you’ve been pushing yourself to the limits—mentally, physically, or emotionally—a period of illness might compel you to dial back your pace and prioritize self-care.
This shift could serve as a gentle nudge from the universe, urging you to reassess your habits and adopt healthier practices. Embracing this opportunity for positive change entails heeding the warning signs and implementing adjustments that prioritize your body and overall well-being. Remember, taking proactive steps towards self-care can yield long-term benefits and foster a renewed sense of vitality and balance.
🪞 Personal Growth & Spirituality (Upright)
With the Wheel of Fortune gracing your spiritual journey in its upright position, it’s as though fate itself is extending a hand to guide you forward. This moment is ripe with opportunity for spiritual development and growth. The universe is orchestrating events to propel you along this path, but it also requires your active participation and willingness to seize the opportunities that unfold before you.
During this phase, you may observe a harmonious alignment of circumstances, effortlessly falling into place to support your spiritual evolution. You might encounter individuals whose presence and wisdom serve as catalysts for your inner journey, providing the guidance and encouragement you need at precisely the right moments. As you navigate this spiritual terrain, you’ll likely experience an abundance of synchronicities—meaningful signs and symbols—beckoning you to pay attention to the subtle whispers of the universe.
Embrace this time with an open heart and a receptive mind, remaining attuned to the interconnectedness of all things. By honoring the signs and seizing the opportunities presented to you, you’ll continue to progress along your spiritual path, guided by the benevolent forces of destiny and cosmic wisdom.
Wheel Of Fortune Reversed Meaning
When the Wheel of Fortune appears in a reversed position, it signals a shift in the winds of fate, potentially bringing about unexpected challenges or unfavorable circumstances. This reversal suggests that your luck may take a downturn, and you might find yourself grappling with unforeseen changes or encountering negative forces that seem beyond your control, leaving you feeling vulnerable and at a loss.
Yet, within this moment of adversity lies an opportunity for empowerment and growth. You are faced with a choice: passively wait and hope for improvement, or take decisive action to reclaim agency over your destiny and steer your life back onto a positive trajectory.
Initiating a transformation in your destiny begins with accepting accountability for your current situation. Reflect on the role your past actions and decisions have played in shaping your present circumstances. Even amidst feelings of helplessness, there may be insights to glean and lessons to learn from your experiences. Consider how you can leverage this newfound understanding to chart a course toward a more fulfilling and enlightened future, one where you avoid repeating past mistakes.
Additionally, the reversed Wheel of Fortune may indicate a resistance to change, particularly when it feels imposed upon you. You might find yourself grappling with feelings of discomfort or apprehension as you confront the inevitability of change. However, embracing the fluidity of life’s cycles and surrendering to the ebb and flow of circumstances can alleviate stress and facilitate a smoother transition.
On a positive note, this reversal could signify the breaking of a detrimental cycle that has perpetuated in your life. Through introspection and self-awareness, you may have come to recognize the patterns and behaviors that have kept you trapped in a repetitive loop. Now, armed with this newfound clarity, you are poised to break free from these constraints and usher in a period of transformative growth and renewal.
While the reversed Wheel of Fortune may herald a challenging period marked by unexpected setbacks and upheaval, it also presents an opportunity for profound personal evolution. Though the road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, it is through navigating these trials that you will emerge stronger, wiser, and better equipped to embrace the boundless possibilities that await. Embrace the lessons inherent in adversity, for they hold the key to unlocking a brighter and more resilient future.
❤️🔥 Love & Relationships (Reversed)
In the realm of love, the reversed Wheel of Fortune Tarot card suggests a period of stagnation or a waning of excitement within a relationship. However, it’s essential not to hastily jump to conclusions about the state of your relationship, as all partnerships experience ebbs and flows. Instead, view this phase as a natural transition from one stage to another, albeit with its temporary challenges. Take time to assess the dynamics of your relationship and identify what strategies might help rejuvenate its spark. Remember, this period of upheaval is transient, and with patience and effort, you can navigate through it together.
In relationships, past mistakes or unresolved issues may resurface, potentially complicating matters further. Rather than allowing these challenges to derail your progress, view them as opportunities for growth and introspection. Reflect on past experiences and consider how you can apply the lessons learned to foster greater harmony and understanding in your current relationship.
For those who find themselves single and disheartened by a string of unsuccessful relationships, the reversed Wheel of Fortune encourages introspection and self-awareness. Take a closer look at your past choices and behaviors, and evaluate whether any missed opportunities or misguided decisions may have contributed to your romantic setbacks. By acknowledging and learning from these experiences, you can pave the way for a more fulfilling and rewarding love life in the future. Remember, the lessons we encounter in life are opportunities for growth, and by embracing them, you can positively influence your future prospects.
Regardless of your relationship status, encountering the reversed Wheel of Fortune signals the potential for setbacks or delays in matters of the heart. Rather than resisting these challenges, adopt a mindset of resilience and adaptability. Embrace the flow of life’s fluctuations, recognizing that every obstacle presents an opportunity for personal evolution and growth. Keep your spirits high and trust that, despite the current downturn, brighter horizons lie ahead.
💸 Money & Career (Reversed)
In the realm of career, encountering the reversed Wheel of Fortune signifies a period where your professional trajectory may feel stagnant or disrupted by uncertainty. This Major Arcana card, when inverted, often indicates unwelcome changes on the horizon. It’s crucial to take a step back and reassess the decisions you’ve made regarding your career path. Reflect honestly on whether these choices have aligned with your long-term aspirations and contributed to your overall fulfillment.
If you find yourself facing setbacks or challenges in your career, it’s essential not to dwell on past missteps or missed opportunities. Instead, view these obstacles as temporary hurdles that offer valuable lessons for personal and professional growth. Take this opportunity to glean insights from past experiences and refine your strategies moving forward. By doing so, you can position yourself to capitalize on future opportunities when the Wheel of Fortune shifts in your favor once again.
Financially, the reversed Wheel of Fortune urges caution against impulsive decisions or risky investments. If you’re experiencing financial strain, it may be a reflection of a lack of prudent planning or failure to establish a financial safety net. Rather than succumbing to panic or desperation, use this period of financial hardship as a catalyst for positive change. Take proactive steps to manage your finances responsibly, and carry the lessons learned from this challenging time forward as you work towards achieving greater stability and security. Remember, adversity often serves as a catalyst for growth and resilience, and with patience and perseverance, you can overcome financial obstacles and emerge stronger than before.
🍀 Health & Well-Being (Reversed)
When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed in a health reading, it suggests that upheaval or disruptions in other aspects of your life may be taking a toll on your well-being. It’s important to maintain a positive outlook and resist allowing pessimism to overshadow your mindset. While navigating through changes, particularly unwelcome ones, can be stressful, it’s crucial to remember that you have control over how you respond to these challenges.
Even when circumstances feel beyond your control, focusing on self-care and maintaining a proactive approach to your health can make a significant difference. Rather than attempting to halt the flow of events, channel your energy into positive steps that nurture both your physical and mental well-being. By prioritizing self-care practices, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and healthy habits, you can mitigate the impact of external stressors on your health.
It’s essential to recognize that while you may not have control over external circumstances, you possess the power to cultivate resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. By embracing a proactive mindset and nurturing your body and mind through challenging times, you can promote overall wellness and enhance your ability to navigate through life’s fluctuations with grace and strength.
🪞 Personal Growth & Spirituality (Reversed)
In a spiritual sense, encountering the reversed Wheel of Fortune might evoke feelings of frustration and a sense that the universe is working against you, leading to doubts and questioning of your path. However, even during these challenging moments, it’s crucial to maintain faith and trust in the greater plan that the universe has in store for you.
Rather than allowing adversity to shake your spiritual foundation, view this period as an opportunity for growth and deepening your connection with your higher self. While the trials you’re facing may seem insurmountable, remember that they are temporary and serve as catalysts for personal evolution and spiritual transformation.
Embrace this phase as a chance to delve deeper into your spiritual practices, whether through meditation, prayer, or introspection. By surrendering to the flow of life and accepting the changes it brings, you can emerge from this period with a heightened sense of spiritual awareness and resilience.
Ultimately, maintaining faith in the divine plan and remaining open to the lessons and blessings hidden within challenges can lead to profound spiritual growth and a greater alignment with your higher purpose. Trust that the universe is guiding you toward greater enlightenment, even amidst the darkness, and allow this faith to light your path forward.
EXPLORE OTHER TAROT CARDS
Major Arcana
0. The Fool
I. The Magician
II. The High Priestess
III. The Empress
IV. The Emperor
V. The Hierophant
VI. The Lovers
VII. The Chariot
VIII. Strength
IX. The Hermit
X. Wheel of Fortune
XI. Justice
XII. The Hanged Man
XIII. Death
XIV. Temperance
XV. The Devil
XVI. The Tower
XVII. The Star
XVIII. The Moon
XIX. The Sun
XX. Judgement
XI. The World
Minor Arcana Pentacles
A. Ace of Pentacles
II. Two of Pentacles
III. Three of Pentacles
IV. Four of Pentacles
V. Five of Pentacles
VI. Six of Pentacles
VII. Seven of Pentacles
VIII. Eight of Pentacles
IX. Nine of Pentacles
X. Ten of Pentacles
P. Page of Pentacles
KN. Knight of Pentacles
Q. Queen of Pentacles
K. King of Pentacles