The Wheel of Fortune Tarot Card Meaning
The Wheel of Fortune shows a giant wheel with letters and symbols, surrounded by mythical creatures representing the four fixed signs. It’s a card of cycles and fate. Life spins; sometimes you’re up, other times down. Embrace change rather than resisting it, and recognise that seasons always shift.
The Wheel of Fortune Imagery and Symbolism
The Rider-Waite-Smith Wheel of Fortune depicts a massive wheel adorned with the letters T-A-R-O and Hebrew symbols, flanked by a snake and Anubis-like figure. Atop sits a sphinx with a sword. Around the wheel, a lion, bull, angel and eagle read books, representing the four fixed astrological signs and the balance of elements.
Pamela Colman Smith’s design is dense with meaning. The central wheel rotates between alchemical symbols for mercury, sulphur, water and salt, hinting at transformation. The creatures in the corners, drawn from Ezekiel’s vision, illustrate stability amid change. Her meticulous line work invites contemplation of fate, movement and divine order.
I see the Wheel of Fortune as a reminder that life is a series of cycles. The artwork suggests that forces beyond our control are always in motion, yet we still have agency in how we respond. Rather than clinging to the top or fearing the bottom, lean into the wheel’s rhythm.
The Wheel of Fortune Tarot Card Meaning Upright
Cycles
Cycles refer to recurring patterns in life: seasons, growth phases, highs and lows. The Wheel of Fortune reminds you that nothing stays static. Recognising cycles helps you ride them rather than resisting. When you accept that endings lead to beginnings, you navigate change with more grace.
Change
Change is the heartbeat of the Wheel of Fortune. This keyword suggests embracing shifts instead of fearing them. Whether it’s a job transition, a breakup or a move, change propels you forward. Resisting only prolongs discomfort. Trust that motion brings opportunities you couldn’t plan for.
Seasons
Seasons represent natural cycles of growth, decay, rest and renewal. In the Wheel of Fortune, they symbolise that every aspect of life has its time. You can’t force summer in winter. Accepting seasons allows you to align actions with the right timing and trust that change is purposeful.
The Wheel of Fortune Upright in Love and Relationships Readings
In love, the Wheel of Fortune suggests your relationship is entering a new phase. Single or partnered, expect change: chance meetings, shifting dynamics or evolving commitments. Don’t cling to how things were. Trust the rhythm of connection; what rises falls and what falls can rise again.
The Wheel of Fortune Upright in Self-Care and Empowerment Readings
For self care, the Wheel of Fortune urges acceptance of life’s cycles. Some days you feel on top of the world; other days you’re low. Honour both. Practise flexibility in your routines and be kind to yourself when circumstances shift. Change is inevitable, so ride it with grace.
The Wheel of Fortune Upright in Career and Creativity Readings
Professionally, the Wheel of Fortune brings change: promotions, industry shifts or sudden opportunities. Embrace unpredictability and stay adaptable. This card tells you to ride the wave rather than fight it. Prepare by honing skills and staying aware of trends; luck favours those who meet it with readiness.
The Wheel of Fortune Upright in Life Changes and Shadow Work Readings
For life change and shadow work, the Wheel of Fortune underscores that everything moves in cycles. Growth comes by understanding patterns rather than trying to control them. Look at recurring themes in your life: what keeps coming around? Work with those lessons instead of resisting them and you’ll evolve.
The Wheel of Fortune Tarot Card Meaning Reversed
Resistance to Change
Resistance to change is clinging to stability even when circumstances call for evolution. In the reversed Wheel of Fortune, this keyword highlights fear of letting go. You might sabotage opportunities to keep things familiar. Recognise where you’re stiff and practise flexibility; life won’t wait.
Bad Luck
Bad luck in the reversed Wheel of Fortune can feel like a string of unfortunate events. This keyword reminds you that unlucky streaks are part of cycles, not punishments. Instead of despairing, focus on what you can control and prepare for the inevitable upswing when circumstances improve.
Inability to Adapt
Inability to adapt points to clinging to outdated plans, even when evidence suggests change is needed. The reversed Wheel of Fortune shows stagnation due to stubbornness or fear. This keyword advises becoming more flexible, learning new skills and letting go of rigid expectations before stagnation turns into crisis.
The Wheel of Fortune Reversed in Love and Relationships Readings
Reversed, the Wheel of Fortune indicates resisting necessary shifts in your love life. Maybe you’re holding onto a relationship past its season or expecting endless honeymoon vibes. It can also signal temporary setbacks. Release the need to control every outcome and let the wheel turn naturally.
The Wheel of Fortune Reversed in Self-Care and Empowerment Readings
Reversed, the Wheel of Fortune suggests resisting natural rhythms. You may be overworking during a time when rest is needed or forcing outcomes rather than flowing. Check your cycles: are you pushing against burnout or ignoring your body’s signals? Let yourself pause; the wheel will turn again soon.
The Wheel of Fortune Reversed in Career and Creativity Readings
When reversed, the Wheel of Fortune warns of missed opportunities or stubbornly clinging to obsolete plans. You might experience a run of bad luck, but fighting the tide won’t help. Instead, reassess strategies, be patient and remember that downturns are temporary if you adjust with wisdom.
The Wheel of Fortune Reversed in Life Changes and Shadow Work Readings
If the Wheel of Fortune is reversed during transformation, it shows resistance to necessary change or feeling stuck. You may be clinging to outdated cycles or blaming bad luck. Release control, break patterns and trust that movement will return. All wheels stall sometimes; they always start turning again.
The Wheel of Fortune on the Fool’s Journey
The Wheel of Fortune is one of the cards on the Fool’s Journey, a symbolic narrative in tarot that explores the archetypes and experiences shaping our existence. The Major Arcana represents the grand themes and life-altering moments in the tarot. It’s a 22-card journey that begins with the Fool, symbolising new beginnings and adventure. Each card represents a distinct chapter, exploring the dualities, challenges, and transformations we face throughout our lives.
Understanding the themes in the Major Arcana is crucial for grasping the Fool’s Journey. As you progress through these cards, you will encounter symbols and lessons that resonate with various stages of life, offering insights into personal growth, relationships, and spiritual questions.
The Wheel of Fortune in the Unconscious Realm: Exploring the Depths
The Wheel of Fortune belongs to the Unconscious Realm. In this realm, tarot pushes you to explore deeper layers of your psyche. This section is about confronting hidden fears, desires, and subconscious motivations. It’s a journey into the unknown, where you carry a light to illuminate the corners of your soul and gain insights into what drives you. It’s a path to profound self-awareness and insight.
The Wheel of Fortune and the Element of Fire
The Wheel of Fortune aligns with the element of Fire, symbolising passion, creativity, and transformation. Fire burns with a vibrant energy, sparking the drive to take action, pursue ambitions, and embrace the courage within. This element reminds us of the power of inner flames, fuelling desire, inspiration, and boldness. Fire speaks to our ability to create, transform, and illuminate the path forward, motivating us to push boundaries and explore new possibilities.
The Wheel of Fortune Journalling Prompts
How can I embrace change as an opportunity for growth, rather than a source of fear or resistance?
Where in my life am I holding on too tightly, and how can I practise letting go with trust?
What patterns or cycles do I notice in my life, and how can I approach them with openness and resilience?
Frequently Asked Questions about The Wheel of Fortune
What does Wheel of Fortune mean in a tarot reading?
In a tarot reading, Wheel of Fortune signifies cycles, fate and inevitable change. It highlights that life moves in unpredictable spirals; sometimes you rise, sometimes you fall. The card encourages you to accept shifts with curiosity rather than clinging to certainty. You’re reminded that nothing stays the same forever.
Is The Wheel of Fortune a yes or no card?
The Wheel of Fortune resists a simple yes or no. It leans yes if you’re adaptable and open to change, and no if you’re trying to force outcomes or avoid necessary shifts. The card advises you to watch for timing and to let events unfold naturally.
What is the role of The Wheel of Fortune in the tarot deck?
In the Major Arcana, The Wheel of Fortune represents the turning point in life’s journey. Its role is to teach you about karma, destiny and the cycles that propel personal growth. It reminds you that change is constant and that adaptability is essential for navigating life’s ups and downs.
What does The Wheel of Fortune symbolise?
The Wheel of Fortune symbolises cycles of luck, destiny and transformation. Its central wheel hints at the endless rotation of events, while the surrounding creatures suggest stability amid change. It encourages you to recognise that external circumstances shift, but inner balance helps you ride the ups and downs gracefully.
What does The Wheel of Fortune suggest about navigating life’s challenges?
When navigating challenges, The Wheel of Fortune advises flexibility and trust in timing. Life’s obstacles are cyclical; nothing lasts forever. Recognise patterns, adapt your plans and avoid clinging to control. When you lean into change instead of resisting it, you’ll find opportunities hidden in upheaval.
Is The Wheel of Fortune a positive or negative card?
The Wheel of Fortune is neutral yet hopeful. It signals change and unpredictability rather than inherently good or bad outcomes. If you’re adaptable, the card is positive because it brings opportunities. If you’re rigid, it can feel negative. Ultimately, its energy is about growth through changing circumstances.
How does The Wheel of Fortune align with themes of career?
In work contexts, The Wheel of Fortune indicates shifts such as promotions, redundancies or unexpected opportunities. It encourages you to stay agile, refresh skills and seize chances when they arise. The card reminds you that career paths aren’t linear; being responsive to change will serve you well.
What are some other names for The Wheel of Fortune?
In some traditions, The Wheel of Fortune is called simply The Wheel or The Wheel of Life. These names reflect its focus on cycles and fate. Regardless of the title, the card’s essence is about constant motion and the interplay between destiny and free will.
What other tarot cards often appear with The Wheel of Fortune?
The Wheel of Fortune often appears with cards like Death or The Tower to signal profound transformation, or with The Magician to hint at manifesting change. It may pair with the High Priestess to highlight intuition during cycles. These combinations emphasise the importance of awareness during transitions.
How can The Wheel of Fortune guide me in navigating life changes?
The Wheel of Fortune guides you to embrace change with openness and resilience. It encourages you to observe patterns, release control and trust that cycles turn. By aligning with the wheel’s rhythm rather than resisting it, you navigate life transitions more gracefully and find opportunities within upheaval.
