LEARN TAROT

VII. THE CHARIOT

Take the reins and focus on your destination.

Cancer. (Water) — Protector.

Victory, direction, (hard) control, goal-seeking, willpower, (self-)assertion.



Meaning

The task is to guide these sphinxes towards a destination. They frequently get into scuffles as they seem to want to move in different directions. Perfect control and confidence allows the charioteer to emerge victorious in any situation. Use strength and willpower to overcome the obstacles that lie in your path. The Chariot's message comes to make you stronger as you strive to achieve your goals. You must maintain focus, confidence, and determination through a process that will be full of winding turns and detours. Overcome challenges and gain victory through maintaining control of your surroundings. Pursue plans with a structured and ordered approach. Your boldness will ensure that you achieve all that you should in this goal. Set goals. Conquest, win, victory, success. Ambition, determination. Control, self-discipline, focus. Propelling. Take the wheel in love, career, etc, know what you’re looking for. Take action, establish control. Confidence, courage and drive will lead to success. Empowerment.

In the Chariot's quest for his goal, he may display some behavior that he hasn’t seen within himself before - competition and a desire to succeed has perhaps brought out a more aggressive part of his personality. Aggression is a natural part of human nature, and it can also be used to help you take charge of your situation, but also must be reined in so that it does not hinder your way forward. Possible victory through controlling your emotions.

There’s also a sense of duality shown in the two horses. Balancing polarities, opposing energies, polarities. Balance two urges that may pull different directions, such as love and career.

Execution, progress, movement, determination, fame, conquer, travel

Be prepared for changes that might include a move or an opportunity to travel. The Charioteer travels light and stays open to fresh experiences that change with every valley or mountain pass. Be receptive to new people who come into your life. Become more fluid and taste the joys of freedom. The Charioteer is nothing if not self-sufficient. Be prepared and self-contained for the changes that will sweep in and carry you with them.

Reversed Meaning

Either you are lacking in focus, motivation or direction, or you are being warped by your obsession with your goals. Find a healthy middle ground.

Forceful, aggression. Be aware that you can’t always be in control. Obsession. Have patience.

No direction, no control, powerless. Gather courage! You’re at the mercy of opposing forces and life is going whichever direction it pleases. Take charge of your destiny.

Possible obstacles.

Don’t rush into anything. Misdirected sense of drive.

Defeat, dispute.

You may balk when you know you need to pick up the reins and take responsibility for setting your life in motion. You do have other options; own your own inner resistance instead of blaming circumstances.