The Meaning of Strength in Tarot

The Strength card in tarot symbolizes inner power, self-control, and the gentle taming of primal instincts. It depicts a woman calmly closing the jaws of a lion, not through brute force, but with quiet confidence and compassion. This card is a profound reminder that true strength doesn't come from external might or aggression, but from an internal wellspring of courage, patience, and unwavering resolve. It represents the mastery of one's own urges, fears, and shadow aspects, transforming them into positive expressions of character.

Strength speaks to the ability to face challenges with grace, empathy, and persistent fortitude. It encourages us to approach difficult situations or internal struggles with a blend of gentle determination and profound understanding, acknowledging our wilder nature while guiding it towards constructive ends. This card is about resilience, compassion, and the quiet triumph of the spirit over raw impulse, asserting the power of love and perseverance over conflict and fear.

Keywords

Upright: Inner strength, courage, compassion, self-control, patience, mastery, resilience, persuasion.

Reversed: Lack of self-control, fear, weakness, insecurity, self-doubt, raw emotion, impulsiveness, overwhelming urges.

Curious how this card's energy is showing up in your life right now? Explore its personal meaning for you with a reading from Celeste.

Strength Upright

When Strength appears upright in a reading, it signifies the cultivation and application of immense inner power. This isn't about physical might, but rather mental, emotional, and spiritual fortitude. You are called to face challenges with a calm and confident demeanor, trusting your intuition and inner wisdom to guide you. It suggests a period where you must exercise self-control and patience, particularly when dealing with difficult situations or strong emotions. The card encourages you to tame your own inner 'lion'—your primal desires, fears, or aggressive tendencies—with kindness and understanding, rather than suppression. This leads to a profound sense of self-mastery and the ability to overcome obstacles through diplomacy, empathy, and enduring courage. It is a powerful affirmation of your ability to handle anything that comes your way with grace and determination.

Strength Reversed

A reversed Strength card indicates a struggle with inner power and self-control. You might be feeling overwhelmed by your emotions, giving in to fear, anxiety, or impulses, and lacking the discipline to manage them effectively. This could manifest as a loss of temper, addictive behaviors, or a general sense of weakness and insecurity. The card often points to a moment where self-doubt is hindering your progress, or you are allowing external circumstances to dictate your internal state. It can suggest an inability to stand up for yourself, or conversely, an overuse of brute force rather than gentle persuasion. Strength reversed is a call to regain your inner balance, acknowledge your vulnerabilities, and find healthy ways to channel your raw energy. It urges you to confront your fears and regain mastery over your own emotional landscape rather than letting them control you.

Strength in Love

In love readings, Strength upright signifies a deep, passionate, and resilient connection built on mutual respect and understanding. It suggests the ability of partners to navigate challenges with patience, empathy, and forgiveness, strengthening their bond in the process. This card often indicates a relationship where individuals help each other grow, mastering their own emotional reactions and supporting their partner's journey. It speaks to a love that tames rather than dominates, fostering self-control over jealousy or possessiveness. For singles, it suggests that attracting a meaningful connection requires self-mastery and confidence. When Strength is reversed in love, it may point to struggles with jealousy, insecurity, emotional volatility, or a lack of self-control within the relationship. There might be an imbalance of power, codependency, or difficulty in forgiving. It advises addressing internal emotional issues before they further strain the partnership or prevent new love from flourishing.

Strength in Career & Finance

For career and finance, an upright Strength card is highly positive, indicating resilience, diplomacy, and the ability to manage complex situations with grace. It suggests a period where your inner fortitude and patience will be key to overcoming professional challenges or achieving long-term goals. You are likely to lead by example, inspiring others through your calm determination and ethical approach. This card supports roles requiring negotiation, conflict resolution, or sustained effort on demanding projects. Financially, it encourages disciplined spending and strategic planning, trusting your judgment to make sound decisions that lead to stability and growth. When Strength is reversed in a career or finance reading, it may signal a lack of confidence, difficulty in standing your ground, or giving in to workplace pressure. It could point to impulsive financial decisions, burnout, or a struggle with managing stress effectively. The card advises you to regain your self-assurance, take control of your professional path, and practice financial discipline to avoid potential pitfalls.