Suit of Wands

Five of Wands Tarot Card Meaning

Five of Wands: The Arena of Ideas

Five of Wands tarot card from the Rider-Waite-Smith deck
Five of Wands — Rider-Waite-Smith deck

Upright keywords

Conflict, competition, disagreements, tension

Reversed keywords

Avoiding conflict, end of struggle, finding agreement

Symbolism

Five men are depicted in mock battle, each brandishing a wand. There is a sense of chaotic energy, but no one seems to be getting seriously hurt. This represents a clash of wills, ideas, or ambitions in a competitive but not necessarily destructive environment.

Five of Wands upright meaning

The Five of Wands signifies conflict, competition, and a clash of egos. You may be facing disagreements, diverse opinions, or a struggle for dominance. While this energy can be tense, it can also be a catalyst for growth, pushing you to sharpen your ideas and fight for your position. It represents healthy competition and a dynamic exchange of energy.

You may face minor conflicts or competition. The Five of Wands suggests a clash of ideas or ambitions. Embrace healthy competition as a way to challenge yourself and grow.

Five of Wands reversed meaning

Reversed, this card can indicate an avoidance of conflict, leading to suppressed tensions, or it can mean the end of a struggle and a move toward agreement. You may be tired of fighting and are ready to find a peaceful resolution, even if it means compromising your position.

Avoiding conflict, a fear of competition, or the end of a struggle. You may be seeking harmony at all costs, even if it means suppressing your own voice.

Five of Wands in a reading

How the card reads in each position of a past, present and future spread.

Past position

Upright: A past conflict or period of competition has led to your current circumstances. The echoes of that struggle are still being felt.

Reversed: You have been avoiding a necessary conflict in the past, which has led to unresolved tension in the present.

Present position

Upright: You are in the midst of a conflict or facing healthy competition. Do not shy away from it; use this dynamic energy to sharpen your own ideas and assert your position.

Reversed: You are currently trying to keep the peace at all costs, but it is leading to inner conflict. A past struggle is finally coming to an end.

Future position

Upright: Be prepared for upcoming disagreements or a competitive environment. This challenge is not a roadblock but an opportunity to prove your strength and ideas.

Reversed: The future holds the resolution of a long-standing conflict. You may also be tempted to avoid a necessary confrontation, which could cause issues later.

Draw this card in a reading Back to the full library