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Strength Tarot Card Meaning
Strength: The Power of Gentle Courage
Upright keywords
Strength, courage, compassion, focus, patience
Reversed keywords
Self-doubt, weakness, insecurity, lack of control
Symbolism
A woman gently closes the mouth of a lion. She is calm and compassionate, not forceful. Above her head is the infinity symbol, representing her infinite spiritual power. Her white robe symbolizes purity, and the garland of flowers represents the beauty of nature and the taming of raw passion.
Strength upright meaning
Card number 8 (in some decks, 11) represents inner strength, courage, and compassion. It is not about brute force, but about taming one's inner beast—our passions, impulses, and fears—with gentle determination and self-control. This card shows that true power comes from patience, kindness, and a quiet confidence that allows you to face any challenge with grace.
True strength comes from within. This card represents inner courage, compassion, and self-control. Face challenges with patience and a gentle, yet firm, resolve.
Strength reversed meaning
Reversed, Strength points to self-doubt, weakness, and a lack of self-control. You may be acting from a place of fear or insecurity, letting your base instincts rule you. It signifies a disconnect from your inner courage, leading to feelings of vulnerability or acting out with aggression.
Self-doubt, weakness, or a lack of self-control. You may be acting from a place of fear or insecurity rather than inner strength.
Strength in a reading
How the card reads in each position of a past, present and future spread.
Past position
Upright: You have overcome a significant challenge in the past through inner strength and compassion, not brute force. This experience taught you the nature of true courage.
Reversed: A past experience where you acted from a place of fear or weakness is the source of your current self-doubt.
Present position
Upright: You have the inner strength and courage to face the current challenge. Approach the situation with compassion and patience, and you will tame it.
Reversed: You are currently feeling insecure and are questioning your own strength. It is a time to be gentle with yourself and find the source of your self-doubt.
Future position
Upright: You will soon need to draw upon your inner reserves of courage and compassion. A challenge is coming that will test your patience and self-control, and you will succeed.
Reversed: A future situation will challenge your confidence. Be wary of falling into self-doubt or losing your composure. Your inner strength will be tested.