Major Arcana

The Lovers Tarot Card Meaning

The Lovers: The Archetype of Choice and Union

The Lovers tarot card from the Rider-Waite-Smith deck
The Lovers — Rider-Waite-Smith deck

Upright keywords

Love, harmony, relationships, values alignment, choices

Reversed keywords

Disharmony, poor choices, relationship conflict

Symbolism

Adam and Eve stand in the Garden of Eden, overseen by the angel Raphael. The Tree of Knowledge (with the serpent) is behind Eve, while the Tree of Life is behind Adam. This imagery highlights the duality of choice—between temptation and divine wisdom. The card represents a profound union and the importance of values.

The Lovers upright meaning

Card number 6, The Lovers signifies a deep, soul-level connection, harmony, and a choice that must be made from the heart. It’s about aligning with your core values and making decisions that are true to yourself. While often pointing to a romantic partnership, it can also represent any significant choice where your head and heart must be in agreement. It is the union of dualities.

This card represents a significant choice, often related to a deep relationship or your personal values. The Lovers encourage you to make decisions based on love and harmony.

The Lovers reversed meaning

Reversed, this card indicates disharmony, conflict in relationships, and a misalignment of values. A choice has been made that goes against your authentic self, leading to regret or imbalance. It can also signify a breakdown in communication or a fear of commitment.

Disharmony in relationships, misalignment of values, or a poor choice. It can indicate a conflict or a decision made that was not true to yourself.

The Lovers in a reading

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

Past position

Upright: A major choice or a significant relationship in your past has defined your current path. This past alignment of values is crucial to understanding your present.

Reversed: A past relationship conflict or a poor choice based on misaligned values is the source of your current disharmony.

Present position

Upright: You are at a crossroads and must make a significant choice, likely concerning a relationship or your core values. Choose the path that aligns with your heart.

Reversed: You are currently experiencing conflict in a relationship or are struggling with a decision because your head and heart are not in alignment.

Future position

Upright: A major decision regarding a partnership is on the horizon. This choice will define a significant chapter of your life. It could also signify a new, harmonious relationship.

Reversed: Be aware of a potential for conflict in a key relationship ahead. A difficult choice is coming, and you may be tempted to choose a path that is not true to your values.

Draw this card in a reading Back to the full library