Strength shows a woman gently closing the jaws of a lion, the sign of infinity above her head. It is the strength of the heart, not of force: patience, compassion and courage that tame the wild, both outside and within.
The gentle strength that tames the beast without breaking it.
Waite’s keywords (1911): Power, energy, action, courage, magnanimity; complete success and honours.
Reversed
Reversed, inner strength falters: doubt, weakness, anger out of control, or a raw instinct that rules you instead of you ruling it.
Self-doubt, or a rage that has not been tamed.
Waite’s keywords (1911): Despotism, abuse of power, weakness, discord, sometimes disgrace.
In love
Upright Love that is patient and brave; tenderness that soothes a difficult partner; passion held with grace.
Reversed Insecurity, jealousy, or passion turned into conflict; a love that devours.
In work
Upright You overcome a challenge through calm, perseverance and tact; you gain respect.
Reversed Lack of confidence at work, or anger that costs you an opportunity.
In money
Upright Patience with money brings stability; resist impulse spending.
Reversed Impulse spending, financial anxiety, or losing control of the budget.
At home and in the family
Upright Gentleness in the home heals tension; caring for a child, an animal, a vulnerable person.
Reversed Anger at home, power struggles, or a household that runs on fear.
On your path
Upright The beast within is not killed but befriended: spiritual courage, compassion with yourself.
Reversed You doubt your own strength; you have more than you believe.
Its counsel
Upright Be gentle and firm at once. Your patience is your power.
Reversed Do not let fear or anger lead. Take back your confidence.
Correspondences
- Arcana
- Major Arcana, card 8
- Element
- Fire
- Number
- 8
Dreams that carry this card
The Major Arcana
The Fool · The Magician · The High Priestess · The Empress · The Emperor · The Hierophant · The Lovers · The Chariot · The Hermit · Wheel of Fortune · Justice · The Hanged Man · Death · Temperance · The Devil · The Tower · The Star · The Moon · The Sun · Judgement · The World