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Tarot Card Meanings:
Five of Wands

Five of Wands: Overview and Symbols

The Five of Wands represents conflict, competition, and differing opinions. This card signifies tension, rivalry, and the struggle to find harmony amid diverse perspectives.

Some Specific Symbols and Their Meanings in the Rider Waite Smith Tarot:

  • Figures holding wands: Symbolize conflict, competition, and competing energies.

  • Wands raised in different directions: Indicate lack of alignment, differing opinions, and struggle.

  • Energetic postures: Reflect the chaotic, intense nature of the situation and the push for dominance.

  • Outdoor setting: Suggests openness to resolve differences, as conflicts are part of the growth process.
five of wands from the rider waite smith tarot
Five of Wands as depicted in the Rider-Waite Smith Tarot by A.E. White, illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith

Five of Wands: Card Meanings

Keywords/Phrases: Conflict, competition, differing opinions, struggle, rivalry, tension, lack of harmony, challenges.

The Five of Wands in the tarot signifies a period of conflict or competition, where differing opinions or clashing interests create tension and struggle. This card represents the challenges that arise when individuals are vying for attention, dominance, or success, often leading to misunderstandings or rivalry. It highlights the need to navigate these challenges carefully, understanding that this friction, while uncomfortable, can drive personal growth and new perspectives. The Five of Wands encourages you to engage in healthy competition, to seek resolution where possible, and to find ways to turn conflict into an opportunity for collaboration or self-improvement.

Five of Wands: Reversed Card Meanings

Keywords/Phrases: Resolution, avoiding conflict, compromise, inner conflict, end of rivalry, suppressed tensions.

When the Five of Wands appears reversed in a tarot reading, it signifies a desire to avoid or resolve conflict, seeking compromise to bring an end to rivalry or tension. This card suggests that differences are beginning to subside, or there’s an effort to move beyond clashing opinions in favor of peace. It reflects a period of inner conflict or suppressed tensions that need to be addressed constructively to prevent further discord. The reversed Five of Wands urges you to focus on peaceful solutions, open communication, and finding harmony within or with others, letting go of unnecessary competition or rivalry.

Gallery: Five of Wands in Various Decks

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