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Tarot Card Meanings:
Nine of Wands

Nine of Wands: Overview and Symbols

The Nine of Wands represents resilience, perseverance, and the strength to continue despite challenges. Depicting a wounded figure standing guard with eight wands behind him, this card signifies the courage to protect one’s achievements and the readiness to face any further obstacles.

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

  • Wounded figure with a bandage on his head: Symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and enduring past struggles.
  • Standing guard with a wand: Indicates vigilance, defense, and readiness to face further challenges.
  • Eight wands standing behind him: Represents past efforts, achievements, and the barriers built to protect them.
  • Determined expression: Reflects courage, strength, and the will to keep going despite difficulties.
  • Desolate background: Suggests isolation and the harsh environment in which the figure must remain steadfast.
the nine of wands from the rider waite smith tarot
Nine of Wands as depicted in the Rider-Waite Smith Tarot by A.E. White, illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith

Nine of Wands: Tarot Card Meanings

Keywords/Phrases: Resilience, perseverance, strength, vigilance, defense, courage, enduring challenges, readiness.

The Nine of Wands in the tarot signifies resilience and perseverance, highlighting the strength to continue despite previous struggles and setbacks. This card represents the determination to defend one’s achievements and the vigilance needed to face ongoing challenges. It reflects a state of readiness and courage, emphasizing the importance of standing firm and being prepared for any obstacles that may arise. The Nine of Wands encourages you to draw upon your inner strength, remain steadfast in your efforts, and trust in your ability to overcome difficulties and protect what you have worked hard to achieve.

Nine of Wands: Reversed Tarot Card Meanings

Keywords/Phrases: Exhaustion, giving up, lack of resilience, overwhelm, vulnerability, defensiveness, burnout, reluctance to continue.

When the Nine of Wands appears reversed in a tarot reading, it signifies exhaustion and a lack of resilience, where the burden of ongoing challenges may feel overwhelming. This card suggests a temptation to give up and a sense of vulnerability, reflecting burnout and defensiveness against further struggles. It indicates that you may feel unable to muster the strength to continue or protect your achievements. The reversed Nine of Wands urges you to address these feelings, find ways to replenish your energy, and seek support to regain your determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

Gallery: Nine of Wands in Various Tarot Decks

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