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Tarot Card Meanings:
Ten of Wands

Ten of Wands: Overview and Symbols

The Ten of Wands represents burdens, responsibility, and the strain of carrying a heavy load. Depicting a figure struggling to carry ten wands, this card signifies the challenges and stress of taking on too much, urging the need for delegation and finding balance.

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

  • Figure carrying ten wands: Symbolizes burdens, heavy responsibilities, and the strain of carrying a heavy load.
  • Hunched posture: Indicates exhaustion, struggle, and the physical toll of overburdening oneself.
  • Distant town: Represents the goal or destination that is still out of reach, despite the heavy burden.
  • Brown and green landscape: Reflects the reality and grounded nature of the responsibilities being carried.
  • Wands obstructing the figure’s view: Suggests a lack of clarity or focus due to being overwhelmed by tasks.
ten of wands from the rider waite smith tarot
Ten of Wands as depicted in the Rider-Waite Smith Tarot by A.E. White, illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith

Ten of Wands: Card Meanings

Keywords/Phrases: Burdens, responsibility, stress, overwork, struggle, exhaustion, heavy load, lack of balance.

The Ten of Wands in the tarot signifies the burdens and responsibilities that come with taking on too much, leading to stress and exhaustion. This card represents the struggle of carrying a heavy load, indicating that the weight of your duties and obligations is becoming overwhelming. It highlights the physical and mental toll of overwork and the need to find balance by delegating tasks and managing your responsibilities more effectively. The Ten of Wands encourages you to assess your current commitments, recognize the strain they are causing, and take steps to lighten your load to regain clarity and energy.

Ten of Wands: Reversed Card Meanings

Keywords/Phrases: Release of burdens, delegating tasks, reduced stress, letting go, finding balance, avoidance, shirking responsibilities.

When the Ten of Wands appears reversed in a tarot reading, it signifies the release of burdens and the reduction of stress through delegating tasks and letting go of unnecessary responsibilities. This card suggests a newfound balance as you shed the weight that has been overwhelming you, leading to a more manageable and less stressful workload. It also warns against the potential avoidance of responsibilities or shirking duties, highlighting the importance of finding a healthy balance rather than neglecting essential tasks. The reversed Ten of Wands encourages you to embrace this opportunity to lighten your load and create a more sustainable approach to your commitments.

Gallery: Ten of Wands in Various Decks

Coming soon!