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What do sideways tarot cards mean?

Tarot Wisdom 3 min read

TL;DR

Sideways tarot cards suggest a softened, filtered, or blocked expression of the card's core energy, prompting a need to re-evaluate its message in a more nuanced or indirect way.

The Core Meaning of Sideways Tarot Cards

When a tarot card appears sideways in a spread, it signifies a deviation from its typical upright or reversed interpretation. Instead of a direct blockage (reversal) or clear affirmation (upright), a sideways card suggests that the energy of the card is being filtered, softened, or expressed in an indirect manner. It can indicate a situation where the card's message isn't fully manifesting, is being misunderstood, or requires a more subtle approach to be understood or integrated. Think of it as the energy being present but not quite hitting the mark directly, or needing a different perspective to be grasped.

Sideways Tarot Cards in Love & Relationships

In matters of the heart, a sideways card might mean that communication isn't as clear as it could be, or that feelings are present but not being articulated openly. For singles, it could suggest an attraction that isn't straightforward or a connection that develops in an unexpected way. For couples, it may point to unspoken issues, a need for more gentle dialogue, or a relationship dynamic that is evolving subtly rather than through dramatic shifts. The focus is on nuance and indirect emotional currents.

Sideways Tarot Cards in Career & Finance

Professionally and financially, a sideways card can indicate that career progress or financial opportunities are not manifesting in the most direct path. It might suggest a need to look for less obvious solutions or to approach a project with a more creative, less conventional strategy. Opportunities might arise from unexpected sources, or a current path may require adjustments that aren't immediately apparent. It encourages flexibility and an open mind to unconventional approaches to achieving goals.

What to Do Next with Sideways Tarot Cards

When you encounter a sideways card, take a moment to pause and reflect. Consider the card's upright meaning and how it might be presenting in a muted or indirect way within your specific question. Explore the surrounding cards for clues; they often shed light on why the energy is being expressed sideways. Ask yourself: Is there a communication breakdown? Am I approaching this situation too rigidly? Is there a gentler or more nuanced way to handle this? Embracing the ambiguity and seeking a deeper, more subtle understanding will often reveal the true message.

🃏 Related Cards to Watch For

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The Hermit

Represents introspection, solitude, and inner guidance, suggesting a need to look inward for answers when a card's message is unclear.

The High Priestess

Symbolizes intuition, mystery, and subconscious knowledge, advising trust in your inner feelings when direct interpretation is challenging.

The Chariot

Embodies willpower, determination, and control, suggesting that a focused, yet adaptable, approach is needed to navigate indirect energies.

What do sideways tarot cards mean? | Tarot Wisdom | TaroTarot.cards