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What Does Reversed Tarot Cards Mean?

Tarot Wisdom 3 min read

TL;DR

Reversed Tarot cards indicate blocked, delayed, or internalized energy of the upright meaning. They suggest a need to re-examine, release, or integrate the card's lesson in a new way, often pointing to internal struggles or external obstacles hindering the natural flow of the upright energy.

The Core Meaning of Reversed Tarot Cards

In Tarot, a reversed card doesn't necessarily mean the opposite of its upright meaning, nor is it inherently 'bad.' Instead, it signifies that the energy or lesson of the card is being expressed differently. This can manifest as blocked energy, delayed manifestation, internalization, or a need to consciously work with the card's archetype. It's an invitation to explore the shadow aspects, hidden influences, or personal challenges related to the card's core message. Think of it as the upright energy trying to find a new, perhaps more challenging, path to be realized.

Reversed Tarot Cards in Love & Relationships

When a reversed card appears in a love reading, it often points to internal relationship dynamics or external factors hindering connection. For singles, it might suggest self-imposed barriers to love, a fear of intimacy, or focusing too much on past hurts. For couples, it could indicate communication breakdowns, unresolved conflicts, a lack of emotional reciprocity, or one partner internalizing their feelings. It’s a prompt to address unspoken issues, heal old wounds, or understand what’s truly blocking a fulfilling connection.

Reversed Tarot Cards in Career & Finance

In a professional or financial context, reversed cards can signal career stagnation, missed opportunities, or a lack of clarity regarding goals. You might feel undervalued, unmotivated, or that your efforts aren't yielding the expected results. Financially, it could indicate poor planning, unexpected expenses, a blockage in income flow, or a need to re-evaluate your spending habits and financial strategies. It’s a call to reassess your approach, identify obstacles, and perhaps seek alternative solutions or develop new skills.

Actionable Advice: What to Do Next

When you pull a reversed card, the first step is to acknowledge the message without judgment. Ask yourself: How is this energy blocked, delayed, or internalized in my life right now? What personal beliefs, fears, or habits might be contributing to this blockage? Consider what the upright meaning represents and explore how that energy might be suppressed or distorted. Practical steps include journaling about the card's themes, meditating on its potential shadow aspects, communicating openly about challenges in relationships or work, and taking concrete actions to address any identified obstacles, whether through self-reflection, seeking guidance, or implementing practical changes.

🃏 Related Cards to Watch For

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The Tower

Represents sudden upheaval, destruction, and revelation. Reversed, it can suggest resistance to necessary change, averting disaster but prolonging suffering, or an internal breakdown.

The Devil

Symbolizes addiction, materialism, and bondage. Reversed, it can indicate breaking free from unhealthy attachments, recognizing limitations, or confronting destructive patterns.

The Hanged Man

Embodies suspension, new perspectives, and surrender. Reversed, it might suggest resisting necessary delays, feeling stuck, or clinging to old viewpoints.

What Does Reversed Tarot Cards Mean? | Tarot Wisdom | TaroTarot.cards