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Five of Wands

Conflict, Rivalry and the Struggle for Dominance

Five of Wands Tarot card

Symbolism and Meaning

After the harmony of the Four, the Five of Wands brings an element of chaos and challenge. In numerology the five always heralds change and the need to adapt. On the card we see five young men waving their wands in a rather chaotic way. This is not a fight to the death, but rather a sporting contest, a scuffle or a heated discussion in which everyone wants to have their own way.

The key point is that each of the figures seems to be fighting on their own; there is no cooperation and no common enemy. The different colours of their tunics suggest different views, attitudes and goals. It is a picture of "clashing egos", a brainstorm that has got out of control, or a situation of "too many cooks spoil the broth".

The Five of Wands symbolises the moment when we meet resistance from those around us. Our ideas are questioned, we have to prove we are right or compete for limited resources. It is the energy of fire in its untamed, competitive form, which can be both stimulating and frustrating.

Interpretation of the Card

In a spread, the Five of Wands means that not everything will go smoothly. Be prepared for minor skirmishes, arguments, differences of opinion or the need to fight for your position. At work it may mean strong competition or a team that cannot get along. In relationships it points to a period of tension and "getting to know each other" through conflict. It is a card that says: "You will have to make an effort to be heard".

Light (Upright)
  • Rivalry, competition (in sport, work, business)
  • A conflict of interests, differences of opinion, arguments
  • Chaos, lack of organisation and cooperation in the group
  • A struggle for dominance or recognition
  • A brainstorm, a heated discussion
  • The need to defend your position
  • Adrenaline, a challenge that spurs you to act
  • Minor obstacles and irritating difficulties
Shadow (Reversed)
  • The end of a conflict, reaching a compromise
  • Avoiding confrontation at all costs
  • Weariness from constant fighting and rivalry
  • Agreeing to "peace" just for the sake of quiet
  • Withdrawing from the competition
  • Suppressing anger and frustration
  • Solving the problem through cooperation
  • Outer chaos turning into inner conflict

Card Attributes

Element: Fire (chaotic, competitive, consuming)
Keywords: Conflict, rivalry, struggle, chaos, dispute, disagreement.
Action: Clashing views, fighting for what is yours, competing.
Astrology: Saturn in Leo (limits and structure (Saturn) clashing with ego and pride (Leo), leading to frustration).
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