Current moon phase:
Sun in the sign of:

VI. The Lovers

Love, Choice and the Harmony of Opposites

The Lovers Tarot card

Symbolism and Meaning

The Lovers card is about much more than romance. It is one of the most complex cards of the Major Arcana, symbolising duality and the need to make a choice. In classic images (e.g. Waite's) we see Adam and Eve in Paradise, blessed by the angel Raphael. They represent not only a man and a woman, but also the conscious and the subconscious, logic and intuition, striving for union.

The angel above the couple symbolises higher consciousness and the spiritual blessing of the relationship. The serpent on the tree of knowledge is a reminder of temptation and of the need to make a decision that will change the lovers' fate forever. The card is linked with the Hebrew letter Zain (sword), which suggests that love often requires "cutting" old ties or choosing one path at the expense of another.

The Lovers are the archetype of the union of opposites. The card speaks of the search for our other half - not only a life partner, but also the missing part of our own soul. It is the moment when we must decide whether to follow the voice of the heart or of reason; whether we choose virtue or vice.

Interpretation of the Card

In a spread, the Lovers usually herald an important relationship - romantic, friendly or business - that will have a deep influence on your life. It may be a new love, a renewal of feelings or the need to make a difficult moral decision. The card encourages you to follow what you feel and to seek harmony.

Upright
  • Great love, passion, partnership
  • A choice in line with your heart and values
  • Harmony, union, marriage
  • Physical and spiritual attraction
  • Trust and closeness
  • Overcoming inner conflicts
  • Inspiration and cooperation
Reversed
  • A bad choice, hesitation, indecision
  • Conflict in the relationship, a break-up
  • Betrayal, disloyalty, a love triangle
  • Incompatibility, lack of harmony
  • Giving in to temptation
  • Emotional immaturity
  • Running away from responsibility

Card Attributes

Number: VI (Six)
Archetype: Partnership, Choice, Eros
Element: Air (communication and thought)
Keywords: Love, choice, dilemma, passion, union, temptation.
Astrology: Gemini (the sign of duality and communication)
Back to the list of cards