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VII. The Chariot

Triumph of the Will, Victory and Progress

The Chariot Tarot card

Symbolism and Meaning

The Chariot is a card of dynamism, movement and overcoming obstacles. It shows a warrior setting out into the world to win fame and recognition. After the dilemmas of the Lovers, the Chariot means making a decision and consistently pursuing a goal. It is a card of triumph, but not the kind that falls from the sky - it is a victory won through hard work, discipline and willpower.

The Chariot is pulled by two sphinxes (or horses) - one black and one white. They symbolise opposing forces (instinct and reason, emotion and logic) that the warrior must tame in order to move in the chosen direction. Interestingly, he uses no reins - he steers the chariot by the strength of his will and mind alone. The canopy above him is decorated with stars, suggesting divine protection and a connection with the cosmos.

The card also refers to the myth of Janus - the god of gates and passages. The warrior crosses the boundary of the known world, entering a new stage of development. He is the master of his fate. The shoulder pieces with faces (of the Moon) symbolise the changeability of the emotions he must master in order to succeed.

Interpretation of the Card

In a spread, the Chariot is a "green light". It says: "Move forward, don't look back!". It heralds success in your undertakings, a journey (physical or mental) and victory over rivals. It does, however, require full commitment and concentration. If you have a goal, this card promises that you will reach it, as long as you do not let your emotions distract you.

Upright
  • Victory, success, triumph
  • Willpower and determination
  • A journey, a change of place, a new vehicle
  • Overcoming obstacles and enemies
  • Self-control and discipline
  • Promotion, social recognition
  • Courage in action
Reversed
  • Loss of control, chaos
  • An accident, a breakdown, a failed journey
  • Aggression, pride, recklessness
  • Lack of direction in life
  • Failure despite your efforts
  • Blocked energy
  • Giving in to weaknesses

Card Attributes

Number: VII (Seven)
Archetype: The Warrior, the Victor, the Traveller
Element: Water (despite its fiery nature, the Golden Dawn system assigns it to Cancer)
Keywords: Movement, progress, will, control, success, journey.
Astrology: Cancer (a protective sign linked with home and emotions - here in the sense of the "shell" that protects the warrior)
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