The Chariot Tarot Card

Find out more about the Tarot with insight from a Tarot Master!

The Chariot

The Chariot

Key words: Decisions, choices, taking control of your life or a particular situation.

Image: A powerful, princely figure, sometimes depicted as a soldier, stands in his chariot, deciding in which direction to go. The two sphinxes – one black, one white – are both at an angle; their destiny is uncertain. The sphinxes are not tethered to The Chariot, symbolising that the soldier has free will to go wherever he chooses.

The soldier may be crowned or helmeted, and is winged in some representations. He or she may hold a sword or wand, or other masculine symbol. The Thoth Tarot deck has the figure controlling four different animals, representing the four elements. It has been suggested the square on the charioteer’s chest is a representation of the earth tattva.

The Chariot represents a period of uncertainty. If you feel that the world is working against you, the current path you have chosen may be a karmic lesson – something that needs to be resolved in order for you to move on. The challenges you are faced with represent only a minor upheaval, so it is important that you do not blow things out of proportion. The matter in hand can be dealt with swiftly and calmly as long as you do not let your emotions take over.

Although this may sound negative, the Chariot is, in fact, quite a positive card. The final outcome is often for the best, even if it feels like the road to get there was challenging and full of obstacles. You will feel a great sense of achievement as you reach the final hurdle, and know that you have worked hard to battle against the odds.

The Chariot can sometimes represent physical movement, such as a new career opportunity or a house move. The transition may not be as smooth as you hoped, but if this move is right for you, you will get there in the end.

There is almost certainly an anticipation of inevitable change happening around you. In some part, you may feel you have no choice in the matter, but the Chariot is all about choices and decisions and the need to take control of a situation. However, you should not allow yourself to be swept away with the tide of suggestions if they do not feel right to you. You are stronger than you think and do not have to do anything you do not wish to.

The Chariot reminds you of your own strength, so trust your intuition – it will not let you down. Once you are able to connect with your inner self, you will know that whatever you choose to do at this time is within your reach. Yes, it may be uncomfortable for a while – you are coming out of your comfort zone – so embrace it. The end result will be well worth a short period of struggle.

Reversed: Out of control, conflict.

Affirmation: ‘I have choices, and I trust my intuition to make the decision that is right for me.’