Upright keywords
Fortitude, courage, soft power, control over situations
Reversed keywords
Placing blame, sentimentality, boasting, making compromises, avoiding conflict
As the old saying goes
You’ll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.
Planet
The Sun
Flowers
Fire; Marigold, Sunflower
Strength description
In the scene of the Strength card, a maiden tames a lion with gentleness and reassurance instead of physical force or punishment. She is not wearing any armor, she does not carry a whip. Garlands of beautiful flowers are draped around her waist. She wears a crown of authority over her own natural abilities. The lemniscate is over her head, a sign of infinity also found with the Magician. The lion’s posture implies he is submissive to her. His tail is between his legs, his tongue is out, and he gazes into her eyes. She subdues a wild, natural force and bends it to her will.
Upright meaning
Sometimes, when you are up against an obstacle, you don’t need to use force. Kill them with kindness. The lion represents a difficult person or situation that you are up against, and it’s testing your strength. Take the high road on this one. Be confident in your decisions, words, and interactions. Stay true to your course and look inward to what you can control. In the words of the great Michael Jackson, “If they wanna make the world a better place take a look at yourself and then make a change.” You’ll be surprised how this approach will influence things.Do not be swayed by this challenge. You have all the strength you need to rise above it. This card can also be associated with caring for animals (veterinarians, zoo keepers, dog walkers, trainers, groomers, etc. ).
Reversed meaning
Strength in reverse means there is disconnect between you and your sense of inner strength. Feelings such as imposter syndrome, low self esteem, a lost sense of purpose, or impatience while recovering from an illness. This can lead to feeling like you aren’t strong enough to shoulder the burden. You may be stuck in a low energy vibration, trying to break out of a slump.The best way to build confidence is to practice and see the results of your learning. You have the ability to handle challenges. As long as this is in the highest and best good for you, then feel the fear and do it anyway. Stay honest, be reliable, and take fair and balanced actions. Just one task at a time.
Strength quote
“Life is mostly froth and bubble,
Two things stand like stone.
Kindness in another’s trouble,
Courage in your own.”
― Adam Lindsay Gordon”
Want to check in with your higher self?
Tarot helps you step back and consider the bigger picture. This is just a snapshot in time. All things shall pass! Let’s take a look at past, present, and future themes in your life and consider a new direction.