The Card of the Day: The Chariot (Reversed)
“Be confident! Release indecision.”
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The Chariot symbolizes courage in the face of uncertainty. It represents taking risks and stepping toward what you really want out of life, even when there are no guarantees. The Chariot illustrates that victory does not come from the attainment of a goal, but instead occurs at the exact moment you choose courage instead of fear.
Do you avoid making decisions that could lead to your happiness because you are afraid of failing? Have you ever stayed in unhealthy situations longer than you should have because you feared an unknowable future? Is there something you would like to change about your life right now, but you are too scared?
The Chariot is led by two sphinxes, one black and one white. They face in opposite directions, representing two possible futures. The sphinx is a creature of mystery and represents the unknown. The man in the chariot is taking a risk and letting the mysterious sphinxes lead him. He doesn’t know what lies ahead, but he has taken the risk anyway.
In the background of the card there is a large castle surrounded by stable walls. This represents leaving the safety of the home to go out into the world. A large moat surrounds the castle and has also been crossed. This represents bypassing emotional decision making which usually favors comfort over self-improvement. The Chariot is covered by a veil imprinted with stars. Stars are eternal and ancient. They symbolize that the charioteer is seeing “the big picture.” His Higher Self is directing his path.
The charioteer is still advancing toward his goal, and yet he is already crowned and sceptered. He has already won. He made the decision to have courage direct his path instead of a need for comfort, assurance, and security.
The Charioteer advises you to take risks to improve your life, even if there are no guarantees. Choosing courage empowers you, and already makes you a winner.
If the Chariot appears reversed, it means that fear of making the wrong decision can rob you of feeling like your life and destiny are in your control. This card will often accompany a feeling that life is pulling you in two opposite directions. Fear of committing to a choice can lead to a sense of being stuck. Avoidance of taking responsibility and making a choice will only make things feel more "out of control." The Chariot driver reminds you that you are in the driver's seat of your life. You get to choose whether to respond assertively or re-actively to the situation confronting you. Once you make the choice you have been avoiding, you can reclaim your self-confidence and self-esteem.
The only wrong decision for you at this time is making no decision at all. Be bold and proactive. Take charge. Even when this card is reversed it reminds you that you still embody the powerful the qualities of the brave charioteer. The Great Mystery symbolized by the sphinxes will lead you to safety every time. You can still be victorious, but only if you have a horse in the race. There is no need to fear mistakes. Even if you possibly make mistakes along the way, they will prove to be your best teachers. Success comes from action, not avoidance. Reclaim your personal power and make the decision you’ve been too scared to make!
*The Chariot (Reversed) in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The reversed Charioteer can represent a love interest who is obsessed with appearing impenetrably confident. This may be a mask for an unacknowledged insecurity within.
This card can also represent someone who retreats into his (or her) shell when he doesn’t understand his emotions. You can’t “make” the Charioteer reemerge. He must come to you.
Long Term Partnership
The Chariot reversed may describe a partner who feels they’ve lost control over their life’s direction. Although this person appears emotionally impenetrable, he or she is likely feeling extremely vulnerable. Discussing underlying issues compassionately may help them get back in the driver’s seat.
Seeking Romance
A past heartbreak may be tempting you to retreat behind fortified, impenetrable walls. Focus on pursuits that bolster your confidence. Physical activity can be one tool to help restore vitality and passion. Resist rushing into a rebound relationship to avoid feeling the discomfort of a past loss.
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder Fall 2022!
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