Wheel of Fortune
A great wheel turns in the sky, surrounded by four winged creatures representing the fixed signs of the zodiac. On the wheel ride a sphinx, a snake, and Anubis, representing the rising and falling of fortunes. Hebrew letters and alchemical symbols encode the mysteries of fate and free will.
Upright Keywords
Reversed Keywords
Upright Meaning
Good luck, karma, life cycles, destiny, a turning point. The Wheel reminds us that change is the only constant.
Reversed Meaning
Bad luck, resistance to change, breaking cycles. You may be fighting inevitable change or stuck in negative patterns.
Symbolism & Imagery
- ✦The wheel itself represents the cycles of life, death, and rebirth
- ✦The four creatures represent stability amidst change
- ✦The sphinx at top represents wisdom gained at life's peak
- ✦The snake descending represents life force falling into matter
- ✦Anubis rising represents evolution and ascension
Interpretations by Life Area
Upright
Fate is turning in love's favor! A karmic connection or destined meeting. The relationship is entering a new phase. Trust the cosmic timing.
Reversed
Relationship setbacks or bad timing. Karmic patterns repeating in love. You may be resisting necessary changes in how you relate.
Advice
Change is coming whether you resist or embrace it. The wise position is at the hub of the wheel, centered and unattached to outcomes. What rises must fall, what falls will rise again.
Warning
Don't become attached to good fortune or despairing in bad—both are temporary. The wheel teaches equanimity. Also, don't use 'fate' as an excuse for avoiding responsibility.
Pairs Well With
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Now that you understand Wheel of Fortune, draw cards to see how this wisdom applies to your life.