Strength. It lives within all of us. You may initially think of muscles and contests of tug-of-war. It goes beyond the physical and plunges deep within us. Instead of brawn, think self-control, willpower, and determination.
Inner Strength is Power: Card Symbolism
In the Rider-Waite tarot deck, the Strength card comes after an elusive ride with The Chariot. This card depicts a robed woman calmly closing the jaws of a lion. Her white robe, adorned with lush foliage, symbolizes her grounded nature. Above her head hovers an infinity symbol, similar to the one on The Magician card, representing endless potential. Despite her challenging task, she remains composed and serene.
Symbols and Meanings
- Robe and Foliage: The woman’s white robe adorned with lush greenery symbolizes purity and a grounded nature.
- Lion: Represents our primal instincts and untamed emotions that require control and understanding.
- Infinity Symbol: Above the woman’s head, it signifies infinite potential and a connection to the divine, mirroring the symbol on The Magician card.
- Woman’s Calm Demeanor: Her serene and composed expression shows inner peace and mastery over inner turmoil.
- Lion’s Mouth: The act of shutting the lion’s mouth suggests controlling one’s base desires and inner strength.
Strength Upright: Card Interpretations
Staying strong isn’t always easy. The figure in the Rider-Waite Smith deck seems to tame the lion effortlessly, but it took her a long time to reach this point. On the Fool’s journey, we must learn the lessons of each preceding arcana before fully understanding the meaning of Strength. We need to know ourselves intimately and confront our shadow selves without fear.
To become strong, we must accept our shadow selves. Becoming comfortable with our inner beasts and learning to tame them is a sure path to greater strength. This card appears in a reading when you are either exuding strength or facing a situation where you need to remain strong. Maintaining a cool attitude and handling challenges with grace will carry you far.
Strength Across Decks
In Marseilles’ tarot, La Force (Strength) is represented by a figure wearing primary colors that appears to be prying the lion’s mouth open to remove something. This figure also wears a hat resembling the infinity symbol above The Magician’s head, suggesting a connection to infinite potential and inner strength.
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