Tarot Cards - Major Arcana - Strength - 8
REVERSED: Inner strength, self-doubt, low energy, raw emotion
DESCRIPTION
In the Strength Tarot card, a woman gently strokes a lion on its forehead and jaw. Even though it is known for its ferociousness, the woman has tamed this wild beast with her calming, loving energy. The lion is a symbol of raw passions and desires, and in taming him, the woman shows that animal instinct and raw passion can be expressed in positive ways when inner strength and resilience are applied. She doesn’t use force or coercion; she channels her inner strength to subdue and subtly control the lion.
The woman wears a white robe, showing her purity of spirit, and a belt and crown of flowers that represent the fullest, most beautiful expression of nature. Over her head is the symbol of infinity, representing her infinite potential and wisdom.
Reversed Meaning
Keywords (Reversed): Self-doubt, raw vulnerability, lack of resolve, suppressed anger, brute force.
When Strength appears reversed, the gentle, compassionate mastery over the inner lion falters. You may be experiencing an acute crisis of confidence, succumbing to self-doubt, or feeling overwhelmed by instinctual urges such as fear, anger, or frustration. Alternatively, it warns against resorting to harsh, domineering methods to compensate for feeling inwardly weak and defenseless.
In emotional life, the reversal indicates that you are being overly critical of your human frailties rather than meeting them with unconditional patience.
Guidance & Remedy: Forgive your imperfections. True fortitude is not brute force, but the gentle courage to be vulnerable and treat your troubled heart with compassion.
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