The Wheel of Fortune Tarot Meaning: Upright and Reversed

The Wheel of Fortune Keywords

• Upright: change, uncertainty, new cycles, fate, adaptability, good fortune, shifts
• Reversed: resistance, lack of control, stagnation, repeating lessons, delays

The Wheel of Fortune: Description and Symbolism

As number ‘10’ in the Major Arcana, The Wheel of Fortune represents the completion of old cycles to make way for the new. The number 10 in numerology symbolizes completion and lessons learned. The depiction of the golden wheel itself represents the ongoing turning of events brought about by the Universe. Life never stops for you to derive its meaning – the wheel keeps on turning. 

There are many symbols of natural order and universal laws within the Wheel of Fortune card. One of which is the presence of four figures – a bull, lion, eagle, human – in each corner to correspond with the fixed signs of the zodiac. The fixed signs emphasize the need for stability through change.

• Bull: Taurus – earth
• Lion: Leo – fire
• Eagle: Scorpio – water
• Human: Aquarius – air

The depiction of a bull, lion, eagle, and human represents the principles of each of the four elements. Their books are believed to symbolize the wisdom of the four evangelists in Christian tradition. These figures are all given wings and depicted amongst clouds to symbolize divine guidance. 

The Wheel of Fortune also symbolizes God’s will to transform an individual through fated events. The four Hebrew letters of God’s name are depicted counter-clockwise along the wheel. The letters spelling “TARO” or “ROTA” form a Latin quote as the wheel turns, translating to “The Wheel of Tarot speaks the Law of Ator”. This quote refers to the principle that life is eternal, even through death.  The alchemical symbols of salt, mercury, sulfur, and water appear along the wheel’s spokes, further supporting the spiritual transformation of the soul. 

On the left, a snake descends the Wheel to represent Set, the Egyptian God of Evil. A jackal-headed man is depicted ascending the wheel on the right side of the card, symbolizing Anubis, the Egyptian guide for dead souls. Set and Anubis symbolize that through life’s ups and downs, there are opportunities to align with a higher consciousness. A sphinx holding a sword is depicted at the top of the wheel, symbolizing Horus, the Egyptian god of resurrection. The wise sphinx reminds you to use discretion through life’s mysteries. Only through sudden turns of events can you understand life’s meaning.

The card’s blue background symbolizes the search for clarity and wisdom as the wheel turns. Whatever changes the Wheel might bring, you have the capacity to grow through the experience. The Wheel of Fortune serves as a testament to adaptability and self-development.

The Wheel of Fortune – Upright Meaning

When the Wheel of Fortune appears in a reading, you may be experiencing a sudden turn of events. There are many external influences outside of your control in your lifestyle, work, and relationships. This card encourages you to accept change as it comes. Learning to adapt will get you far in your given situation.

The Wheel of Fortune could signal that fortunate opportunities will open up in a particular area of life. Luck seems to be on your side at this time. No matter what changes the Universe brings, it is wise to adopt an optimistic outlook.

Love Meaning – The Wheel of Fortune Upright

In love, the Wheel of Fortune suggests that your relationship is undergoing a positive change. Perhaps you and your partner will finally reach an agreement on a difficult topic or take a big step toward your future. The Wheel is a hopeful sign of forward movement, so keep an open mind to the lessons you could learn through upcoming changes.

If you are single, the Wheel of Fortune may suggest that a new opportunity for romance is just around the corner. You have already learned many lessons that have brought clarity to your needs and desires. Now is your chance to put yourself out there and open up to new beginnings in love. 

When reading about how someone feels, the Wheel of Fortune represents someone who is hopeful and open to new love. There is a good chance of long-term fulfillment if you pursue this romantic interest.

Career and Finance Meaning – The Wheel of Fortune Upright

When the Wheel of Fortune appears in a career context, a new opportunity could open up for you soon. If you have been considering applying to a degree program or pursuing a different career field, it is a good time to try your luck. You may receive an unexpected offer that tests your current direction, but is difficult to refuse. This card reminds you that the Universe would only give you opportunities you are deserving of, so consider taking a leap of faith.

In a financial context, the Wheel of Fortune suggests a change for the better. Whether it be a promotion or a side hustle, you will receive new opportunities to optimize your financial situation. You are encouraged to take obstacles as they come and remain hopeful about the value of your skills and work ethic. 

Health Meaning – The Wheel of Fortune Upright

The Wheel of Fortune appears as a reminder to go with the flow. No matter what circumstances are influencing your energy and stress levels, you are capable of adapting. This card reminds you of the power you have over your attitude towards external influences. It will benefit you to lean into mindful practices like yoga and meditation to cultivate a sense of groundedness.

Spirituality Meaning – The Wheel of Fortune Upright

When the Wheel of Fortune appears in a spiritual context, you are going through changes that are rich in spiritual meaning. You are encouraged to reflect on the meaning behind unexpected experiences and opportunities at this time.

The Wheel of Fortune As Feelings Meaning – Upright 

The Wheel of Fortune challenges you to adapt in moments of uncertainty. This card is not a direct representation of the feelings you are enduring, but rather, events you must take into consideration. You are encouraged to accept the Universe’s sudden offers and insights now.

The Wheel of Fortune As Actions Meaning – Upright 

The Wheel of Fortune represents pursuing new cycles and opportunities for growth. Now is a time to let go of control and trust the meaning behind life’s unpredictability.

The Wheel of Fortune – Reversed Meaning

When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed, you may be going through an experience that feels like failure or bad luck. Perhaps an unprecedented event or interaction forced you to change your course. To cope with the sudden change, you are gently reminded to accept the situation for what it is. Some factors are simply beyond your control, so be patient with yourself as you decide your next steps.

The reversed Wheel of Fortune could also indicate that you are repeating the same cycles to learn a lesson. Perhaps you have noticed the same pattern arise in different jobs or relationships recently. Rather than giving in to the feeling of defeat, you are encouraged to look within and practice self-forgiveness. Stagnation and delays in this area of your life will end once you recognize the pattern and shift your focus.

Love Meaning – The Wheel of Fortune Reversed

When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed, you could be going through a period where you feel that luck hasn’t been on your side in love. Perhaps recent dates haven’t gone to plan, or an unexpected obstacle has caused discord within your relationship. It may be time to reflect on the meaning behind these unplanned hurdles to find a way to overcome them.

The reversed Wheel of Fortune could also represent resistance to change within your relationships. You may find yourself repeating old cycles within your love life due to suppressed feelings from the past. Looking within with patience and self-compassion will bring your attention to valuable lessons about your needs and desires.

To represent how someone feels, the reversed Wheel of Fortune indicates feelings of uncertainty. It is best to give the connection with this romantic interest time to grow naturally. 

Career and Finance Meaning – The Wheel of Fortune Reversed

In a career context, the reversed Wheel of Fortune may suggest delays to the results you have been working towards. There could be a lesson that you need to put into practice to achieve the career growth you seek. Otherwise, you may continue to repeat old cycles.

A sudden turn of events could also be forcing you to reconsider your career path. When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed, it could be a sign to shift your focus from previous goals to new ones. It will be harder to deny the unfairness of a low wage or a meaningless position at this time, so try to keep an open mind about new opportunities.

Health Meaning – The Wheel of Fortune Reversed

When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed in a health context, you could be going through a period of stress caused by unprecedented events. Grounding activities like walks in nature and yoga will help you cultivate clarity and peace through uncertainty.

Spirituality Meaning – The Wheel of Fortune Reversed

The reversed Wheel of Fortune asks you to address repeating lessons at this time. You may feel like you and the Universe are at odds, but this card reminds you to keep your head up. There is meaning to be derived from your experiences that will empower you to take back control of your circumstances.

The Wheel of Fortune As Feelings Meaning – Reversed

The reversed Wheel of Fortune suggests you are going through a period of denial or defeat. It may be challenging to wrap your head around the meaning of your circumstances at this time. This card gently reminds you to be patient with yourself as you learn to accept the new lessons that are coming your way.

The Wheel of Fortune As Actions Meaning – Reversed

As actions, the reversed Wheel of Fortune suggests you could be pushed to change your approach to a given situation. You have successfully learned lessons, so long as you are willing to put these insights into practice. 

Past, Present, and Future Positions

Past Position

In the ‘past’ position, the Wheel of Fortune refers to a previous shift or change of course. External factors affected your original plans, teaching you the value of adaptability. Your past success in handling unexpected events is informing your current situation.

Present Position

When in the ‘present’ position, the Wheel of Fortune suggests that you are undergoing a shift in fate. You are learning to adopt a hopeful outlook as unplanned events and interactions arise. It will benefit you to reflect on the meaning of these unexperienced experiences, as they could deepen your sense of purpose.

Future Position

The Wheel of Fortune in the ‘future’ position predicts an upcoming shift in focus due to external factors. You are encouraged to keep an open mind and accept unexpected opportunities moving forward.

Yes or No Meaning of The Wheel of Fortune 

• The Wheel of Fortune Upright: Yes
• The Wheel of Fortune Reversed: No

When the Wheel of Fortune appears upright in a reading, it gives you a ‘yes’. A fortunate outcome is likely in the given situation, so long as you go with the flow.

When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed, it gives you a ‘no’. There is a lesson that must be learned and put into practice before you will achieve the outcome you seek.

Advice and Message of The Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune reminds you to make the most of the journey rather than focusing on the destination. Life will present many twists and turns. This card advises you to trust the need for change whenever it arises – there is something to learn from each and every experience.

Summary of The Wheel of Fortune Tarot Meaning

When the Wheel of Fortune arises, you are offered an opportunity for growth. The more you adapt to life’s natural ups and downs, the easier it will become to see future changes through. This card reminds you that life is full of unexpected lessons, so when it appears reversed, you could be struggling to accept change. To push through, you are encouraged to reflect on the meaning behind unexpected events. Letting go of control could be exactly what you need to maintain inner peace.