The Chariot Keywords
UPRIGHT: determination | control | success | willpower | self-assertion
REVERSED: turbulence | opposition | lack of direction | self-discipline
The Chariot Description
The Chariot Tarot card depicts a warrior in a chariot, symbolizing bravery and control. His armor features crescent moons and alchemical symbols, denoting emerging existence and spiritual transformation, while his square-decorated tunic represents willpower. The crown of laurel and stars on his head signifies victory and spiritual growth. Despite being in the chariot, he holds no reins, only a wand like The Magician's, indicating control through mental and willful force.
The charioteer's upright stance emphasizes his readiness for action and progress. The canopy of six-pointed stars above him connects to the celestial and divine will. In front of the chariot, the black and white sphinxes symbolize duality and potential conflict, yet under his command, they move in the desired direction. This dynamic illustrates the theme of mastering opposing forces to advance, underscored by the river behind the chariot, which represents the balance between flowing with life's rhythm and pursuing one's aims.
NOTE: The tarot card meaning description is based on the Rider-Waite deck and Decoding The Cards