The INDIAN TAROTS – Seven of Wands

The Seven of Wands illustrates the unfortunate result from gaining the success found in the Six of Wands: criticism. While the illustration contains some ambiguities, it appears that a man is defending his position against the crowd. It is a card that suggests self-confidence and resolve in the face of criticism.

The Seven of Wands depicts a lone figure on top of a hill (Western Ghat), guarding himself against the other wands. Based on the figure’s pose, it is unclear if the man is playfully fighting with the other wands, like it was with the Five of Wands, or if the figure is in real danger. Some scholars have argued that the man is simply pulling up a wand offered to him while others have claimed that the man unjustly goes against the community established in the previous cards. The hill the man stands upon can symbolize a number of things. Practically, the hill gives the man the advantage of higher ground, revealing his wit. The hill could also represent the man’s higher moral ground, suggesting the importance of standing up for what you believe in. The different anklets that the man wears are an oddly specific detail. With much of Tarot being about inhabiting different, paradoxical spaces, it seems likely that the two anklets are a further example of that polarity. Stipulations could be made between the conscious/subconscious and tamed/untamed dichotomies.

Upright meaning

This card often represents standing up for oneself, defending one’s position, and overcoming challenges. It suggests that you may be facing opposition or competition, but that you have the strength and determination to defend your position and come out on top. The card encourages you to stand firm and fight for what you believe in.

Reverse meaning

This card can indicate giving up, backing down, or feeling overwhelmed. You may be feeling like you’re not able to defend your position or overcome the challenges you’re facing. The card suggests that you may need to reassess your strategy or seek help from others in order to regain your strength and confidence.