The Chariot is the seventh arcana in the hierarchy of the Major Arcana, holistically associated with the willpower and determination needed to steer a path towards achieving goals. It is also known as the card of balance because it implicitly highlights the necessity of having a vehicle to reach a destination. This card symbolizes perfection and integrity, portraying an allegory between the victor and their actions over the demons of darkness.
Interpretation of the Elements in the Deck
The central element of the card is depicted by the presence of a man commanding two beasts, symbolizing his power to control his life. This scene predominantly uses black and white colors, representing “good and evil,” two elements that eternally exist in human nature. The emperor is characterized by wearing a crown, symbolizing the struggle and action that protect him from material temptations, represented by the columns supporting the canopy. The blue color of his robe refers to the intellectual and spiritual component of the character.
The two yellow epaulettes resembling crescent moons refer to the sublunar world, meaning the emotions and instincts over which he has gained control.
The star on the crown or the gems, according to the tarot, represent the intelligence that has allowed him to achieve mastery and balance, as well as the reconciliation of body, soul, and spirit. The number assigned to this arcana is seven, which is the number of perfection. The square on the man’s chest represents stability.
The Chariot in Readings: A Crusade for Mastery Over Life’s Ambivalences
This card follows the Lovers, who, after years of experiences, have aged and managed to master their ambivalences with great effort. It is assumed that there has been a mastery of instincts and the conquest of unity by overcoming all present fatality.
In an inverted position, it represents a lack of control and direction in life, aggression, or the uncertainty of not knowing where one is heading. It indicates movements or the presence of spiritual journeys, as well as the need to take control and focus on life. It exhorts the search for purposes and direction, which may be needed in a romantic or professional relationship. It may indicate the possible ruin of a business and, consequently, the need for caution when venturing into new projects. In terms of health, it warns of the danger of relapses or the appearance of illnesses. Overall, this card is inscribed under the arcana of victory, which can only be achieved through many experiences or life’s crusades, leading to stability, a characteristic aspect of human beings when they reach maturity over time.
Represents: Success, power, travel, movements, social position, a person of high rank, action, friends around, strength, and energy.
Esoterically, it is associated with the sign of Gemini, the element of Fire, and Summer.
In numerology, it represents the number 7: It is the number of God in its perfect unity, the greatest number in the cosmos. It is composed of 3 (the trinity) and 4 (double duality or double dialectic). It is the most positive number of all, never negative, and in all philosophies and religions, it holds significant symbolism.
Meaning in the Three Planes:
- Love Plane: In love, all the plans and desires you have set out to achieve will come true. You can fully trust the sincerity and fidelity of your soulmate.
- Money Plane: You will triumph over all business-related challenges. This arcana shows that the desire you have longed to fulfill will come true.
- Work Plane: Regarding work-related questions, this arcana predicts frequent travels or changes. You will need to demonstrate a good capacity for adaptation to maintain this pace of life.
