The Wheel of Fortune in Tarot: What It Means for Love, Life, and Everything in Between
- Kacie Davis
- Jun 13
- 15 min read
Life's a wild ride, isn't it? And you know what really gets that across? The Wheel of Fortune card in the Tarot! It's a super powerful symbol of how unpredictable our journey through life can be, totally reflecting all those amazing ups and downs we experience. When this card pops up, it's all about fate, chance, and cool opportunities, perfectly capturing those natural highs and lows we all go through. It's like a friendly nudge, reminding us that life is just a continuous cycle of good times and not-so-good times, a rhythm we can't quite control.
Usually, you'll see a giant wheel on the card, with three figures chilling on its outer edges. On its face, you'll spot the four Hebrew letters YHVH (that's the unpronounceable name of God, by the way!) along with the letters TORA, which you can also read as TAROT or ROTA (which means 'wheel' in Latin). The wheel in the middle is decked out with alchemical symbols for mercury, sulfur, water, and salt – basically, the core ingredients of life and the four elements, showing off their power to shape things.
On the outside of the wheel, there's a snake slithering down, symbolizing that amazing Kundalini life force energy and the never-ending cycle of change. Its journey into the underworld is all about transformation and letting go of the old. And guess who's rising on the right? Anubis, the Egyptian God of the dead, there to welcome souls to the underworld. Perched right on top of the wheel is the Sphinx, representing knowledge and strength. Look closely at the corners of the card, and you'll see four winged creatures, each one representing a fixed sign of the Zodiac: the angel for Aquarius, the eagle for Scorpio, the lion for Leo, and the bull for Taurus. Their wings are a cool touch, showing stability even amidst all that movement, and they're all holding the Torah, a symbol of wisdom.
Fate, Free Will, and Taking Responsibility
The Wheel of Fortune really nudges us to think about fate and destiny. While we're all navigating this super complex human journey filled with privileges, how we're raised, pure luck, and our own choices, this card also strongly highlights the awesome power of personal responsibility. It acknowledges that, yeah, there are forces beyond our control, but it also gives us crucial advice: figure out what you can change and pour your energy into that! This card totally empowers us to "grab the wheel" of our lives and steer it wherever we can, actively making the changes we want to see.
This card also shines a light on how everything is connected. It encourages us to take a step back and see our lives and challenges as part of a much bigger story, a complex web where every single action creates ripples. When we start to understand this intricate web of connections – how individual stories intertwine and how our current challenges are shaped by a wider history – it gives us such a richer, more complete perspective.
The Ever-Turning Cycle of Change
The Wheel of Fortune is a profound reminder that nothing lasts forever; everything is temporary. When times are good, it offers a humbling perspective, gently reminding us that life is a never-ending cycle of good fortune and tough times. And on the flip side, when we're facing difficulties, it offers a comforting boost, assuring us that "this, too, shall pass." Specifically, it often signals an upward swing, bringing good luck your way. If you've got that gut feeling that something is "meant to be," the Wheel of Fortune is basically saying, "Yep, it probably is!"
Ultimately, the Wheel of Fortune beautifully balances being swept along by change and actively taking charge. It invites you to truly think about how your actions have consequences and how you're a part of something much bigger. It asks us to recognize the incredible power we have to both create and receive change, seeing our lives as a significant, though small, piece of a larger, mysterious story of fate and destiny.
So, what does this fascinating card truly mean, especially when it shows up upright or reversed? Let's dive into its energetic, mental, emotional, and physical impact, plus its significance in relationships, family, careers, finances, and health!
The Upright Wheel of Fortune
When the Wheel of Fortune appears upright in a tarot reading, it's a primary sign of destiny and life's cyclical nature, pointing to a big turning point or a brand-new phase in your journey. It often brings good luck and fresh opportunities, suggesting that favorable circumstances are popping up, encouraging you to grab them with both hands! This card powerfully signals change and transition, which, even though they might feel external and beyond your direct control, are usually for your highest good. It's prompting you to embrace these shifts and just go with the flow of life. There's also a strong connection to karma and divine timing, implying that current events are unfolding exactly as they should, maybe as a result of past actions or as part of a grander plan. If you've been feeling stuck, the Wheel of Fortune signals movement and progress, representing evolution and forward momentum. Ultimately, it really emphasizes personal growth, as all the experiences brought by the turning wheel offer built-in chances for learning and gaining wisdom from both your successes and your challenges.
The Reversed Wheel of Fortune
When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed in a reading, its meaning shifts from the smooth flow of destiny to a sense of disruption, challenges, and feeling off-kilter with life's rhythms, often suggesting a period where things are not going as planned or you're experiencing setbacks. This can manifest as bad luck or unforeseen obstacles, a deviation from a smooth path due to external forces or unexpected turns. You might feel stuck, stagnant, or out of control, caught in unproductive cycles as if things are happening to you rather than for you. This reversal often points to a resistance to necessary change, where clinging to old ways or refusing to adapt can exacerbate difficulties, leading to unexpected delays or disruptions in your plans. In some cases, it can signify karmic lessons or repercussions of past actions, prompting reflection on what choices might be contributing to current difficulties, or even highlighting missed opportunities due to resistance or a lack of awareness. Ultimately, the reversed Wheel of Fortune indicates a period of challenge and disruption, often stemming from a misalignment with the natural flow of life, serving as a call to reevaluate, adapt, and potentially learn from recurring patterns to regain control over your destiny.
Love & Relationships
Upright:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears upright in a love reading, it's generally a super positive sign indicating significant, often fated, relationships.
For those of you who are single and looking for love, the upright Wheel of Fortune is a clear sign that luck is totally on your side! It suggests a fated encounter or a period where destiny is actively working to bring you the love you deserve. You might meet someone in the most unexpected ways, or a casual acquaintance could suddenly turn into something much deeper. It encourages you to be open to new possibilities, step out of your comfort zone, and trust that the universe is aligning to bring you a truly meaningful connection, maybe even a soulmate!
For those of you already in a relationship, the upright Wheel of Fortune signifies a positive turning point or a brand-new phase of growth and deeper connection. If things have felt a bit stagnant, expect a sudden positive shift that breathes new life into the relationship. This could show up as a decision to move in together, get engaged, or simply a renewed sense of passion and understanding. It suggests that you and your partner are navigating life's cycles together, learning and growing as a team. While there might be some adjustments needed, these changes ultimately lead to a stronger bond and a more fulfilling partnership. It's a sweet reminder that relationships, just like life, have their ups and downs, but with the Wheel of Fortune upright, the current cycle is turning in your favor, bringing joy and alignment to your shared journey.
Reversed:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed in a love reading, it often signals a period of disruption, challenges, and a feeling of being totally out of sync with the natural flow of your romantic life.
For those who are single and looking for love, the reversed Wheel of Fortune suggests that luck might not be on your side right now, or that you might be running into obstacles when trying to find a meaningful connection. This could show up as missed opportunities, frustrating dating experiences, or a feeling of being stuck in a repetitive, unfulfilling pattern in your love life. It might also indicate that you are subconsciously resisting necessary changes in yourself or your approach to dating, which is hindering your progress. There could be a sense of being caught in unwanted karmic cycles, where you're attracting the same type of unhelpful situations or partners. The card advises you to look within, figure out what patterns are holding you back, and actively work to break free from them rather than just waiting for external circumstances to change.
For those already in a relationship, the reversed Wheel of Fortune can signify a period of turbulence, difficulties, or unexpected setbacks. This doesn't necessarily mean the end of the relationship, but it definitely highlights that things aren't flowing smoothly. You might be experiencing unforeseen challenges, misunderstandings, or a feeling of stagnation where the "spark" has faded. There could be a strong resistance to addressing underlying issues or making necessary adjustments within the partnership, leading to recurring arguments or unresolved tensions. The card suggests that external factors might be impacting your relationship, or that one or both partners are clinging to old behaviors or expectations that are no longer serving the connection. It's a call to honest communication, a willingness to adapt, and perhaps a need to break free from unhealthy patterns to prevent further emotional discord and get the relationship back on a more harmonious track.
Friend & Family Dynamics
Upright:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears upright in a reading concerning family or friends, it's generally a very positive sign, indicating a period of harmonious change, positive developments, and strengthening bonds within your social and familial circles.
For family relationships, the upright Wheel of Fortune suggests that dynamics are shifting in a beneficial way. If there have been any lingering tensions or disagreements, this card can signal a positive turning point and resolution, leading to greater understanding and reconciliation. It often indicates a new phase of growth and togetherness, perhaps spurred by a significant family event like a wedding, birth, or reunion that brings everyone closer. There might be a sense of good fortune impacting the family as a whole, such as a shared success, an inheritance, or a stroke of luck that benefits many members. Overall, it points to a period of alignment where family members are supporting each other and finding a renewed sense of belonging and joy in their shared connections.
In the context of friendships, the upright Wheel of Fortune signifies a time of positive evolution and serendipitous connections. You might find existing friendships deepening, or new, meaningful friendships forming under fortunate circumstances. It can indicate a period where your social circle expands in a beneficial way, bringing people into your life who align with your current path and support your growth. If you've been feeling isolated, this card suggests that your social luck is turning, and opportunities for meaningful connections will arise. There's a sense of karma playing out positively, where good deeds within friendships are reciprocated, or long-standing bonds are being strengthened through shared positive experiences. It encourages you to be open to new social invitations and to nurture your existing friendships, as this is a time for fortunate interactions and a flourishing social life.
Reversed:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed in a reading concerning family or friends, it often indicates a period of disruption, disharmony, or unexpected challenges within these relationships. Instead of smooth transitions, you might experience unforeseen conflicts, misunderstandings, or setbacks that create tension. This could show up as arguments escalating, long-standing issues resurfacing, or a general feeling of being out of sync with certain family members or friends. There's often a sense of bad timing or unfortunate circumstances impacting these bonds, where external events beyond your control might be causing stress or distance. You might feel a lack of control over the dynamics within your social circle, as if things are spiraling in a negative direction without a clear solution. The reversed Wheel can also point to resistance to necessary changes within these relationships; perhaps someone (including yourself) is clinging to old roles, behaviors, or expectations that are no longer healthy, thereby preventing progress and resolution. It might highlight missed opportunities for connection or reconciliation, or indicate that a karmic lesson is playing out that involves discord or a re-evaluation of who you truly align with. Ultimately, this card suggests a need to address underlying issues, practice patience, and potentially release the need for perfect harmony as you navigate a period of turbulence in your family and friendships.
Career & Projects
Upright:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears upright in a career reading, it's a super lucky sign, indicating a period of significant positive change, growth, and good fortune in your professional life.
This card suggests that destiny is doing its thing, and circumstances are aligning in your favor. You might experience a sudden stroke of luck, like an unexpected job offer, a promotion, a lucrative new project, or a chance to work with influential people. It signals a turning point where things are moving in a favorable direction, especially if you've been feeling stuck or unchallenged.
The Wheel of Fortune encourages you to be open and adaptable to these changes. While some shifts might require you to step out of your comfort zone or learn new skills, they are ultimately for your professional advancement and prosperity. It's a time to seize opportunities with confidence, trusting that the universe is supporting your career endeavors. This card can also indicate that karmic rewards are coming your way, perhaps as a result of past hard work, dedication, or ethical conduct. Overall, it's a powerful affirmation that your career is entering a beneficial new cycle, promising success, recognition, and exciting possibilities.
Reversed:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed in a career reading, it signals a period of disruption, challenges, and a feeling of being out of sync with your professional path. This isn't necessarily a sign of permanent failure, but rather a heads-up that things aren't flowing smoothly or that you're running into significant obstacles.
You might experience setbacks, unexpected delays, or a streak of "bad luck" in your career endeavors, where opportunities seem to slip away or projects face unforeseen complications. There can be a profound sense of stagnation or feeling stuck, as if your efforts aren't getting the desired results and you're unable to move forward. This often comes from resisting necessary changes; you might be clinging to old methods, a past job, or outdated career goals, even when the current professional landscape demands adaptation.
The reversed Wheel of Fortune can also indicate missed opportunities that were present but perhaps not noticed or grabbed due to fear, complacency, or simply unfortunate timing. It may also point to unwanted karmic lessons playing out in your career, suggesting that recurring patterns or consequences of past choices are creating current difficulties. Ultimately, this card urges you to assess recent career decisions, let go of what you cannot control, and actively re-evaluate your approach to break free from unhelpful cycles and find a new direction that is more aligned with current realities.
Finances & Money Matters
Upright:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears upright in a financial reading, it's an incredibly positive sign, signifying a fortunate and transformative shift in your financial circumstances. This card indicates that luck is on your side, and destiny is playing a role in bringing you greater abundance.
You can expect a positive turn of fortune, which might show up as unexpected windfalls, profitable investments, or new income streams appearing seemingly out of nowhere. If you've been experiencing financial struggles, this card offers a strong message of hope and a coming upward trend, suggesting that those difficult times are about to change for the better. It's a prime time for new opportunities to emerge, whether that's a chance to invest wisely, receive a bonus, or find a better-paying job.
The Wheel of Fortune also encourages adaptability and openness to these changes. While money matters might shift quickly, these shifts are ultimately beneficial. It's a reminder that financial cycles are always in motion, and with this card upright, you are entering a period of growth and prosperity. It encourages a hopeful and optimistic outlook, suggesting that positive financial changes are definitely on the horizon, and you should be prepared to make the most of these fortunate circumstances.
Reversed:
When the Wheel of Fortune pops up reversed in a financial reading, it often signals a bit of a bumpy ride with your money. Instead of unexpected cash coming in, you might run into unforeseen expenses, frustrating delays, or a string of "bad luck" that just throws your budget off track. It doesn't mean you're headed for ruin, but it does suggest things aren't flowing smoothly, and you might hit some roadblocks when trying to reach your financial goals.
There can be a strong feeling of resisting necessary financial changes. Maybe you're clinging to old spending habits, investment strategies, or even a past income level that just isn't sustainable anymore, and that's making things even tougher. This resistance, combined with feeling like you're losing control over your money, can really amp up your anxiety and stress about finances. The reversed Wheel also gives a gentle warning against taking unnecessary risks or making impulsive money decisions, as the timing likely isn't great for those kinds of ventures. It's a strong reminder to be cautious, take another look at your financial plans, maybe start an emergency fund, and be ready to adapt to unexpected shifts instead of just hoping for a quick fix or relying purely on luck.
Health & Wellness
Upright:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears upright in a reading about your health and wellness, it's a super positive sign, pointing to a period of significant positive change and a real boost in vitality! This card suggests that luck is on your side, and destiny is playing a role in bringing you greater well-being and balance.
You can definitely expect a positive turn in your health. This might show up as unexpected improvements in a chronic condition, a breakthrough in finding the right treatment, or a sudden burst of energy that inspires you to adopt healthier habits. If you've been struggling with health issues, this card offers a strong message of hope and an upcoming upward trend, suggesting that those challenging times are about to shift for the better. It's a prime time for new opportunities to emerge, whether that's discovering a new fitness routine, finding a supportive health practitioner, or gaining clarity on a path to feeling even better.
The Wheel of Fortune also encourages you to be adaptable and open to these changes. While your health journey might shift quickly, these shifts are ultimately beneficial. It's a reminder that health cycles are always in motion, and with this card upright, you're entering a period of growth and improved well-being. It encourages a hopeful and optimistic outlook, suggesting that positive health changes are definitely on the horizon, and you should be ready to embrace and make the most of these fortunate circumstances.
Reversed:
When the Wheel of Fortune appears reversed in a reading about your health and wellness, it signals a period of turbulence, setbacks, and a feeling of being out of sync with your body's needs. Instead of unexpected improvements, you might encounter unforeseen health issues, delays in recovery, or a streak of "bad luck" that impacts your well-being. This doesn't necessarily mean severe illness, but it does indicate that things aren't flowing smoothly, and you might face obstacles in achieving your health goals.
There can be a strong feeling of resisting necessary health changes. Maybe you're clinging to old habits, ignoring symptoms, or even resisting professional advice that could lead to better health. This resistance, coupled with a feeling of losing control over your body, can lead to heightened anxiety and stress about your well-being. The reversed Wheel also cautions against taking unnecessary risks or impulsive decisions regarding your health, as the timing is likely unfavorable for such ventures. It serves as a strong reminder to exercise caution, re-evaluate your health plans, prioritize self-care, and be prepared to adapt to unexpected shifts rather than hoping for a quick fix or relying solely on external circumstances.
Reflection on the Wheel of Fortune
The Wheel of Fortune, whether it shows up upright or reversed, is such a profound reminder of how dynamic and unpredictable life truly is. It's a card that speaks to the ebb and flow of existence, the grand cycles that guide our experiences, and that ever-present hand of destiny.
When it's upright, it's a beacon of hope and opportunity, urging us to embrace change with open arms and trust that the universe is really working in our favor. It tells us that our fortune is turning, that good things are on the horizon, and that now is the perfect time to grab the opportunities that pop up. It fills our energy with optimism and momentum, clears our minds by showing us bigger patterns, boosts our emotional vibe with hope and acceptance, and can even show up physically as renewed vitality.
On the flip side, the reversed Wheel of Fortune acts as a necessary counterpoint, signaling periods of disruption, setbacks, and feeling a bit out of sync. It can drain our energy, cloud our mental clarity with confusion and resistance, lower our emotional vibe with frustration, and even show up physically as fatigue or discomfort. However, this reversal isn't just about bad luck; it's a powerful call to look inward. It urges us to examine where we might be resisting change, clinging to outdated expectations, or failing to learn from past patterns. It reminds us that even during tough times, we have the power to adapt, let go of need for control, and re-evaluate our path.
The Wheel of Fortune encourages us to build resilience and perspective. It teaches us that while we can't always control the turning of the wheel, we can control how we respond to its movements. By understanding its lessons, both upright and reversed, we learn to flow with life's currents, navigate its challenges with wisdom, and truly appreciate the continuous, transformative journey of our own destinies.
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