Tarot: 5 of Wands

Soul Passion, A Persuasive Speech, A Hot Debate

Usually the 5 of Wands is perceived as “contention” but its esoteric astrological influence has a slightly different take on this.

Yes, this card resides in the House of Fire, and it also possesses a masculine active energy in the number five. Any time you have fire, you’re going to get something hot, such as a hot debate or hot desires.

But it’s also from the suit of Wands which speaks of higher intelligence, intuition, communication, magic, change and alteration….

As A.E. Thierens explains, in order to achieve any goal such as material wealth or even love, we need some sort of force to push us toward it. We need a combination of intelligence and will-power. This is the magic of the 5 of Wands.

Now what happens when your heart begins to lead your life in a world that suppresses soul desires and intuition? That’s right, you find yourself in conflict and struggle, then fall easily into the insecurity of egotistical traps.

This could result in “contention” as modern card meanings assume, but not necessarily so; in fact, we find much more beneficial passion in the 5 of Wands than conflict.

What does this mean? The advice in this card is to follow your soul passions even when they get you in trouble. If you can trust your intuition and allow your good heart to lead, you’ll eventually reach your objectives. 

5 of Wands by Starchild Tarot, Tarot of the Magical Forest, Fantastical Creatures Tarot, and Shadowscapes, intuitivefish.com
5 of Wands by Starchild Tarot, Tarot of the Magical Forest, Fantastical Creatures Tarot, and Shadowscapes, intuitivefish.com

When The 5 of Wands Shows Up In A Reading

Health and Body Image: Beside the possibility of inflamed intestines, the 5 of Wands is a good omen for health and wellness. Either you’re on your way to recovery, or you’re experiencing health and vitality. If you’re worried about a certain illness, remember that anxiety only causes it to flare up. Consider different health and fitness viewpoints, but in the end, follow what you know is best for your mind and body. Trust your heart.

Occupation and Finances: The 5 of Wands is also a good omen for wealth. But this kind of wealth is of the heart, as well as “gold and presents,” as Thierens puts it, and maybe even moreso. This means you’ll need more passion than material resources to achieve your wealth. Or, you might consider collaborating with others to bounce ideas off of each other, challenge those ideas, and collectively refine your work. Accepting diverse, competitive or even opposing viewpoints can serve to create better products or services. Just remember to stay true to your heart passion.

Relationships: There’s a tricky balance between standing on your personal truths and respecting those of others, especially when there’s a power struggle. The 5 of Wands is calling you to seek and find that balance with someone in your life, but without compromising your heart knowings. Love respects all but never compromises the authentic self – not even a little bit. Demonstrate genuine love that isn’t attached to outcomes, and you’ll see the relationship in question find its true spirit.

Hidden Meaning: Egoism is often frowned upon, especially in spiritual circles. But in the real reality, duality simply doesn’t exist. Even when the ego is out of place, it can still be used to accomplish good things.

5 of Wands by The Starchild Tarot
5 of Wands by The Starchild Tarot

Reversed: When the 5 of Wands is reversed, someone might persist in childish or ignorant personal opinions or desires without opening up to other perspectives. It refers to speaking in such a self-centered way, that no notice is taken of other people’s viewpoints. This creates a clashing of opinions, competition or it evokes disagreement. Make sure you’re not relying on or expecting others to engage with you, and be careful not to internalize any conflict if they do. Remain secure in yourself and your heart truths because these will lead you to the attainment of your goals. Refrain from engaging in conflict, but don’t compromise yourself either. It’s good to challenge or question well-accepted or invested ideas because it helps everyone dig deeper for better solutions. It’s also vital to have your own opinions about what works for you. Stand strong on these, without the need to prove yourself. Your personal truth speaks for itself. If referring to a project or occupation, zero in on your focus without getting distracted {even by worthy distractions} and you’ll achieve your objective. Commit to your passion by dropping other ideas, possibilities and opportunities which only serve to veer you off course.

Advice: You might not be a perfect saint, but courageously stand on what your heart intuitively knows is the right path for you, and you’ll reach your objectives successfully. It’s possible to cooperate with others, as well as be your true self. As much as possible, be considerate and respectful of other beings, and welcome a clash of opinions as these serve to get to the heart of a matter. Sometimes it’s more effective to stay quiet about a personal viewpoint; but hold to it, nonetheless. It’s okay to be selfish with your energy. If you can operate and respond from the state of resting in your center, the best insights and responses naturally flow without any effort.

Astrological Association: Leo

Element: Air on the 5th House

Timing: July 23rd to August 22nd, or 5 days

Reversals: Generally, an obstacle must be overcome before a favorable event can occur

Yes or No: Yes

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