Collaboration, Inspiration, Synergy, Balance
We all know that balance is vital for well-being, good health and our personal evolution. But putting it into practice is a whole different story.
The Chariot is commonly assumed to represent will power, controlled strength, or determination. But we’re never given a solution for attaining these. The answer is: balance. And this is really what the card is about.
We can find the theme of balance throughout existence: balance between the male and female sexes, balance of self and others, and balance between spirit and matter.
Both desirable and undesirable experiences are what they are. Both types of encounters help us evolve into more intelligent, passionate and authentic beings. As much as we’d like to think otherwise, one experience or perspective isn’t better than the other, and each can be appreciated for the role it plays in the whole scheme of things.
When polarities are balanced, favorable energy naturally flows.
![The Chariot by Bonifacio Bembo for Visconti-Sforza Family, Tarot of the Angels, [Artist Unknown] and Mystic Faerie Tarot, intuitivefish.com](http://intuitivefish.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/2.png)
When The Chariot Shows Up In A Reading
Health and Body Image: The Chariot is a favorable sign for achievement in your health goals. You can expect some challenges, but stay true to what makes sense to you. Also, it’s not enough to make sure you’re getting enough nutrients in your diet. The natural balance of those nutrients is important too, evidenced by a balance of flavors in a dish which makes it taste delicious.
Occupation and Finances: A lucrative business partnership may be in the air. Or The Chariot may be a message to cooperate or collaborate with colleagues and associates for victory or success.
Relationships: The Chariot is a favorable omen for a committed partnership – likely a romantic and sexual one. If you’re dealing with conflict in a relationship, seek common ground.
Hidden Meaning: The union of the sexes is a common representation of the yin and yang in the realm of matter; but the spirit expressing itself through the human body is the ultimate achievement.
Reversed: A reversed Chariot may be a sign that something is off balance. Maybe you feel overpowered by obstacles, or you lack self-discipline. Or maybe there’s a stranglehold on your desires, and now they’re out of control, overpowering you. There’s a need to balance discipline with desire. Or, you might feel defeated or overpowered by a rival or what you view as your competition. Or there might be a lack of direction, or confusion as to how to achieve a certain thing. Allow your desires to flow, or take a break, nail down your objective and the map to get there before moving forward. But relax and keep a loose grip on the handlebars in order to stay in balance, and avoid a crash. There could be some kind of conflict, quarrel, oppression, harassment, or abuse. The Chariot reversed can also refer to car trouble or an accident. Basically, you’re not able to get to where you want to go.
Advice: The message here is: work together with another or with others, rather than demand your own way. That doesn’t mean compromising your personal truths or your unique bent. It means finding a common purpose to move toward. As difficult as it is to see sometimes, that commonality is always there. Respectful cooperation and maintaining balance will lead to desired results, as well as wisdom.
Astrological Association: Libra
Timing: Generally, the archetype of a major arcana card must be mastered before a favorable event can occur
Reversals: Generally, an obstacle must be overcome before a favorable event can occur
Yes or No: Yes, if help is available