In the Strength Tarot card, a woman gently touches a lion on its forehead and jaw. Even though it is known for its fierceness, the woman has tamed this wild beast with her caring and loving energy. The lion is a symbol of raw passions and desires, and in taming him, the woman shows that animal instinct and raw emotions can be expressed in positive ways when inner strength is applied. She doesn’t use force or pressure; she channels her inner strength to overcome and gently control the lion. The woman wears a white robe, showing her purity of spirit. A belt and crown of flowers express the beauty of nature. There is an infinity symbol over her head, symbolizing her infinite potential and knowledge.

Upright
Strength, courage, persuasion, influence, compassion
Reversed
Inner strength, self-doubt, low energy, raw emotion
Astrology
Leo
Element
Fire
Strength

Upright Strength

The Strength card represents strength, energy, and power – like the Chariot. However, while the Chariot means outer strength and will, the Strength card symbolizes the inner strength. Strength is about knowing you can handle life’s challenges. You have great stamina and endurance, balanced with great patience. You are committed to what you need to do, and you go for your goals with maturity and inner calmness.

When the Strength Tarot card appears in a reading, you are full of individual power. You do not rule by trying to dominate others; you quietly influence and convince. And this is also an advantage that others may underestimate your power, however, it is so ‘transparent’. 

Your strength gives you the confidence to overcome fears, difficulties or uncertainties. You have got what it takes to see this situation through to its final. You’re a loyal friend and a supporter and you might also feel compelled to hold space for someone who needs your power and help.

The Strength card advises you to ‘train’ your animal instincts, and raw emotions, and channel these primary responses constructively. It’s normal for negative feelings such as anger, fear, rage, shame, sadness or guilt to appear in certain circumstances. However, it’s what you do with these feelings that make all the distinction. Now is a time when you need to be alert of your instinctual urges. Overtake your situation from a place of love and compassion. 

Reversed Strength

When the reversed Strength card is shown up in a Tarot reading, it may be time to tune in to your current levels of inner strength. Are you overflowing with self-confidence, or are you exhausted? And how can you take these features back into balance?

You may be lacking in self-confidence if you have lately experienced a setback. Know that your center strength will always be with you and now is as good a time as any to reconnect with this strength. You may hold more strength and flexibility than you have always believed – so, be gentle to yourself.

Check on your energy levels right now. The reversed Strength card is your call to rest and withdraw for a temporary period to restore your energy levels. You must take care of yourself first, so you will be able to take care of other people too.

In its shadow form, the reversed Strength card warns that you are likely to show unstable behavior and becoming aggressive. You may end up doing something you regret later by acting without thinking. The key is not to repress the raw emotions and urges, but to learn how to channel it so it won’t hurt others or yourself.