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The Three of Wands
Death Tarot card

Card reading

The Three of Wands

 
 
 

The Three of Wands Tarot Card Meaning

The Three of Wands in your reading indicates that you have gone the distance and have found your reward.

The cards of the Tarot tell a story and where the Two of Wands indicates a need for planning before the adventure begins, the Three of Wands indicates that you are closer to your destination and that the end is in sight. Often it will represent being at the last leg of a journey in your life or completing something and now being able to move forward to the next aspect. Think about ways in your life where you have worked hard and now you are starting to feel the benefits. It could indicate a project at work being completed, being ready to commit further in a relationship, or fixing to be in the final stages of making a large purchase.

The Three of Wands card shows a man who is overlooking the ocean. He stands alone, yet for some reason, there are three staves present. As he leans against one stave the other two appear firmly planted in the ground. There is a sense of stability in his location now and it is often interpreted that he had to climb over mountains and is now enjoying the view. This is a card of independence and going your own way. You are in a place in your life where you have worked hard but now are ready to share your rewards with others or to celebrate. You may have even learned a trade or new way of doing things and with your knowledge, you are able to share with others.

This card leads the way to leadership and cooperation. Take the knowledge that you have gained and allow others to benefit from your own trials and errors,  at this time you are likely to be looked to for advice. You may be in a position to guide or lead others. Be patient with those around you at this time and realize that you did not get to where you are today by perfection.

You have made your own mistakes and those mistakes did not mean failure. Understand that those around you, especially people who are younger than you or on an earlier leg of their own journey are going to make mistakes and do not judge them for false starts or faltering. Remember when you were just starting out and think of the times in which you had to ask for help or how you could have done things easier. Offer your advice but understand that it is not personal if the other person does not take heed your warnings.

The Three of Wands can also indicate that you need to rally your own forces or that you need to ask for help when needed. There is no shame in asking for direction or help in the next steps of your journey. Just as you offer your advice from others, take in that which is given to you. Because you have found some success in your own right does not mean that your journey has ended. Lives are constantly changing and new experiences will come to you. Allow for your most recent successes to further your own foundation and do not be resistant to growth or change that is coming your way.

The Three of Wands in Love

Often the Three of Wands in love will represent a still budding relationship where ideas, experiences, and emotions are being intermingled. You may be getting to know someone or coming to a point in your relationship where you find out something new about your partner. The card is also about building and growing from past success. It is a good time to open up to your partner about your feelings and what you want out of the relationship. If you want your relationship to grow rather than stagnate, you need to offer emotional support and be open about your expectations. This is not a time to be taking it easy or just seeing where it goes. You are likely past that point and there needs to be more energy put into the relationship if you want to see it blossom.

The Three of Wands As Feelings

If you are asking the question of how somebody feels about another or an overarching card of somebody’s intentions romantically, this card is all about passion but waiting for something better to come along. I often find this card is a conclusion style card. In that, the cycle of the relationship has passed and there will be a decision that will be made. Either commitment or fading away from a relationship.

Often, this is a card about anticipating the future and making the effort to build the right foundations. There is also an element of this card which features minor dishonesty. Whenever I pull this card for a relationship, I often question whether the other person is sincere. In an upright position, the card represents travel and moving forward with plans with a lover. As someone else's feelings, it could mean that a lover is looking for greater possibilities. They are not ready for commitment. Therefore, waiting for something better to come along sums up this card from a feelings perspective.

The Three of Wands Love Reconciliation

Unity by inclusion happens naturally, the card upright can mean that even though there was arrogance or indifference in the past - then you are likely to get back together. Do you need to think about why did it end? What role did you play in the split up? By analyzing the relationship to understand why it ended can give you the answers to making it work again.  Try not to only focus on what the other party did also examine your actions and reactions. The main reason why many relationships normally fail is that one of the parties does not value the other. The wands are a passionate suit of cards, and this is positive to pull in love readings. If reversed the card can mean that yes you will get back together but there is a big question on if this is the right decision?

The Three of Wands In Health

The Three of Wands is a sturdy card showing strength in health and is a good sign for healing. Often it will be a reminder that you need to check in on your own health or that you have been taking your health for granted. With any wands card coming up in a health reading there can be problems with circulation or the heart but for this card the areas of most concern are the pelvis region and overall body circulation. It can indicate an issue in pregnancy or getting pregnant.

The Three of Wands In Work and Wealth

In work, the three of Wands represent the future. We see the man standing on the cliff looking across the sea, to the ships of trade. In work, this is a card of vision, of trying to focus on immediate work decisions. The most important element is that a new job is predicted. You need to take a step back in life and consider all the possibilities. The card indicates work and strength, dreaming beyond the possibilities in life. Essentially, he stands there watching his ships come in. He knows the ships will bring goods and a sense of reward and it urges you to look at career areas that you have not thought of before.  This card is also about returning your own happiness in work, you have put in the effort and it is time to think outside the box. Those ships will come back empty if you do not put in the last bit of effort. Don’t expect that suddenly overnight you will have sudden success, you have done all you can to move forward now is a time to wait, taking a long-term view.

There is no need for that merchant to walk down the hill this point, he is just waiting patiently but knowing that results will come with time. This card brings with it the message of re-evaluating career or business plans, becoming a visionary leader rather than an employee. The threes are connected to teamwork and this in work can imply that you will become a leader pulling together a team. The threes are also associated with opportunities to grow, but it will take time and longer than expected. In work, this card means progressing, teamwork, creative endeavors, being inspired and long-term plans. To some degree the Three of Wands indicates a new job, working with others and capitalizing on your own skill-base.

Regarding everyday work, now may be a good time to bring on some new team members or seek help and assistance. A project that has taken full focus in your life may a bit too much to handle on your own and you want to consider seeking outside resources to get the job completed correctly. Again, there is nothing wrong with asking for help and by bringing in some fresh energy the work you are doing right now is likely to be infused with needed creativity or innovation.

In the case that you are struggling to find work, the Three of Wands can indicate a need to revamp your resume or change the way you are approaching your search. Also try looking in new avenues for work such as different papers or internet sites, expanding the search area that you are looking in, or looking in a different field than you generally would not consider. This is a time for expansion and exploration. This card is all about sending something out and gaining success in return. Such as if you apply for a job you will get an interview. If you start a business you will gain success. In regards to wealth, the Three of Wands is a positive card indicating that hard work will pay off.

The Three of Wands Yes Or No

The Three of Wands is quite an adventurous card,  if you pulled this card for a yes or no question then the answer is definitely “yes.” This tarot card is associated with looking towards the future and having a sense of responsibility then this card is a positive omen.

The Three of Wands Friendship

If your tarot question relates to friendships then the Three of Wands card is connected to spiritual and earthly personalities. It can mean you did feel limited in a friendship/relationship or felt frustrated in someone’s decision-making process. It could also indicate that you feel restricted by a friend's personality. There is also an element of jealousy within this card.

The Three of Wands Past - Upright and Reversed

Appearing in the past position of a tarot spread, this card shows that you have encountered either psychic or clairvoyant foresight. It is not uncommon for those with “psychic talents” to see this particular card in the past position. If you’ve been struggling the past with a work-related task then this is a card that foretells you’ve kept on going and reaped the rewards.

The Three of Wands normally show up when patience is required. It can also suggest that efforts that have been made have not gone unnoticed. The Three of Wands can signify a business venture and leadership in the past. In a reversed position the Three of Wands can mean there have been business problems or worries and that has affected you.

The Three of Wands Present - Upright and Reversed

In the present position, the upright Three of Wands tarot card can indicate boldness and self-confidence. It is also related to enterprises and bringing either two or three people or ideas together. In the previous card (two of wands) we’ve seen a decision that needs to be made,  in the three, we are seeing the wheels put in motion. The ship needs to “set sail” and the card is focused on internal forces being at work. 

There is also a focus on long-term planning and visions of the future. This card is positioned in the present context (in the spread) it’s important to understand that you need to gain the bigger picture in life,  additionally trying not to overlook minor details. There is also a possible need to travel or moving towards a goal. In the reversed position, there could be a fear of treachery or feeling isolated from other people. There were specifically setbacks but situations are likely to improve going forward. I often see this card in the reversed position when there is either a delay or loss of friendship. 

The Three of Wands Future and Outcome - Upright and Reversed

The Three of Wands is a journey and this is a lucky card to land in a future/ outcome position if upright. The number "three" suggests that the ship is coming in. Drawing the Three of Wands in a love reading is positive. Emotions (if a relationship reading) are equal and that you are getting "a move on" with what you really want. In a friendship or relationship, two people will go well together but it may not turn into a full-blown romance. 

The three is also about getting told the truth, so one can work on the options that present themselves. The Three of Wands as a love outcome can indicate that two people want the same thing and are trying to work together to figure out what they want. The “love” is set in motion. In regards to other parts of life, the three in future positions can mean a new project, money or wealth. The card is also about patience because it can be a slow process and a waiting game. Reversed as future/outcome this card can mean that there is planning required and that waiting is important. 

The Three of Wands Advice - Upright and Reversed

In terms of advice, the Three of Wands indicates that you need to focus on finalizing business decisions, booking travel or making sure that goals are set. There is a need to focus on the future rather than keep looking back on the past and in relationships either finish the relationship or move on. Reversed the advice is to think about your hopes and dreams and follow them. Normally reversed meanings are adverse but not in this case. It means to listen to your inner voice when you need to make a decision.

The Three of wands Reversed

Reversed Three of Wands in a Reading

A bad decision has normally been made when this card appears reversed. That is, the consequence of someone else and the sense of guilt often comes as part of this card. Perhaps you are feeling a reduction of self-respect and negativity which has impacted your own self-image. When you feel yourself feeling guilty or you want to remove yourself from negative feelings this card normally appears reversed. It could nee something as simple as over-eating or facing problems with others. When dealing with loss or the feeling you have made a “bad decision” comes helplessness associated with sadness. We normally fight against the feeling but eventually, this will catch up with us. But remember, a loss is part of life. Without it, we cannot make good choices!

The reversal of the Three of Wands can be a card of warning and reminds you that you need to look in on yourself rather than having a focus on the world or everyone else. Sometimes it can indicate that you are being too nosy or stirring up trouble. It can also tell you that you need to work on centering yourself because you are getting distracted and allowing yourself to be pulled in too many directions. When the Three of Wands has reversed the positive power from the card is tipped upside down and whereas you would normally be reaping the rewards of success, you are likely floundering amidst chaos and turmoil in your life. To set your life back on the right path you need to get back to the basics. Focus on the foundational aspects of your relationships, finances, and health. You will know what areas are causing you the most concern and it is up to you to set them right. Be especially mindful of your own negativity and blaming others when you are responsible.

The Three of Wands Reversed - Love and Romance

Drawing this card reversed in a love reading can suggest that there is going to be communication and commitment in the future. Upright the card indicates putting in foundations, therefore when it is reversed can mean that something is not finished or you are unsure of which way to turn in love.  In regards to going forward, the reversed card means you need to think outside the box perhaps you need to close a life chapter.

Family and Home - The Three of Wands Reversed

This card suggests you are being audacious, daring and confident when it comes to family matters. You may feel you have taken on more than you would like to and family members keep on placing demands. At one extreme, you display arrogance but also fear of deceit which is causing you to feel cut off and isolated.

Work, money, and finances - The Three of Wands Reversed

The Three of Wands card appearing reversed for family life is connected to our own unconscious assumptions and expectations that may cause problems. When projected on to others (such as immediate family) this card means that you may find engagements or new social situations when it comes to work. If you have been struggling work-wise this card can indicate that happiness will soon be yours. There could possibly be something that is lacking money wise. 

The card in the reversed position can indicate that you have made a decision but it might not have been the right one, it means channelling ones energy into making the wrong choice. This can also imply that creativity and money could be squashed because of problems. The most important aspect is to learn to ride this out. Don't spend too much money and work on your career.

Health and Wellness - The Three of Wands Reversed

In regards to medical procedures, the reversed Three of Wands is positive. It can mean good health. There may be difficulties in putting plans in place or possibly that you may be experiencing blockages of creative inspiration. The Three of Wands reversed also suggests that there might be more to something in life than you had hoped. Such as taking risks or problems.

Personal Spirituality - The Three of Wands Reversed

In regards to spirituality, this card can indicate that a decision was made - but not the right one. This could possibly impact upon your own spirituality and happiness. We all make difficult choices in life and bad decisions can often lead to extended problems. Maybe you have married the wrong person? Or you’ve gone down a dangerous road? Perhaps you’ve made a life choice whereby you’ve fallen out with others?  We all behave in various ways that we don’t want to. For example,  We can overeat, smoke cigarettes, gamble, or stay in a relationship that is no longer healthy for us. 

The most important takeaway of this card (appearing reversed) is that we must recognize our bad choices. It’s not rocket science or difficult for one to say. The card has appeared in the reversed position because problems need to be resolved and one's perspective and beliefs need to be reviewed. Perhaps true wisdom means developing one's own personal belief system in the universe in a peaceful way without frustration or anger.

The Three of Wands Tarot Card Keywords Upright

  • Curiosity
  • Exploring
  • Traveling
  • Self-evaluation
  • Development
  • Fast progress
  • Lonesome

The Three of Wands Tarot Card Reversed Card Keywords

  • Teamwork
  • Cooperation
  • Unity
  • Fame
  • Integrity
  • Leadership
  • Acceptance

Death

 
 

The Death Tarot Card Meaning

The Death card is probably the most dreaded and misunderstood of all the Major Arcana cards. Remember, not all deaths are literal. Death symbolizes a level of permanence that many of us have a hard time dealing with. But what this card really represents is the end of a cycle, coming to the point of making a large transition or change in your life rather than true or physical death.

If the Death card is prominent in your reading you will find that there is a large amount of change coming your way and you should not fight or resist it. Death is transition; you have a higher power guiding your way that knows more than you do in this moment and that is a fact that must be accepted for the road before you to clear. Think of it as the death of the phoenix. There are aspects to your life that are ending or changing dramatically and these changes may even be exceptionally hard to deal with. Like the phoenix, these transitions in your life are leading to a glorious rebirth or something new and better. Often we like to hold on to aspects of our life even after they serve no more purpose. Now is the time to let go of that which is not aiding you or bettering your life in some way. Allow these things to fall away from your life so that you have room for new fantastic prospects that bring you joy.

Within the Tarot there is no death, only rebirth and new life and a continuing story. Death is only a small part of the story that is the Major Arcana. Consider where we started with the Fool so full of adventure and whimsy. Up to this point you have learned so much and death is not the end of the story. If Death shows up in your reading, you can expect that new growth is going to be arriving in your life and you should choose to welcome the change, not fight it. The worst part of death is the struggle of acceptance. Yet death, like birth, is completely natural. In this day and age we attach to a potential level of immortality; we like to think that we never leave this space and time. After all, we have put a lot of time and energy and money into to our lives and we don’t want that to suddenly just go away. But the Death card reminds us that it is time for you to confront your fear of the end of the chapter. Many say that Death is a journey and that ‘the only constant is change’. This is undeniably true. You must not fight death, only practice acceptance.

Keep in mind that all things come to an end, but this is not just referring to life. Our lives are filled with the different cycles of relationships, jobs, partners and experiences that are unique to your existence. New data comes in, is processed and utilized and then, spent it dies to make room for more new data. This energy is constantly being recycled. Death is life-giving transformation and it is telling you that now is the time to allow room in your life for this transition. Friendships end, people pass, jobs are lost that give way to new jobs and better experiences. Allow the waters from the river of life to wash you clean so that you might start anew. For just like weeds must die to make room for new growth, so must we all, make room for new life by letting what does not serve us pass on.

Take time to reflect on the ways in which you are resisting change in your life. If you are a person that naturally despises change or avoids it, think about the new opportunities that you are missing out on by holding on to the old. Allow the cycle to complete and be true to yourself. This is a time to embrace the new, accept the changes that are happening, and to let go. In letting go there is sometimes a sense of freedom. You deserve to experience all that life has to offer.

Death in Love

When the Death card arrives in a reading about love and relationships you can expect several things to occur depending on your situation. If you are single and looking for love, Death gives you the message that it is time for you to slough off the old parts of you that do not serve so that you can attract someone brand new by being sparkly, fresh and exciting. Death tells you that the pursuit of love now through transformation of self is an exceptionally productive step forward and you should take that advice. If you are in a relationship and you are seeking wisdom regarding your future, the Death card expresses that a change is coming that you need to be aware of. Either something is going to happen that will make you see things differently thereby changing your whole relationship, or this could also happen to your partner.

Sometimes the Death card can indicate the end of a relationship or divorce. In cases like this, it can be a frightening time indeed. If this is the case for you try to focus on why this could be happening. Usually, it will indicate that the relationship was beyond the point of repair because emotions had been too damaged or that the relationship was unhealthy. It can also indicate that the relationship is going to end as it currently is. For example, it may not be a divorce per say but the dynamics of the relationship need to change completely. In cases like this, it usually takes two exceptionally dedicated people to work on the problems of the relationship. If you are absolutely certain you want to keep this relationship and you have spent time honestly meditating about it you may want to consider a marital or relationship counselor. The issues that accompany the Death card are usually ones that include very deep hurt or trust issues and can be difficult to navigate without guidance.

Try to respond to this change with a positive spirit. Reacting negatively might only serve to sabotage. If your relationship is rocky, then the Death card is telling you that a change might be on its way and that if you want to stay together you should weigh the pros and the cons of the relationship and find out if it is really serving you and your partner, or if you are only staying together to avoid change. If avoidance is in the equation, Death tells you to call it out and bring it to light. Good conversations and productivity will come as a result of this.

Death As Action

Death indicates that the situation will not change. There is nothing that you can do it is out of your hands. Death as the main interpretation is focused on accepting a situation as it is and the door is no locked and you need to move forward to discover another way. It can also signify the end of the situation. Let an old part of your life die and you will be liberated. If you refuse to move on and close the chapter, you may suffer difficulties as a consequence, this card highlights that a clean break is best.

Death Yes Or No

Death usually relates to change, transformation, or loss. If you are looking for a yes or no answer and the Death card is drawn, you need to reflect on your question. In most circumstances, this card points towards an unwavering ‘no’ because of its strong association with the negative. However, in a very certain reading, it may point a different way.

Death Past

Seeing this card in your past position is a clear sign that you have moved on from something major. This is usually a positive position to see this card in because it refers to a change or difficult period which has already past. Of course, that does not mean moving on was easy. Indeed, this card specifically points to a dramatic, life-altering situation. The Death card regularly appears in this position for people who have had a difficult childhood, gone through a heartbreaking separation with a longterm partner, or even those who have experienced grief for a person who left their life (whether literally or emotionally). 

Death Present 

When the Death card appears in relation to your present situation it likely refers to a period of great upheaval. As already touched upon, it is important not to panic. Except in rare circumstances where the Death card is regularly appearing, it is unlikely to indicate an actual, physical death. Instead, it is the death of something which makes up a major part of your life as you know it. It could be your job, a friendship, a relationship, even your home. Your best course of action is acceptance and nonresistance, stay strong, you will come out the other end. 

Death Future and Outcome

Of course, death is in all of our future, but that’s rarely what it is pointing to when drawn in the future position. Instead, it is a suggestion of something in much closer proximity. Change is definitely on its way.

Death As Relationship Outcome

I’m sorry but this sometimes means the end of the relationship. When I have carried out readings for myself and the Death card appears I know it is the end or something major will happen. I know that it may hurt to think that right now but it is what the universe is trying to tell you. Death is about cycles and for some reason the two of you are not supposed to be together right now. 

Death Love Reconciliation

When the Death card presents itself in a love and reconciliation spread it is abundantly clear that your romantic life is in need of transformation. Relationships can die before the people in the partnership actually realize this has happened. 

In some circumstances, this card may be a sign that your relationship needs to mature and develop, rather than end altogether. This may be the case if an unhappy chapter has befallen your partnership. It will take effort from both parties to reinspire passion and heal past wounds. For those who are single, this card still carries a heavy meaning, the exact interpretation depends on your own, personal life at present. If you have been living through a dearth of romantic connections, then this is about to change dramatically. 

Death As Feelings

It can be a bit worrying to see the Death card when trying to understand how another person feels about you, but this card is not always a bad sign. In fact, if the person in question has shown indifference towards you in the past then know that they are likely experiencing new, strong feelings for you now. 

Death As Friendship

If your friendships are not currently undergoing any change in physical distance, then this card more than likely suggests the end of a toxic relationship. Perhaps you are a loyal person who dislikes letting go of friends, even ones who are draining your mental and emotional energy. This card is telling you it really is time to move on. Sometimes there’s nothing more you can do for a person, and the only way they’ll find redemption is to look within themselves. 

Death in Health

Death is trying to tell you that a change must happen and that this change is natural. So if you or someone you love is having an issue of health, Death explains that the change is coming but that you can control which side it goes. For example, by changing your entire thought process about healing from an injury or recovering from a disease you can control the progress that you make. If you desire to feel well, your entire body and senses must be focused on that healing in order for that to change. Another way that Death influences health is Death describes the end of a disease, or in applicable circumstances: the removal of growths or of physical pains. No matter what happens, what you know now versus what you will know six months from now will be entirely different circumstances. Do not get stuck believing that the way life is now is how it is always going to be. Make positive changes to better your life experience.

Death in Work and Wealth

Death in matters of wealth and work is integral to business strategies. For example if you are trying to start up a business with a friend, but your old job is taking up most of your time, Death would tell you that the change is necessary and so you would want to spend more of your time perpetuating the new business. Death in business and wealth tells us that the way that we spend our money, the way that we spend our time, all is subjected to the constant of change and one should never get too attached to one thing and one thing only. The concept of not putting all of your eggs into one basket becomes very important when Death influences your business.

Death reversed tarot card

Reversed Death in a Reading

The Death card makes an appearance in the reversed position when one is depending too much on old habits and routines that are not encouraging a level of physical emotional or spiritual growth. Part of the reason that change is so necessary is that new environments encourage new stimulate which provides creates in us the ability to flourish in a vibrant and lush atmosphere. We must join the rock tumbler so that we may become more smooth and shiny. Create a new space for opportunities to connect with you in your life.

Death Reversed - Love and Romance

When you see the Death card reversed in a love spread it usually indicates that you are on the brink of positive change, but you are getting in your own way with feelings of uncertainty that are preventing this transformation from taking place. While seeing the Death card upright points to a need to move on, reversed it suggests that resistance to change is coming from within. 

More often than not, in a romance reading, this card appears reversed because you are holding onto an unhealthy relationship. Do not allow your fear or feelings of loneliness to keep you in a bad relationship, it will only cause you more pain in the long run. For those who are single, this card reversed is a sign you need to learn from your past. It is easy to fall into bad habits in prospect relationships, but you need a new dynamic if you are to really find true love. 

Death reversed - Family and Home

In a family and home reading, the appearance of the Death card reversed is a loud and firm signal that something is not right. Because this card has been drawn reversed it adds an extra layer to the reading, you are likely experiencing familial tension which is driving a wedge between you and loved ones. It is likely that this strain relates to a difficult history or unhealed wounds, someone in the family cannot move past this scenario - maybe it’s you, maybe it’s someone else. 

Either way, something’s got to give. Communication and respect will be integral in moving on from the difficulties currently at play in the family dynamic and the home.

Death Reversed - Work and Finances

Seeing the Death card reversed in regards to your work and financial situation, points to stagnation and lack of satisfaction. You are likely not happy in your career, yet you aren’t doing anything to change it. Comfort zones are easy to get stuck in, but sometimes we need to break out of routine in order to improve prospects and chances of happiness. 

Death Reversed - Health and Wellness

The presence of the reversed Death card when looking for signs about health and wellness is usually a signal of some medical trouble. In rare cases, this reversed card can appear when someone has begun to self-identify with a longterm illness. In this case, the Death card reversed is a warning sign, allowing yourself to overcome things in life.

Death Reversed - Personal Spirituality

The reversed Death card in a spirituality reading points to an inner journey that has stagnated. Your spiritual progress has become stunted and you either can’t or won’t get back on track. For those with psychic abilities, this reversed card indicates resistance to your powers and natural abilities. 

Upright Death Tarot Card Meaning in Keywords

  • Transition
  • Transformation
  • Major change
  • Endings
  • Letting go
  • Rejuvenation

Reversed Death Tarot Card Meaning in Keywords

  • Inner change / growth
  • New Traits
  • Improvement
  • Progress
  • Exploration