Illustration by Pamela Colman Smith, 1910. Public domain in the US since 1966 and in the UK since 2021. Vector digitisation of the Rider–Waite–Smith deck by OpenClipart contributor "klaatu-tarot", released public domain.

Seven of Wands

Defiance, holding one’s ground, and overcoming opposition.

Holding ground alone against many: courage here is knowing which battles are truth and which are ego.


The Lord of Valour, this card illustrates the lonely but necessary battle of maintaining one’s convictions against overwhelming odds. The figure stands on an elevated position, fiercely defending against six wands thrust from below. It represents the courage to act independently, relying on internal fortitude and the strength of one’s core beliefs. It is a test of resilience, demanding that the fire within burn brighter than the opposition without.

Light

Defend your beliefs with courage and conviction. Even when outnumbered, your inner strength and advantageous position will see you through the challenge.

Shadow

Feeling overwhelmed, giving up in the face of opposition, or fighting losing battles. Ensure your stubbornness is rooted in truth, not just ego.

Sources and verification1 source

The tradition itself

  • A. E. Waite, The Pictorial Key to the Tarot, 1911The esoteric reading given on this entry — the odd footwear is Smith's detail