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.
Strength
Courage, Compassion, and Inner Power
Power that persuades rather than forces — the wild in you tamed by patience, not dominance.
Unlike the forceful exertion of The Chariot, Strength portrays a gentle, persuasive power. It is the ability to tame the wild and chaotic forces within—our passions, fears, and base instincts—through patience, understanding, and inner fortitude. This card reminds us that true strength lies not in physical dominance, but in the compassionate heart and the disciplined mind. It speaks to the courage required to face our inner demons with grace and the resilience to endure life's trials without losing our core humanity.
Light
Inner fortitude, compassionate leadership, taming inner conflicts, graceful resilience.
Shadow
Self-doubt, giving in to base instincts, lack of self-control, feeling weak or powerless.
