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.

The Chariot

Willpower, Direction, and Victory

Opposing forces held to one direction by will alone — the ego's triumph, and its aggression.


The Chariot is a symbol of momentum and driven action. It embodies the disciplined mind exerting control over conflicting forces to move forward in a unified direction. This card reflects a journey of self-assertion, where success is attained not by chance, but through unwavering determination and focused intent. It challenges us to harness our inner resolve, navigate opposing energies, and steer our lives with confidence and purpose. The Chariot is the triumph of the ego and the realization of one's ambitions through persistent effort.

Light

Forward movement, overcoming adversity, disciplined focus, asserting control over one's destiny.

Shadow

Lack of direction, losing control, aggression, feeling scattered or overwhelmed by opposing forces.

Sources and verification1 source

The tradition itself

  • A. E. Waite, The Pictorial Key to the Tarot, 1911The esoteric reading given on this entry