This card usually depicts a chariot (though in many modern style decks that is swapped out for a more current, fast-moving vehicle) coming at the viewer head-on. It is typically being pulled by two creatures (horses are the most common ones), with one black and one white steed. The driver usually appears quite determined and often looks ready for battle.
Upright, there is nothing subtle about this card. Its energy screams "Go, go, go!" full speed in the direction of your innermost desires. It reminds us that all parts of ourselves, even those seemingly at odds with each other, must be honored when choosing our path forward. Like the Fool, the figure in the Chariot is ready to set out towards new places, but the charioteer has a definite goal in mind and is relentless in its pursuit of it. The Chariot knows that all manifestations of victory require the applied dedication of one’s free will. The Chariot upright is like a nod in the direction of your gut instinct, but it is also a reminder that confirmation of fate or destiny does not diminish the need to apply your own free will in the pursuit of that destiny. It can also represent literal travel and appears as a positive omen for the overall travel experience.
When the Chariot appears in a reading, all signs are good to push forward—hard, if possible—towards your goals and aspirations. The road is clear, you just need the will to travel it.
The Chariot Upright Keywords: Victory, Success, Speed, Agility, Integration, Authenticity, Determination
The meaning of the Chariot reversed is a metaphor for spinning our wheels and getting nowhere fast. Whatever it was you thought was your ride to someplace better has stalled. When inquiring about whether to move forward with something, The Chariot card reversed can be interpreted as a firm “no” or “not right now.” It points us back toward the drawing board to reexamine our desired outcomes and then evaluate the roots of those desires. It can also appear in the form of a warning that you are trying to move in too many directions at once or spreading yourself thin. A reversal of The Chariot can also signify potential setbacks in travel plans.
When this card comes up in a reading, be on the lookout for obstacles that can slow you down. Also, check in with yourself to see that the pressure of moving so fast isn’t getting to you. There is no point in pushing forward so hard that you are a wreck when you get to your destination.
The Chariot Reversed Keywords: Obstacles, Setbacks, Scattered Intentions, Delays, Poor Planning, Loss of Momentum, Overwhelmed by Pressure, Revaluation of Approach
