(The above image is a copy of The Four of Wands card in a standard Rider-Waite Tarot deck. The 5 symbols pointed out above are explained below.)
Card Description
After the exploration of the previous card, The Four of Wands symbolises a much needed rest. It is a card of sanctuary, of community, and of home. The Four of Wands celebrates all of the achievements you've made on your journey thus far and encourages you to keep going after a time of repose.
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For more information about The Four of Wands card, check out A. E. Waite’s description here.
Point 1 – FOUR WANDS
In this card the wands arrange themselves into a usable structure rather than just being upright. The four wands form a wedding threshold. This illustrates celebration and symbolizes the home. The number four has also been traditionally associated with security, adding to the theme of safe asylum.
Point 2 – GARLAND
The garland surrounding the four wands is more than just decoration. It is a symbol of fertility and growth. The garland furthers the theme of celebration in the card. Consider the garland a welcome wreath to your new adventure.
Point 3 – FRUIT
Amid the Garland there grows various fruits. This is the only card in the Wands suit that displays fruit. Some scholars suggest that the fruit is a callback to The Empress card. The fruit symbolism and themes of fertility in that card bare some consideration here.
Point 4 – TWO FIGURES
In the middle of the four wands, there stands two figures. Speculation on their meaning to the card has varied. Some argue that the two are using the threshold to get married. Other say that the two are waving the reader over, illustrating the importance of community. A few scholars point to the resemblance of their dress to the dress of the falling figures in The Tower card. Connections between the Four of Wands and The Tower, however, seem reaching.
Point 5 – CASTLE
In the background, there rises a massive castle. This castle represents the home and protection. It could be the castle that the Two of Wands looked out from. If that were the case, then perhaps the view of the card comes from the Three of Wands looking behind him. That would give the card a nostalgia feel and make the scene more cautionary than romantic. On the other side, it could suggest that we need to remember where we came from.
Tarot Reading
Upright
An Upright Four of Wands represents celebration and the home. Reminiscent of The Star card, an Upright Four of Wands encourages you to rest and to embrace your community after a time of action. Perhaps you are working on a long project. Remember to take breaks and to celebrate any important milestones.
Reverse
While an Upright Four of Wands symbolizes outward celebration, a Reverse Four of Wands symbolizes inward celebration. Perhaps you have reached a milestone and haven’t shared it with friends yet. While you may celebrate however you feel comfortable, community can make celebrations better. Consider opening up to those around you and sharing your achievements.
For more Tarot Card Meanings, check out our blog here.
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About the author: John Taylor is a content writer and freelancer through the company Upwork.com. You may view his freelancing profile here. He has a B. A. in English, with a specialty in technical writing, from Texas A&M University and a M. A. in English from the University of Glasgow. You may view his previous articles about Tarot here and his LinkedIn profile here.
