Major Arcana cards:X Wheel of Fortune
December 14, 2025
By Rechen
4 min read

Major Arcana cards:X Wheel of Fortune

Destiny, Transformation, Opportunity, Progress

Card Interpretation

At the top of the Wheel of Fortune depicted on the card sits the Sphinx, the symbol of angels, while beneath it lies a devil. Surrounding the wheel are figures such as goddesses, swans, and serpents, each representing the various twists and turns of fate. Your destiny is like this constantly spinning Wheel of Fortune in the Tarot deck—swinging between good and bad times in a fair cycle of ups and downs. The wheel may stop at a position that brings you incredible luck; yet it can also halt at a spot you dread, leaving you mired in misfortune. Whether you accept it or not, fate is unyielding—and life itself is in a state of perpetual flux, filling your days with endless challenges and thrills.

When interpreting this card, to grasp the essence of "destiny", you must first understand the meaning of "change"—simply embrace the idea that nothing in the world is absolute. As you delve deeper into Tarot studies, however, you will uncover the profound mysteries hidden within the Wheel of Fortune.

The Wheel of Fortune hangs in a bright blue sky. Similar to the three-tiered crown of the Hierophant, the wheel itself also consists of three layers. The innermost circle bears no symbols at all, representing emptiness and the genesis of all things. The middle circle is inscribed with four alchemical symbols, corresponding to the four classical elements of Western cosmology, symbolizing the formation of all matter. The outermost circle is etched with the word "TAROT", standing for the world that has already been created. On the left side of the wheel crouches the evil god of Egyptian mythology, with its snake head pointing downward—a portent of setbacks and downfalls in life. Meanwhile, Anubis, who shoulders the weight of the Wheel of Fortune, symbolizes the inherent desire to take charge of one’s own fate.

As for the Sphinx perched atop the wheel, it is said to be an emblem of wisdom. The sword in its hand represents contemplation, perhaps suggesting that reflecting on life and seeking its true meaning is the way to attract favorable circumstances. At each of the four corners of the card stand a lion, an eagle, an angel, and a sacred bull—these creatures correspond exactly to the symbols on the wheel’s middle circle, representing the four elements of fire, water, air, and earth respectively.

Upright Position

When drawn upright, the card signifies: A pivotal event, new opportunities, alignment with prevailing trends, changes in circumstances, a fortunate new beginning, an improvement in conditions, the resolution of problems, and the arrival of luck. The Wheel of Fortune has turned to the lowest point in your life. You may find this hard to accept, but if you face it with a calm mindset, this will undoubtedly be the best opportunity for your growth—one that demands your earnest attention. The setbacks in your romantic life have nearly broken you, yet you continue to forge ahead with unwavering effort. Although countless thorns lie in your path, perseverance will lead you to a smooth and open road. You will realize that the seemingly futile efforts you made in the past have now become the driving force propelling you forward; all your previous hard work has finally paid off. Since the Wheel of Fortune is turned by the Goddess of Destiny, all the storms and hardships you and your partner have endured will soon pass, and your relationship will enter a stable phase of development.

Reversed Position

When drawn reversed, the card signifies: Unforeseen misfortunes, setbacks, shattered plans, obstacles, the inability to correct one’s course, a turn for the worse, a vicious cycle, and disruptions.

Capricorn

Capricorn corresponds to the Wheel of Fortune card in Tarot. Capricorns are inherently unpredictable.

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Published on December 14, 2025

Last updated on December 16, 2025

Written by Rechen