Major Arcana cards：XII The Hanged Man

Card Interpretation

This card symbolizes self-sacrifice. It depicts a valiant warrior, hands bound behind his back, suspended upside down, with a faint angelic halo already glowing above his head. Though onlookers perceive this as unspeakable agony, his face bears a serene expression—for he knows he is sacrificing himself for others. Even if his physical body perishes, his spirit will endure forever.

This card teaches us that no matter how dire the circumstances, they are merely trials to temper us, and misfortune will always pass. Just as the legendary phoenix rises from the ashes, and as Odin in Norse mythology sacrificed himself on the gallows to master magic, writing, incantations, and poetry—patience in the face of present adversity, acceptance of fate’s arrangement, sincere reflection on past gains and losses, and gathering strength for a future comeback are the most important things of all.

If you draw the Hanged Man as your representative card, it means your deck is a dedicated giver, and it will naturally channel all its energy into you without reservation.

For the best communication with your deck, choose a quiet night when you are alone. Play a piece of gentle, ethereal new-age music, light a soft, warm essential oil candle, then slowly shuffle the cards, letting them glide between your fingers. This will strengthen the energetic bond between you and the deck, while calming your mind.

When you need a peaceful space to reflect on matters but feel too agitated, or if your surroundings are too noisy, you can keep your representative card close by. It will soothe your emotions and form a protective shield around you, preventing your state of mind from being easily disturbed by external distractions.

Upright Position

When drawn upright, the card signifies: Undergoing trials, restricted action, sacrifice, perseverance through hardship, resistance to temptation, gain through loss, learning from experience, rebirth from adversity, extensive learning, and selfless love. When the card appears upright, your career will face a temporary lull—but you are well aware of the reasons. Reaffirm your goals and prepare yourself for a new start. Emotionally, you also need time for reflection. Your willingness to sacrifice for love will deeply touch your partner and become a catalyst for the growth of your relationship.

Reversed Position

When drawn reversed, the card signifies: Futile sacrifice, physical injury, misfortune, lack of effort, being at a disadvantage, willfulness, selfishness, impatience, facing punishment, avoidance of love, and fruitless romance. When the card is reversed, you lack foresight in your career and have lost sight of your goals. Emotionally, you no longer feel inclined to make sacrifices for your partner, yet their attitude toward you remains unchanged—which only makes you more eager to escape. You have ignored the sound judgment deep within your heart, and this is why you are beginning to face repeated failures.