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I. Five of Wands Rider Waite image description
The Five of Wands depicts five men waving their sticks in a chaotic way, without anyone knowing who they are, only knowing that they seem to be rivals. However, if you look closely, they just raised the stick up rather than fight. It is possible that they just drank themselves in chaos rather than harming anyone. Their clothing symbolizes different origins and beliefs.
You wake up and walk into the bathroom, open the shower and realize that the soap has run out. In the morning, you are accidentally staining your clothes with sauces. When you are about to call someone, your phone runs out of battery. This is probably a terrible day for you. You all have annoying things that make you want to get angry just because they are too petty.
The Five of Wands card represents the time that the situation is going against you. Nothing in your life is going smoothly, people work for mutually contradictory purposes. The characters in the card are fighting each other. There is no collaborative effort or consensus. When this card appears in a deck, the message to you is to prepare for the next challenge. You will need more patience to be able to accomplish everything. This card does not imply big impediments, but a lot of small difficulties and nuisances.
This card also represents competition. Under the right circumstances, competition is necessary. It motivates people to do more, creates excitement and encourages the best. The core of competition is disagreement. So, you need to make sure that the competition is helping you and others around you achieve true goals. If not, consider collaborating together to advance.
II. 5 of Wands Tarot Card Meaning
Disagreement, Fight, Annoying.
Disagreement
- Feel inconsistent with others;
- Torn by disagreement;
- Fight, quarrel, dispute;
- Being dragged into controversy;
- Disagree with others;
- Fight for the little things.
Fight
- Feel eager to fight;
- Against an opponent;
- Accept the challenge;
- Participate in a game or sport;
- Try to overcome yourself;
- Seek competition;
- There is an opponent;
- Challenged by an overbearing man.
Annoying
- Uncomfortable with demands;
- There are small steps backwards;
- Need to take care meticulously;
- Tolerate the sarcasm of others;
- Being bothered by gossip.
III. Opposite and Support Tarot cards to the Five of Wands
Opposite cards
- Temperance – balance, consensus, work together;
- The World – combine, work together;
- 2 of Cups – break, agree, promise together;
- 2 of Pentacles – work smoothly, connect people;
- 3 of Pentacles – teamwork, collaboration.
Support cards
- 7 of Wands – opposition, fight;
- 10 of Wands – struggle, annoying, resistance;
- 5 of Swords – discord, against each other.
IV. Uncovering the Historical Roots of the Five of Wands Tarot Card
1. The Origins of the Rider-Waite Deck and its Connection to the Five of Wands
The Rider-Waite tarot deck is one of the most popular and influential tarot decks in the world, with its colorful illustrations and symbolism inspiring countless tarot readers and enthusiasts. The deck was created by artist Pamela Colman Smith and occultist A.E. Waite in the early 20th century, and has become a cornerstone of modern tarot practice.
The Five of Wands is one of the 78 cards in the Rider-Waite deck, and its imagery is closely linked to the broader themes and symbolism of the deck. In the card, we see five young men brandishing wooden staves or wands, engaged in a chaotic and seemingly aimless battle. This scene has been interpreted in many different ways by tarot readers and scholars, but it is generally understood to represent conflict, competition, and the struggle for dominance.
The origins of the Five of Wands and its connection to the Rider-Waite deck are rooted in both the history of tarot and the personal beliefs and experiences of Waite and Smith. Waite was a prominent occultist and member of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a secret society that sought to explore the mysteries of the universe through esoteric knowledge and practice. Waite was deeply interested in the tarot, and he saw the cards as a tool for spiritual growth and understanding.
Smith, meanwhile, was an artist and illustrator who had a long-standing interest in mysticism and the occult. She was hired by Waite to create the illustrations for his new tarot deck, and she worked closely with him to ensure that the imagery was both beautiful and spiritually meaningful.
Together, Waite and Smith crafted a deck that would become one of the most iconic and influential in the world. The Rider-Waite deck’s imagery drew heavily on traditional tarot symbolism, but also incorporated elements of Christian mysticism, Hermeticism, and other esoteric traditions. The Five of Wands, with its focus on conflict and competition, reflects the broader themes of struggle and growth that run throughout the deck.
Today, the Rider-Waite deck remains a beloved and essential tool for tarot readers around the world. Its vivid imagery and powerful symbolism continue to inspire new generations of readers, and its connection to the Five of Wands and other cards in the deck provide a rich tapestry of spiritual insight and understanding.
2. Tracing the History of Tarot and the Five of Wands Tarot Card
The origins of tarot are shrouded in mystery and speculation, with historians and scholars unable to definitively pinpoint the precise origins of the deck. Some believe that the tarot was first created in ancient Egypt or Persia, while others suggest that it was developed in medieval Europe as a game of chance or a tool for divination.
Despite this uncertainty, what is clear is that the tarot has a long and fascinating history, with the Five of Wands card representing just one small piece of this complex and intriguing puzzle. Over the centuries, the tarot has been used for a wide variety of purposes, ranging from simple entertainment to deep spiritual exploration and enlightenment.
The Five of Wands itself can be traced back to the early days of tarot, when the cards were primarily used for gaming and gambling. However, over time, the tarot evolved into a powerful tool for divination and spiritual exploration, with each card representing a different aspect of human experience and consciousness.
The Five of Wands and the broader tarot deck are seen by many as powerful tools for self-discovery, personal growth, and spiritual enlightenment. Whether used in a professional reading or simply as a tool for personal reflection and contemplation, the tarot and the Five of Wands offer a rich and complex lens through which to explore the mysteries of the human soul and the universe at large.
V. 5 of Wands Upright Card Keywords
disagreement, competition, conflict, tension
Words and Keywords
External conflict, struggle, competition, the need to prove oneself, male bonding relationships, same sex activities, fair competition, assertiveness, believe in the ability of a person’s competition, party while still young, physical activity, sports, movement games, join a group of friends, disagree, obstacles.
Time to take strong action, success through great effort, debate, conflict, agitation, controversy, discord, self-doubt, quarrel, compete, legal issues, a battle without any casualty, martial arts, annoying trivia, nuisance, disturbance, unexpected problems, a conflict of interest, too many things to do at the same time, a need to set priorities, war games, masculine, troubling hormones, territorial defense, delayed travel plans, story of Princess and the pea.
Introduce
In Tarot,
The ongoing discussions do not bring anything but conflict. Similarly, this card is representative of a group of people who have willing speech but unwilling heart on how to accomplish this goal because everyone thinks that their method is the most effective. To turn conflict into a constructive debate, let everyone share their thoughts publicly and listen to the thoughts of others. Once people have been told and heard, and every opinion has been reviewed, we can determine the best direction.
This card usually refers to competition for work/career, but sometimes it can also imply competition in love. Do not be afraid to fight because of your own values that you can use against your opponents, and you have reason to succeed in this “war”. But above all, you need to work hard to see the results.
Overview
When the Five of Wands appears in the upright, you need to believe in yourself stronger than you ever did. Keep your head high and have faith that you will win things that belong to you. You may be thinking about a change in your career, you should know that you can be totally successful.
Work
Be aware that you are facing competition, but if you are lucky, you will probably succeed. The only way you can be sure of failure is not trying. You have to compete fairly even if people around you do not. Bad players seem to be winning in the short term, but that kind of victory will never last, said Gandhi.
5 of Wands Love
The person you are having a crush on, maybe being pursued by others. Even so, you should try your best. You need to know that you have done everything possible for this relationship. Five of Wands also has other meanings that you will be pursued by one or several other romantic people.
Finance
Although you may have a feeling that your financial situation is poor, try to analyze calmly. You may not be able to meet your obligations right now, but that does not mean that you will never be able to meet them. Do what you can, and be honest with the situation. Things will be financially better soon, most likely in a few weeks.
Health
You may find it frustrating to look for answers about your health. If you are stuck in a health problem, remember that hasty work may not be the best response at this time. Sometimes, the best solution is to wriggle out the difficulties. At least, you should give yourself a break for a few hours. You still have other hours to use for anxiety. In fact, you are likely to be overworked, and that will negatively affect your health.
Mentality
It will not be easy to develop spiritually if you are lacking in direction. Take time to rest, do not do anything at this time. You should create space for yourself to calm and listen to the sound from the surroundings. Life does not always need to fight and scramble. People sometimes need their own space to be themselves. Give yourself the gift of time and space from which you will see and feel the spiritual development.
Situation and advice
You may need to compete or face an interesting challenge to get what you want. You should avoid being passive at this point. Success will come through resolute efforts to overcome troubles and obstacles. There may be some conflicts because you refuse to recognize the views of others. Perhaps you have too much to do and disperse your energy in too many directions at the same time. If so, you need to set priorities in order to avoid excessive stresses.
The Five of Wands often points to the competition and your opponent is someone who has the same ability or experience as you. You may not be familiar with the competition because you have had successes of your own, but now it is the time to experience the real competition. Thus, you should find a place where there is competition and respect your opponent but stand on your own. Let’s fight against the tendency toward frustration, anger, hatred
There may also be problems and legal issues. You may need to face offensive things and trivial troubles. You participate in a contest which is expected. If you ask about love, you may need to compete with someone to win over the heart of your lover. If you ask about travel, then maybe your plan will be delayed or there is some trouble.
Sometimes, conflicts and discussions can be very positive, such as the whole team think together to solve the problem. You need a positive environment to test your ideas and listen to the challenges of others. If so, your ideas will be sharpened and improved. You can benefit by setting up a working group or cooperate with people with different perspectives and experiences. Be open to conflicting types and discuss as a positive contribution to improve the quality of your ideas and actions.
This card simply indicates that you have a lot of energy to burn right now. You may need a night out with your boyfriend or girlfriend, depend on the situations. Some people may want to practice karate or other martial arts.
The Five of Wands encourage diversity and different views. You may be in a situation where you have to deal with people from different cultures and
This card also encourages an enthusiastic approach to change. Change is coming, whether you like it or not. However, Your challenge will be to ensure that everyone is on the same ship and focus on dealing with this change constructively and positively. Now, everyone has a lot of ideas but no one can stand up. Your role is to define a clear strategy and purpose that can be accomplished by being joined by everyone.
Human
Competitors; sports teams; public opponent; martial arts; enthusiasts; an aggressive person.
VI. 5 of Wands Reversed Keywords
avoid conflicts, increase focus on goals
Words and Keywords
(+) Healthy competition, action games, sports, peace, harmony, the fight was over, end the conflict, opportunity, beneficial change, no more quarrel and conflict, a good legal decision (especially if there is a card representing “positive law” such as the upright Justice or the upright Judgment in a spreading).
(-) Internal conflict, lack of confidence in winning, fraudulent tactics, legal battle, argumentative, stress, unfair competition, unfair-play, evil, malevolence, step backwards, divergent, petty arguments, there is a problem with the travel plan, trouble with the contract, feeling too bad for health.
Introduce
The reverse of the Five of Wands may imply a conflict or multiple competitions, usually in the field of work/career. Know that you are not (and should not) face this competition alone because there are always great mentors around you when things get tough. You should deal with each one and think carefully before acting or saying something.
Overview
Like the meaning of the upright card, you need to really trust yourself. If something or someone makes you suspicious at the moment, trust what your instinct tells you. However, no matter what happens, you also need to think carefully in order not to make things more stressful or make decisions that are not retractable. Do not rush, no matter how angry you are in the following weeks.
Work
There may be some disagreements going on at work if you are currently working when this card appears. You should think carefully and calmly, and stay away from controversy. Make sure that you are well-prepared for your defenses such as behavioral records, written documents or there are witnesses during the discussion.
If you are looking for work, do not be discouraged by the challenging competition which you are facing. You should be confident about the strengths of your own to express and think positive.
Love
If you are in a relationship in which the two of you are committed to each other when the Five of Wands appears in reverse, what looks like a conflict at the appearance can really be beneficial to your relationship (as long as both sides are fighting for justice) because you will learn a lot about yourself, about the other half, and eliminate atmosphere of tension.
If you are looking for love or having a crush on someone who does not seem to care about you, know that their “closed heart” status is largely due to their problems, not yours. If you really want to be a partner with this person, you will need to learn how to be patient.
Finance
If you have money problems at the present time, it is time to ask carefully the old assumptions. You may have thought that you can not cut back on your spending, either by knowing how to make more money or by getting a higher return on your investment. Think again! Try to look at your situation but on the perspective of an outsider. What would you advise them to do?
Health
The Five of Wands reversed may imply that you are trying to solve physical pain (which is applied in case you have encountered this pain before spreading). If you are injured, do not ignore any signs of it or make sure your healthcare practitioner is paying attention to every detail, even if there is no clear reason to explain the pain. This pain will affect the quality of life if it is not relieved. You should ask for serious care and do what is necessary to help you relieve symptoms. A change in diet can be beneficial for you. Heating and massage are also useful therapies.
Mentality
You should be aware that mental development is not a struggle. When this card appears in reverse, people can try to convince you that you need to grow in a certain direction, at a certain speed and so on. You should also know that mental development can also involve resolving and accepting some obvious contradictions. Try to keep yourself comfortable with those contradictions.
Situation and advice
On the positive side, the Five of Wands reversed means the fight is over and it is time to move on.
On the negative side, this card represents unhealthy competition, small quarrels, cheating tactics, undesirable challenges, vicious opponents and bitter defeat. Normally, the upright card shows healthy competition and the reversed card shows the opposite. This reversed card may advise you that daily represses have abrasive you and adversely affect your health. Are you scattering your energy in too many directions? Now it is the time to set priorities and have a better way of dealing with stress in life. You will be relieved.
It offers that you should avoid conflicts wherever as possible. You may find that any type of stress or conflict also makes you feel uncomfortable and want to leave. So, you deflect a lot of energy and ignore the problem, if any. However, the trouble is that while doing this, you just remove some bothers aside, without actually tackling them. Some conflicts can be good, especially if they are constructive and point out the basics to find a better solution. Consider whether avoiding conflict is the best way to go or it affects things that are important to you.
The Five of Wands is like a sigh of relief after the conflicts and struggles. You are no longer fight too much competition. On a personal level, you have overcome your anger and hostility and feel safer in relationships. You do not have to constantly prove yourself.
It can also say that you really need to focus on achieving your goal. You have spent the time thinking about random ideas and finding yourself in the starting position. You acknowledge that in order to progress further, you must focus your attention on important priorities and be consistent with your goals without having to consider any additional possibilities or opportunities.
Human
Sinister or mysterious enemy; sneaky opponent.
When the Five of Wands Tarot card appears in a single spread, you should check out the competitive elements around you. Perhaps you soon join a contest or some other games. Or, you will also be able to soon discover that you have rivals who are opposing you or challenging your position. You may even feel depressed (or full of enthusiasm) because of the fierce competition in which you are a factor.
VII – Unlocking the Power of the Five of Wands in Tarot Readings
The Five of Wands is a potent card that can provide profound understanding and direction in tarot readings. Readers can harness the full potential of this card and utilize it to develop a greater awareness of themselves, their obstacles, and their chances for growth and transformation by grasping its symbolism, meanings, and possible interpretations.
1. Interpreting the Five of Wands in the Context of Other Tarot Cards
Interpreting the Five of Wands in the context of other tarot cards can be a powerful way to gain deeper insights and understanding of this card’s meaning and potential impact in a reading. The Five of Wands often represents conflict, competition, and struggle, which can manifest in a wide variety of ways depending on the other cards in the reading.
For example, if the Five of Wands appears alongside the Eight of Swords, which represents feeling trapped or restricted, it may indicate that the querent is facing intense competition or conflict that is making them feel stuck or helpless. Conversely, if the Five of Wands appears alongside the Three of Cups, which represents celebration and joy, it may indicate that the querent is experiencing healthy competition or friendly conflict within a social or professional context.
The position of the Five of Wands in the spread can also offer additional insights into its interpretation. For instance, if it appears in the past position, it may indicate a previous conflict or struggle that has shaped the querent’s current situation. If it appears in the present position, it may indicate a current conflict or struggle that the querent is facing. And if it appears in the future position, it may indicate potential future challenges or conflicts that the querent may need to prepare for.
Ultimately, interpreting the Five of Wands in the context of other tarot cards requires a deep understanding of each card’s individual meanings, as well as their potential relationships and interactions with one another. With practice and patience, anyone can learn to use the tarot to gain deeper insights into their own life and the world around them.
2. Using the Five of Wands as a Focal Point for Specific Questions or Issues
Using the Five of Wands as a focal point for specific questions or issues can be a powerful way to gain deeper insights and clarity into a particular situation. When using the Five of Wands in this way, it’s important to first identify the specific question or issue that you want to focus on. This could be anything from a conflict with a friend or family member, to a work-related challenge, to a personal struggle or obstacle.
Once you have identified the question or issue, you can then use the Five of Wands as a focal point for your reading. This might involve placing the card in the center of your spread, or focusing on it as you shuffle the deck and draw other cards. As you interpret the other cards in the reading, pay close attention to how they relate to the Five of Wands and the specific question or issue you are exploring.
For example, if you are exploring a conflict with a friend and the Five of Wands appears in your reading, you might interpret it as a representation of the conflict itself. You might then look to other cards in the reading to gain insights into the root causes of the conflict, potential solutions or strategies for resolving it, and any lessons or growth opportunities that may arise from the experience.
By using the Five of Wands as a focal point in this way, you can gain deeper insights into the specific question or issue you are exploring, and use the wisdom of the tarot to guide you towards greater clarity, understanding, and resolution.
3. Integrating the Five of Wands into Spreads for Deeper Insight
Integrating the Five of Wands into larger tarot spreads can provide a deeper understanding of the challenges and conflicts that may be present in a particular situation. The Five of Wands can serve as a central card in a spread, with other cards placed around it to provide additional insights and context.
One way to integrate the Five of Wands into a spread is to use it as a significator card, representing the querent or the primary focus of the reading. Other cards in the spread can then be interpreted in relation to the Five of Wands, providing insight into the challenges or obstacles that the querent may be facing, as well as potential solutions or strategies for overcoming them.
Another approach is to use the Five of Wands as a thematic card, representing a particular issue or challenge that is present in the querent’s life. This can be especially useful in spreads that focus on specific areas of life, such as love and relationships, career and finances, or personal growth and development.
As you interpret the other cards in the spread, pay attention to how they relate to the Five of Wands and the particular theme or issue it represents. Look for patterns and connections between the cards, and consider how they can be used to provide deeper insights into the querent’s situation.
VIII – Exploring Both Sides of the Five of Wands Tarot Card: Understanding Reversals
Understanding reversals is an important aspect of tarot reading, and it can provide a more nuanced and complex understanding of the cards. This is particularly true for the Five of Wands, a card that can have both positive and negative interpretations depending on its orientation.
1. Unlocking the Meaning of the Five of Wands Tarot Card in Reverse
When the Five of Wands tarot card appears in reverse, it can indicate a variety of possible meanings and interpretations. While the upright position of the card is often associated with conflict and competition, the reverse position may suggest that the conflict has been resolved or that the competition has come to an end. This can be a positive sign, indicating that the querent has successfully navigated a difficult situation or has found a way to overcome a challenge.
Alternatively, the Five of Wands in reverse may indicate a lack of direction or focus, suggesting that the querent is struggling to find their way or is feeling lost in their pursuits. This may be a time to step back and reevaluate priorities or to seek out guidance and support from others.
In some cases, the reverse position of the Five of Wands may also suggest that the querent is avoiding conflict or shying away from competition, perhaps out of fear or a lack of confidence. This may be a call to step out of their comfort zone and take bold action, embracing the challenges that come their way and finding the courage to stand up for themselves and their goals.
In general, interpreting the Five of Wands backwards necessitates careful consideration of both the querent’s unique circumstance and the reading’s overall context. Readers can access this card’s deeper insights and use its wisdom to lead the questioner toward more clarity, understanding, and resolution by keeping an open mind to all of the possible interpretations.
2. Interpreting Reversed Five of Wands in Different Contexts
The Five of Wands reversed can indicate a number of different things depending on the context of the reading. Generally, it suggests a release of tension or conflict, and a desire to find a more peaceful way of resolving differences. In a relationship reading, the reversed Five of Wands can suggest a need for compromise and a willingness to see things from the other person’s perspective.
In a career reading, the reversed Five of Wands can indicate a need to avoid office politics and focus on individual goals. It can also suggest a lack of direction or purpose, and a need to reassess career goals and priorities.
In a financial reading, the reversed Five of Wands can indicate a need to avoid impulsive spending and focus on long-term financial stability. It can also suggest a need to be cautious with investments and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
In a health reading, the reversed Five of Wands can suggest a need to take a break from intense physical activity or exercise, and to focus on relaxation and self-care. It can also suggest a need to address any underlying emotional or psychological issues that may be contributing to physical symptoms.
More Five of Wands from Famous Tarot Decks
1. Five of Wands Thoth Tarot Deck
Five of Wands Thoth may also represent the inner conflict where we are considering the decisions we have made that can test our conscience. Do we do everything for the best reason or do we act according to our highest ethical standards?
<< See More >> Five of Wands Thoth Tarot Card Meanings
2. Five of Wands – 5 De Baton | Tarot De Marseille
5 De Baton Tarot de Marseille often means that you are confronted with a number of competing people of similar quality or experience to yours. You may not be used to competing with others at the moment because you have built your success on your own.
<< See More >> 5 De Baton Tarot de Marseille Card Meanings
3. Five Of Wands Shadowscapes Tarot Deck
The Five of Wands Shadowscapes Tarot is a card of competition, this card predicts you are about to undergo a contest or competition with an opponent in the near future. Sometimes, the card predicts that this will be a friendly competition, helping you perfect yourself and move forward.
<< See More >> Five of Wands Shadowscapes Tarot Card Meanings
4. Five Of Fire Osho Zen Tarot Deck
Every moment there is a possibility to be total. Whatsoever you are doing, be absorbed in it so utterly that the mind thinks nothing, is just there, is just a presence. And more and more totality will be coming. And the taste of Five of fire Osho Zen will make you more and more capable of being total.
<< See More >> Five of Fire Osho Zen Tarot Card Meanings
5. Five Of Bows Wildwood Tarot Deck
The Five of Bows Wildwood Tarot requires you to consider the untapped energy in you as an individual and in society. We often shrug our shoulders and say that things can’t be helped; that this is just the way of the world. We turn away and say we don’t have the power to change.
<< See More >> Five of Bows Wildwood Tarot Card Meanings
6. Five Of Wands Deviant Moon Tarot Deck
Five of Wands Deviant Moon Tarot usually point to competition and competitors on your par with you. You may not be used to competing because you’ve had your own success, but now is the time to experience a real race.
<< See More >> Five of Wands Deviant Moon Tarot Card Meanings
7. Five Of Wands – Linestrider Tarot Deck
The Five of Wands Linestrider often predicts conflict, tension, or change. This card shows that you are about to face conflict, competition or upheaval. Even though things aren’t always easy, having clear goals will help you navigate your way through interpersonal difficulties.
<< See More >> Five of Wands Linestrider Tarot Card Meanings
