The Wheel of Fortune: Embracing the Cycles of Destiny and Change
The Wheel of Fortune is the tenth card of the Major Arcana, a powerful card that speaks to destiny, the cyclical nature of life, and the inevitability of change. It is a symbol of the cosmic order that brings both luck and misfortune, reminding us that no state is permanent. The card encourages us to be resilient and adaptable, understanding that our fortune is part of a grander, ever-turning cycle of events.
Let's explore the rich and multi-layered symbols of this magnificent card and discover how to cultivate its energy in our own lives.
The Symbols of The Wheel of Fortune
- The Wheel: The central and most prominent symbol, representing the constant cycles of fate, destiny, and karma. The wheel turns, bringing both good fortune and misfortune, and reminds us that change is the only constant in life.
- The Sphinx: A Sphinx, holding a sword, sits atop the wheel. This figure represents an impartial and enigmatic force. The Sphinx holds the sword of judgment, symbolizing that fate, while seemingly random, is a form of ultimate justice and is based on a universal, unchanging law.
- The Two Figures on the Wheel's Rim: On the left side, a snake-like figure (Typhon) descends, representing the destructive forces of change and the descent into misfortune. On the right, a jackal-headed figure (Hermanubis) ascends, symbolizing the positive forces of change and the ascent to good fortune.
- The Four Figures in the Clouds: In each corner of the card, four winged figures float in the clouds, each holding a book. These represent the four fixed signs of the zodiac (Human/Aquarius, Lion/Leo, Bull/Taurus, Eagle/Scorpio) and the four elements. The presence of these stable, unchanging figures reading books symbolizes that while the Wheel of Fortune is constantly turning, the underlying laws of the universe are eternal and unchanging.
- The Letters on the Wheel: The wheel is inscribed with the letters T-A-R-O and the Hebrew letters Y-H-W-H (the name of God). This suggests that the wheel's turning is not random but part of a divine, cosmic order. The letters T-A-R-O can also be rearranged to form words like R-O-T-A (Latin for "wheel"), further reinforcing the theme of cycles.
- The Eight Spokes: The eight spokes of the wheel can represent various cycles, such as the eight Sabbats of the year or the eight points of the compass. They reinforce the idea of a comprehensive and ordered system of cycles.
How To Cultivate the Energy of The Wheel of Fortune
The Wheel of Fortune teaches us to surrender to the flow of life and to trust in the journey. It reminds us that setbacks are temporary and that good fortune will eventually return. The card encourages us to be flexible, to release our attachment to a specific outcome, and to find stability in the midst of change. By understanding the cyclical nature of existence, we can navigate life's ups and downs with greater wisdom and grace.
For those navigating a period of significant change or seeking to attract a turn of good fortune, our Wheel of Fortune Tarot Charm is the perfect talisman. This beautiful and intricate charm features the powerful imagery of the wheel and the ascending Hermanubis, a stunning representation of destiny's positive turn. It is a tangible reminder of your capacity to adapt and thrive through every cycle.
Wear this charm to embrace the changes in your life, to attract good luck, and to trust that all things are unfolding as they should. Let it be a symbol of your faith in the divine order of the universe.