The Wheel of Fortune Card of the Rider Waite Smith Tarot: An In Depth Study

For centuries, the Rider Waite Smith Tarot has been a revered and enigmatic tool for divination, offering insights into the human experience and the mysteries of the universe. Among its 78 cards, one card stands out as a symbol of transformation, change, and the cyclical nature of life: the Wheel of Fortune. This iconic card, with its intricate orange wheel and numerous mythical creatures, has captivated tarot enthusiasts and mystics alike with its air of mystique and unpredictability. The Wheel of Fortune is a reminder that life is a journey of ups and downs, twists and turns, and that even the most seemingly stable situations can suddenly shift direction. In this post, we'll delve into the ancient symbolism behind the Wheel of Fortune, exploring its connections to the Egyptian god of the afterlife, Anubis, and the cyclical nature of the universe, and uncover the secrets to unlocking its profound wisdom and guidance for our own lives.

1. Introduction to the Wheel of Fortune Card

The Wheel of Fortune, one of the most iconic cards in the Rider Waite Smith Tarot deck, is a symbol of the cyclical nature of life, where events and circumstances are constantly in motion. This enigmatic card has captivated the imaginations of tarot enthusiasts and mystics for centuries, its intricate design and mysterious symbolism shrouded in an aura of ancient wisdom. For many, the Wheel of Fortune is a constant reminder of the unpredictability of fate, a gentle reminder that the course of life is forever changing, and that we must learn to adapt to the twists and turns that come our way.

First introduced in the 19th century by Arthur Edward Waite and Pamela Colman Smith, the Wheel of Fortune has become a staple of the tarot deck, a representation of the forces that govern our lives. Its design, featuring a giant wheel with eight spokes, surrounded by a crescent moon and a star, is steeped in symbolism, drawing from a deep well of mythological and mystical traditions. From ancient Mesopotamia to the mysteries of the zodiac, the Wheel of Fortune is a threshold to the unknown, a gateway to the mysteries of the universe. As we delve deeper into the symbolism of this iconic card, we will uncover the secrets that lie beneath its surface, and unravel the ancient mysteries that have captivated the hearts of tarot enthusiasts for centuries.

2. The Upright Meaning of the Wheel of Fortune

As the Wheel of Fortune card appears in a reading, it's as if the universe is signaling a major shift in the trajectory of one's life. The upright Wheel of Fortune is a powerful and auspicious omen, indicating that change is on the horizon, and it's likely to be a game-changer. This card can represent a new opportunity, a fresh start, or a sudden turn of events that will bring about a transformation.

In its upright position, the Wheel of Fortune is often associated with the cycles of fate and destiny. It's as if the universe is spinning the wheel, and the outcome is up to the universe's design. This can be a thrilling and liberating experience, as it means that the individual is surrendering to the natural flow of life and trusting that everything will work out for their highest good.

The upright Wheel of Fortune can also indicate a sense of momentum and progress, as if one's hard work and efforts are finally paying off. It's a reminder that every action has consequences, and the choices we make can lead to a series of events that ultimately shape our destiny.

Overall, the upright Wheel of Fortune is a powerful symbol of hope, optimism, and the potential for growth and evolution. It's a reminder that life is full of twists and turns, and sometimes, the best way to navigate these changes is to surrender to the unknown and trust that the universe has our best interests at heart.

3. The Reversed Meaning of the Wheel of Fortune

As we delve into the mystical realm of the tarot, the Wheel of Fortune card is often encountered, its upright meaning a harbinger of change and transformation. But what about when the wheel turns in the opposite direction, its reversed meaning a puzzle to unravel? When the Wheel of Fortune appears in the reversed position, it can signify a sense of stagnation. The momentum that was once propelling forward has come to a halt, leaving one feeling stuck and powerless. This card can also indicate a lack of control or direction, as if the wheels of fate have been taken out of one's hands.

In a reading, the reversed Wheel of Fortune can suggest that a person's life has become too predictable, too routine. The excitement and uncertainty that once drove them forward have been replaced with a sense of monotony and boredom. This can be a warning sign that a person is taking their life for granted, and that it's time to shake things up and inject some new energy into their existence.

On the other hand, the reversed Wheel of Fortune can also represent a sense of being overwhelmed by the constant changes and upheavals that life brings. It's as if the wheel is spinning out of control, leaving one feeling dizzy and disoriented. This card can indicate that a person needs to take a step back, regain their footing, and find a sense of balance and stability in their life.

Ultimately, the reversed Wheel of Fortune is a reminder that life is a journey, not a destination. It's a call to adapt, to evolve, and to find the beauty and meaning in the twists and turns that come our way. By embracing the uncertainty and the unknown, we can turn the wheel of fate in a direction that is more in alignment with our true desires and aspirations.

4. The Symbolism of the Imagery within the Wheel of Fortune Card

The wheel, a symbol of cyclical motion and transformation, is a potent and multifaceted element in the world of tarot. In the Wheel of Fortune card, the wheel's design is intentionally ambiguous, leaving the reader to ponder its true meaning. To unlock the secrets of the wheel, it's essential to consider the symbolism it embodies. The following are some of the key aspects:

a. The Blue Sphinx 

As the wheel of fortune spins, the blue sphinx emerges from the shadows, its enigmatic presence commanding attention. This majestic creature, with the body of a lion and the head of a human, is a symbol of wisdom, mystery, and ancient knowledge. Its blue hue, often associated with the celestial realm, represents the infinite and the infinite possibilities that lie beyond the confines of the material world. In the Rider Waite Smith Tarot, the blue sphinx is intricately connected to the Wheel of Fortune, reflecting the cyclical nature of life, where fate and destiny are intertwined.

The blue sphinx's presence is often a harbinger of transformation, a reminder that the wheel of fortune is always turning, bringing new opportunities and challenges into our lives. Its wisdom is not to be underestimated, as it holds the secrets of the universe and the mysteries of the cosmos. By examining the symbolism of the blue sphinx and its connection to the Wheel of Fortune, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cyclical nature of life, and the role that fate and destiny play in shaping our journeys.

b. The Golden Snake

The golden snake, a mesmerizing and enigmatic figure at the center of the Wheel of Fortune, holds within it a profound symbolism that has captivated the imagination of mystics and scholars alike. According to ancient lore, the golden snake represents the embodiment of transformation, renewal, and eternal cycles. Its golden hue signifies the divine, the sacred, and the infinite, as it coils its majestic body around the axis of the Wheel, infusing the very fabric of existence with its essence.

As the snake's body wraps around the hub, it symbolizes the cyclical nature of life, where birth, growth, decay, and rebirth are intertwined in an eternal dance. The snake's eyes, said to hold the secrets of the universe, seem to gaze upon the infinite, reminding us that the mysteries of the cosmos are within our grasp. Its gentle, yet powerful, movement around the Wheel serves as a reminder that change is the only constant, and that we must adapt and evolve to navigate the twists and turns of the journey.

In this way, the golden snake embodies the paradox of the Wheel of Fortune, where fate and free will are intertwined, and the path ahead is shrouded in mystery. It is a potent symbol that speaks to our deepest desires for knowledge, power, and transcendence, reminding us that the secrets of the universe are hidden in plain sight, waiting to be unlocked by those willing to gaze upon the golden snake's hypnotic gaze.

c. The Orange Jackal (Anubis)

As we delve deeper into the mystical realm of the Wheel of Fortune, we find ourselves face to face with the enigmatic figure of Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of mummification and the afterlife. At first glance, it may seem that Anubis has no direct connection to the Wheel of Fortune, but look closer and you'll discover a profound symbiosis between the two. The Wheel of Fortune, with its cyclical rotation of fate and destiny, is eerily reminiscent of the Egyptian concept of the afterlife, where the soul's journey is measured by the weighing of the heart against the feather of truth.

In this context, Anubis's presence on the Wheel of Fortune can be seen as a symbol of the weighing of fate, where the course of one's life is determined by the balance of the scales. Just as Anubis is tasked with evaluating the worthiness of the deceased, the Wheel of Fortune assesses the individual's readiness to face the twists and turns of their destiny. The god's presence serves as a reminder that our lives are not solely our own to control, but are also subject to the whims of fate and the cosmos.

Furthermore, Anubis's association with the afterlife and the underworld can be seen as a reflection of the Wheel of Fortune's cyclical nature, where the rise and fall of individuals and nations are but a fleeting moment in the grand tapestry of time. In this sense, Anubis represents the eternal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, as the Wheel of Fortune continues to turn, perpetuating the dance of fate and destiny.

d. The Orange Wheel

As we delve deeper into the mystical realm of the Rider Waite Smith Tarot, we find ourselves face to face with the enigmatic orange wheel at the center of  the Wheel of Fortune card. This iconic card is often misunderstood as a mere representation of fate's capricious nature, but its symbolism runs far deeper than that. The orange wheel is a celestial body, a dynamic and ever-changing entity that embodies the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth.

(TARO, TORA, ROTA)

The wheel's circumference is marked by a series of concentric circles, each one representing a different stage of the human experience, from the birth of an idea to its eventual decay and rebirth. The letters TARO, TORA or ROTA are found in the North, East, South and West locations of the outer circle. These words are thought to have layers of meanings. TARO is thought to mean tarot. TORA relates to the ancient Hebrew text also known as the first five books of the Old Testament. ROTA refers to the Greek word “rota” meaning wheel.

(YHVH)\

Nestled in between the word TARO, are the Hebrew letters YHVH. This is the tetragrammaton also known as the unutterable name of God. The Wheel of Fortune, a symbol of the cyclical nature of life, fate, and destiny, has been a part of many mystical traditions and esoteric systems for centuries. Its association with the tetragrammaton, the sacred name of God, reveals a profound understanding of the intricate web of cosmic forces that shape our lives.

The Wheel of Fortune, with its intricate design and seemingly random rotation, appears to be a chaotic and unpredictable force, yet beneath its surface lies a hidden order, a balance of opposing forces that are in constant flux. Similarly, the tetragrammaton, comprising four letters and a mysterious energy, is often seen as a symbol of the four directions, the four elements, and the four aspects of human nature. The union of these symbols hints at a deeper connection between the celestial and terrestrial realms, where the fates of humanity are woven.

(ALCHEMICAL SYMBOLS)

Also located on the orange wheel are the alchemical symbols of mercury, sulfur, water and salt. The secret to unlocking the mysteries of the universe lies in the harmonious balance of mercury, sulfur, water, and salt. These four elemental forces, each imbued with unique energies and properties, have been revered for centuries as the building blocks of reality.

Mercury, the swift and agile messenger, represents the fluid, adaptable, and intellectual aspects of our nature. It is the spark of creativity, the flash of insight, and the whispered wisdom of the gods. Sulfur, the fiery and passionate, embodies the transformative power of change, catalyzing the alchemy of transformation and rebirth. Water, the gentle and nurturing, embodies the soothing, calming, and life-giving qualities of the emotions, and salt, the firm and crystalline, represents the structure, stability, and foundation of the physical world.

Together, these four elements dance in an intricate ballet, each influencing and informing the others, as they weave the intricate fabric of our existence. The interplay of Mercury's quicksilver wit, sulfur's fiery passion, water's soothing emotions, and salt's grounding stability creates the complex and ever-changing landscape of the human experience. As we navigate the Wheel of Fortune, we must attune ourselves to the rhythms and harmonies of these four elemental forces, allowing their ancient wisdom to guide us toward the realization of our deepest desires and highest potential.

(EIGHT INNER SPOKES)

The eight spokes in the center of the orange wheel, which may initially appear to be a simple design element, hold a profound significance in the symbolism of the Rider Waite Smith Tarot. Each spoke is a pathway to understanding the cyclical nature of fate and the twists and turns that life may take. The first spoke represents the birth of a new idea or project, symbolizing the beginning of a journey. As the wheel turns, the second spoke depicts the momentum of progress, as the initial spark of inspiration gains momentum. The third spoke signifies the challenges and obstacles that arise, testing the resolve and determination of the individual. The fourth spoke represents the lessons learned and the growth that comes from overcoming adversity. The fifth spoke embodies the duality of fate, where the consequences of one's actions are revealed, and the path ahead becomes clearer. The sixth spoke represents the choices and decisions that must be made, influencing the trajectory of one's journey. The seventh spoke signifies the rewards and successes that come from making wise choices, as the wheel continues to turn. Finally, the eighth spoke represents the culmination of the journey, where the lessons learned and experiences gained are reflected upon, and the cycle begins anew.

The orange wheel is a powerful symbol of the cyclical nature of life, a reminder that growth and transformation are an ongoing process, and that every ending marks the beginning of a new cycle. As we navigate the twists and turns of our own journey, may the symbolism of the orange wheel guide us towards a deeper understanding of ourselves and the mysteries of the universe.

e. The Lion

The lion, with its majestic mane and regal demeanor, is one of the four beasts to appear on the Wheel of Fortune. This powerful symbol is often associated with the sun and the power of the divine. In ancient mythology, the lion was revered as a symbol of courage, strength, and royalty, and it is no surprise that it should be found on the Wheel of Fortune.

In the tarot, the lion is often depicted as a proud and fierce creature, representing the unbridled power of the universe. It is a symbol of the unshakeable and the unyielding, and it is often associated with the qualities of courage, honor, and integrity. The lion’s presence on the Wheel of Fortune is a sign that the universe is aligning in your favor, and that you are on the path to achieving your goals and desires.

The lion's presence on the Wheel of Fortune is also a reminder of the importance of setting clear boundaries and asserting your authority. In a world that can often be chaotic and unpredictable, the lion's strength and confidence serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying grounded and focused on your goals. When the lion appears, it is a sign that you should stand tall, assert your rights, and claim your rightful place in the world.

f. The Bull

As the Wheel of Fortune spins, four majestic beasts emerge, each representing a unique aspect of the wheel's mystical energy. Among these, the bull is the most enigmatic, embodying the unpredictable and wild forces of nature. Like stormy weather, the bull's presence is marked by its intense and unbridled energy, capable of stirring up both chaos and transformation.

The bull's symbol is often associated with the divine, the sacred, and the mysterious. This mythical creature is said to possess the power to awaken the primal forces within, unleashing a torrent of creative potential and untamed passion. Those who are born under the bull's influence are often described as fiercely independent, with a strong sense of intuition and a willingness to take risks.

In the realm of the Wheel of Fortune, the bull is a harbinger of change, signaling the need for bold action and decisive leadership. It is said that those who are attuned to the bull's frequency are granted the ability to navigate the twists and turns of fate with greater ease, using their intuition to guide them through the labyrinth of life. As the Wheel turns, the bull's presence is a reminder that the path ahead is often shrouded in uncertainty, but that with courage and determination, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

g. The Angel (Man)

As the Wheel of Fortune spins, the angel emerges from the shadows, shrouded in mystery and intrigue. The angel is often seen as the embodiment of human nature, with its varied attributes and contradictions. He is the thinker, the ruler, and the strategist, forever seeking balance and order in the chaotic world of the Wheel. With his piercing gaze and imposing presence, the angel is the epitome of human ingenuity and creativity, ever-ready to navigate the twists and turns of fate.

In his role as the ruler, the angel is the master of his domain, exercising his authority with wisdom and justice. His sharp mind is always calculating the consequences of his actions, weighing the pros and cons of each decision. With his rational thinking and analytical mind, he is the voice of reason, tempering the passions of the other beasts and guiding the Wheel towards its ultimate destiny.

Yet, despite his intellectual prowess, the angel is also prone to his own set of flaws and weaknesses. His ego and pride can lead him to overstep his boundaries, causing imbalance and chaos in the Wheel. His obsessive desire for control and power can consume him, clouding his judgment and leading him down a path of destruction.

As the Wheel of Fortune continues to spin, the angel's journey is a complex and multifaceted one, full of twists and turns that will test his mettle and push him to the limits of his human nature.

h. The Eagle

The eagle, the majestic creature of the Wheel of Fortune, is a symbol of vision, intuition, and the ability to soar to great heights. As the soarer, it is the embodiment of the power of observation, able to scan the horizon and predict the winds of change. Its piercing gaze is said to pierce the veil of the unknown, revealing hidden truths and offering glimpses of the future.

In its role as the seer, the eagle is the keeper of ancient wisdom, possessing the knowledge and insight to decipher the mysteries of the universe. Its keen mind is able to unravel the tangled threads of fate, revealing the intricate patterns and connections that govern the cosmos. With its far-reaching vision, the eagle is able to see beyond the present moment, into the depths of time and the vast expanse of the human experience.

Through its symbol, the eagle reminds us of the importance of looking beyond the surface level, of seeking wisdom and guidance from the realm of the unknown. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, the eagle's piercing gaze serves as a reminder to stay vigilant, to trust in our intuition, and to never lose sight of the greater picture.

i. The White Books 

The white books, a mysterious and enigmatic part of the Wheel of Fortune's symbolism, have long fascinated and intrigued many observers. Like the whisperings of an ancient sage, the white books seem to hold the secrets of the universe, yet remain shrouded in an air of mystery. As we delve deeper into the world of the Wheel of Fortune, it becomes clear that the white books are not just a mere decoration, but rather a powerful tool for understanding the workings of the cosmos.

The white books can be seen as a representation of the infinite possibilities and untapped potential that lies within each of us. They symbolize the blank slate, waiting to be filled with the stories, experiences, and wisdom that we accumulate throughout our journey. Like the pages of a book, our lives are made up of countless moments, each one a chapter in the grand narrative of our existence.

Moreover, the white books can be seen as a metaphor for the collective unconscious, a shared reservoir of human knowledge and experience that transcends time and space. They represent the accumulated wisdom of humanity, passed down through generations, and contain the secrets to unlocking the mysteries of the universe. As we gaze upon the white books, we are reminded of the power of knowledge, and the importance of respecting and honoring the wisdom of those who have come before us.

5. The Numerological Significance of the Number 10 in the Wheel of Fortune Card

The number 10 on the Tarot's Wheel of Fortune is profound and mysterious. It is imbued with the essence of completion, fulfillment, and the cyclical nature of life. The number 10 is a masterful blend of the energies of the digits 1 and 0, which together convey a sense of unity, wholeness, and the infinite. The 1, representing the individual, stands tall and proud, while the 0, symbolizing the void, reminds us of the infinite possibilities that lie beyond our current reality.

In this sacred geometry, the number 10 whispers secrets of the cosmos, revealing the interconnectedness of all things. As we gaze upon the 10, we are reminded of the delicate balance between the material and spiritual realms, where the cycles of birth, growth, decay, and rebirth unfold with rhythmic precision. The 10 is a potent reminder that our lives are not isolated events, but rather, they are part of a grand tapestry of cause and effect, where every action, thought, and intention has a ripple effect that echoes throughout the universe.

As we contemplate the symbolism of the number 10, we are invited to surrender to the natural flow of life, embracing the twists and turns of the cosmic journey. We are reminded that our journey is not linear, but rather, it is a spiral, where we revisit and integrate the lessons of our past, carrying them forward into the present, and ultimately, into the future. The number 10 on the Wheel of Fortune is a powerful reminder that our lives are a dance of opposites, where light and darkness, chaos and order, and growth and decay are all intertwined, and that our ultimate freedom lies in embracing the mystical harmony of the universe.

6. Astrological Associations of the Wheel of Fortune Card

As we delve deeper into the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune, we find ourselves at the crossroads of the celestial and the terrestrial. The Rider Waite Smith Tarot's Wheel of Fortune is intricately linked to the astrological sphere, reflecting the infinite dance between the cosmic and the human experience. The wheel's central axis, symbolizing the axis mundi, connects the material and spiritual realms, echoing the celestial mechanics of the zodiac.

The astrological correspondence of the Wheel of Fortune is closely tied to the planet Jupiter, the lord of expansion and growth and the zodiac sign of Sagittarius. Jupiter's cyclical motion, governing the cycles of birth, growth, and decay, is mirrored in the wheel's perpetual rotation. Jupiter's expansive energy and Sagittarius's adventurous spirit infuse the Wheel of Fortune with its essence, governing the cycles of growth, transformation, and renewal. 

Furthermore, the Wheel of Fortune's astrological resonance is deeply connected to the cycles of the lunar cycle, echoing the tides of the moon's waxing and waning. This lunar connection is reflected in the card's symbolism, where the wheel's spokes resemble the crescent moon, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life and the constant flux of change. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of the Wheel of Fortune, we are drawn deeper into the mystical realm, where the boundaries between the celestial and the terrestrial are blurred, revealing the hidden truths that lie at the heart of the tarot.

7. The Elemental Associations of the Wheel of Fortune 

As the Wheel of Fortune's celestial sphere rotates, its intricate tendrils weaving a tapestry of destiny, it's no surprise that the elements hold a profound connection to its mystical machinations. The ancient sages and seers who first deciphered the Wheel's secrets knew that the elemental forces - earth, air, fire, and water - were not just mere physical manifestations, but rather, they were the very fabric of the universe's rhythms and harmonies.

The Wheel of Fortune, with its cyclical motion, echoes the eternal dance of the elements, where each one is inextricably linked to the others. The earth's solidity grounds the air's ethereal whispers, while the fire's passion fuels the water's emotional tides. This delicate balance, where each element influences and is influenced by the others, is reflected in the Wheel's intricate design, where each spoke represents a different aspect of the universe's unfolding.

As the Wheel turns, the elements whisper secrets to the seeker, guiding them through the labyrinth of fate and fortune. The earth's stability offers a foundation for the winds of change, while the fire's transformative power illuminates the path ahead. The water's fluidity navigates the twists and turns, and the air's whispers carry the whispers of the universe, guiding the seeker towards their highest truth.

In this mystical dance, the Wheel of Fortune becomes a tool for the seeker to tap into the elemental forces, harnessing their power to navigate the twists and turns of life. As the elements weave their magic, the Wheel's secrets are revealed, offering a glimpse into the mysteries of the universe, and the mysteries that lie within.

As we come to the end of our journey into the mystifying world of the Wheel of Fortune, I hope that you have gained a deeper understanding of the symbolism and significance behind this iconic tarot card. From its ancient roots to its modern-day interpretations, the Wheel of Fortune is a true masterpiece of the Rider Waite Smith tarot deck. Whether you're a seasoned tarot enthusiast or just beginning your journey, I encourage you to continue exploring the mysteries of this card and to see how its themes and messages resonate with you. As the Wheel of Fortune continues to turn, I wish you well as you pursue your tarot journey.

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