Eight of Wands

Eight of Wands

The Basic Meaning of the Card (Rider-Waite)

The Eight of Wands is the eighth card in the Tarot’s Minor Arcana within the Wands suit and symbolizes rapid movement, progress and communication. The card’s image shows eight wands flying through the air, indicating that they are on their way to their destination. It represents that when we have focus and determination we can achieve our goals quickly and efficiently, as well as that effective communication is the key to success.

Upright Meaning

When the Eight of Wands appears upright in a Tarot reading, it signifies a time of rapid movement, progress and communication. The card urges you to be focused and determined in your efforts, as well as to use effective communication to achieve your goals. It is a time to act quickly and to seize opportunities that can lead to success and fulfillment of your dreams.

Reversed Meaning

If the Eight of Wands is reversed in a reading, it can signify that you are feeling overwhelmed by rapid change or that you are having difficulty communicating effectively. It can also mean that you are experiencing delays or obstacles on the way to your goals. The card urges you to find ways to improve your communication and to be more decisive in your efforts, as well as to be open to adapting to changes and overcoming obstacles on your path.

Example Interpretation

If the Eight of Wands appears in a reading alongside the Three of Cups and the Nine of Wands, it could be interpreted as that through rapid movement and effective communication (Eight of Wands) you will experience joy and celebration with friends and family (Three of Cups). This will give you strength and endurance (Nine of Wands) to face future challenges and to continue striving towards your dreams and goals.

Psychological Interpretation

Archetypal Meanings

The Eight of Wands is a card that represents swift movement, action, and progress. It is associated with the element of fire, which symbolizes passion, energy, and drive. In tarot, the wands suit represents the realm of creativity, ambition, and desire. Therefore, the Eight of Wands can be seen as an archetype for the pursuit of one’s goals and ambitions with determination and intensity.

Behavioral Patterns

When this card appears in a reading, it may indicate that the individual is currently experiencing a surge of energy and motivation. They may be taking action towards their goals and making significant progress. They are likely to be focused and driven, with a clear vision of what they want to achieve.

On the other hand, the Eight of Wands can also symbolize a need for speed and haste. The individual may be feeling overwhelmed and under pressure to achieve their goals, leading to impulsive and reckless behavior. They may also be prone to burnout and exhaustion if they do not pace themselves.

Integration and Shadow Work

To work with the energies of the Eight of Wands, it is essential to find balance and moderation in one’s actions. While it is important to have drive and ambition, it is also crucial to take breaks and rest when needed. The individual may also need to reflect on their goals and ensure that they align with their true desires and values, rather than being driven by external pressures or expectations.

Additionally, the Eight of Wands can also symbolize the need to let go of control and allow things to unfold naturally. The individual may need to trust in the timing of the universe and have faith that their efforts will lead to success in due time. Shadow work with this card may involve addressing any tendencies towards impatience, impulsivity, or perfectionism that may hinder their progress.


More Tarot Cards In "Wands"

Page of Wands

The Page of Wands is a tarot card representing a young person who is full of energy and creativity. It also symbolizes new beginnings and opportunities that await and is a sign that you should be ready to take the chance and follow your intuition.

Page of Wands

Queen of Wands

The Queen of Wands is a tarot card that symbolizes a woman who is emotionally stable and self-assured, and who has a strong will and great self-confidence. She stands for creativity, entrepreneurship, and leadership, and she inspires others to reach their goals.

Queen of Wands

Seven of Wands

Seven of Wands symbolizes strength and courage to stand up for oneself and one's beliefs. It also represents the fight for what one wants and being ready to defend what one believes in. This means that one must stand up against adversity and try to find a way to move forward.

Seven of Wands

Six of Wands

The Six of Wands tarot card symbolizes victory and triumph. It represents success, recognition, and strength. It is a sign that one has succeeded in overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals. It is a sign that one will receive the recognition they deserve.

Six of Wands

Ten of Wands

The Tarot card Ten of Wands symbolizes responsibility and burden. It represents that you have taken on too much and that you should prioritize your commitments and restrain yourself. It urges you to let go of what is no longer necessary and to focus on what is important.

Ten of Wands

Three of Wands

The Three of Wands tarot card symbolizes attentiveness, planning, and anticipation. It also represents preparation for success and the ability to see the bigger picture. It can also signify that one is about to embark on a new project or take a step forward.

Three of Wands

Two of Wands

The Two of Wands in Tarot symbolizes planning, decision-making, and expansion. When upright, it indicates a time for considering various possibilities, long-term planning, and being open to new ideas. When reversed, it suggests difficulty making decisions, fear of change, or uncertainty about plans and goals. In a reading with the Queen of Swords and the Five of Cups, focusing on planning (Two of Wands) can lead to better clarity, insight, and communication skills (Queen of Swords), helping overcome feelings of loss, grief, and disappointment (Five of Cups) and fostering personal growth and self-understanding.

Two of Wands

Ace of Wands

The Ace of Wands tarot card symbolizes new beginnings, creativity, and energy. It stands for new opportunities and potential that are ready to be tapped into. It also signifies a time for recovery and renewal, which can help one get back on the right track.

Ace of Wands

Five of Wands

Five of Wands is a tarot card that symbolizes conflicts and rivalry. It also represents struggles and competition that can lead to exhaustion and resistance. It encourages to address issues in a constructive way to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Five of Wands

Four of Wands

The Four of Wands tarot card symbolizes victory and triumph. It represents joy and celebration, and is a sign that a goal has been achieved. It stands for feelings of security, stability, and long-lasting happiness.

Four of Wands

King of Wands

The King of Wands is a tarot card that symbolizes leadership, ability, and confidence. It is a card that stands for passion, creativity, and a willingness to take initiative. It can also represent a strong, loyal, and secure leader who is ready to make decisions and lead others.

King of Wands

Knight of Wands

The Knight of Wands symbolizes an adventurous, impulsive, and creative mindset that is ready to take on new challenges. It also stands for courage, enthusiasm, and a desire to change. It is a sign that there are great opportunities to take on new projects or ventures.

Knight of Wands

Nine of Wands

The Nine of Wands is a Tarot card that symbolizes a defensive stance and perseverance. It is a sign that one is close to achieving their goals, but there are still some obstacles that must be overcome. It is a card that encourages one to maintain their perseverance and not give up hope.

Nine of Wands