Minor Arcana · Wands
Knight of Wands
Knight of Wands is a card of the suit of Wands, in the Minor Arcana of tarot. Upright, it speaks of action, adventure and passion. Reversed, it points to impulsiveness, haste and irritability. In yes-or-no questions it stays open (maybe).
- Number
- —
- Element
- Fire
- Astrology
- Air of Fire
- Yes or no
- Maybe
Symbolism
A knight in armor and a salamander-patterned cloak holds a staff atop a rearing horse before a desert with pyramids. The orange plume on his helmet and the eager horse show drive and haste. The Knight is fire in motion, adventure that charges ahead before looking back.
Affirmation
“I use my energy with courage and direction.”
Upright meaning
- action
- adventure
- passion
- energy
- drive
- General
- A surge of energy and courage pushes you to act. The Knight is the movement stage of fire, with charisma and contagious enthusiasm. Air of Fire supplies the swift idea and the urge to move. Use this drive to advance, mindful of pace so you do not skip steps.
- Love
- Intense passion, seduction and adventurous relationships. It may be someone charismatic and bold. Enjoy the excitement and state your intentions clearly.
- Work & money
- Fast action, changes, travel and bold projects. Your initiative draws attention. Focus on clear goals to channel the energy.
- Advice
- Act with courage, but watch where you step. Direct your energy toward a destination.
Reversed meaning
- impulsiveness
- haste
- irritability
- quitting easily
- scattered energy
- General
- The fire runs out of control: rash decisions, a hot temper or bursts that do not last. There may also be frustration from slow, stuck progress. Excess energy without direction burns you and those nearby. Breathe before reacting.
- Love
- Fleeting passion, impulsive jealousy or someone who comes and goes. Be careful with promises made in the heat of the moment. Give the bond time to mature.
- Work & money
- Half-abandoned projects, conflicts from impatience or haste that causes errors. Plan before acting. Persist beyond the initial enthusiasm.
- Advice
- Hold the reins and choose a destination before leaving. Practice short pauses before deciding.
Guides about Knight of Wands
- Who Is the Knight of Wands as a Person in Tarot?Understand the Knight of Wands as a person: impulse, courage, the reversed side of haste and how to recognize this energy in yourself or someone close.
- Knight of Wands and Knight of Swords: two impulses together?See how to read the Knight of Wands and Knight of Swords in the same spread: two fast impulses, one of action and one of ideas, and the risk of haste.