Symbolism and imagery
A woman in white, crowned with flowers and an infinity sign above her head, gently closes the jaws of a lion with her bare hands.
Strength is card VIII of the Major Arcana, the 22 cards that describe the big turning points and life lessons of the tarot. When a Major Arcana card appears, the situation usually carries more weight than everyday events. In the traditional Golden Dawn correspondences used with this deck, Strength is linked to Leo and the element of Fire.
Upright: the core message of Strength
Strength is power without force. The woman does not fight the lion; she calms it. This card speaks of the courage to stay soft in hard moments, to handle fear, anger or desire with steady compassion. When it appears, you are stronger than you think, and your gentlest approach may be the most effective one. Patience is not passivity here; it is mastery.
What Strength says about love
Upright in love
In love, Strength describes a relationship built on patience, warmth and deep trust. It can mean working through challenges with tenderness instead of blame. For singles, it suggests confidence that attracts the right person. The card also speaks of passion held with care, a strong attraction that is also respectful.
Reversed in love
Reversed in love, insecurity or jealousy may be testing the bond. It asks you to soothe your fears instead of letting them drive your behavior.
Strength at work and with money
At work, quiet confidence wins. You can handle difficult people and pressure with grace. Financially, steady discipline beats impulsive moves.
Reversed: the shadow side of Strength
Reversed, Strength suggests that self-doubt is louder than usual. You may feel drained, reactive or convinced you can't handle what is in front of you. It can also show a tendency to be harsh with yourself. Begin with kindness toward your own wild parts; confidence grows from there.
Yes or no: Strength
Yes
Upright, Strength leans toward yes. Its energy of courage and compassion supports moving forward, especially if your question is about something you can act on. Reversed, treat it as a softer 'not yet': the answer depends on dealing with self-doubt first.
Want to try it? Ask your question on the yes or no tarot page.
Strength as how someone feels about you
As feelings, Strength shows someone who feels deeply attracted to you and protective of you, with a calm, patient affection.
A question to reflect on
What inner 'lion' am I trying to fight instead of befriend?
Tarot works best as a mirror, not a verdict. Write the question above at the top of a page and answer it without editing yourself for five minutes. You may be surprised by what Strength brings up.
Frequently asked questions
What does Strength mean?
Strength is power without force. The woman does not fight the lion; she calms it.
What does Strength mean in love?
In love, Strength describes a relationship built on patience, warmth and deep trust. It can mean working through challenges with tenderness instead of blame.
What does Strength reversed mean?
Reversed, Strength suggests that self-doubt is louder than usual. You may feel drained, reactive or convinced you can't handle what is in front of you.
Is Strength a yes or no card?
Yes. Upright, Strength leans toward yes. Its energy of courage and compassion supports moving forward, especially if your question is about something you can act on.
Related cards
Keep exploring the Major Arcana or the full list of 78 tarot card meanings.
For entertainment purposes only. Tarot readings are a tool for reflection and are not a substitute for professional advice. Read our disclaimer.