(The above image is a copy of The Five of Wands card in a standard Rider-Waite Tarot deck. The 4 symbols pointed out above are explained below.)
Card Description
Like all of the Fives in the Minor Arcana, The Five of Wands is about conflict. In the card, five men attack each other with the five wands. The card reminds us of the pitfalls of conflict but also suggests that this conflict could be transformed into community.
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For more information about The Five of Wands card, check out A. E. Waite’s description here.
Point 1 – FIVE FIGURES
Five figures appear to be in conflict with each other in the card. By contrast with the other cards, these figures appear to be adolescents. This could illustrate recklessness in combat but also the passion of youth. While they are all attacking each other, no one is giving any lethal blows. This suggests that the conflict is more of a friendly competition than a battle.
Point 2 – FIVE WANDS
This is the first time that the wands are actually used by the figures in the card. The fact that they are being used as weapons signifies that while they can be used for good, they can also be used for evil. A reader must be careful as to how they wield the wands.
Point 3 – BLUE SKY
In order, the sky in the wand suit has changed from grey (twilight) to yellow (dawn) to now blue (day). The Five of Wands is in the thick of it. Preparations and beginnings are behind it. The reader is now in the arena.
Point 4 – LANDSCAPE
In addition to the sky, the landscape has changed as well. While the previous cards emphasized desert landscapes, The Five of Wands puts an emphasis on a green field landscape. Along with the daylight, the green field illustrates life and vibrancy.
Tarot Reading
Upright
An Upright Five of Wands illustrates conflicts and unproductive discussions. Without listening, things can get loud pretty quickly. Perhaps you are working with a group of people and communication problems have stalled productivity. When this happens, be respectful and proceed in debate with questions and listening.
Reverse
While an Upright Five of Wands reveals external conflicts, a Reverse Five of Wands reveals internal conflicts. Perhaps you are going through a change in worldview or your beliefs are being challenged. Through reading, listening, and self-reflection, proceed through these internal conflicts for they most likely will lead to a better understanding of yourself and others.
For more Tarot Card Meanings, check out our blog here.
Video
Jim Daley and his wife Natalie are the owners of Joker’s and Fools in Lake Wales, Florida, where they serve the Central Florida tarot community with a thoughtfully curated selection of Tarot and Oracle cards. Jim holds a B.A. in History from Tufts University and brings both academic insight and a deep appreciation for the symbolic tradition of the cards to his work.
Last update date: 04/02/2025
