Court cards are some of the most difficult cards to read in the Tarot deck. While the Major Arcana cards are relatively easy to apply to any situation, it’s pretty hard to separate court cards from their personality. This issue with the King of Wands is no different.
Today, I’ll be going over every single aspect of the King of Wands. Hopefully, you will find a description in this post that accurately applies to your reading!
In the Tarot deck, Kings represent outward leadership. They are competent and mature. The King of Wands has a clear set of values that he developed through experiences as the Page of Wands and the Knight of Wands and through his relationship with the Queen of Wands.
Although Kings often point to a person in a reading, this will depend on your spread. Consider if the King of Wands can indicate a person as your first course of action. If this is impossible, focus on the values of the King and how his morals apply to your situation.
King Of Wands:
There are so many different ways to read the King of Wands. To help you be more specific, I’ll go over the card and symbolism as well as the general meaning, then I’ll give interpretations of the King of Wands in specific situations.
If you want to read about the King of Wands in love, career, finances, as advice, as a person, as a yes/no answer, or reversed, feel free to scroll ahead to the appropriate section.
Visual Elements:
The visual elements listed here all describe the Rider-Waite King of Wands, so you may need to adapt these descriptions based on the deck you’re using. The visuals and symbolism will be different with every deck, which makes your reading totally unique.
In the Rider-Waite deck, the King of Wands is shown sitting on his throne wearing a bright orange robe, a yellow cape, and a gold crown. His throne is decorated with both lions and salamanders.
He holds a wand that has leaves blossoming from the trunk. Unlike the Queen, the King of Wands doesn’t have lions on the base of his throne. The only live animal present is the salamander/lizard at his feet.
The King of Wands is looking off to the side. This represents peering into the future and looking forward.
Although the King of Wands doesn’t have a clear astrological association, I personally feel that he correlates well with the astrological sign of Leo. However, he does have elements of all of the fire signs.
King Of Wands Keywords:
Here are some of the most common keywords for the King of Wands.
Upright:
- Confidence
- Leadership
- Visionary
- Takes control
- Decision maker
- Innovativeness
- Boldness
- Optimism
- Fast-paced
- Action-oriented
- Warm
- Protective
- Magnetic
Reversed:
- Forceful
- Selfishness
- Impulsiveness
- Extremism
- Tyrant
- Vicious
- Powerless
- Ineffective
- Weak
General King Of Wands Meaning:
The King of Wands is the ultimate leader. He doesn’t dream up ideas like the Page or put his dreams into action like the Knight. Instead, he makes a plan, then enlists others to help him see it through. In modern-day life, he is the manager or business owner of any situation.
At his best, the King is self-confident but not arrogant. He has a lot of experience in life and can easily implement his ideas. He gains knowledge through past failures, so he now knows how to control his fire and harness it.
However, the King is also bold. His astrological sign is Leo, after is. He knows when it’s time to take a risk and when he needs to step back and wait.
The King of Wands is a dominant character. People look up to him because he knows what he’s doing. There’s nothing fake about his status; he has earned his place on the throne through hard work.
In any situation, the King has control over the outcome. If you’re facing an issue, the King indicates that you are able to solve it! All of the power you need is within you. Be bold and own your capability.
The King of Wands can also be a sign to look for opportunities in unexpected places. He is always learning and growing, so he sees every situation as useful. This card can mean that you are learning from even the most difficult of events. See the glass as half full instead of half empty.
The King does have a full family and truly loves them. He’s a fun and lively dad as well as a caring husband. His only downfall is that he can sometimes be a bit stubborn; he truly believes he knows what’s best for everyone. The King can be consumed by the pursuit of the things he wants, but in personal relationships, this personality type can be very intense.
In groups, the King is always center-stage. Other people are drawn to him because he’s charismatic and knowledgable. His confidence makes his personality shine.
Ultimately, the King of Wands knows how to take the fiery energy of a new idea and turn it into something real. He can create something out of nothing because he has both the willpower and the knowledge. He tends to represent some of the greatest leaders throughout history, the people who knew when to act and when to wait.
His only downfall is his stubbornness. When he truly believes something he isn’t likely to budge. He may see the world only in black or white colors; something is either right or wrong.
Sometimes, the King will push others to agree with him. However, at his best he is charming and charismatic, so these qualities are kept in check.
King Of Wands In Love:
The King of Wands is typically a good omen in a love position. As a person, he is loving, warm, and protective. He knows how to employ both logic and emotions in his relationships and will go to any lengths to care for his partner.
In a relationship, the King of Wands represents the traditional partner. He is very caring for his family and acts as the “man” of the house (even if he represents a woman). This is the person who works to put their ideas into action and get things done, especially in a business sense.
The relationship is passionate and deep. Although you may have arguments here and there, you still have a strong spark. You see each other as individuals but also come together as a team.
Work to keep your relationship passionate while you pursue your individual goals at the same time. You are definitely a power couple!
If you’re single, the King of Wands indicates that you’re having a great time all by yourself. In fact, you have a lot of passion and spark within you! Don’t worry about finding someone; they will come along when you’re ready.
This card generally means that you’re doing really well in your own life. You have control and mastery over who you are and are truly successful. Hone your own creative fire and create the life you want. Once you do meet someone, don’t be afraid to go after them.
In a negative reading, the King of Wands represents someone who is extreme in his thinking. He may push to change your mind when your beliefs clash or not allow you to have your own thoughts. The King can be very pushy when it comes to who is “right” and “wrong.”
This card can also represent anger or fights. The King is quick to anger but calms down just as quickly. However, you may need to use more logic in order to temper these fights.
Ultimately, the King of Wands encourages you to go after what you want. You have all of the passion and desire you need within you; it simply needs to be activated.
King Of Wands As Feelings:
Generally, the King of Wands as feelings is passionate. This person is feeling intense, but their emotions are most likely positive.
In a relationship reading, the King of Wands definitely indicates strong feelings of attraction. The individual is most likely attracted to the person physically and mentally. They may also feel ultra-protective of the other person.
When it comes to friendship, the King of Wands indicates that the person is feeling really excited and passionate about the conversations that you have or the things that you do together. It’s a merging of energies that works perfectly!
This individual can also be feeling bursts of feelings. They may come in quick bits; maybe they feel extremely good around a certain person, only to feel tired later.
However, confidence is quite literally King here. This individual is feeling extremely confident and self-possessed in a positive way. They know they can accomplish anything they want!
King Of Wands Career:
If you pull the King of Wands in a career reading, this is usually a good thing. The King is knowledgable and capable. He does well in anything he takes on!
The King of Wands in career encourages you to take chances. Even if things seem scary, go for it. You’re bound to do well with the King on your side.
Sometimes, the King of Wands can even indicate that you should take even bigger risks in your career than you may be planning. If you have been considering a huge decision, this is your sign to go for it.
The King of Wands can also indicate that you spend too much time second guessing yourself when it comes to career. You need to go with your gut instincts because you’re usually right.
Typically, the King of Wands is about doing something different. This could mean that you choose to try something unique in your career or that you’re ready to switch jobs or careers entirely. Remember that, if it feels right in your gut, it is right.
If you don’t have much experience in an area, then the King of Wands may be telling you to listen to those who know more than you. In fact, there are probably some people you could learn a lot from who are surrounding you.
Alternatively, you may be the wiser, older mentor. If so, then this card is simply a pat on the back. You have done well and others look up to you! Keep doing what you’ve been doing and know that there are great opportunities ahead.
Ultimately, the King of Wands almost always indicates success in career. However, the King can sometimes appear in a negative position, which can be confusing. This typically means that you simply aren’t taking the plunge. It’s time to do the thing you’re scared of or to try a different method. The power is all within you!
King Of Wands Money:
Similar to career, the King of Wands is a great card to find in a money placement. The King is very good with money and finances, so this card indicates that you’re probably in a stable situation. You have found a good balance of spending versus saving.
As financial advice, the King of Wands indicates that you should trust your intuition. You have all of the tools you need to make sound financial decisions. If you’re considering an investment or purchase, the King of Wands tells you to go with what feels right and what simultaneously makes logical sense.
The King of Wands can also mean that an unexpected financial windfall is in your future. Alternatively, it can indicate that you will soon figure out how to make the money you need.
Ultimately, the King of Wands is always a good omen in a money position. It says that you should continue to be mindful of your spending habits, but don’t worry too much; you’re already on the right track.
King Of Wands Health:
When you pull the King of Wands in a health reading, it generally means that you’re in good health. However, the King can be pretty extreme. He pushes himself to the limits in order to succeed.
This card can also indicate that you’re overdoing things. Maybe you started a new workout regimen or diet. The King of Wands is telling you to tone it down and make sure that your lifestyle is sustainable for optimal long-term health.
Otherwise, you could end up with an injury or simply exhaust yourself. Sometimes, this card means that you just need a small pause to recuperate.
The King of Wands can also mean that you need to listen to your body. It will tell you everything you need to know from an intuitive sense. Always trust your own body over the advice of other people.
However, if you’re working with someone in the health feel who is represented by the King of Wands, then you can be assured that this person will definitely help you on your path. They have the knowledge that you need to progress with your health!
King Of Wands As Spirituality:
If you pull the King of Wands in a spirituality reading, it’s generally a good sign. This card indicates that you have a lot of knowledge and are putting it into practice.
However, the King of Wands is all about action. He doesn’t take much time for meditation or reflection. He trusts his gut instincts because they’re usually right, so he acts on them immediately.
In a spiritual context, the King of Wands can sometimes mean that you need to slow down. Spirituality isn’t something that you can “figure out” in one day. It takes time. Learn to be still or to meditate. Sometimes, you will find the most answers in stillness.
If this is relevant to your reading, then start out small. Even a 5 minute meditation can be extremely beneficial. The joy really is in the journey, and you don’t want to miss any piece of your spiritual journey.
King Of Wands As A Person:
As a person, the King of Wands indicates someone who is a natural-born leader. They are confident and can see any project through. This person simply calls others to them because of their enormous energy field.
Sometimes, the King of Wands can indicate someone who is clever and persuasive. They definitely know how to work people to their advantage. However, they do truly care about those close to them.
The King of Wands can also indicate someone who is charismatic and fun to be around. They tend to be the center of any group because people simply want to be around them.
Ultimately, this person is super warm and passionate, but they can also be a bit controlling or over-confident. They truly think that their beliefs are right and will try to convince others until they are worn down. However, they almost always mean well.
King Of Wands Yes Or No:
In almost every reading, the King of Wands as a yes or no indicates that the answer is definitely yes. In fact, this is one of the best cards to pull if you’re looking for a “yes.”
Reversed, the King of Wands as a yes or no isn’t necessarily bad, but it does mean that you should proceed with caution. Look at how your decision will affect other people. You may need to alter your course so that others aren’t injured.
King Of Wands Advice:
The King of Wands as advice is telling you to trust in yourself. You have everything you need within you. Find the motivation and the passion and follow your intuition.
In fact, the King says that power is only within you. Respect who you are and don’t ignore you gut feelings.
You have everything you need. You only need to acknowledge your competency. Don’t compare yourself to others. Instead, find your unique strengths and utilize them.
In any situation, you simply need to persevere. Opportunities are currently being presented to you, but you need to actively seize them.
King Of Wands As A Negative Or Obstacle Placement:
If the King of Wands appears in an obstacle placement or as a negative, it can be a really tricky card to read. The King is simply so positive!
I personally interpret this to mean that someone is being too extreme, too set in their ways, or is displaying black or white thinking. Is there any room to bend in this situation? Keep in mind that not everything needs to be exactly “by the rules.”
Sometimes, the King of Wands can also indicate that you’re focusing too much on what other people think of you or how others see you. Try to look at the task at hand, instead.
Symbolism In The King Of Wands:
In every Tarot card, there is a whole myriad of symbols. In some readings, the symbolism will be extremely important, so I’m including the main symbols on the King of Wands card here.
Keep in mind that symbolism will vary based on the deck you’re using. I recommend looking closely at the pictures on your cards if you’re not using the Rider-Waite deck. The symbolism of the card you actually pulled is much more important than the general meaning! This is one of the reasons why I love using varied decks.
The Salamanders:
The King of Wand’s throne and cape are both decorated with salamanders who are biting their tails. This symbolizes infinity, while the salamanders themselves symbolize fire. In fact, salamanders are actually the all-powerful fire elementals.
The Lions:
The King of Wands is very much like a Leo in astrology. The lions on his throne represent his large personality. He is a natural leader and has a big, warm energy that draws others to him.
The lions symbolize the outward personality of the King. He is confident and charismatic.
The Lizard:
Alternatively, the small lizard to the side of the throne symbolizes the inner, hidden personality of the King of Wands.
The lizard is considered lowly, representing the King’s “lower” birth. He has worked for his spot and he doesn’t want to forget that. The lizard indicates that the King will always remember where he comes from.
Although the lizard isn’t “Kingly,” the King puts him right to the side of his throne. The lizard is clearly visible, but only to those who bother to look down.
The lizard can also indicate that the King’s emotions are balanced. Just like the lizard’s body temperature, the King’s emotions don’t burn too hot. Inside, he is logical and centered.
King Of Wands Reversed:
The King of Wands reversed is impulsive and arrogant. He takes what he wants with no regard for anyone else.
Although he is extremely driven and is often successful, he will crush anyone in his path. It’s difficult for others to be around the King of Wands reversed.
In terms of family or relationships, the King of Wands reversed can indicate that someone is focusing too much on themselves or their career. They may be neglecting the people close to them, who probably feel shut out.
Sometimes the King of Wands reversed indicates a workaholic, while other times it indicates someone who is too arrogant and impulsive, someone who doesn’t plan ahead. This King may even be aggressive to others when they contradict what he believes.
As advice, the King of Wands reversed can indicate that you need to slow down. Be careful that you don’t make rash decisions. You need to think things through logically instead of rushing in and following your first impulse. Right now, your impulses could be wrong.
The King of Wands reversed is selfish and ruthless. He doesn’t care about others and pushes through anyone to get to his goal. As a person, it indicates someone who has a one-track mind and tends to think only of themselves. This individual may also be dominating or egotistical.
In a relationship, the King of Wands reversed indicates that one person’s attitude is the issue. The couple probably isn’t acting like a unit but are focusing on their own wants and needs. One or more of the partners might be acting selfish or domineering. This couple probably displays the worst aspects of the fire element.
Sometimes, the King of Wands reversed can indicate that you are insecure and react by becoming egotistical. This is simply a defense mechanism, although others may not be able to see through your bluster.
The King of Wands reversed can also mean that someone in the relationship is having control issues. They have a general distrust and might even show some fear of commitment.
If you’re single, the King of Wands is advising you to take control and go after what you want. Ultimately, you need to work on being independent; your own inner light is what partners will be attracted to.
In career, the King of Wands reversed indicates a lack of direction. You might wait for opportunities to fall in your lap instead of pursuing your dreams. It’s time to take on a more active, leadership-oriented role and make it happen for yourself.
However, the King of Wands reversed can also indicate that you’re listening to someone unreliable. At the end of the day, it’s important that you listen to your own gut feelings and intuition.
Alternatively, the King reversed can mean that you’re being too arrogant or controlling in your work. Be careful that you act respectfully towards coworkers.
Financially, the King of Wands reversed also indicates that it’s time to take action. If you want to improve your financial situation, you must find a way to achieve this. The only thing standing in your way is inaction!
You may have unrealistic expectations about money. Make sure that you keep your feet on the ground and take realistic, actionable steps to achieve the financial situation that you want.
