Strength

Imagery and symbolism

A woman in white gently holds the jaws of a lion. Above her head floats the same infinity sign seen on the Magician, and she wears a wreath of flowers and a chain of flowers around her waist that also loops around the lion. The lion stands for raw instinct and strong emotion, and the woman for a heart that tames it kindly rather than crushing it. Traditionally Strength represents true courage that comes from patience and warmth rather than force. In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck this card is numbered eight.

Upright

My day	Today, even if impatience rises, you can soothe it gently. A calm word may untangle the situation surprisingly easily.
Work	Even difficult people and tough tasks can be handled with steadiness and patience. Seeking to understand rather than forcing your way changes the outcome.
Relationships & love	You have the strength right now to express even hurt feelings warmly. Sharing emotions kindly makes the bond stronger.
What is on my mind	Instead of trying to get rid of anxiety or anger, acknowledge the feeling. Recognizing an emotion often makes the heart settle.

Reversed

My day	Your confidence may dip a little today. Praising yourself for one thing you did well brings your strength back quickly.
Work	Check whether you are pushing yourself too hard. Resting is also a way to protect your abilities.
Relationships & love	When emotions run high, take a breath before speaking. Words offered after a short pause land more accurately.
What is on my mind	If you catch yourself thinking "why am I not better than this," talk to yourself the way you would to a close friend. Kindness becomes real strength.

Advice

Choose to hold steady gently rather than push hard. That is the strength that lasts longer.

What feeling of yours needs gentle care these days rather than suppression?