The Hanged Man rarely looks comfortable or happy – but don’t let that scare you off just yet. There is a reason for that, surely… but it’s not all bad. All the Tarot cards have a silver lining if you’re open to learning what they are!
If you’ve landed on this page, then you’re into learning what the Tarot cards mean and how they can help you and others. That’s fantastic! I’m glad you’re here.
Despite whatever picture may appear on your Hanged Man card, there is still something important to know or learn. Are you with me? Great! Let’s jump right in!
The Brief History Of The Hanged Man Tarot Card
The adventure of the Tarot cards begins in the 1400s in Italy when a man decided that he wanted to invent a new game of cards. He liked playing cards but he wanted something that gave him a little more.
He also was influenced by some amazing artists at that time. What better way to make a new card game than by incorporating beautiful artwork on the cards? This is how the first deck was created.
What he did was create the “Major Arcana,” which was used as the trump cards in the deck. The regular playing card suits were then altered a bit.
The Diamonds became Pentacles, Hearts became Cups, Clubs became Wands, and then the Spades became Swords. The game became very popular and was played often.
In fact, even today, the game is still bought and played as the game it was meant to be without using it to do cartomancy.
It wasn’t until the 1800s that people started to really get into occult practices such as séances, automatic writing, table tipping, and of course, reading Tarot cards. People wanted to reach out to those on the other side.
They also wanted a way to divinate people’s future, ask for advice, and find out when they could expect changes. This was particularly popular with women asking about their love lives.
The most popular Tarot deck ever made was in 1901, named the Rider-Waite deck. It’s really easy to read, learn, and grow. In fact, it’s recommended even today for beginners.
So as far as the Seven of Pentacles is concerned, it’s also known as the Seven of Diamonds. How cool is that?
Did you also know that you could work backward and divinate with regular playing cards? Look at the suits and you’ll understand what I mean. It’s really fun!
Okay, now let’s get to the meaning of this strange-looking card, shall we?
1. The Basic Definition Of The Hanged Man Tarot Card
The Hanged Man Tarot card means that you’re in a state of indecision. You may feel stuck and don’t know what to do to get yourself out of it. You don’t know what to choose.
If you’re stuck in time, then you may not be able to move or change. This card can also suggest you make a sacrifice for something or someone. If you feel like surrendering to someone else’s wants, then this would make sense.
Reading for someone else you instantly know that they are feeling stuck, or they’re doing something that’s really difficult – something that they probably really didn’t want to do but felt obligated to.
They might feel as though they’re frozen in time, in a way. When someone cannot seem to move forward, the Hanged Man Tarot card may be present. It’s really important to look at the cards that surround it.
If you’re pulling this as a card of the day, then it’s more of pointing out that you’re in a situation where you feel you aren’t making progress and need to make either a decision or a sacrifice.
Have you been chewing on your options but nothing is working so you realize that surrendering and letting go might be the best route?
One thing I can tell you is that this card is warning you to make a choice because it’s better to mess up than to not choose and be forever stuck. You have to choose for yourself rather than letting the Universe do it for you.
You might also need to break an old habit or pattern when this card comes up for you personally.
2. The Hanged Man Tarot Card Definition (Reversed)
The reversed Hanged Man Tarot card definition is exactly the opposite – this can indicate someone having a big ego and making everything about them.
They do not know how to sacrifice for anyone else nor will they. This, of course, can cause them to lose opportunities that might have come their way but now it’s too late.
The Hanged Man Tarot card means someone is being stubborn or unwilling to make important changes. This person only wants to do what they want and basically avoid other people’s needs.
If this comes up in a reading for you, then it’s telling you that you need to maybe focus a little less on yourself and pay attention to others that need your care.
No one likes a know-it-all, nor do they like someone who has a huge ego. This is borderline narcissism, to be honest.
Think about it! Pulling this card for someone else gives you insight into who they are (which isn’t the greatest), but don’t rule out the cards that surround it, because those are often far more telling.
3. Love And The Hanged Man Tarot Card (Upright)
When it comes to love, the Hanged Man Tarot card means that there is going to have to be a sacrifice for a bond to strengthen. It must take time though because rushing it could ruin it.
If you’re single, then this is possibly creating a new relationship with someone you are interested in, but you should wait until the time feels right before you tell them how you feel.
You might get some new ideas or views when it comes to love. If you’re in a relationship, you may want to make things more serious, but you should really give it a little more wiggle room.
Don’t try to nail it down before the other person is ready. Let time brew up the right feelings and communication.
I get it that some of you want to hurry up and get married but if this card appears for you then it is saying that you shouldn’t hurry or push. There is something to be learned with patience.
Reading this card for someone else is pretty much the same message. It’s your job to advise them that whatever they’re doing or planning, they need to hold up so that the relationship path is successful.
4. Love And The Hanged Man Tarot Card (Reversed)
When it comes to love, and you pull the reversed Hanged Man – oh boy … sadly it means that you aren’t considerate of the other person’s feelings or desires. You’re only trying to get what you want.
Impatience will kill a potential relationship or one that is already blooming. The reversed Hanged Man Tarot card means that you’re in it for yourself.
Naturally, if this card is pulled for someone else, then it’s telling you that they want to rush into things without giving you the time to get used to the idea.
When reading for a client, this card means that they themselves or the person they’re into is being impatient and only thinking about themselves. This won’t work and they may end up disappointed.
A new relationship could possibly be passed by because someone didn’t want to wait and see how it works out. Perhaps someone wants to get married and tries to rush their partner only for their partner to call it off.
It is destructive behavior and the other cards that surround it will be an indicator if it will come to an end or if something will change.
5. Finances, Job, And Career With The Hanged Man Tarot Card
The Hanged Man Tarot card means taking one’s time to wait for a change in career or financial flow. This person is thinking about what they will do next in order to change jobs or move up the ladder.
They want to ask for a raise but they know right now isn’t the time. They may also be on vacation and waiting for when they go back to discuss more money options.
The Hanged Man might be unsure about their money situation or their career choices. They are looking for a new perspective on what they can do to improve their lives.
Sacrifice may have to happen in some way. Maybe they need to quit a job to take another. They may need to throw themselves out there to start up a new business or career path.
Whatever is happening, it’s time to really dig in deep and think about what you want and how you want to proceed. This time is a good time to put your manifestation skills to work.
6. Finances, Job, And Career With The Hanged Man Tarot Card (Reversed)
Naturally, the reversed Hanged Man Tarot card’s meaning is pretty different. Perhaps this person tried a new job or career and it didn’t work out very well so now they’re scrounging.
Maybe they could be doing well for themselves but they’re putting it off because they don’t “feel like it.” This is selfish really. Selfish behavior will not win them any favors.
Why put off something so important? It really doesn’t make sense. This person is indecisive and wasting their talents by not taking action.
It’s possible this person invested their time, energy, and maybe money on the wrong thing so now they’re starting to fail. They may become down and not sure now if they can trust.
It’s time to do your homework and figure out what the right thing to invest in would be. Once more, this person needs to invest time in their life path to achieve overall success.
7. The Hanged Man Tarot Card As A Person (Upright)
The Hanged Man Tarot card means that this person is someone who is willing to make sacrifices in their lives to help others and also to help themselves. They know how important this is.
Sometimes they even make sacrifices where no return is possible. They do what needs to be done because they are true to helping out where they can.
This person is out in the open with what they think and feel. They are patient and know to wait when it’s necessary. They love to learn new perspectives about life.
The Hanged Man person knows it’s really important to weigh the pros and cons of a decision. That’s how you know what to do and what not to do. This may take them a little time but they’ll figure it out.
The Hanged Man knows that it’s important to make a choice because sitting back and doing nothing helps no one. They are not about that at all. They want to see success and happiness all around.
8. The Hanged Man Tarot Card As A Person (Reversed)
The reversed Hanged Man Tarot card meaning as a person is way different. This person is egotistical or narcissistic. They don’t like sacrificing for anyone – and they certainly won’t do it unless there is a reward.
This person doesn’t like making choices and doesn’t like being pushed. They procrastinate a lot. They aren’t open-minded to learning new things, much less new skills.
Relationship-wise, this is a warning that the person you’re asking about isn’t relationship-oriented. It’s probably best to stay on your own or keep looking because this person isn’t going to lift a finger for you.
It’s good to know when you see this card upside down; it’s a warning sign that you should get away from this person. If you’re pulling it about yourself, then you need to make some changes.
Someone who isn’t willing to do things for other people without reward isn’t going to build good karma. If this is you, then you definitely need to fix your path. Start giving to others without expectation.
Do the right thing when something presents itself and start thinking for other people, otherwise, you’re going to go nowhere fast. Even if you do make it to the top, you’re going to find that no one supports you or cares.
9. Advice From The Hanged Man Tarot Card In A Reading
The advice here is that the Hanged Man Tarot card means that you need to take your time. Look at your options and weigh them before you make decisions. However, you will need to decide soon.
Don’t put it off for too long, otherwise, you will miss out on opportunities. Think things through, get advice, and learn what you can because it can only help you to be better as a person.
If you need to sacrifice for other people, then do it without expectation. The more often you do this, the more your life will flow in a wonderful direction. Who doesn’t want that?
Whether it’s money or love, you’ve got to take responsibility and do what is best for you and for others. A selfish person doesn’t get that. Don’t be narcissistic.
Be that wonderful person you are and show others how much you care. Take care of your money, budget wisely, and make sure you’re doing what you need to in order to get the most out of your career.
Stop putting things off and get to it!
10. The Hanged Man Tarot Card As Feelings
The upright Hanged Man Tarot card meaning is positive. The feelings here are heart-warming. The person cares about what happens to those they care for.
If you’re asking about someone else, then this should tell you that they are a good person waiting to make the right choices. If you want a relationship with them, you’ve got to be patient. They are in no hurry.
The reversed Hanged Man tells you that this person doesn’t feel much for you at all. They’re more into themselves and so you should probably just walk away. There is someone else out there that is far better for you.
This would be the same really if you are reading for someone else. Just remember that pulling it in an upright position means sticking with it and pulling it in reverse means let it go or let the person go.
The upright version is excited about life but allows things to progress naturally instead of rushing in. The reversed version is all about them and they aren’t thinking at all about you.
The reverse also keeps secrets or tries to place blame on you when things go wrong. They don’t like taking responsibility at all.
11. The Hanged Man Tarot Card Meaning Regarding Children
In terms of pregnancy or having babies, the upright Hanged Man is saying that you should weigh your options, plan it out, and don’t try to hurry the process. There is a reason that it’s not happening as quickly as you’d like.
If you are having problems getting pregnant, then it’s time to explore options with doctors who can find a solution to your problem. Don’t give up and be open to the possibilities.
There may be something you have to sacrifice in order to become pregnant or adopt a child. There are many paths to choose from, so look at everything carefully before you decide.
If you have children already, then the Hanged Man is telling you that they’re healthy and that they’re definitely doing what they should be in order to succeed as human beings. Be proud!
Of course, if you get the reversed Hanged Man, then this may be a sign that your child or children may be a bit lazy or self-absorbed. Watch their behavior and possibly get them a counselor to work through this.
If you can catch narcissistic behavior early, then you can help them adjust better so that they don’t carry this forward with them. They have to learn how to accept responsibility.
12. Health And The Hanged Man Tarot Card
Okay, so the Hanged Man regarding health may not be easy to hear. You definitely need to get checked out by a physician because something is up. It’s a warning sign for you.
It tells you to seek medical professionals and get second opinions if you need to. There are options for you but you’ll need to figure out what is best for you.
Do NOT put this off. You can get professional opinions so that you can choose your course of action, but don’t sit on it and do nothing – otherwise, it’s going to get worse. Get on it!
The reversed Hanged Man isn’t much better. It’s a struggle with your health. It may be that you already know what is wrong but you’re not doing anything about it which makes you more ill.
You don’t believe or trust what the doctors are telling you. You’re thinking negatively which has dire consequences. If you don’t trust medical help, then it won’t fare well for you, darlings.
Since the Hanged Man is associated with Neptune, it may be telling you to watch out for your spiritual self. If you’re having trouble thinking clearly, are confused, or even delusional, then you definitely need help.
13. The Hanged Man Card Answer “Yes” Or “No”
When it comes to the Hanged Man Tarot card, the answer when it’s upright is going to be a “maybe.” I wouldn’t say it’s a positive response, as it will have everything to do with you or someone else making a decision.
Looking at it reversed, then it would be giving you the answer “no,” because it’s based on someone not taking action or moving on something that they should be. It has a negative outlook.
I would strongly suggest pulling more than one card to get more clarity. It could be that another card or two would tell you if there is a way to change things, otherwise, it’s just giving you a straight-up “maybe” or “no.”
14. The Hanged Man Tarot Card In Position
Sometimes you really need to pull more than one card to see the complete picture. That being said, there are loads of different Tarot decks out there that can be used as well as different spreads included in the booklets they come with.
I want to give you an easy example to work with so you can see what the positions mean and how they alter the Tarot cards themselves. You can see what each card means in each spot.
Let’s use a simple three-card Tarot spread. It goes like this…
Recent Past… Present… Near Future or Answer
Got it? Alright, now take a look at how the Hanged Man Tarot card reads in each position.
The Hanged Man in Past Position:
The Hanged Man Tarot card in the past position means that you have waited or put something off. You wanted to wait until the timing was right. You sacrificed what needed to be done.
You know that what you did was the right thing and are now waiting to see where things go. You may have felt stuck in place but you probably learned how to move forward.
The reversed Hanged Man in the past position means that you didn’t do anything to help. You didn’t sacrifice or do the right thing in order to make life better. You stuck to yourself and created negative Karma for yourself.
The Hanged Man in Present Position:
The Hanged Man in the present position says that you’re suspended in time because there is something or someone you want that you’re being patient with. You’re sacrificing your need to have it now.
You know that you have to put in the time in order to get what you want. You don’t mind holding back or keeping thoughts to yourself if it’s for the best.
Reversed Hanged Man means that you are acting selfishly. You aren’t helping anyone, you have no patience, and you basically don’t do anything you don’t want to.
The Hanged Man in Future Position:
In the near future, you’re going to have to do something that you might not necessarily want but you know it’s for the best. You will have to wait a little longer and not take action.
You’re going to have to choose and that’s never easy. Weigh your pros and cons so that you are able to do what is best for the situation when it arises. You’ll be just fine!
Reversed, the Hanged Man is saying that you’re going to blow it off or another person is going to blow you off. There is a feeling of being stuck or things being stagnant. Make a different choice and you can rise up!
15. The Lessons The Hanged Man Wants To Teach You
Honestly, the biggest lesson from the Hanged Man Tarot card is to have patience and make the right decision instead of making a rash choice. Take your time to look at both sides of the coin.
There are some other things you should definitely keep in mind because, just like all the other cards, there are lessons that need to be paid attention to. It could really help you going forward.
Check out these incredibly helpful lessons:
- Always weigh the pros and cons of any decision you have to make so you have a better perspective.
- Don’t rush in and make things a mess. Take your time to ensure proper growth.
- Success comes from thinking things through but not taking too long.
- Do NOT procrastinate, otherwise, you’ll be hurting yourself as well as others.
- Be open to learning new things or embracing new opportunities.
- Stay open-minded about what other people say or offer. It might turn out amazing!
- Love with an open heart. Look at who people are from their hearts. Trust your intuition to help you decide.
- Do not be selfish. If you are self-serving, then you’ll never appreciate the good karmic flow that happens for those who are willing.
When you keep these lessons in mind, you’ll have such a wonderful karmic balance instead of disharmony. The decision is yours or for the client that you’re reading for.
16. Astrology And The Hanged Man Tarot Card
I’ve mentioned earlier in the guide that the Hanged Man Tarot card is associated with the planet Neptune. Neptune helps you to focus on your dreams.
When your head is on straight and you’re making the right decisions, then you actually can really manifest your dreams into reality. Give it time to grow after you’ve planted a seed.
It’s also a great thing to look at both sides of the situation or goal. You need to see what is there and what may not be there. Be informed, do research, and get advice if you need to.
The reversed Hanged Man means it’s the dark side of Neptune which is selfish, having their head too much in the clouds, unrealistic, and unwilling to sacrifice anything for one’s own good.
Neptune can sometimes mean mental issues such as depression, anxiety, or other mental disorders. Be careful and don’t put off medical care!
17. The Hanged Man Tarot Card In Numerology
It’s no secret that the number affiliated with the Hanged Man is 12. In Numerology, this means you’re someone who is independent, unique, and different from the mainstream.
You embrace new beginnings and all the learning it entails. You’re patient and sensitive to other people’s needs. You actually listen and empathize with others.
Something else is that if you add 12 you get 3 (1+2=3). If you have a Life Path Number of 3, your purpose in this life is to learn self-discipline to get past life’s hurdles.
You will also help other people to do the same once you start conquering your own. So, you’re learning and teaching at the same time. It’s totally true that what you teach is what you yourself are doing a bit of learning.
Another card that is associated with the number three is The Empress, which is the card that brings in a new beginning. See how this all ties in together? Pretty fascinating stuff!
18. When You Keep Pulling The Hanged Man Tarot Card
What does it mean when you keep pulling the same card? It’s normally going to be either a “heads up” or a warning of sorts. It depends on if it’s upright or reversed, and whether the repeating card is positive or negative.
Try to look at it as a message, if you will. It doesn’t have to mean doom and gloom and oftentimes you can actually do something to prevent the bad from happening.
The heads-up is typically to alert you to something wonderful coming your way. The warning is simply to help you get out of your own way or to help someone else going through it.
The Hanged Man Tarot card in particular means that there is going to be a situation that will require your choice and it’s really important you compare all angles to help you. You can even ask someone else for help.
It’s telling you to do the right thing and to maintain an optimistic outlook for what is about to occur for you.
If it’s the Hanged Man Tarot card in reverse, then this is a warning that if you keep putting things off or are being selfish, then this isn’t going to do you any favors. You’re more likely to discover things going sour.
It could also be a warning that someone isn’t as into you as you are into them. This applies to love and business alike. Figure out which is fitting for you.
Remember, if it’s a warning that someone isn’t pure in intention with you, then you can certainly end the business partnership or relationship so you can explore other options.
19. Symbols For The Hanged Man Tarot Card
In the Rider Waite Tarot deck, the Hanged Man is literally hanging upside down from a tree limb. He has sunshine around his head which means he’s being enlightened while he’s suspended.
There is growth on the tree limbs so there is still life to be had. He has to use his mind to figure his way out of his predicament. That light around his head helps inspire him.
He is getting really amazing ideas to help him to move forward and be successful.
Naturally, when it’s in reverse, it means the opposite; which is that this person needs to be enlightened but isn’t facing the problem. The person isn’t open to hanging for a short while.
Now, if you’re looking to get a Hanged Man Tarot card tattoo, then I would certainly suggest getting what is on the card. You can use an animal, person, or whatever you want that you feel represented by.
Getting it done upright means you’re a straight-up person that thinks before they act. You’re not impulsive and you’re willing to learn.
If you get the card reversed, then it may mean you’re a bit ego-oriented and only think about yourself. You can also talk to an artist who can somehow add in something that indicates you changing for the better.
Maybe a “do not” symbol around the inverted card would work. Talk to an artist to get some ideas to represent you and what you’re trying to express to others that see it.
Read next: 5 Reasons Why You Need A Tarot Deck For Your Love Life
20. Spirituality And The Hanged Man Card
There is a HUGE spiritual lesson with the Hanged Man Tarot card. It’s teaching you how to think before you act and to embrace new ideas or thoughts instead of being rigid.
It also teaches you that when you let go you have space for better things. Release anything that isn’t doing anything good for you. Whether it’s relationships or even your job, let it go!
Look at your life and decide what feels right to your soul. Feed your soul all the good you can. Believe it or not, Karma comes back around whether you’ve been doing the right or the wrong thing.
The type you get will be based on what you gave out. Give out good without expectation; you get back some amazing Karma. Blow off the good and treat people badly… it will come back around to you as well.
You have to figure out which path you really want to be on. Do you want an incredible life filled with joy and all the money you could ever need? Then you’ve got to behave like it.
Don’t rush into any situation unless you are prepared for the backfiring that it may cause. Think very carefully and ask your gut what is right. If you follow it, you’ll really be blown away at how well things change.
Be active in your own spiritual growth. Be involved and accept learning new things that help you to blossom as a human being. It’s in your hands. What will you do with it?
I really hope that you get everything you need from this guide on the Hanged Man Tarot Card.
Oh… I almost forgot to tell you – I have discovered this wonderful soul named Angel Adams who has shared something with me that I know you’ll love.
Do you know if your partner is being loyal to you?
Is your crush interested in you too?
Is your marriage going to last?
These are just a few questions you may have, but it’s definitely not limited to what is on your mind.
Angel told me that I could share his free three-card Tarot reading.
He knows I try so hard to help clients like yourself and as such, you can try this reading out and see what details it gives you about your relationship!
We all have questions in love and this three-card spread definitely gets to the core of your issue.
Don’t just take my word for it though… give it a shot right now since it’s free!
What have you got to lose?
Nothing but a couple of minutes of your time…
I hope you finally get the answers you’ve been seeking, and I wish you all the luck in the Universe.
Your friend and Relationship Astrologer,
Anna Kovach
