The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card: Your Complete Guide

In Tarot Card decks, there are Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. The Nine of Wands is one of the Minor Arcana. These are a bit different from the Major. They have different meanings and connect with you differently.

Whether you’re doing a full reading for yourself or pulling yourself a Tarot Card of the day, the Nine of Wands brings you a message that you definitely need to hear. Keep reading to learn everything about the Nine of Wands Tarot Card.

The Brief History Of The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card

The only history known about the Nine of Wands is that it was originally a playing card in the 14th Century. The Nine of Wands would have been equal to the Nine of Diamonds in a playing deck.

Someone had the wonderful idea to put artwork on playing cards to make them more beautiful. So then began the idea of Tarot Cards.

In the 1800’s, the spiritual movement became quite popular. Psychic mediums were performing séances and using Ouija boards. With that in mind, they also creatively decided to use Tarot Cards as another form of divination.

Tarot Card decks were created in the 1800’s. The most popular Tarot Card deck arrived in 1901. This deck was named the Rider Waite Tarot. It’s very clear pictures that make it easy for people to understand.

Though they were amazing, they needed to create a deck that would be more universally known. This is especially true for beginners trying to understand the Tarot and use it for divination.

1. The Basic Definition Of The Nine of Wands Tarot Card

the original empress tarot card

Pulling the Nine of Wands Tarot Card means you are at a crossroads of sorts in your life. You need to do a life review of where you have been, where you are, and where you may be headed.

This card is also a “heads up” that trouble or turbulence is coming. You’re able to handle it, but maybe you need a reminder of that. You sometimes can forget yourself and this helps boost you up.

It may be your business life or it may be your personal life, but one thing is for sure, it’s going to bring change. The card alerts you to bring out your inner strength to help you with whatever this may be.

You may be facing another life test to teach you a valuable lesson or to make you stronger. It’s up to you to pay attention to the signs and prepare yourself to deal with the problem head-on.

It’s likely that when you finish with this issue, you’ll have a better handle and understanding of your life so that you can pave the way to the future with smoother supplies.

One more thing is that you could be facing a difficult person or bully. Don’t give up or give in, but rather act with wisdom. Face this person and after you do, you will feel stronger.

Do not let boundaries stop you from achieving your goals. On the other hand, it may be telling you that you, yourself, need to set better boundaries so that no one stops you from making your dreams come true.

2. The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card Definition In (Reverse)

Seeing the Nine of Wands Tarot Card in reverse means that you’re having trouble getting past a problem or issue. You’re not seeing things clearly and maybe feeling a little lost.

You may be dealing with setbacks that disenchant your inner strength. You feel you just cannot do it or get through it. The thing is, you’re very close to finishing it, so don’t give up!

Just as the upright meaning tells you to draw on your inner strength, it’s telling you the same in reverse. It’s just with the reversed card; you’re having a hard time, whereas, the upright says you’re doing very well.

There may be delays on your goals or what you’re working on, but that won’t last. You may feel overwhelmed or overworked, but you’re just about to the finish line!

Do not take on any more projects or make commitments right now. Wait until you’re done with what you have. If you need help, then do not be afraid to ask for it. Sometimes having an extra hand gets you done quicker and better.

3. Love And The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card (Upright)

Regarding love, flipping over the Nine of Wands means that things are going to get bumpy but you’ll have the ability to deal with it and get past it. Your communication is good, as is your love.

Whatever is coming up, it won’t be too big of a deal. Take a deep breath and push through it. Maybe you and your partner have already been going through issues. You are strong enough to find a way to make it work.

Perhaps you two need to seek a counselor or mediator that will help you two really talk to each other and understand the nature of the problems you’ve been having. There IS a solution.

You have to want the relationship and want it to succeed. Find a happy medium with your partner and love will prevail. You’re not without resources. Don’t let the past infiltrate your present either.

If healing is necessary then now is the time, which is what this card is telling you when it’s in the upright position.

4. Love And The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card (Reversed)

The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card Reversed

The Nine of Wands Tarot Card meaning in reverse implies that you’re not doing your best with your relationship or you’re not giving it the healing it needs. Are you really listening to your partner’s needs? Are you listening to yours?

If your past is coming up and causing issues, it’s time to squash it. If your partner is having troubles with their past then help them work through it. Some issues are frustrating you both.

You may feel like this is a problem that will never get solved, think again! It can and will get solved if you work at it. The Nine of Wands reversed Tarot Card means it’s time to let your past be in the past.

Live in the present with your partner. Think about your future and find that love that brought you together in the first place.

If you’re single then this card is a reminder of the healing you need to go through before you can have a healthy relationship. You need lots of self-care and tenderness.

Do not let the feeling of defeat drag you down. You’re worth more than that. If you’re dealing with a bully, stand up and show them that you’re not someone who gives in.

5. Finances, Job, And Career With The Nine Of Wands Card (Upright)

When it comes to finances, careers, or jobs, the Nine of Wands Tarot Card means that you may be in the middle of a battle or struggle. You are a resource for yourself, so don’t give up.

You may be feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or worn down. You’ve been through a lot, but you certainly are not totally tapped out. You still have energy within that you can use.

Asking for help is a GREAT idea. Get an assistant temporarily. If someone offers to help you out, let them! They want to see you succeed and don’t mind. Do not let pride keep you down.

Don’t be embarrassed that it’s too hard to do it all on your own. You’re going to keep fighting and in doing so, you will win! Always keep that in mind. Success is on the way if you allow yourself.

Don’t take on more than you can handle right now. Learn to say “no” when you know it’s too much. Only do what you can do. Take each task one by one so that it can be done right and at the right time.

It’s time for you to take yourself seriously. I’m not telling you to feed your ego, but I am telling you that you’ve got to really believe in yourself. You can do this!

Take the world by storm, bring that financial success to you, and manifest the desired outcome you want. It’s in your hands!

6. Finances, Job, And Career With The Nine Of Wands Card (Reversed)

The reversed Nine of Wands card meaning is going to sound a bit more stressful. When you see this card in reverse, it means you’re working too hard and not getting enough rest.

You’re stressing yourself out and you’re not paying attention to warning signs of over-exhaustion. You may make yourself ill if you keep going like this. One person can only do so much.

You’re being stubborn and not allowing anyone to help you. You think you are the only person who can get it done right. This can make you sick and cause you to have forced downtime.

You must take a step back. Get some rest, think things through, and do yourself a favor by asking someone to assist you.

You may need to take time off so you can really look at everything and decide if you should keep on that path or if there is a better way. Re-evaluate what you’re doing before things get worse.

If you are letting someone else dictate how you need to do things then you need to stand up and tell them that’s not how you roll. You’re brave and fierce. Advice is good, but if people give you a negative attitude, that’s just not good.

7. The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card As A Person (Upright)

As a person, the Nine of Wands Tarot Card means that they were able to go through many trials and tribulations but were able to get past them. This is a strong-minded individual who doesn’t give up.

This person is a fighter in life and will find success even through trial and error. They act with diligence, tenacity, and passion for what they’re working for.

As determined as this person is, they’re able to put everything into perspective and find success in their goals. Even if they have to change or adapt, they are certainly able to do this with little effort.

The Nine of Wands person has unlimited potential in their life. They’re not afraid to tackle their dreams and make them happen. They get up each day feeling inspired and ready to get going.

This person is very positive and doesn’t let problems or worries hold them back. They know when to ask for help and when to accept it when it’s offered. They don’t mind juggling a bit but also know when to say no.

8. The Nine Of Wands Card As A Person (Reversed)

Flipping the Nine of Wands Tarot Card in reverse means that the person you’re asking about isn’t very good at juggling or multi-tasking. They may try to handle everything alone but fail.

This person may have lost faith in themselves and are giving up under stress. They are probably stubborn and inflexible. They also say “yes” too much, which exhausts them.

The Nine of Wands person is dragging on the ground. They’re overly exhausted and feel like giving in. They may be struggling at their job or are trying to take care of too much without asking for assistance.

This person may also be trying to escape from financial obligations, hiding from bill collectors, or hiding from their boss. Either way, they’re not handling their stress very well, which leads them to lose.

Truly they need to learn how to manage their finances, balance their work, and look for help. Overspending or not being responsible will also land them in a world of hurt.

9. Advice From The Nine Of Wands Card In A Reading

The advice from the Nine of Wands Tarot Card is that you’ve done all you can, and now you must relax and get some rest. Put your worries in a box and try to take a vacation or just a nice weekend reprieve.

There is nothing wrong with taking a deep breath and realizing you’ve done all you could do. You’ve exhausted all the ideas and changes you could possibly think of. Patience is now going to be important.

Taking a break will get you a fresher look at everything. It may also help you to find someone to assist you in reaching your goals. You’re not an island. Everyone needs help sometimes.

Do something fun and mindless for yourself. Enjoy the relaxation that helps you to renew your senses and your joy. Remember, if you aren’t balancing your life, you need to fix that. Your life flows when it’s more balanced.

10. The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card As Feelings

Getting this card typically means that you’re overwhelmed or wounded. You’re not sure if you’re doing the right thing. Your exhaustion makes your mind explode in different ways.

It’s hard to think clearly when your system is overloaded. If you’re feeling burdened, it’s up to you to change your feelings with something more positive and uplifting.

Carrying hurt from the past will drag you down. It’s time for some inner gardening and getting your heart right.

Overworked, overzealous, and overshot. You’ve done too much and now you feel totally depleted and left wondering what now. It’s up to you to heal yourself. Get up and do what you need to.

Become one with yourself better with meditation and grounding. Make yourself feel even and resilient.

11. The Nine Of Wands Card Meaning Regarding Children

Getting this card when asking about children reveals that you are a person that must be supportive of their goals. They need an adult in their corner.

Whether this is your own children, your family, or other people’s children, you need to be sure to be inspiring, helpful, and filled with excellent advice for them.

Kids learn through us, so when you see the Nine of Wands Tarot Card, you’re being reminded to take care of the children around you. If you’re looking to have children, the necessity to be goal-oriented is there.

A child may need your help very soon. Preparation will help you. Look at all the issues and help the child work through them.

There may be an issue with having children. Don’t give up yet though, because you still have options at your fingertips. You have to simply use your inner strength to keep going with it.

12. Health And The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card

Getting the Nine of Wands upright in health situations brings up the fact that you may have some health issues coming. They are issues you can actually get treatment for and end up healing.

Grab the last bit of strength you have and don’t be afraid to see a doctor. While self-healing is possible, you may need a bit more this time around. Make sure you’re seen by a health practitioner.

Illness from the past may be coming back around or flaring up again. You can handle it though. Don’t give up. You’ve got what it takes to get through it and make it on the other side of healing.

If you’re exhausted from whatever illness you’ve been dealing with then this card may be telling you that you need to get some rest. Take a break and let your inner light help you to feel rejuvenated and healed.

Don’t neglect yourself because you’ve been feeling yucky. Take great care of yourself or let someone else take care of you. You’ve got this!

The Nine of Wands card is represented by Sagittarius. With that knowledge, there are health issues you may want to look out for when you pull this card, as it could be a warning.

Sagittarius is known to develop problems with their lower back, hips, and legs. They also may have troubles with their liver, femur bone, and sacral region (feminine issues).

It could mean that it’s a good idea to get that checkup I mentioned. You can avoid issues if you are a step ahead of them. You can also at the very least, manage whatever issues may occur.

13. The Nine Of Wands Card Answer “Yes” Or “No”

When the Nine of Wands Tarot Card is upright, you have lots of courage when you’re going through stress-filled times. You may need to be careful and could be defensive in certain situations.

This card is rather complicated, because there is no clear answer, even if it’s in the upright position. It’s more of a “maybe” to your question. This is why Tarot Cards are subjective.

It will depend on how you handle your situation and how you are or are not ready to deal with what’s ahead.

Now of course if this card is in reverse for you then it is actually a “no.” In most cases, the answer will be no. Only a rare few will still mean “maybe.” In this case, it’s a negative answer, therefore, “no.”

14. The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card In Position

Nine Of Wands Tarot Card In Position

Just as with any Tarot Card reading, there are multiple cards in different positions. Let’s try the three-card reading as it provides the past, present, and future position to keep it simple.

The other two cards that you’ve pulled will impact the reading very differently depending on the position they are in, so it’s good to know what each means to figure out what the reading is trying to tell you.

There is a story there that you need to uncover to make sense of what you’ve asked or what you’re wondering about. These cards represent what is in your subconscious mind.

They are what you already know on some level but need to see, so that you can make sense of it or even in some cases, to believe in it. The layout may mean that you’re struggling if there are negative cards around.

If there are two positive cards around it then it may be a pat on the back telling you to keep going and keep up the good work. Then again, it may be a health warning or job warning.

It really is important to know what the other two cards mean and what they represent in the positions they are in. It will give you so much more to the actual situation that you’re inquiring about.

Check out the different meanings of the Nine of Wands in each position…

The Nine Of Wands In Past Position:

In the past, you may have actually had to put in a lot of work and felt pressured. You could have felt overworked or overwhelmed which has made you want to know, what else is ahead?

You may be looking for relief or you may be looking for a change. You dealt with some difficult things and so it’s made you want to find out what will be better for you in the future. 

The Nine Of Wands In Present Position:

In the present position, the card is saying that you’re taking on an awful lot and it may be time for you to prioritize better. You may need an assistant or you should ask for help. If someone has offered help, accept it.

You cannot do it all alone. Even if you want things done right, you need to concede that you’ve got too much and it’s time to lessen your load. Stop taking on more than you can handle. Learn to say “no.”

The Nine Of Wands In Future Position:

The Nine of Wands card in the future position seems to be warning you that you’re about to be overloaded. There may be an issue or problem that is coming up. It’s alright though because you’ll use your inner strength!

You can and will take care of the issues. Just remember that you can only do so much, so it’s best if you figure out what’s most important and work on that first. It’s beneficial to plan and to get help when you need it.

15. The Lessons The Nine Of Wands Wants To Teach You

Lessons The Nine Of Wands Wants To Teach You

There are lessons that come from each card. The Wand suit is for the practicalities of life and things to get done. That being said, here are some of the lessons that the Nine of Wands Tarot Card is trying to teach:

  • “Do not give up on your dreams”
  • “You are SO close to accomplishing your goals, keep standing strong”
  • “Keep pushing yourself, you can do this, it’s not your imagination”
  • “Don’t turn away help when you need it most”
  • “Put your pride away and ask for help when you need it”
  • “Know your limits and don’t exceed them. Only do what you can”
  • “Learn to say “no” when you need to. You’re only one person”
  • “Your goal is within sight now, so keep following the success”

16. Astrology And The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card

The Nine of Wands Tarot Card is associated with The Moon and also the Zodiac sign Sagittarius. Sagittarius is always working hard to achieve their goals and succeed beyond measure. They never give up!

The Moon is a feeling of destiny and dreams. It’s not surprising that the Moon and Sagittarius are tied to this card. It all unfolds in the same grouping. The Moon elicits how you feel about your dreams.

Sagittarius is optimistic and not afraid to take risks. In that way, this card is much like “The Fool” Major Arcane card. One might even look at the ninth house in a birth chart. That’s the traveling, learning, education, and life path.

With that said, we’re going to talk about nine in Numerology next, so don’t stop reading now!

Don’t forget what I mentioned about the health issues that the sign of Sagittarius often encounters. The ninth house of a birth chart speaks of possible troubles as well.

The health issues known associated with someone’s ninth house are bones, joints, teeth, skin, eye problems, mental illness, stomach problems, weakness, tumors, and baldness.

So, it’s well worth your while to look out for any of these issues. Seeing the Nine of Wands card when you’re asking about health may signify an issue that could be coming about.

17. The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card In Numerology

In the last section, I mentioned the number nine, which is not just the title of the card but it’s also the number representing the meaning. I know that sounds confusing, so let me explain.

In Numerology, the number nine is a very strong number. For a person, it represents leadership and the ability to get things in order. This person helps people to be better than they could before.

The number nine as a life path number is again, a strong path. The person with this number as their LPN is someone who will guide, influence, and help others to be strong as well as healthy.

Nine is very close to completion. Does this sound familiar to all I’ve told you so far about the nine of wands? It all ties in together beautifully.

If the Nine of Wands Tarot Card is your birth card, then it means you’re a strong individual that can face issues head-on and still find the willpower to succeed while helping others at the same time.

You may be the person who will never leave a man behind. No matter what happens, you want everyone to finish together. That’s a pretty amazing type of person.

You don’t help because of what you can gain; you help because you know it’s the right thing to do. Personal gain is just a piece of luck that comes your way through karmic sources.

If your Life Path Number or Birth Card happens to be a nine, there are certain numbers that are compatible with you romantically. The numbers that best suit a number nine are: three, four, seven, and nine.

You may want to find out your partner or potential partner’s life path number. That can help you figure out how you two line up, Numerology-wise.

18. When You Keep Pulling The Nine Of Wands Card

What’s up when you keep pulling the same card again and again? There is a meaning to it. With the Nine of Wands, it may be telling you to face a problem head-on with your game face on.

Maybe you’re doing too much and this card really wants you to ask for help, it’s telling you that you’re so close to your end goal, so stick with it.

Now, if you pulled the card in reverse, then you need to step up your game. Don’t give up, take notice, and be sure you can make the necessary changes.

If you’ve lost faith or you’ve run out of steam, get a little rest and then get back after it. There is no shame in taking a small break to help you refresh yourself and then hit it with a fresh outlook.

You cannot keep burning the candle at both ends or you will end up ill. The reverse meaning could mean that illness is coming. You can avoid it by getting that much-needed rest.

Don’t ignore it if you keep pulling the Nine of Wands. It wants to get your attention and push you to take action or to pull back depending on if you pulled it as your personal Tarot Card of the day or if you are doing a reading.

Pay close attention to other signs or symbols that may be happening. They are an excellent clue as to which direction the Nine of Wands is leaning for you.

The easiest thing to do is go out in nature and ask the Universe for some sort of sign as to what the Nine of Wands reappearance means for you. Sit quietly and see if something doesn’t happen that happens to be the answer.

Watch the trees, watch the animals, or anything else that is going on because it just may show you. Sometimes a song comes on the radio or you see a billboard while driving and it just seems to hit on what you asked.

Pulling this card is no coincidence. It means something profound for you so pay attention at every turn. The recurring appearance of any card is a warning or is a symbol for something going on.

19. Symbols For The Nine Of Wands Tarot Card

It’s no mystery that the Nine of Wands is considered to be a “fire” card in the elements. Sagittarius is also fire. It makes sense that fire may actually be in the picture on the Tarot Card. We don’t see it in the Rider Waite deck, but it appears in some others.

If you’re looking for a cool Nine of Wands tattoo, you might get a fiery background with nine wands configured in the way you like best.

Another symbol with the card is a person looking exhausted or worn. This person may even have wounds. It varies with each Tarot Card deck.

In the Rider Waite deck, you see flat land which is the ability to stabilize. Being grounded and firmly planted helps you fortify your personal strength to keep going.

There are also mountains. It’s a reminder of no matter how things seem now; the mountains always stay exactly the same. They’re always majestic and beautiful just like you!

You could get a Nine of Wands tattoo that includes a mountain and perhaps a climber going up. It would represent your ability to rise above. The Sagittarius symbol is of course something you can tattoo as well.

Nine of Wands typically has nine physical wands in the picture. It represents the strength of the person who looks like they’ve been dragged by a horse. No doubt they are completely zonked out.

They have one more wand to put in place and their whole game plan or goal is finished. Only one more step!

20. Spirituality And The Nine Of Wands Card

Spiritually speaking, the Nine of Wands is a card to teach you how to let go of what you cannot do. It represents the ability for you to know your limits and stick with what you CAN do.

Stay strong, stay wise, and always keep moving toward your dreams and goals. Whether or not there are speed bumps or problems, you’ll still get through it with your beautiful inner strength.

This card helps to teach you that you are your best resource. Don’t let pride or insecurity drag you down. Always trust in yourself and in the universe to help you to keep moving.

Step out of your comfort zone and find new ways to accomplish your biggest desire. Your dreams are important and don’t ever forget that! The Sagittarius of this card definitely says you’re empathetic.

Sagittarius is a humanitarian and always wants to help people. They’re also excellent at living for the present but working very hard at it. Something else is they try to work smarter.

You may want to try things to become more in tune with your own abilities. Try meditation or yoga. A good Reiki healing to help tune up your chakras can help you as well.

Remember to always pay attention to your Root Chakra when it comes to the Nine of Wands. This is the chakra that is red and is at the base of your spine. It’s what helps to fortify your strength spiritually.

This Root Chakra is very important to help you to keep your two feet on the ground and keep doing what you need to in order to get things done. You’re stronger than you think and the Nine of Wands is trying to remind you.

Accept it and give thanks every single day.

I truly hope this helps give you important insight into what the Nine of Wands means and what it can do for you.

I wish you all the luck in the Universe!

Your friend and Relationship Astrologer,

Anna Kovach



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