Basic Interpretation
Like the Magician, the expression of will is essential; yet, here it is applied to the external physical world. This card is about our will to get things moving despite unresolved conflicts — how we are often driven in life by contradictory forces within us, motivations that are not fully understood but are nonetheless influential — sometimes being pulled by one motivation, part of the time, and its opposite at other times. It may reveal attempts to resolve internal conflicts by externally manipulating our environment. When this card comes up in a reading, we should ask, What are the causes being served that are not fully understood? In what way am I doing battle with my world?
How to Read this Card Reversed
Reversed, this card can exhibit paralysis due to unresolved conflicts, and contradictions within the individual can occur, as well, for the sake of rebellion.