The Emperor Tarot Card Meaning

Upright meaning

Clear rules and firm decisions bring stability. Take charge, set boundaries and build something that lasts.

• Authority
• Structure
• Stability

Reversed meaning

Control has turned rigid, or there is no structure at all. Ask whether you are leading or simply trying not to lose control.

• Self-righteousness
• Rigidity
• Loss of control

Meaning by situation

The 22 Major Arcana

• The FoolA new beginning · Innocence
• The MagicianWillpower · Creative power
• The High PriestessIntuition · Inner wisdom
• The EmpressAbundance · Nurturing
• The EmperorAuthority · Structure
• The HierophantTradition · Teaching
• The LoversLove · Union
• The ChariotWillpower · Forward movement
• StrengthCourage · Inner strength
• The HermitReflection · Solitude
• Wheel of FortuneChange · Turning point
• JusticeBalance · Fairness
• The Hanged ManA shift in perspective · Letting go
• DeathEnding and transformation · Transition
• TemperanceHarmony · Balance
• The DevilBondage · Temptation
• The TowerSudden change · Collapse
• The StarHope · Inspiration
• The MoonIllusion · Intuition
• The SunSuccess · Joy
• JudgementRenewal · Awakening
• The WorldCompletion · Achievement

All 78 tarot cards →