The Chariot tarot card — Rider–Waite

The Chariot

Major
Element
Water
Zodiac
Cancer
Number
7

The Chariot shows a determined figure driving a chariot pulled by two contrasting sphinxes, symbolizing the power of will, focus, and determination. This card is all about moving forward with confidence, overcoming obstacles, and staying focused on your goals. The Chariot encourages you to trust in your abilities and not let distractions throw you off course. When it appears, you’re being asked to take control of your situation and use your inner strength to push through challenges. Victory comes from discipline, self-belief, and the willingness to keep going even when things get tough. Stay true to your path and know you can succeed.

The Chariot — General meaning

Upright meaning

The Chariot upright represents movement, triumph, and unwavering determination. It’s a card about taking charge, steering your life with focus, and refusing to be distracted by doubt or outside opinions. You may be overcoming a major challenge, making significant progress, or feeling a new surge of motivation. The Chariot says you are stronger than you think—use discipline and confidence to drive your goals forward. This is not the time to give up or lose faith. Trust yourself, stay focused on what matters, and keep moving. Victory is possible when you believe in your path and refuse to let obstacles stand in your way.

Reversed meaning

Reversed, The Chariot suggests feeling blocked, unmotivated, or pulled in too many directions. You may be losing momentum, doubting your path, or struggling to bring your plans together. Sometimes this card points to trying too hard to control every detail, leading to frustration and burnout. It’s important to step back, regroup, and look honestly at where things have gone off track. The Chariot reversed encourages you to release rigid expectations, adjust your goals if needed, and be gentle with yourself. True progress comes from inner balance and letting go of the need to force outcomes. Trust that you’ll find your way again.

Upright keywords: Determination, Victory, Willpower, Focus, Self-control

Reversed keywords: Lack of direction, Stagnation, Confusion, Loss of control, Distraction

The Chariot — Love meaning

Upright meaning

In love, The Chariot upright signals progress, excitement, and sometimes travel with your partner. If you’re single, you might be taking control of your romantic life, deciding to pursue someone new or set clear intentions about what you want. For couples, this card brings a sense of teamwork and overcoming challenges together. There could be important decisions ahead, or you might be moving forward after a difficult period. Communication and mutual goals are key. The Chariot encourages you to address any issues directly and work together toward a common future, knowing you both have the power to create the relationship you want.

Reversed meaning

In love, The Chariot reversed can show a lack of direction, disagreements about the future, or feeling out of sync with your partner. You or your partner might be pulling in different directions, making it hard to move forward as a team. If you’re single, you might feel unsure about what you want, or keep hitting dead ends in dating. The key now is to pause and communicate honestly. Reevaluate your priorities, listen to each other’s needs, and remember that real progress comes when you both work together. Sometimes taking a step back is the best way to move forward.

Upright keywords: Progress, Teamwork, Moving forward, Direction, Commitment

Reversed keywords: Miscommunication, Stalled progress, Distance, Uncertainty, Lack of unity

The Chariot — Career meaning

Upright meaning

For career, The Chariot upright is about advancement, ambition, and achieving success through hard work and determination. You may be offered a promotion, starting a big project, or finally seeing progress on a long-term goal. This card suggests your confidence and self-control are helping you stand out. Challenges can be overcome with discipline, focus, and staying organized. If things feel competitive or demanding, keep your eyes on your objectives and trust your skills. The Chariot reminds you that persistence pays off. Celebrate your wins and keep pushing forward—your efforts are bringing you closer to your career dreams.

Reversed meaning

For career, The Chariot reversed points to stalled progress, frustration with slow results, or feeling like your ambitions are not being met. Office politics, lack of support, or inner doubts could be making it hard to succeed. This card asks you to review your strategies, set more realistic goals, and avoid burning out by trying to do everything at once. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, delegate or ask for help. Progress will return when you focus your energy, let go of distractions, and trust that setbacks are temporary. Sometimes you need to adjust your course to move ahead.

Upright keywords: Ambition, Success, Drive, Discipline, Achievement

Reversed keywords: Blockages, Frustration, Slow results, Overwhelm, Stalled goals

The Chariot — Spiritual meaning

Upright meaning

Spiritually, The Chariot upright invites you to take charge of your growth and trust in your spiritual journey. You might feel inspired to set clear intentions or move past old habits that no longer serve you. This is a time for strong willpower and harnessing your energy to achieve inner harmony. The Chariot asks you to balance your emotions and use self-discipline to overcome doubts. Meditation, goal setting, or working with a spiritual coach could help now. When you commit to your own evolution, nothing can hold you back. Trust that you have what it takes to reach your next level.

Reversed meaning

Spiritually, The Chariot reversed may mean you’re struggling to stick to routines, feeling unmotivated, or doubting your spiritual progress. You could be pulled between different beliefs, or trying too hard to force growth. The message is to slow down and reconnect with your core values. Instead of pushing, allow your journey to unfold naturally. Try grounding practices or talk with a mentor for support. Spiritual growth doesn’t always happen on your timeline. Be gentle with yourself, trust the process, and remember that clarity and motivation will return when you give yourself space to realign.

Upright keywords: Inner strength, Focus, Growth, Harmony, Discipline

Reversed keywords: Disconnection, Restlessness, Blocked growth, Doubt, Imbalance