Judgement tarot card — Rider–Waite

Judgement

Major
Element
Fire
Zodiac
Pluto
Number
20

The Judgement card shows figures rising up as an angel sounds a trumpet above. This card is about rebirth, awakening, and coming to terms with the past. Judgement invites you to reflect on your journey, accept your choices, and release any guilt or regrets. It’s a sign that you are ready to start fresh, guided by lessons learned. When Judgement appears, you may feel called to make important decisions or answer a higher calling. The card encourages forgiveness—of yourself and others—so you can move forward with a clear heart. Trust that renewal and new beginnings are available when you embrace truth and self-awareness.

Judgement — General meaning

Upright meaning

Upright, Judgement is about awakening, renewal, and taking responsibility for your actions. You may be at a crossroads, needing to make a big decision or change direction based on what you’ve learned. This card invites you to reflect honestly on your past, celebrate your growth, and leave behind what no longer serves you. Now is the time to listen to your inner calling, act with integrity, and trust your instincts. Judgement also signals a chance for forgiveness—make peace with yourself and others. Fresh starts are possible when you accept your truth and move forward bravely.

Reversed meaning

Reversed, Judgement points to hesitation, self-doubt, or being unable to move past old mistakes. You may be ignoring an important decision, worried about others’ opinions, or not ready to forgive yourself. Sometimes this card shows a fear of change or a lack of closure from the past. The message is to practice kindness, let go of judgment—both of yourself and others—and open up to new possibilities. Healing takes time, but progress is possible when you accept what’s done and focus on growth. Don’t let regret hold you back from the future you deserve.

Upright keywords: Awakening, Rebirth, Decision, Forgiveness, Renewal

Reversed keywords: Hesitation, Regret, Self-doubt, Stagnation, Missed opportunity

Judgement — Love meaning

Upright meaning

In love, Judgement upright can mean a relationship is entering a new phase, or that you and your partner are ready to forgive past mistakes and start fresh. For singles, it may signal an important realization about what you truly want in love, or a chance to reconnect with someone from the past. This card supports open conversations, healing, and honest self-reflection. Trust your instincts about who or what is right for you, and let go of guilt or regret. Love grows when both people are willing to accept and forgive, building a future together.

Reversed meaning

In love, Judgement reversed may show unresolved feelings, lingering regrets, or fear of repeating past mistakes. You or your partner might be reluctant to forgive or move forward, causing distance or misunderstandings. For singles, it could mean holding onto an old relationship or feeling unworthy of new love. This card asks for gentle self-reflection, open conversations, and a willingness to let go. Healing and connection return when you release guilt, practice forgiveness, and allow yourself to be vulnerable to love again.

Upright keywords: Healing, Forgiveness, Fresh start, Honesty, Reconnection

Reversed keywords: Distance, Unresolved issues, Guilt, Fear of change, Letting go

Judgement — Career meaning

Upright meaning

For career, Judgement upright represents a time of evaluation, transition, or second chances. You may be offered a new role, called to pursue a different path, or finally ready to act on a long-held dream. This card encourages you to review your goals and consider what changes will bring you fulfillment. Feedback, performance reviews, or important decisions may come now. Judgement is also about letting go of old mistakes and using what you’ve learned to move forward. Have faith in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to answer a new calling.

Reversed meaning

For career, Judgement reversed suggests missed opportunities, indecision, or feeling stuck in your current role. You may fear criticism, resist feedback, or struggle to accept necessary changes. Sometimes this card warns against being too hard on yourself or doubting your abilities. It’s time to reflect on what you want, learn from past experiences, and be willing to make a fresh start. Don’t let fear of failure stop you from trying again. Your skills and insights are valuable—trust yourself to make the changes needed for fulfillment.

Upright keywords: Evaluation, Transition, Second chances, Change, Purpose

Reversed keywords: Indecision, Stuck, Missed chance, Insecurity, Reluctance

Judgement — Spiritual meaning

Upright meaning

Spiritually, Judgement upright is about awakening to a higher level of understanding, forgiveness, and self-acceptance. You may feel called to release old guilt, resolve unfinished business, or embrace a new sense of purpose. This card invites you to let go of limiting beliefs, trust in your transformation, and share your insights with others. Meditation, journaling, or rituals of release can help. Growth comes from accepting where you’ve been, forgiving yourself, and moving forward with hope and openness to new spiritual experiences.

Reversed meaning

Spiritually, Judgement reversed can mean struggling to forgive yourself, feeling disconnected from your purpose, or fearing spiritual change. You might be haunted by old guilt or doubts that block your growth. This card encourages gentle self-acceptance, seeking closure, and allowing yourself to move forward. Consider journaling, counseling, or talking to a trusted mentor for support. Spiritual growth comes from letting go of perfectionism and trusting that every step, even setbacks, is part of your path to healing and renewal.

Upright keywords: Self-acceptance, Awakening, Forgiveness, Growth, Purpose

Reversed keywords: Doubt, Blockage, Guilt, Letting go needed, Healing