The World tarot card — Rider–Waite

The World

Major
Element
Earth
Zodiac
Saturn
Number
21

The World card shows a figure dancing within a wreath, surrounded by four creatures symbolizing completion and harmony. This card represents fulfillment, achievement, and reaching a long-sought goal. The World is a sign that you’ve come full circle and are ready to celebrate how far you’ve come. When it appears, it’s a reminder to honor your efforts, appreciate your journey, and recognize the growth you’ve experienced. The World encourages you to share your wisdom, enjoy the present, and look forward to new adventures. Completion brings peace and opens the door to new possibilities—trust that you are exactly where you need to be.

The World — General meaning

Upright meaning

Upright, The World marks the successful completion of a major chapter in your life. You may have achieved an important goal, graduated, finished a project, or overcome a long-standing challenge. This card encourages you to celebrate your success, share your achievements, and recognize your growth. The World is about feeling at home within yourself and embracing the wholeness of your journey. Now is a time to reflect on how far you’ve come, thank those who supported you, and enjoy a sense of peace and harmony. New adventures and opportunities are waiting—trust that you’re ready for what comes next.

Reversed meaning

Reversed, The World can indicate feeling blocked from finishing a task, or as if something is missing from your sense of accomplishment. You might experience delays, setbacks, or uncertainty about the future. Sometimes, this card points to fear of change or hesitation about starting a new chapter. The message is to look for loose ends that need tying up and to give yourself credit for what you’ve achieved so far. Seek closure where you can, ask for support if needed, and trust that things will fall into place. With patience, your sense of fulfillment will return.

Upright keywords: Completion, Fulfillment, Achievement, Harmony, Wholeness

Reversed keywords: Incomplete, Delays, Blocked, Lack of closure, Unfinished business

The World — Love meaning

Upright meaning

In love, The World upright brings fulfillment, deep connection, and a sense of harmony in relationships. For couples, this card can mean reaching important milestones—such as engagement, marriage, or simply a renewed sense of unity. If you’re single, The World suggests you’re ready for a meaningful relationship after completing a period of self-growth. This card supports honest communication, shared dreams, and celebrating love’s journey. Trust that you have the wisdom and experience to create healthy, lasting connections. Embrace this sense of completeness, and let it inspire the next steps in your love life.

Reversed meaning

In love, The World reversed can show unfinished business in relationships, or a feeling of distance despite being together. One or both partners may need closure from past experiences, or there could be hesitancy about committing to the next step. If single, you may feel ready for love but still have lingering doubts. This card encourages open conversations and gentle reflection. Healing comes from letting go of old patterns and accepting where you are on your journey. Trust that with time and self-compassion, deeper connection and happiness are possible.

Upright keywords: Deep connection, Unity, Milestone, Joy, Shared dreams

Reversed keywords: Distance, Unresolved issues, Hesitation, Healing needed, Closure

The World — Career meaning

Upright meaning

For career, The World upright points to recognition, successful completion of projects, or reaching a professional goal. Promotions, awards, or new responsibilities may come now. This is a great time to reflect on what you’ve accomplished and take pride in your work. The World encourages you to use your experience to help others, share your knowledge, or consider new ventures. If you’re finishing one chapter, look forward to the next phase with optimism. You have the skills and perspective to succeed, and now is the time to celebrate and prepare for exciting new challenges.

Reversed meaning

For career, The World reversed suggests delays in achieving goals, or feeling unfulfilled by your accomplishments. You might be stuck on a project, facing obstacles to promotion, or questioning your direction. The key is to be patient, look for opportunities to complete unfinished work, and recognize your progress. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks—ask for help if needed, and stay open to learning from challenges. As you tie up loose ends and celebrate small victories, your motivation and confidence will grow, opening doors for future success.

Upright keywords: Success, Recognition, Accomplishment, Progress, Transition

Reversed keywords: Delays, Obstacles, Unfulfilled, Stuck, Persistence

The World — Spiritual meaning

Upright meaning

Spiritually, The World upright represents a sense of unity, fulfillment, and oneness with your journey. You may feel more connected to your purpose, experience spiritual breakthroughs, or find peace after a long search for meaning. This card invites you to honor your growth and celebrate the wholeness of your path. Meditation, gratitude, and sharing your wisdom with others can deepen this sense of completion. The World reminds you that spiritual growth is a journey, and each ending brings a new beginning. Trust in your path and know that you are exactly where you are meant to be.

Reversed meaning

Spiritually, The World reversed can mean feeling disconnected from your path or doubting your progress. You may be searching for deeper meaning or struggling to find closure after a difficult period. The card asks you to be gentle with yourself and to seek support from community, mentors, or spiritual practices. Take time to reflect on your journey so far and celebrate every step, even if the ending feels far away. With trust and patience, a sense of wholeness and fulfillment will return—each ending is simply the start of something new.

Upright keywords: Oneness, Growth, Completion, Breakthrough, Unity

Reversed keywords: Disconnection, Uncertainty, Search, Support needed, Reflection