The Meaning of the Card "The Emperor" in the Tarot

The meaning of the Tarot card "The Emperor"

The Emperor in the Tarot symbolizes achievement, confidence, wealth, stability, leadership, father / brother / husband, accomplishment and a capable person. The basic symbols for this card are the throne, rams' heads and sometimes the eagle, orb and sceptre. The Emperor, as Aries (the Ram) is the first sign of the zodiac. It naturally follows the empress.

The meaning of the card The Emperor upright

When the Emperor card is up in the Tarot reading, it allows you to be aggressive, courageous and in charge. The card can symbolize a demanding boss or a charismatic leader. You must decide whether what they are doing is unwelcome. A bad leader needs to move on. Whether the person is the leader you need, only you will know.

The meaning of the card The Emperor reversed

When the Emperor card is reversed in a Tarot reading, it symbolizes immaturity, indecision, small emotions, lack of stability and strength. It can mean a feeling of being on unstable ground. It can also indicate that an older man in your life is causing you distress and acting badly, and you are feeling indignant or powerless. Perhaps this is an indication that you need to stand up to authority, or perhaps you need to listen to what he has to say and only use that information which is useful to you. You're still the boss.

The meaning of the card The Emperor in love

The Emperor card in a Tarot love reading is often a good thing. If you're single, it could mean that you need to open up to love and be more honest with yourself (and others!) about what you want. It can also indicate an older man coming into your life. If you're in a relationship, it means you're on solid ground and in a true partnership of mutual support and solidarity.

Learn more about Tarot with our article "How to Read Tarot at Home"

Check out the meaning of all the major and minor arcana of the Tarot.