Major Arcana · Card X
Wheel of Fortune
About Wheel of Fortune
A great wheel adorned with alchemical symbols spins at the center of the card. Four figures occupy the corners: an angel, an eagle, a bull, and a lion, each reading from a book. On the wheel itself ride three figures representing the cycle of rise and fall. The sphinx at the top holds a sword of discernment, while the serpent descends on the left side.
Wheel of Fortune Upright Meaning
\u2726 General Meaning
The Wheel of Fortune represents the cycles of life, destiny, a turning point, good luck, and karma. Change is the only constant, and this card signals that the wheel is turning in your favor. Opportunities arise, circumstances shift, and new chapters begin. Embrace the natural flow of change and trust that the universe has a larger plan.
\u2665Love & Relationships
In love, The Wheel of Fortune indicates positive changes and destined encounters. If single, fate may bring someone significant into your life. If in a relationship, positive shifts are coming that will strengthen your bond.
\u2606Career & Finances
For career, this card signals fortunate changes, unexpected opportunities, and positive turning points. A promotion, new job offer, or lucky break may be on the horizon. Be ready to seize opportunities when they appear.
\u271AHealth & Wellbeing
In health, The Wheel of Fortune suggests improvements and positive changes in your wellbeing. If you have been unwell, recovery is likely. Natural cycles of health are shifting in your favor.
Wheel of Fortune Reversed Meaning
\u2726 General Meaning
The Wheel of Fortune reversed suggests bad luck, resistance to change, and breaking cycles. You may feel that circumstances are working against you or that you are stuck in repetitive negative patterns. Remember that even downturns are temporary — the wheel always turns.
\u2665Love & Relationships
Reversed in love, this card indicates relationship challenges, breakups that feel fated, or repeating unhealthy relationship patterns. Breaking these cycles requires conscious awareness and deliberate change.
\u2606Career & Finances
In career reversed, The Wheel of Fortune warns of setbacks, missed opportunities, or feeling stuck professionally. External circumstances may not be in your control, but your response to them is. Stay resilient.
\u271AHealth & Wellbeing
For health reversed, this card suggests health setbacks or cyclical health issues recurring. Pay attention to patterns and address root causes rather than just symptoms.
Symbolism of Wheel of Fortune
The wheel itself represents the endless cycle of fate and fortune. The four corner figures correspond to the four fixed signs of the zodiac and the four elements, representing stability amid constant change. The sphinx represents wisdom and the riddle of existence. The serpent descending represents the decline that inevitably follows ascent. The Hebrew letters on the wheel spell YHWH (God), while the Latin letters spell TARO/ROTA, connecting divine will with the cycle of destiny.
Key Advice From Wheel of Fortune
“Accept that change is inevitable and embrace it rather than resisting. What goes up will come down, and what is down will rise again. Position yourself to take advantage of favorable turns and weather unfavorable ones with grace. Trust in the larger cycles at work in your life.”
See Wheel of Fortune in Action
Pull Wheel of Fortune in one of our free interactive tarot readings and discover what it means in the context of your personal question.