The Chariot is the seventh card in the Major Arcana, numbered VII (7). This card represents willpower, determination, control, and victory. The Chariot symbolizes triumph through focus, inner strength, and the ability to overcome obstacles. It suggests that success is achieved by maintaining control over competing forces, both external and internal, and using perseverance and determination to stay on course.

General Meaning:

The Chariot typically depicts a strong, confident figure riding a chariot, often being pulled by two sphinxes or horses of different colors. These animals represent opposing forces, such as light and dark or good and bad, which must be harmonized and directed by the driver. The Chariot symbolizes the mastery of one's emotions, determination, and self-discipline to maintain direction and achieve success.

Upright Meaning:

• Willpower & Determination: The Chariot represents the power of will, inner strength, and determination. It suggests that you have the ability to control your actions and emotions, and that success is within your grasp if you stay focused and driven. This card encourages you to channel your energy toward your goals and take action to achieve them.

• Victory & Triumph: The Chariot signifies victory, particularly after a struggle or challenge. It suggests that you are on the path to achieving success, but it requires effort, focus, and discipline. The victory indicated by the Chariot is one earned through willpower and perseverance.

• Control & Direction: The Chariot emphasizes the importance of maintaining control over both external circumstances and your inner emotions. The charioteer must skillfully manage the forces pulling the chariot in different directions. This card indicates that you have the ability to master the conflicting aspects of your life and move forward with clarity and purpose.

• Ambition & Focus: The Chariot encourages ambition and forward momentum. It suggests that now is a time to stay focused on your goals and not be distracted by outside forces or inner doubts. Success comes from clarity of purpose and the determination to press forward despite obstacles.

• Taking Charge: The Chariot is a card of empowerment and taking control. It may indicate a time when you need to take charge of a situation, lead others, or assert your will in a project or challenge. This card signifies a strong and decisive approach to overcoming obstacles and achieving your objectives.

• Journey or Movement: The Chariot can also indicate a journey or movement, whether literal or metaphorical. This may point to travel, progress in a career, or a personal transformation. It signifies the act of moving forward with purpose and intent.

Reversed Meaning:

When the Chariot appears in reverse, it suggests issues related to control, direction, or willpower, leading to confusion, setbacks, or challenges in moving forward.

• Lack of Control or Focus: The Chariot reversed can indicate a lack of control or direction. You may feel that your efforts are scattered or that you are unable to stay focused on your goals. There may be conflicting desires or forces pulling you in different directions, making it difficult to move forward with confidence.

• Obstacles or Delays: The reversed Chariot may point to delays, setbacks, or obstacles that are preventing you from achieving your goals. These challenges may stem from external circumstances or your own internal resistance, but the card suggests that you need to regain control to overcome them.

• Loss of Willpower: In reverse, the Chariot can indicate a loss of determination or drive. You may feel disheartened, frustrated, or uncertain about your ability to succeed. The card suggests that you need to tap into your inner strength and reassert your focus in order to overcome the difficulties you are facing.

• Self-Sabotage: The Chariot reversed can suggest that you are sabotaging your own efforts or undermining your own success. This may be due to a lack of confidence, poor decision-making, or giving in to distractions and temptations. The card warns against acting impulsively or letting emotions dictate your course of action.

• Indecision or Lack of Direction: The reversed Chariot can signal indecision, confusion, or a lack of clear direction. You may be unsure about which path to take or how to proceed with your plans. This card asks you to reflect on your goals and regain clarity before moving forward.

Symbolism:

• The Charioteer: The figure in the chariot represents mastery, control, and determination. They symbolize the ability to direct forces (internal or external) and remain calm and focused under pressure. The charioteer also signifies leadership, discipline, and assertiveness.

• The Chariot: The chariot itself is a vehicle of movement, progress, and direction. It represents the journey and the potential for success. It is a symbol of the tools, resources, and strategies you have at your disposal to achieve your goals.

• The Sphinxes or Horses: The sphinxes (or sometimes horses) pulling the chariot are often depicted as two creatures of different colors, representing opposing forces (such as light and dark, good and bad, conscious and unconscious) that must be harmonized and directed by the charioteer. They symbolize the need to balance conflicting elements in your life to move forward.

• The Star on the Charioteer's Forehead: Often, a star is depicted on the charioteer’s forehead, symbolizing divine guidance, spiritual insight, and the connection between the material and spiritual realms. It suggests that the charioteer’s success is not just through willpower but also through alignment with higher wisdom.

• Armor and Helmets: The armor worn by the charioteer represents protection, strength, and readiness for battle. It signifies the ability to face challenges and remain resilient. The helmet protects the mind, reinforcing the need for mental clarity and discipline.

• The Path or Road: The path that the chariot travels along represents the journey or direction in life. It may be a straight, clear path or one with obstacles, but it always indicates that forward motion and determination are necessary to reach the destination.

In Summary:

The Chariot is a card of triumph through control, willpower, and perseverance. It symbolizes the strength to overcome challenges, the ability to direct conflicting forces, and the power of focus and determination in achieving your goals. The card encourages you to stay disciplined, take charge of situations, and maintain direction even in the face of obstacles. When the Chariot is reversed, it points to a lack of control, direction, or inner strength, signaling the need to regain focus, overcome obstacles, and make clear decisions to move forward. This card is a reminder that success comes not only through external achievements but also through internal mastery and discipline.