Strength
Strength is the eighth card in the Major Arcana, symbolizing courage, inner strength, and the power of compassion. Typically depicted as a woman gently holding or taming a lion, this card represents the ability to confront challenges with grace and determination. As an archetype, Strength embodies the idea that true power comes not from brute force, but from patience, love, and understanding.
Associated with the element of Fire, Strength emphasizes the passionate energy and confidence needed to overcome obstacles. It is linked to the zodiac sign Leo, which reflects themes of self-expression, vitality, and the heart’s courage. The imagery of the woman and the lion signifies the balance between our primal instincts and our higher selves, illustrating that strength can be harnessed through gentle guidance rather than domination.
In a reading, Strength encourages you to tap into your inner resilience, face difficulties with confidence, and approach challenges with kindness. It serves as a reminder that compassion and understanding can be powerful tools in overcoming adversity. When reversed, Strength may indicate feelings of self-doubt, weakness, or a struggle to maintain control over one’s impulses, prompting a need to reassess how you confront challenges and nurture your inner strength. Overall, Strength represents the profound power of courage, compassion, and the ability to rise above life’s trials with grace.