Exploring Tarot: Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune is filled with symbolism. We see a large wheel containing three sections. The inner ring represents divine law or the energy of creation; the middle ring describes natural law and the energy of manifestation; and, the outer ring represents karmic law and the result of the choices we make in our physical reality.

Within the spokes of the wheel, we see glyphs for mercury (Air), sulfur (Fire), salt (Earth), and water (Water). Surrounding the Wheel are a snake/serpent that represents Typhon, the Egyptian god of evil and manifestation, a jackal representing Anubis and intelligence on the sides, and a sphinx at the top representing higher wisdom and balance.

In the outer ring, the letters TARO are visible along with the four Hebrew letters: YHVH, depicting the name of God as well as the four elements. Surrounding the wheel are winged figures in each corner sitting on clouds. Representing the four Fixed signs in the Zodiac (Aquarius, Scorpio, Leo, and Taurus), the man in the upper left-hand corner represents the Air element, the eagle represents the Water elemental, the lion represents the Fire element, and the bull represents the Earth element.

All of these aspects are involved in the creation of new opportunities that fulfill our destiny in life. So, when The Wheel of Fortune, a card of Jupiter, appears in a reading, it suggests the cyclical nature of experience and success. It also describes the turning of the wheel and the transition from one phase to another. As the Wheel turns, it portends good fortune, growth, and possibility as well as abundance, expansion, and cause/effect. And it may represent a turning point in one’s life.