The Wands in the Etteilla Tarot Deck symbolize action, ambition, and the fiery energy that drives progress. Rooted in the element of fire, the Wands reflect creativity, determination, and the power to overcome challenges. In this deck, the Wands focus heavily on personal willpower and the ability to manifest change, making them ideal for interpreting questions about career, passion, and motivation.
The Wands suit in Grand Etteilla Tarot represents ambition, creativity, and action. These Tarot Cards are associated with the Fire element, symbolizing passion, drive, and determination. When Wands appear in a Tarot Reading, they often indicate new beginnings, career growth, and dynamic energy pushing you toward success. Whether you’re seeking clarity about your Destiny & Future, relationships, or career, the Wands suit provides powerful insights into your personal power and motivation.
In free tarot reading sessions, Wands frequently signal the need for movement, change, or decisive action. They encourage you to take risks, embrace challenges, and trust your instincts. However, when these Tarot Cards appear in a reversed position, they may warn of delays, burnout, or internal struggles that hinder progress. Understanding the Tarot Card Meanings of each Wand card can help navigate obstacles and seize opportunities.
Ace of Wands 
The Tarot card Ace of Wands is a powerful card representing new beginnings, inspiration, and creative potential. It embodies the spark of motivation and ambition, pushing one toward action and growth. In Grand Etteilla, this card can symbolize both invention and failure, signifying the fine line between success and downfall depending on how one wields their energy.
In Tarot reading, the Ace of Wands often appears when a new opportunity arises—whether it’s a business venture, a creative project, or an exciting life change. It encourages bold actions, risk-taking, and tapping into one’s creative force. This is a card of pure potential, signaling that the querent has the power to shape their destiny. It is also closely tied to passion, sexuality, and strong attraction, indicating an exhilarating new relationship or an intensified romantic connection.
In the reversed position, the Ace of Wands warns of missed opportunities, creative blocks, or delays in progress. It may indicate a lack of direction, motivation, or energy to pursue one’s goals. There could be a fear of failure or a reluctance to step outside of one’s comfort zone. Overcoming self-doubt and procrastination is crucial to harness the potential of this card.
Two of Wands 
The Two of Wands represents planning, decision-making, and personal vision. It often signifies a moment of contemplation, where the querent must decide between staying in their comfort zone or stepping into the unknown. In Grand Etteilla, this card is associated with sorrow and unexpected surprises, suggesting that progress may come with emotional struggles.
This card encourages foresight and courage. It reflects a stage where goals are set, and the individual is envisioning the future. The figure in the Rider-Waite deck holds a globe, signifying a broad perspective and a desire for exploration. It is a card of ambition, leadership, and strategic planning.
In the reversed position, the Tarot card Two of Wands warns of indecision, fear of change, and lack of direction. It suggests hesitation, difficulty committing to a path, or reluctance to step outside of one’s comfort zone. There may also be delayed success or poor planning, causing frustration. This card calls for clarity, confidence, and bold action to move forward successfully.
Three of Wands
The Three of Wands is a card of expansion, progress, and foresight. It signifies that the querent is moving forward and seeing results from previous efforts. In Grand Etteilla, this card represents bold projects, perseverance, and the successful completion of difficulties.
This card encourages ambition and taking calculated risks. The querent has laid the foundation for success and is now waiting for the rewards. It suggests new opportunities, exploration, and even travel. Business ventures and creative endeavors are likely to flourish under this energy.
In the reversed position, the Three of Wands warns of delays, lack of support, or failed ventures. It may indicate impatience, poor planning, or external obstacles preventing progress. The querent may feel stuck or unable to expand as desired. A shift in perspective or strategy may be necessary to move forward.
Four of Wands 
The Four of Wands symbolizes celebration, harmony, and achievement. This card is often associated with milestones, joyous occasions, and a sense of accomplishment. In the Grand Etteilla deck, it represents family discussions, work beyond expectations, and even a lost letter, highlighting themes of communication, stability, and rewards.
In Tarot readings, the Four of Wands often signifies a moment of triumph and recognition. Whether it be a wedding, graduation, homecoming, or the successful completion of a project, this card reflects a period of joy, community, and a sense of belonging. It is also closely tied to home, stability, and building a secure foundation for future endeavors.
In the reversed position, the Tarot card Four of Wands may indicate delayed celebrations, instability, or conflicts within a home or social environment. It can point to unmet expectations, canceled events, or disharmony within relationships. If drawn in reverse, it serves as a reminder to address unresolved issues before moving forward and to focus on rebuilding stability and trust.
Five of Wands 
The Five of Wands represents conflict, competition, and struggle. This card often signifies challenges that require effort, strategy, and perseverance. In the Grand Etteilla deck, it is linked to hard-earned benefits, social amusements, long-lasting disputes, and the risk of disappointment. It highlights the struggle one must endure to achieve success.
When this card appears in a Tarot reading, it suggests a period of competition, misunderstandings, or even chaos. It may reflect conflicts in the workplace, disagreements in personal relationships, or challenges that force you to prove yourself. Unlike the Five of Swords, which suggests a destructive conflict, the Five of Wands is more about constructive competition, personal growth, and testing one’s abilities.
In the reversed position, the Five of Wands can signal an avoidance of confrontation, suppressed aggression, or an internal struggle. It may indicate that you fear conflict and would rather keep the peace, even at the cost of your own needs. In some cases, the reversed card suggests a resolution to previous disagreements, cooperation, and teamwork finally taking shape.
Six of Wands 
The Tarot card Six of Wands is a card of victory, recognition, and public acclaim. It represents hard-earned success, leadership, and the rewards of perseverance. In the Grand Etteilla deck, it is associated with family discussions, unexpected career advancements, and a lost letter—suggesting that success may come through negotiation, effective communication, or seizing opportunities.
When drawn upright in a Tarot reading, the Six of Wands indicates a moment of triumph. It symbolizes leadership, admiration, and the ability to inspire others. Whether in career, personal relationships, or creative endeavors, this card reflects a time when efforts are recognized, and confidence is high. You may receive a promotion, public praise, or a long-awaited acknowledgment for your work.
In the reversed position, however, the Six of Wands warns of false confidence, unfulfilled expectations, or even arrogance. It may suggest delayed success, a lack of recognition, or feeling overlooked despite your efforts. Alternatively, it can indicate a fear of failure, self-doubt, or impostor syndrome—a reminder to stay focused on your goals rather than seeking constant validation.
Seven of Wands 
The Seven of Wands represents defiance, standing your ground, and overcoming obstacles. This card often appears when you are facing opposition, criticism, or challenges that test your strength and resolve. In the Grand Etteilla deck, it signifies debate, prestige conflict, and shifting decisions—highlighting the mental and strategic battles one must endure to maintain their position.
In a Tarot reading, the Seven of Wands suggests that you are in a position of power but must fight to keep it. You may be defending your beliefs, protecting your achievements, or resisting external pressure. It is a card of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination. Despite the struggles, the Seven of Wands encourages you to stay strong and assert your position.
In the reversed position, however, the Seven of Wands can indicate overwhelm, exhaustion, or feeling outnumbered. You may be losing confidence, struggling with doubt, or feeling like you are constantly under attack. It can also suggest a reluctance to stand up for yourself or a fear of confrontation. In such cases, the card urges you to regain your inner strength, set firm boundaries, and not let external pressures break your spirit.
Eight of Wands 
The Eight of Wands symbolizes speed, progress, and rapid developments. It is a card of momentum, movement, and the swift unfolding of events. In the Grand Etteilla deck, it is associated with traveling with friends or family, repentance, and rural amusements. This suggests that the Eight of Wands not only brings fast-paced action but also important revelations and changes in one’s personal and professional life.
In a Tarot reading, when the Eight of Wands appears upright, it signals that things are moving quickly. Delays are over, and new opportunities, messages, or journeys are on their way. This card is particularly powerful in career readings, indicating swift career advancements, successful negotiations, or unexpected but fortunate business developments. In love readings, it suggests passionate and exciting connections that develop quickly.
In the reversed position, however, the Eight of Wands warns of delays, miscommunication, or rushed decisions that lead to errors. It may indicate that things are progressing too fast for comfort, leaving you overwhelmed and unprepared. Sometimes, it can signify frustration with a stalled project or plans that face unexpected obstacles. The advice here is to slow down, reassess the situation, and ensure that all necessary details are in place before proceeding further.
Nine of Wands 
The Nine of Wands is a card of resilience, endurance, and unwavering determination. It represents the final stretch before achieving success—when you may feel exhausted, but you must keep going. In the Grand Etteilla deck, this card is associated with minor obstacles, unfortunate incidents, and resistance that does not lead to destruction. This reflects the strength required to push forward despite hardships.
In a Tarot reading, the Nine of Wands indicates that you have been through many struggles, but you are still standing. You may be feeling drained, weary, or on edge, but this card reminds you that you have the strength to keep going. It encourages perseverance, setting boundaries, and learning from past experiences.
In the reversed position, the Nine of Wands warns of paranoia, exhaustion, or feeling unable to continue. You may be worn out from constant battles and unsure whether you have the energy to fight anymore. Sometimes, it can indicate a need to let go of past wounds and embrace healing. If you feel overwhelmed, this card advises you to take a step back, regroup, and approach challenges with a fresh perspective.
Ten of Wands 
The Ten of Wands represents burden, responsibility, and feeling overwhelmed. It is a card that signals hard work, heavy obligations, and carrying too much on one’s shoulders. In the Grand Etteilla deck, it is associated with family conflicts, betrayal, and work-related conspiracies. This suggests that the weight of responsibility is often linked to external pressures and difficult relationships.
When drawn upright, the Ten of Wands indicates that you are shouldering a heavy load. You may feel overworked, under pressure, or trapped by responsibilities. This card often appears when someone is taking on too much alone, refusing to delegate or ask for help. While hard work can lead to great achievements, this card warns that burnout is a real risk. The key lesson is to prioritize, release unnecessary burdens, and seek balance.
In the reversed position, the Ten of Wands suggests that relief is near. You may be finally letting go of what no longer serves you or delegating tasks that have been weighing you down. However, it can also indicate resisting help out of stubbornness, leading to further exhaustion. This card advises learning to say no and focusing only on what truly matters.
Knight of Wands
The Knight of Wands represents adventure, passion, and a restless drive for success. It symbolizes a person full of energy, ambition, and an eagerness to explore new opportunities. In the Grand Etteilla deck, this card is often associated with a military man, an impulsive young leader, or a charismatic figure who acts boldly without hesitation.
In a Tarot reading, the Knight of Wands upright signifies a surge of enthusiasm, a desire for travel, or an urgent need to take action. It is a card of bold decision-making, career ambition, and sometimes even recklessness. This Knight does not hesitate—he jumps into action, follows his instincts, and thrives on movement and excitement. In relationships, this card suggests passionate love affairs, whirlwind romances, or an attraction to someone adventurous and free-spirited.
In the reversed position, however, the Knight of Wands warns of impulsiveness, hasty decisions, and a lack of long-term vision. It may indicate arrogance, overconfidence, or a tendency to rush into things without considering the consequences. In some cases, it represents delayed plans, frustration, or recklessness leading to failure. The advice of this card is to channel energy wisely and focus on sustainable progress rather than fleeting excitement.
Page of Wands 
The Page of Wands embodies youthful enthusiasm, exploration, and creative potential. This card suggests a fresh start, new ideas, and the first steps toward an exciting journey. In the Grand Etteilla deck, this card is often associated with a young messenger, an inquisitive student, or a person with big dreams but little experience.
When drawn upright, the Page of Wands signals a time of curiosity, exploration, and discovery. It may indicate the beginning of a creative project, an exciting opportunity, or a journey that will lead to self-growth. This card encourages embracing a sense of adventure and being open to new experiences. In love, it can signify playful flirtation or a youthful and energetic connection.
In the reversed position, the Page of Wands warns of insecurity, immaturity, or a lack of clear direction. There may be difficulty in committing to ideas, struggles with self-doubt, or a tendency to abandon projects too quickly. It can also indicate bad news, missed opportunities, or unrealistic expectations. The advice of this card is to develop patience, refine ideas, and focus on turning inspiration into concrete action.
Queen of Wands 
The Queen of Wands is a card of charisma, leadership, and determination. She is a powerful, independent figure who radiates confidence, warmth, and strength. In the Grand Etteilla deck, this card is associated with a noblewoman, an influential mentor, or a person who inspires others through wisdom and resilience.
In a Tarot reading, the Queen of Wands upright represents personal power, self-assurance, and the ability to balance ambition with compassion. She is a natural leader who thrives in social settings and uses her charm to inspire those around her. This card suggests professional success, strong friendships, and an ability to manifest dreams into reality. In love, the Queen embodies passion, loyalty, and an irresistible allure.
In the reversed position, the Queen of Wands warns of jealousy, arrogance, or emotional manipulation. She may represent a controlling or temperamental person who uses charm for selfish gain. In some cases, this card suggests self-doubt, burnout, or struggling to maintain confidence in a challenging situation. The lesson here is to embrace inner strength while remaining compassionate and fair.
King of Wands 
The King of Wands is a visionary leader, an entrepreneur, and a master of strategy. He represents authority, ambition, and the ability to inspire others. In the Grand Etteilla deck, this card is linked to a powerful ruler, a wise businessman, or a charismatic figure who leads with confidence and determination.
When drawn upright, the King of Wands signifies leadership, bold action, and a clear sense of purpose. He is a natural-born leader who thrives in positions of power and responsibility. This card encourages taking control of one’s destiny, making decisive moves, and embracing opportunities with confidence. In relationships, it suggests a passionate, loyal, and protective partner.
In the reversed position, the King of Wands warns of ego, impulsiveness, or a dictatorial approach. He may represent a person who is too aggressive, overconfident, or unwilling to listen to others. In some cases, this card suggests a lack of direction, failing to take responsibility, or struggling with leadership roles. The advice here is to balance ambition with wisdom and to lead with integrity rather than force.
The Etteilla Tarot assigns both upright and reversed meanings to each card, allowing for nuanced interpretations in Tarot Reading. Upright Wands often indicate success, leadership, and the courage to take bold steps forward. Reversed, they can signify delays, frustrations, or misuse of energy.
Unique to the Etteilla deck is its emphasis on predictive readings, and the Wands often highlight dynamic life events or urgent decisions. Whether used in free Tarot readings or online Tarot, the Wands serve as a guide to tapping into your inner strength and staying true to your purpose. With their passionate energy, they encourage action, creativity, and resilience in the face of obstacles.