The Wheel of Fortune - Tarot Meaning
The Wheel of Fortune depicts the constant cycle of change and the ups and downs of life. It signifies destiny, fate, and the inevitable turning points that shape our journey. This card reminds us that while we cannot control every event, we can adapt and respond with resilience. It often heralds a moment of significant change, opportunity, or a shift in circumstances.
By Tony Fox Tarot, 9 April 2015
Introduction
The Wheel of Fortune is one of the most mysterious and expansive cards in the Major Arcana. It speaks to the unseen forces that shape our lives—karma, fate, destiny, and divine timing. While much of life may appear random, this card reminds us that every twist and turn is part of a much greater cosmic order. When the Wheel turns, circumstances can shift dramatically—for better or worse—and how we respond can shape not only our present path, but also our future karmic cycle.
Symbolism & Spiritual Meaning
The Wheel of Fortune represents the eternal cycle of life—birth, death, rebirth—and our role in the ever-turning mechanism of the universe. It reflects events and circumstances that are beyond our personal control, yet deeply connected to our soul’s journey.
The card features mythological creatures (the Sphinx, eagle, lion and bull), symbolising the four fixed signs of the zodiac—Aquarius, Scorpio, Leo and Taurus—guardians of the universe and keepers of higher knowledge. Their appearance links this card to The World, suggesting that the Wheel is a midpoint in the Major Arcana’s journey toward enlightenment and integration.
The Wheel is also a powerful emblem of karma and reincarnation. In Buddhist philosophy, the Wheel of Samsara traps us in cycles of suffering and rebirth until we awaken. Buddha’s liberation came when he stepped off the Wheel by ending desire. Similarly, this card invites us to awaken to the patterns we repeat, understand the spiritual mechanics at play, and choose conscious evolution.
Fate, Karma & Change
Sometimes life changes without warning. The Wheel can bring a windfall or a downfall. Either way, it calls on us to work with the changes—not against them. It asks: How do you respond when life throws you a curveball? Are you resisting fate or learning from it?
This card reminds us that what we’re experiencing now is part of a karmic pattern—set in motion perhaps lifetimes ago. It offers us a rare glimpse behind the curtain, to understand that seemingly random events are not without purpose. While we may not be able to control the Wheel itself, we can choose how we engage with its turning.
The Wheel of Fortune in a Reading
Keywords:
Sudden change of circumstances
Completion of a cycle
Beginning of a new chapter
Luck, fate, destiny
Karma and reincarnation
Divine timing
Working with, not against, the flow of life
Interpretation:
In a tarot reading, the Wheel of Fortune often heralds a significant shift in energy. It can signal a turning point in your journey, a fated encounter, or a moment of divine alignment. Sometimes it brings luck or unexpected opportunity; other times, it challenges you to grow through uncertainty. This card asks you to remain open, adaptable, and spiritually aware—because every change has a reason, even if it’s not yet clear.