What the suit of Wands means
The Wands of the 1909 deck are living branches, always with fresh leaves on them: this is energy that grows. The suit belongs to the element of Fire and to the fire signs Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. It speaks of inspiration, enthusiasm, creativity, courage, career and personal growth — everything you start because something inside you wants it.
In playing cards the Wands are clubs. Some decks call them Rods, Staves or Batons.
Fire in light and shadow
In their light the Wands are vision and drive: the Ace’s first spark, the Three’s look towards the horizon, the Six’s victory parade, the Eight’s swift movement. In their shadow, fire burns too hot: the Five’s pointless conflict, the Nine’s exhausted defence, the Ten’s burden carried alone.
The court cards of the suit are charismatic people: the curious Page, the impulsive Knight, the warm and confident Queen with her black cat, and the King, a leader with a vision.
Many Wands in a reading
When several Wands appear together, the situation is driven by energy and will: a new project, a rise at work, a strong desire. It is a time to act rather than wait. Many reversed Wands, though, can point to burnout or scattered energy: too many starts and too little follow-through.
Questions and answers
What element are Wands in tarot?
Fire. In a few traditions Wands are linked to Air and Swords to Fire, but the 1909 deck and most modern readers use Fire for Wands.
What zodiac signs are the Wands?
The fire signs: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.