Element: Fire

Symbols: Lions on the Throne (instinct, majesty), Salamanders (adaptability, renewal, transformation), Crown (status, honor)

Upright: leadership, vision, big picture, taking control, daring decisions, boldness, optimism

Reversed: forceful, domineering, tyrant, vicious, powerless, ineffective, weak leader


The King of Wands depicts a man who has in his hands a blossoming wand, which is set to represent creativity and life's passion. His throne, as well as his cape, are decorated with the salamander and the lion, which are symbols of fire and strength. The salamander that is biting his tail represents the infinity as well as the overall drive to move through all obstacles. The robe is bright and orange resembling a flame, while the crown is shaped like a tongue of fire. 

King of Wands - Card Meaning

Upright King of Wands Meaning

The meaning of the upright position of the King of Wands represents pure energy. Unlike the other wands cards in the deck however, this particular one is not focused on pure creativity. Instead, this king is actually way more likely to take an idea and to decisively implement it himself. The King of Wands is a natural born leader of people, and he is also extremely capable. Once the king sets for himself a certain aim or a goal, he is going to conveniently stick to it in order to ensure that it becomes a reality.

The King of Wands looks forward to all sorts of different challenges - whether great or small, for he gets a natural adrenaline rush associated with the solving of problems.

Upright King of Wands Tarot Meaning: Love

There’s never a dull moment with the King of Wands, and in your love tarot reading he can appear as an energetic, natural leader that is generous with both their time and their resources. Their fiery nature means that they may have quite a temper, but he is as quick to forget his anger as he is to incite it. With such energy, some folks may find the King of Wands to be rather exhausting, but he brings excitement to every situation. Should this card not appear as a person that is entering your life, this card can indicate a time of focus and perseverance. You may be putting extra effort into you romantic situation now, and this could have great rewards. If you are in a relationship, this card is a happy one; the love between the you is passionate and deep, though sometimes you can still have an argument here or there.

Reversed King of Wands Meaning

The negative aspect of the card is associated, as you may guess, with a feeling of arrogance. He can even be rather aggressive in the actual pursuit of his goals, regardless of whether he’s actually conscious or not of it. He wouldn’t show restraint, nor even the humbleness to know when his assistance isn’t actually required.

When reversed, the card depicts a personality which is prone to taking rash, impulsive and hasty decisions. This person could be pushy, overbearing as well as dominating at times. Even though he might rarely do this with a sense of malice or with an intention to make someone feel submissive, this is without a doubt a part of his character that one can be frustrated at.

In reversal, the card represents the worst spectrum of the qualities of the fire – selfishness and ruthlessness. He can be manipulative as long as you are serving his purpose. With this in mind, the card definitely points out strong and weak aspects, and reflecting on his image can help you dig deeper in your personality.

Reversed King of Wands Meaning: Love

Reversed, the King of Wands tarot love meaning can point to an arrogant, aggressive and bossy bully. Should the card not appear in your life as a person in your life, you may have to consider your own actions. Have you been controlling, dominating or egotistical? There’s a good chance that if you’re facing issues with relationships and romance, this attitude may be the reason. You may be thinking you are doing the right thing, pushing others to be their best self, but even the best intentions can be soured with a forceful, pressuring hand. Everyone has their own way of learning, and you may be better off letting your partners explore their own solutions to their own problems, instead of coercing them to do things your way.