By Katrina Rasbold
Among the most visually celebratory cards in the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot deck, the Four of Wands radiates joy, accomplishment, and stability. Designed by Pamela Colman Smith under the guidance of Arthur Edward Waite, this card belongs to the Suit of Wands, which governs creativity, passion, and action. Its imagery suggests festivity and harmony, making it one of the most positive cards in the deck. But beneath its bright and cheerful surface lies a deeper symbolism that connects to numerology, esotericism, and human experience.
Visual Breakdown of the Four of Wands
At first glance, the Four of Wands presents a scene of jubilation. The artwork depicts:
- Four upright wands, forming a structure akin to a wedding canopy or celebratory arch.
- A garland of flowers, draped between the wands, reinforcing the theme of festivity.
- Two figures in the foreground, dressed in festive robes, appearing to celebrate or welcome someone.
- A castle or town in the background, suggesting security and permanence.
- A bright golden sky, symbolizing warmth, optimism, and divine blessings.
Each element in this card contributes to its overarching message of celebration, stability, and communal joy.
Symbolism in the Four of Wands
1. The Number Four: Stability and Foundation
In numerology, the number four represents structure, order, and a strong foundation. It evokes stability in various aspects of life, such as relationships, careers, and personal growth. This number is often associated with completion of a phase, allowing room for enjoyment before moving to the next stage.
In the context of the Wands suit, which embodies fiery energy and action, the number four tempers passion with structure, ensuring that creative endeavors have a solid base to thrive.
2. The Wands and the Garland: A Threshold and Celebration
The four wands resemble a chuppah (a traditional Jewish wedding canopy) or a Maypole, both of which signify unity, festivity, and sacred space. The garland linking the wands suggests victory, beauty, and achievement, marking a moment of well-earned success.
This formation can also be interpreted as a portal, indicating transition into a new chapter of life—such as marriage, career milestones, or spiritual growth.
3. The Figures: Welcoming Joy and Togetherness
The two dancing figures, dressed in vibrant colors, convey an air of merriment and camaraderie. They appear to be greeting someone, possibly the Seeker, inviting them into a state of happiness and shared success.
Their positioning and open gestures hint at inclusivity, reinforcing the idea that joy is best experienced in community rather than isolation.
4. The Castle: Security and Achievements
In the background, a castle or walled town stands tall, representing a place of safety and long-term success. This structure suggests that previous efforts have led to stability and prosperity, allowing for celebration without fear of loss.
It also symbolizes the end of a journey, hinting that a long-sought goal has been achieved, allowing the Seeker to rest and appreciate their progress.
5. The Golden Sky: A Divine Blessing
The golden sky overhead imbues the card with warmth and positive energy. Yellow, often associated with illumination, joy, and divine guidance, indicates that the success seen in the Four of Wands is aligned with higher blessings.
Interpretations of the Four of Wands in Readings
Upright Meaning: Celebration, Stability, and Milestones
When drawn in an upright position, the Four of Wands signifies:
- Achievement of a milestone – success in relationships, career, or personal goals.
- Celebration and joy – a time to acknowledge hard work and enjoy the fruits of labor.
- Harmony in relationships – possible engagement, marriage, or reunion with loved ones.
- A stable home life – security, peace, and comfort in one’s personal environment.
- A transition into a new, positive phase – moving from struggle to stability.
This card often appears when someone is about to graduate, get married, receive recognition, or move into a better home environment. It encourages taking a moment to celebrate accomplishments before moving forward.
Reversed Meaning: Delays, Unfinished Business, or Lack of Recognition
When reversed, the Four of Wands can indicate:
- Unfinished milestones – a delay in celebrations, postponed weddings, or setbacks in reaching a goal.
- Lack of harmony – tension within relationships or an unstable home environment.
- Feeling unrecognized – putting in effort without receiving due acknowledgment.
- Transitional instability – moving towards stability, but not quite there yet.
A reversed Four of Wands is not necessarily negative but suggests that external factors may be preventing full enjoyment of success. It advises patience, perseverance, and addressing underlying instability before moving forward.
The Four of Wands in Love, Career, and Spirituality
Love and Relationships
The Four of Wands is one of the most auspicious love cards, often signaling marriage, engagements, reunions, or deep harmony between partners. It suggests a relationship built on trust and mutual support, leading to a long-term commitment.
If reversed, it may indicate relationship instability, difficulty in planning a wedding or future together, or external stressors affecting harmony.
Career and Finances
In a career context, the Four of Wands points to job security, promotions, or successful collaborations. It can also indicate the completion of a major project, leading to well-deserved recognition and reward.
Reversed, it warns of delays in career progress, workplace conflicts, or feeling unfulfilled despite accomplishments.
Spirituality and Personal Growth
Spiritually, this card represents inner balance, a supportive community, and reaching a state of peace. It encourages gratitude and appreciation for life’s blessings.
Reversed, it may suggest spiritual unrest or lack of community support, urging the Seeker to find grounding and connection.
Embracing the Joy of the Four of Wands
Pamela Colman Smith’s Four of Wands is a powerful symbol of celebration, stability, and transition. Whether signifying a wedding, career success, or personal fulfillment, it reminds us to pause, acknowledge our progress, and share joy with others.
Even in its reversed state, this card teaches patience and perseverance, highlighting that stability is within reach, even if momentarily delayed.
Ultimately, the Four of Wands is a beacon of hope, urging us to appreciate both our personal victories and the communities that support us along the way.
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Katrina Rasbold is a professional Witch, published author, priestess, and editor of Green Egg Magazine. She and her husband, Eric, are the creators of the CUSP spiritual path and owners of Crossroads Occult. You can reach her through www.katrinarasbold.com.