Two of Wands
Holding the world in your hand, you look out and plan your next move.
- Card
- Minor Arcana · Wands (Fire)
- Upright keywords
- Planning, Ambition, Vision, Decision
- Reversed keywords
- Hesitation, Plans that fall through, Anxiety, Playing it safe
- Yes or no
- Depends on conditions
Traditional correspondences Golden Dawn: Lord of Dominion / Thoth: Dominion / 1st decan of Aries · Mars / Sephirah: Chokmah (Wisdom)
Upright meaning
Time to plan your next step. Make your plans with a wide view.
A man stands on the battlements of a castle, holding a small globe and looking out over the sea, one wand fixed to the wall and another in his hand. He has achieved something and now wants more. Upright, the Two of Wands is about vision and planning: deciding where to go next, weighing options and preparing to expand. The world is open to you. Think big, then choose.
Reversed meaning
You have a plan but can’t take the step. Find out what the fear really is.
Reversed, the planning goes in circles. You may be afraid to leave your comfort zone, unsure which way to go or stuck with plans that never become action. Ask what you’re really afraid of losing, and whether staying put is truly a choice or just a habit.
For ways of reading reversed cards, see how to read reversals.
Love
Thinking about the future of a relationship, or deciding whether to take a step.
Indecision, or one of you not ready to commit to a direction.
Work
Long-term planning, expansion or considering a move abroad.
Plans stuck on paper. Pick one and start.
Money
Planning investments and thinking long term.
Fear holding you back from a sensible move.
Relationships
Looking beyond your usual circle.
Feeling restless with people around you.
Health
Planning a healthier routine.
Knowing what to do but not doing it.
Tarot does not diagnose physical conditions. If you have symptoms that worry you, please see a doctor.
Mind and spirit
Seeing the bigger picture of your life.
Torn between safety and adventure.
As a person
An ambitious planner with a wide view.
Someone hesitant or restless.
Timing
After a few weeks of preparation, the moment to decide arrives. In the calendar, late March is also a guide (roughly March 21–30).
Advice
Look far ahead and choose your direction.
Name your fear and take one step anyway.
Questions to ask yourself
- Where do I want to be a year from now?
- What am I afraid to give up?
- What is my next concrete step?
A common misreading
The Two of Wands isn’t only about travel, though it can mean that. It is about choosing a direction with a wide view.
The story of this card
After the Ace’s spark, the Two asks what to do with it. With two wands, there are two options: stay safe in the castle, or go out into the world.
The Waite deck’s picture and symbols
In the Waite deck a man in a red cap stands on a castle wall holding a globe, looking out over land and sea. One wand is fixed in a ring on the wall and he holds the other. The roses and lilies on the wall echo the Magician.
History and differences between traditions
Waite and Pamela Colman Smith drew full scenes for all the pip cards, which older decks showed only as arranged symbols. The Golden Dawn titles, such as Lord of Dominion, gave each number a clear meaning that they drew on.
Words for today
I can see my path and choose it.
I take one step beyond my comfort zone.