Nine of Wands

Pacing yourself is the key to long-term success.

The Nine of Wands [Upright]

Here we see a figure who has struggled, suffered, and given everything over in this card, yet they are still standing. Sure, the man is leaning on his wand for support, but there's nothing wrong with that.

Everyone needs to get support from others at some point in life, and there's nothing wrong with that. Now maybe the time to face the fact that you need some support too.

The guy in this picture will soon be ready to move on. He represents that spirit, the drive to keep going regardless. Sometimes you just need to draw a breath, to take a short time out, before picking things up again.

Even if you don't have the support you'd like, stay strong and focused – all will be good. Always back yourself.

Nine of Wands Keywords [Upright]

  • Resilience
  • Guts and grit
  • Strength
  • Courage
  • Stamina
  • Sticking power

Nine of Wands Meaning [Upright]

The upright nine of wands often shows up as a power-up card. Appearing right at that moment in life when you are close to the finish line but just need a final push to get there.

Life can be exhausting, and it can feel like one long cycle of chores, deadlines, responsibilities, and challenges. This card tends to pop up when you feel close to breaking point,

You are not a quitter, but a bit of support and encouragement is always welcome. Yes, you will face setbacks, but these are tests to move past, not immovable boulders.

Key Points – Love [Upright]

  • In a love reading, the upright nine of wands reminds you that although it's incredible, love isn't always easy. A successful relationship comes from two people's blood, sweat, and tears.
  • Both sides must contribute their time, effort, and consideration. If you can't make that happen, then face it and let things move on.
  • On the other hand, if you are thinking about deepening a romantic commitment, say by proposing or becoming exclusive, do precisely what is needed to make it happen.

Key Points – Money [Upright]

  • The upright nine of wands is an early warning system. It tells you to act early on to help bypass major financial issues.
  • Think carefully about borrowing or lending. Avoid debt were possible. Instead, look for other solutions first, like working a side gig.
  • Being short of cash is probably a short-term problem, but it's still important.

Key Points - Career [Upright]

  • You are halfway to a job-related goal, so don't give up. You have a plan for your career, so face that test or learn that new skill.
  • Hiccups are expected but should be temporary. When you feel close to screaming and are beyond exhausted, this card brings hope. It's a rallying cry.

The Nine of Wands [Reversed]

Nine of Wands Keywords [Reversed]

  • Giving in
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Struggling
  • Stubborn and rigid
  • Defensive attitude

Nine of Wands Meaning [Reversed]

In reverse position, the nine of wands depicts a person at risk of being frozen from fear. To move forward involves risks, and the unknown is mighty scary.

The result is often withdrawal, creating an image of a poor team player and a weak communicator.

Pay attention. You are the warden of your prison. Be brave, but not rash or hasty, as long-term success is as critical as short-term gain.

You simply must beat the fear. Accept that setbacks will happen, and keep going. If you feel overwhelmed and isolated at any point, do seek help.

Key Points - Love [Reversed]

  • In a love reading, the reversed nine of wands often highlights disappointment. It's natural to feel frustrated if, despite making an effort, you have not achieved the results you desired.
  • As a result, you may feel exhausted. Moving forward means finding common ground and a way to compromise.
  • Single people might find their protective emotional barriers are actually rigid boundaries. Rethink how you may be keeping people at a distance, making a relationship impossible.

Key Points - Money [Reversed]

  • The reversed nine of wands tells you to hop on board the money management train. You may have some financial challenges right now, and ignoring them will ultimately lead to disaster.
  • There are no shortcuts, so don't look for or accept them. This means no gambling, loan sharks, illegal activity, or any other less than sensible notions.

Key Points - Career [Reversed]

  • The reversed nine of wands suggests career burnout is hurtling your way. You will need to call on other aspects of life for support and to rebuild yourself.
  • Be realistic. Maybe you are ready for a change of career? Actively making that kind of decision is a plan, not a defeat.

See What Your Other Minor Arcana Crad Have To Say