The Magician
willpower, skill, initiative
The Magician belongs to people who know how to use their tools. Talent, initiative and the knack for turning an idea into something real. It's time to act, and to do it on purpose.
The image and its symbolism
The Magician is card number I. He stands behind a table in a white robe and a red cloak. His right hand raises a wand toward the sky and his left points down at the earth. The infinity symbol floats above his head, and his belt is a snake biting its own tail.
On the table sit the four suits of the tarot: a cup, a sword, a pentacle and a wand. The background is yellow, and red roses and white lilies grow at his feet. The gesture of his hands sums it all up, since what's conceived above becomes real below. The four objects are the resources within your reach. The infinity sign and the snake speak of a power that keeps renewing itself, while the white and red bring together a clean intention and the drive to act.
What The Magician means
Upright, The Magician says it's time to go from idea to action. You have the tools, the talent and the opening, so use them with intention. He shows up when you're about to pitch a project, open a business or walk into an interview, or when you learn something and put it into practice right away. Things happen because someone makes them happen.
There's a lot of communication and focus in this card too. The Magician knows what he wants and goes after it without scattering himself. Day to day, it can be as simple as sorting your priorities, writing that email you've been putting off, or standing up for your idea in a meeting. His strength comes from combining what you already have, and luck plays a small part.
The Magician in love
Charm and initiative. If you like someone, make the first move. If you're in a relationship, say clearly what you want.
If you're in a relationship
It's time for the two of you to talk openly and keep the spark alive. Suggest something new, clear up that misunderstanding, or make the decision together that you've both been putting off. Talking is your best tool right now.
If you're single
You're on a roll when it comes to attraction. If someone catches your interest, take the initiative instead of waiting. Show up as yourself, because your confidence is what people notice most.
If you're thinking about an ex
There's room to talk and clear up what was left unsaid. Some kind of reconnection is possible, but only if someone takes the step with a clear intention. First, ask yourself what you'd want to get out of that conversation.
At work
A great card for starting a business, negotiating or going after a job or an audition. People are going to notice what you can do.
Good for starting a business, negotiating, selling an idea or applying for a position. Your skills stand out, so show them without false modesty. If you're studying, learn something practical and use it soon.
Money
You can make money from what you're good at, whether that's extra work, a service of your own or better terms. Resources don't move by themselves, so move them yourself, with a clear head. Look at where your money goes and where you could get more out of what you already have.
Health and well-being
You have more ways to look after yourself than you think. Start a healthy routine and, above all, stick with it.
As feelings, as a person and as the future
As feelings
They're attracted to you and want to win you over. They like what you say and how you say it, and they'll probably look for a way to get closer. The intention is there. What remains to be seen is whether their actions back up their words.
As a person
Someone skilled, a smooth talker with plenty of initiative. They solve problems, adapt fast and have a certain charisma. Often an entrepreneur or a creative type, the kind who wins people over by talking.
As the future
A chance is coming to launch something of your own. You'll have the means within reach. Whether you use them is up to you.
The Magician reversed
Manipulation and pretty words with nothing behind them. Also talent left in a drawer because of insecurity.
Reversed, The Magician is talent that's misused or wasted. It might be insecurity keeping you from showing what you know, or being so scattered that you start a thousand things and finish none. Sometimes it's something else: a person using their skill to deceive. Check whether words and actions line up.
In love it warns of shallow seduction, broken promises or little games meant to manipulate. Pay attention to what the other person does and not only to what they say. At work it can mean a poorly planned project, a deal that isn't transparent, or your own doubts getting in the way of a good opportunity.
As a yes or no answer
Yes
Yes. The Magician has everything he needs laid out on the table, and so do you. What you do matters more here than luck.
Do the readingCombined with other cards
Use what you already know how to do, and get started.
The Magician FAQ
Is The Magician a yes or no card?
It's a yes. You have what you need to get what you're asking about, as long as you act instead of waiting.
What planet is associated with The Magician?
In the Golden Dawn system, The Magician corresponds to Mercury, the planet of communication, wit and skill. That's why the card has so much to do with words, business and dexterity.
What do the objects on The Magician's table mean?
The cup, sword, pentacle and wand are the four suits of the tarot and also the four elements: water, air, earth and fire. Together they stand for everything you have to create with.
What does The Magician mean in love?
Attraction, charm and a desire to talk things through. Take the initiative and say plainly what you want.