The Five of Wands, often referred to as the card of Strife, represents a dynamic and challenging phase characterized by conflict, competition, and the necessary disruption of established stability. This card illustrates situations where opposing forces collide, compelling individuals to prove their strength and resilience. While often perceived as a source of annoyance or frustration, the underlying energy of the Five of Wands is not inherently destructive; rather, it serves as a catalyst for growth, awareness, and the restructuring of power dynamics. The imagery associated with this card, such as the wielded wands of the Chief Adept and the Phoenix-headed wands of the Major Adepts, suggests that this strife is derived from a higher authority and holds the potential for purgation and resurrection of energy. Understanding the nature of this conflict—whether it manifests as external competition, internal moral struggles, or workplace discord—is essential for navigating these turbulent waters. By recognizing the "Lord of Strife" as an opportunity to test one's determination and creativity, individuals can transform frustration into a driving force for establishing a clearer path of service and personal mission.
The Symbolism and Astrological Foundations of Strife
The Five of Wands is deeply rooted in the principles of motion and the breaking of structural stability. As a card of the suit of Wands, which governs the element of Fire, it embodies the revolutionary conception that motion aids matter, leading to a complete upset of statically stabilized systems. The number Five itself signifies motion, change, and the powers of destruction necessary to break the stability of the Four. Fire, by its nature, is not meant for settling and resting; it burns high to break out of its own realm. This results in aggressive renewals and revolutionary movements that can feel uncomfortable, especially when one has felt secure in the structure of the Four.
Astrologically, the Five of Wands is associated with Saturn in the first decan of Leo and is ruled by both Saturn and Leo. Leo represents the element of Fire at its strongest and most balanced, while Saturn tends to weigh this fiery energy down and embitter it. The result is a purely active force with no limit to its scope, often described as volcanic energy. The card is also referred to as Geburah of the suit of Fire. Geburah itself is fiery, representing tameless irrational energy and disturbance. However, a crucial doctrine regarding Geburah is that while it represents this wild energy, it derives from the benign and gentle influence of the feminine. This duality highlights the complex nature of strife: it is a harsh, active force that ultimately stems from a source of creative, mitigating influence.
The symbolism within the card further clarifies its meaning. The presence of the wand of the Chief Adept indicates that the authority for this strife is derived from superiors; without this hierarchy, the card would be thoroughly disastrous. The wands of the Second, or Major, Adept feature the head of the Phoenix, symbolizing destruction—or rather, purgation through fire—and the resurrection of energy from its ashes. Additionally, the wands of the Third, or Minor, Adept represent the daughters of the wands in the Three of Wands, carrying the mitigating influence of the Mother. These symbols collectively suggest that the conflict depicted is not random chaos but a structured, albeit intense, process of transformation and authority-driven change.
Workplace Dynamics and External Competition
In the context of professional life, the Five of Wands frequently appears when individuals are facing challenges or competition that test their resolve. This card often signifies a clash of opinions, struggles for dominance, or competing priorities that pull one in different directions. It is a common indicator of a "bad attitude" day, where even minor issues create their own difficulties and obstacles. In the workplace, this energy often manifests as feeling overwhelmed by the number of tasks that need to be completed, leading to restriction, limitation, and frustration.
The card highlights the friction that arises from competing desires, egos, or ambitions. It suggests that everyone is fighting to be heard, and there is a tendency toward rashness and loss of control, which can lead to further problems. This environment, while frustrating, is presented as an opportunity for growth. Competition sharpens skills and forces individuals to think creatively, finding new ways to assert themselves and succeed. The Five of Wands encourages one to embrace the challenge rather than retreat from it, asking whether an open mind is being maintained or if frustration is blocking progress.
When this card appears in a reading regarding a working situation, it often points to a clash of personality with a colleague or unhappiness with working practices. To determine the seriousness of the strife, one should look for accompanying cards. For instance, cards like the Nine of Swords, Ten of Swords, or the Tower indicate a really bad situation. Conversely, cards such as the Eight of Wands or the Six of Wands suggest that the friction may actually clear an outstanding problem area. Therefore, the Five of Wands in a professional setting is a call to navigate the discord with humor and a willingness to compromise, potentially turning a hostile environment into one of dynamic progress.
Internal Conflict and Moral Struggles
Perhaps the most significant manifestation of the Five of Wands is the internal conflict regarding one's morality or conscience. This card often appears when an individual is troubled by the voice of their conscience, particularly after taking an easy option or a dishonest turn. The "Lord of Strife" signifies the bitterness and argument for argument's sake that arises from such internal discord. Unlike external conflicts, this struggle is deeply personal and indicates a state of unhappiness that requires immediate attention.
The card suggests that when we are in inner conflict, particularly about something we consider immoral, we must set right whatever we believe we have done wrong or failed to do. Peace will not be achieved until this correction is made. This internal strife is a test of character and determination. It forces the individual to identify what energizes them and what they would fight for, even when tired or discouraged. By making this passion the centerpiece of their mission, they can find their livelihood and establish their path of service. The Five of Wands, in this context, serves as a spiritual wake-up call to align one's actions with their inner values, purging the "fire" of guilt through honest self-assessment and corrective action.
Navigating Relationships and Interpersonal Dynamics
In the realm of relationships, the Five of Wands indicates tension, disagreements, and a clash of differing perspectives or personalities. This can lead to miscommunication and conflict, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere. However, the card reminds the seeker that not all conflict is harmful. It emphasizes the idea that some level of discord is inevitable in relationships, and the key lies in how these challenges are navigated.
The card encourages open, honest communication and a willingness to compromise to transform strife into understanding and growth. It asks the individual to reflect on whether they are listening as much as they are asserting their point and if they are willing to find common ground. The dynamic energy of the Five of Wands in relationships is not necessarily a sign of a doomed connection but rather a test of its resilience. By facing the conflict head-on and viewing it as a necessary friction that can lead to stronger foundations, individuals can use this energy to deepen their understanding of one another and refine their interaction patterns.
Holistic Approaches to Managing Strife
While the provided sources focus on the symbolic and psychological aspects of the Five of Wands, the principles of holistic energy balancing suggest that managing such strife requires a balanced approach. The card's association with Fire and the revolutionary breaking of structures implies that suppression of this energy is counterproductive. Instead, channeling this "volcanic energy" into constructive outlets is essential.
In a holistic context, recognizing the source of the strife—whether it is external competition, internal moral questioning, or interpersonal friction—is the first step. The card suggests that disturbance is not inherently "evil" but a natural part of existence and growth. The "Adepts of the White School" mentioned in the sources reject the notion that peace must be characterized by inertia and insensitiveness. Therefore, a holistic approach involves accepting the disturbance as a sacrament and a necessary component of spiritual and personal evolution. This might involve practices that allow for the safe release of aggressive or restless energy, such as competitive sports or creative endeavors, transforming the destructive potential of the Five of Wands into a purgative fire that leads to resurrection and renewal.
Conclusion
The Five of Wands, or Strife, is a complex card that signifies the inevitable challenges and competitions that arise in life. It represents the breaking of stability to allow for motion and growth, driven by the volcanic energy of Geburah and the astrological influences of Saturn and Leo. Whether manifesting as workplace competition, internal moral conflict, or interpersonal tension, this card serves as a reminder that struggle is a catalyst for development. It tests one's determination and creativity, pushing individuals to assert themselves and refine their path. By embracing the challenge, communicating openly, and aligning actions with inner values, the strife of the Five of Wands can be transformed from a source of frustration into a powerful force for establishing clarity, strength, and renewed energy in all areas of life.