The Chariot, the seventh card of the Major Arcana, represents a powerful archetype of determination, willpower, and triumph through focused action. Its appearance in a reading signals a period of momentum and forward motion, driven by inner strength and clarity of purpose. In the context of love and relationships, this card shifts the energy away from passivity and reflection toward decisive movement and intentional pursuit. It serves as a reminder that while emotions are vital, love often requires active effort and the courage to navigate obstacles with confidence.
The imagery of The Chariot typically depicts a warrior or charioteer standing within a chariot, often pulled by two sphinxes or horses—one black and one white. These opposing forces symbolize conflicting aspects of life or personality that must be balanced and harnessed to move forward. The charioteer often holds no reins, signifying that control is maintained through inner willpower rather than external force. This visual narrative underscores the card’s themes of discipline, self-mastery, and the ability to steer one’s destiny through determination.
The Chariot in Love Tarot Readings
When The Chariot appears in a love reading, it emphasizes the importance of action and direction. It is not a card of waiting or hoping; rather, it invites the querent to take the reins and actively shape their romantic future. The energy it brings is one of progress, suggesting that relationships are either picking up speed or that the querent is on a personal journey to clarify their feelings and intentions.
Upright Meaning in Love
In an upright position, The Chariot signals movement and progress. For those in new relationships, it may indicate that the connection is developing quickly and with purpose. For singles, it suggests that their energy is aligned with attracting a partner who matches their passion and drive. This card emphasizes that love thrives when both parties are pulling together toward a shared goal. It highlights the necessity of balance; if one partner hesitates while the other pushes forward, the relationship risks losing alignment. The Chariot upright encourages clear communication and the confidence to navigate the complexities of connection, teaching that love grows when emotional insight is combined with decisive action.
Reversed Meaning in Love
When The Chariot appears reversed, it points to potential blockages or misalignments in the realm of love. This position warns of disarray, where control, impatience, or a lack of direction may be affecting the relationship. One partner may be pushing for progress while the other resists, creating tension. It can also indicate that past experiences are clouding current judgment, leading to uncertainty or mixed messages.
The reversed Chariot asks the querent to pause and reassess their direction. It suggests that movement without a clear aim leads to exhaustion rather than fulfillment. If the card appears in this position, it encourages seeking clarity through direct communication and ensuring that actions are rooted in genuine desire rather than avoidance of stillness. It may also signal that love is possible, but only after internal conflicts are resolved and intentions are realigned.
The Chariot and Specific Relationship Questions
The Chariot’s energy can provide direct insights into specific questions regarding love and relationships, particularly when used in yes or no formats.
Do They Love You? Yes or No
Upright: The answer is yes. The Chariot upright reflects focused, intentional love. Even if the partner is not overtly expressive, their actions—such as making plans, including the querent in their vision, and consistently showing up—demonstrate commitment and genuine feelings. This card represents a love rooted in direction and the desire to build something real.
Reversed: The answer is uncertain or no. The reversed card may reflect resistance or uncertainty. A partner might care but feel unsure about the future, leading to inconsistent behavior or mixed signals. This position encourages the querent to seek clarity rather than proof of love, as love should not feel like a solitary race.
Is My Partner Cheating? Yes or No
Upright: The upright Chariot does not typically point to cheating. It reflects discipline, purpose, and a desire to maintain control within the relationship. Its presence suggests that the partner is focused on moving the relationship forward with integrity.
Reversed: While the reversed Chariot does not explicitly indicate cheating, it does signal misalignment or a lack of direction. It may suggest that the partner is acting with inconsistency or is uncertain about their commitment, which could manifest as mixed messages or emotional distance. However, it is more likely to indicate internal conflict than deceit.
Will I Find True Love? Yes or No
Upright: The answer is yes. The Chariot upright signifies that love is within reach if the querent maintains focus and takes decisive action. It suggests that the querent is in a position to attract a partner who aligns with their values and pace, provided they move forward with purpose and clarity.
Reversed: The answer is uncertain or delayed. The reversed card suggests that love may be hindered by internal conflict, unclear desires, or rushing into situations that lack depth. It advises slowing down, reflecting, and getting clear on personal goals before pursuing a new relationship.
The Chariot in Tarot Spreads
The placement of The Chariot in various tarot spreads can provide nuanced insights into the dynamics of a relationship.
3 Card Love Tarot Spread
- Past: A choice made from the heart or regained focus in love.
- Present: Fast progress or a growing connection.
- Future: Commitment through shared direction and will.
In this spread, The Chariot shows progress but reminds the querent that lasting progress requires both parties to remain steady and connected.
Reversed: - Past: A connection that lacked control. - Present: Scattered energy or unspoken tension. - Future: Potential burnout if the pace continues without alignment.
The message is to slow down, communicate more, and move with shared purpose.
5 Card Love Tarot Spread
The Chariot brings energy and motivation, often appearing in advice or outcome positions. It advises leading with clarity and working together toward shared objectives. It supports growth through direction and emphasizes the importance of mutual effort.
7 Card and 10 Card Celtic Cross Spreads
While specific details for these spreads were not provided in the source material, The Chariot’s general energy in complex spreads remains consistent: it signifies a need for balance between opposing forces, the importance of willpower, and the drive to overcome obstacles. In a Celtic Cross spread, its position would further clarify whether this energy pertains to the querent’s internal state, external influences, or the future direction of the relationship.
The Chariot as Feelings in Love
The Chariot, associated with the zodiac sign Cancer, represents strong, focused emotions in love. It reflects the drive to overcome obstacles, achieve emotional balance, and pursue a shared vision. When upright, it signifies a love interest who feels determined to move the relationship forward. Their emotions are channeled into action, and they are likely focused on building a future together.
The reversed Chariot, however, indicates that these feelings may be clouded by uncertainty or internal conflict. The love interest may feel pulled in different directions, leading to hesitation or a lack of clarity about how to proceed.
Conclusion
The Chariot is a card of action, discipline, and triumph in love. Upright, it signals a time of forward momentum, clear intentions, and the possibility of building a strong, committed relationship through mutual effort and shared goals. Reversed, it serves as a warning against misalignment, impatience, and movement without purpose. Whether seeking clarity on a partner’s feelings, assessing the potential for a new relationship, or navigating the complexities of an existing one, The Chariot encourages the querent to harness their inner strength, maintain balance, and steer their romantic life with confidence and determination.