Tarot Card Symbolism: The Nine of Wands of the Minor Arcana

The Nine of Wands of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the ninth card of the Suit of Wands. It follows the Eight of Wands. It is the embodiment of order, discipline, and courage.

The Symbolism of the Nine of Wands Tarot Card

This card is represented by a man who stands alone, clutching a staff before him. He wears a bandage on his head as if he has been injured, but he stands defiant nonetheless, determined to the end. Behind him range eight wands, upright in position, forming almost a wall.

The landscape that stretches out behind this man is mountainous, rocky and unforgiving. And yet, the sky shines a bright blue, unaffected by the turmoil that might be occurring below.

The General Interpretation of the Nine of Wands Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies a position which is unassailable, and highly defensible. Though the struggle may be fierce, with courage and fortitude, the challenge can be overcome. Success, though hard-won, will soon be achieved.

The Nine of Wands is a card of valor. This card assures the individual that courageous, honorable behavior will win the day. The discipline of a soldier might be required to succeed, for only in order can true victory be found.

The Inner Meaning of the Nine of Wands in Tarot

The Nine of Wands is the image of courage in the face of adversity. It is a card that conveys the idea of standing strong against all odds, and being victorious. Any opposition will be defeated and removed in short order. This is a card that indicates success, at least eventually.

However, it is important to note the bandage on the head of the man on the Nine of Wands. He has certainly been injured, though it is not clear how this occurred. However this happened, this injury is a message. At the very least, the victory will be difficult to accomplish; injury — physical, emotional, or mental — is a possibility.

Eight of the nine wands on this card form a wall, impenetrable to outside forces. This wall is sturdy and stable, and cannot be removed by force. This is yet another meaning to the Nine of Wands, that the individual must be strong and stable to face the adversity that is approaching. Only then can victory be truly won.

In yet another interpretation, this card can indicate good health after a long illness, or possibly after an injury.

The Ten of Wands follows this card.