Element: Fire
Sign: 3. decan of Sagittarius
Planet: Saturn
Tree of Life: Malkuth
Keywords: fire in its most destructive aspect, cruelty, malice, burning out, false purpose
Lord of Oppression
Known as the Lord of Oppression, the ten of wands depicts something constrained or constricted. This card represents a significant shift in energy from the Nine of Wands, which focused on resilience and strength. In contrast, the Ten of Wands shows us when too much intensity is not controlled and balanced.
The Ten of Wands holds back and limits the fire energy, creating an overbearing force. This tarot card has lost its connection to higher spiritual realms, causing it to burn destructively on the earth and become a tyrant.
Joe’s Guidance - Ten of Wands - Thoth
Upright
When the Ten of Wands appears upright in a tarot reading, it signifies a period of overwhelming burdens and responsibilities. You may feel weighed down by numerous tasks and obligations, which can lead to exhaustion and a sense of being overwhelmed. Or, you may be pushing too hard.
This card urges you to assess the situation and determine whether you have taken on too much. It is essential to prioritize self-care and seek support to lighten your load. Consider delegating tasks, setting boundaries, and releasing any unnecessary commitments. Don’t be too attached to outcomes and realize when it is time to move on.
By addressing the source of oppression and repression, you can regain balance and free yourself from the constraints that are holding you back.
Reversed
In the reversed position, the Ten of Wands suggests a release from oppressive situations and a sense of liberation. It indicates that you are finding ways to lighten your load and let go of burdens that have been weighing you down. But, there is still more to let go of!
You may be gaining clarity and recognizing the need for self-care and balance in your life. This card encourages you to seek freedom from excessive responsibilities and obligations, allowing yourself to prioritize your well-being and focus on what truly matters. Embrace the opportunity to regain control, shed unnecessary burdens, and restore a sense of lightness and freedom in your journey.
Mystical Symbolism - Ten of Wands in Thoth Tarot
Dorjes: The dorjes are colored black to represent Saturn and Malkuth. They symbolize the restrictive nature of the energy in the Ten of Wands.
8 Wands: The eight wands, characterized by claws and barbs, signify the raw and less-refined quality of this energy.
Distorted Flames: The distorted flames that emanate from the crossed wands represent the chaotic and burdensome nature of the situation.
Orange Background: The orange background in the Ten of Wands represents Geburah in Atziluth, highlighting the severity of challenges that accompany this card. It serves as a reminder of the importance of strength and resilience in navigating and overcoming these obstacles.
Tree of Life: Malkuth and the Ten of Wands
The Ten of Wands in the Thoth Tarot is associated with a specific position on the Tree of Life called Malkuth. The Tree of Life is a symbolic diagram that represents different aspects of the universe and the human experience.
Malkuth is the lowest sephirah on the Tree of Life and represents the physical world, our material existence, and the realm of everyday reality. It is often associated with the element of Earth and represents the tangible aspects of life, such as our physical bodies and the material possessions we interact with.
The connection to Malkuth suggests that this card relates to the challenges and burdens we face in our daily lives. It reminds us that life can sometimes feel heavy and overwhelming, with responsibilities and obligations weighing us down.
Astrology Insights
The Ten of Wands in astrology is attributed to the third decan of Sagittarius, which is ruled by Saturn. In this combination, the optimistic and adventurous qualities of Sagittarius meet the restrictive and heavy energy of Saturn.
Sagittarius is a sign that seeks expansion and expresses its optimistic and philosophical nature. However, Saturn brings limitations and order, suppressing the natural expansiveness of Sagittarius.
The presence of Saturn in Sagittarius creates a tension between the desire for freedom and the need for structure. The oppressive nature of Saturn can dampen the adventurous spirit of Sagittarius, causing a sense of restriction.