One of the most common questions new readers ask is about reversed tarot cards—cards that appear upside-down in a spread. Should you read them differently? What do they mean? Are reversals “bad” or simply another layer of meaning? In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find tarot reversals explained in clear, practical language. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to add depth to your readings, understanding tarot reversals will help you interpret the cards with greater confidence and intuition.
What Are Tarot Reversals?
Tarot reversals occur when a card appears upside-down in your spread—meaning the image is inverted from its usual, upright position. Some readers shuffle in a way that allows reversals; others prefer to keep all cards upright. If you choose to use reversals, they add nuance and complexity to your readings.
Should You Use Tarot Reversals?
The choice is personal! Here are the common approaches:
- Use reversals: Adds more depth and a wider range of meanings to each card.
- Don’t use reversals: Focus on upright meanings and rely on intuition, card position, or context for nuance.
- Occasional reversals: Use them in specific spreads or when you feel guided to.
If you’re a beginner, try both methods and see what resonates. There’s no “right” way—only what feels authentic for your practice.
What Do Tarot Reversals Mean?
Tarot reversals are not inherently negative! They simply indicate a shift or variation on the upright card’s energy. Here are some common interpretations for reversed tarot cards:
1. Blocked or Delayed Energy
The card’s energy is present but stuck, repressed, or not flowing freely.
- Example: The Chariot reversed may show blocked progress or lack of motivation.
2. Internalization or Reflection
The card’s meaning is more internal, private, or hidden, rather than outwardly expressed.
- Example: The Hermit reversed might suggest resisting solitude or ignoring inner wisdom.
3. Opposite or “Shadow” Meaning
The reversal may suggest the opposite of the upright meaning, or the card’s shadow side.
- Example: The Sun reversed can indicate temporary setbacks or hidden joy.
4. Too Much or Too Little
The card’s energy is excessive, diminished, or out of balance.
- Example: Temperance reversed may point to overindulgence or lack of harmony.
5. A Call to Action or Warning
A reversal may serve as a warning or nudge to pay attention to the card’s lesson.
- Example: Lovers reversed can signal disharmony or a decision that needs careful thought.
Tarot Reversals Explained: Step-by-Step Reading Guide
Ready to try reading reversals? Here’s a step-by-step process to help you get started:
Step 1: Decide How to Shuffle
To use reversals, shuffle your cards so that some naturally end up upside down. This can be done by:
- Cutting and rotating part of the deck 180°
- Mixing cards face-down on the table (“messy shuffle”)
- Occasionally flipping cards during shuffling
Step 2: Draw and Lay Out Your Cards
When you draw your cards, lay them in your spread as they come. Note which cards are upright and which are reversed.
Step 3: Interpret Upright Cards First
Start by reading the upright cards. Get a sense of the overall message and flow of the spread.
Step 4: Approach Each Reversal with Curiosity
For each reversed card, ask:
- Is this energy blocked, delayed, or internal?
- Is there an excess or deficiency of the card’s theme?
- Is the card’s shadow side or warning showing up?
- How does this reversal relate to its position in the spread?
Step 5: Trust Your Intuition
Let the imagery, your gut feeling, and the context of the reading guide your interpretation. Don’t be afraid to ask the querent (or yourself) clarifying questions.
Common Reversed Tarot Card Meanings
Here’s a quick reference for some of the most-searched tarot reversals explained:
- The Fool reversed: Recklessness, hesitation, fear of new beginnings
- The Magician reversed: Manipulation, untapped potential, trickery
- The High Priestess reversed: Ignoring intuition, secrets, confusion
- The Lovers reversed: Relationship imbalance, poor choices, disharmony
- Wheel of Fortune reversed: Bad luck, resistance to change, cycles stuck
- Death reversed: Fear of change, holding on, stagnation
- The Tower reversed: Avoiding disaster, denial, fear of upheaval
- The Star reversed: Hopelessness, lack of faith, disconnected
- Ace of Cups reversed: Repressed emotions, creative blocks, emotional exhaustion
- Ten of Swords reversed: Recovery, release, moving on from betrayal
Remember—context is everything! The meaning of a reversal can shift depending on the question, surrounding cards, and your intuition.
Tips for Reading Tarot Reversals with Confidence
1. Don’t Panic!
Reversed cards are not “bad omens.” They simply add depth and complexity—sometimes pointing to challenges, sometimes to hidden strengths.
2. Start Simple
If you feel overwhelmed, focus on one or two possible reversal meanings (e.g., blocked or internalized energy) until you become more comfortable.
3. Use Keywords
Create a list of reversal keywords for each card. Refer to it as you practice for quick, clear readings.
4. Practice with Daily Draws
Pull one card each day and interpret both its upright and reversed meaning. This builds confidence and familiarity.
5. Journal Your Readings
Record your interpretations, insights, and how events unfold. Over time, you’ll develop your own understanding of reversals.
Should You Always Use Tarot Reversals?
Not necessarily! Some experienced readers never use reversals, relying on nuanced upright meanings, card positions, or intuition. Others find that reversals add necessary detail. Try both and decide what works for you.
Alternative approaches:
- Read reversals only in specific spreads (e.g., for shadow work or deep analysis)
- Use upright cards but read for “blocked” or “shadow” meanings based on intuition and context
- Stick to upright cards in public or client readings, use reversals in personal study
Integrating Tarot Reversals with Other Reading Techniques
- Elemental Dignities: Consider how the elements (fire, water, air, earth) interact for further insight into reversals.
- Card Positions: Some positions (e.g., “challenge” or “internal influence”) naturally lend themselves to reversal-like meanings.
- Intuitive Imagery: Notice how the reversed image changes your perception—does it draw your attention to something new?
Frequently Asked Questions: Tarot Reversals Explained
Q: Are reversed tarot cards always negative?
A: No! Reversals can indicate internal focus, blocked or excessive energy, or simply a need for reflection. They’re not “bad”—just different.
Q: How do I know which reversal meaning applies?
A: Trust intuition, context, and the question asked. Over time, you’ll sense which interpretation fits.
Q: Do I have to use reversals in every reading?
A: No. Some readers never use them, others always do, and some use them situationally.
Q: Can I shuffle the deck to avoid reversals?
A: Yes—simply keep all cards facing the same way, or turn any upside-down cards upright before drawing.
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Embrace the Wisdom of Tarot Reversals
With tarot reversals explained, you’re ready to add a new layer of meaning and insight to your readings. Reversed cards are not obstacles—they’re invitations to look deeper, explore hidden truths, and trust your intuition.
Whether you choose to use reversals or not, remember that tarot is a living, evolving practice. Experiment, reflect, and find the approach that brings you the greatest clarity and connection. The cards—and their wisdom—are always waiting to guide you.