Emperor as a Woman (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

The Emperor is the card of leadership, authority, power, and stability. He is Mars personified, in control of everything and everyone around him. He sits upon his throne, holding the ankh in one hand, symbolizing life, and an orb in the other, symbolizing the world. He is energetic, driven, objective, and fearless. 

The Emperor is full of masculine yang energy. As the father of all creation, he believes in protecting everyone around him. He shows love by providing for his loved ones. Underneath his tough exterior, he is still an emotional being, but only shows that side to the ones he trusts the most.

Upright Emperor as a Woman

If the Emperor appears in a Tarot spread as a woman, that means that this person is a figure of authority, control, and discipline. This is someone who exudes an air of command, evident in her carriage, her gaze, and even the space she occupies. You can sense her influence and leadership capabilities, leaving little room for doubt that she’s a person of significant power.

For physical characteristics, the Emperor as a woman represents someone who is imposing yet regal; her eyes are sharp and calculating, her voice firm, she tastes of strong coffee, and she smells of crisp linen and leather. When she speaks, it’s as if her words are underlined with the weight of years of experience and responsibility. The touch of her hand is firm and sure, betraying no hesitation—like a seasoned general in a war room or a leader used to making critical decisions.

For emotional characteristics, the Emperor as a woman represents someone who is emotionally resilient, logical, and self-assured. She maintains a composed demeanor, never letting her emotions overrule her judgments. She is quick to assess situations and individuals, not from a place of cynicism but from a finely honed sense of awareness and realism.

Astrologically, the Emperor as a woman represents someone who is likely to have strong Aries or Mars placements, emphasizing leadership and willpower. A Mars in the first house, or in conjunction with her Sun or Moon, can add extra force to her personality, making her natural abilities as a leader even more pronounced. A well-placed Aries Sun or Moon could similarly augment her drive, ambition, and assertive nature.

For careers, the Emperor can represent a woman who works as a CEO, military officer, or any high-ranking position that demands authority. Her office or workspace might feel like a fortress of efficiency, with every element optimized for productivity and control. In the workplace, she is often the ultimate decision-maker, her expertise and skill acknowledged and respected by her subordinates.

The Emperor as a woman represents someone who makes you feel respectful and disciplined. Her very presence encourages those around her to stand a bit taller, to act with a greater sense of purpose and responsibility. When you are with her, you are acutely aware that you are in the presence of someone who has mastered the art of control—both over herself and her environment.

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Emperor Reversed as a Woman

If the Emperor reversed appears in a Tarot spread as a woman, that means that this person is domineering, rigid, or possibly insecure in her authority. Although she may strive to project an image of control, cracks in her facade betray the inner turmoil she’s experiencing. Her presence has the opposite effect of the upright Emperor; instead of fostering respect, it creates tension and discomfort.

For physical characteristics, the Emperor reversed as a woman represents someone who is intimidating but disheveled; her eyes are hard but uncertain, her voice cracks, she tastes sour, and she may smell of sweat and stress. Her physicality reveals her inner state; her gaze may dart around as if she’s constantly on guard, and her touch might be rough or clumsy, revealing her discomfort with her surroundings. Even her aura can feel stifling, like a room in need of fresh air.

For emotional characteristics, the Emperor reversed as a woman represents someone who is emotionally volatile or insecure. She tends to swing from a false bravado to periods of self-doubt, never quite comfortable in her own skin. Her emotional turmoil often manifests in abrupt mood swings and unpredictable behavior, which make those around her walk on eggshells.

Astrologically, the Emperor reversed as a woman represents someone who is likely to have challenging Mars aspects, indicating a misuse of power or will. She may have Mars square Sun or Moon, amplifying her struggles with authority and emotional stability. These harsh aspects can lead to a mishandling of power and even authoritarian tendencies.

For careers, the Emperor reversed can represent a woman who works as a micromanager, a discredited official, or a demoted leader. Her workspace is likely cluttered with reminders of tasks undone or authority lost; even the atmosphere feels heavy with the weight of missed opportunities or failed leadership. She may find herself in positions where her lack of true leadership is exposed, making her colleagues and subordinates lose respect for her.

The Emperor reversed as a woman represents someone who makes you feel anxious or oppressed. Her presence generates a sense of unease, as if you’re never quite meeting her expectations, however unreasonable they might be. This leaves you feeling not uplifted and empowered, but rather small and confined, questioning your own competence and authority.

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Conclusion

For relationships and feelings, The Emperor takes a very masculine approach. Though it is different from the feminine approach of the Empress, it does not make the Emperor’s love any less valid. This card reminds us to take a close look at intentions and relationship dynamics when evaluating a relationship. If a person’s love and intentions come from a good place, give them the freedom to express it how they choose.

If you find yourself needing further clarity in your relationship matters that go beyond reading for yourself, Sibyl offers unlimited tarot readings on love & relationships, as a neutral and objective third party.