Strength as a Man (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

Strength is the card of strength, compassion, influence, persuasion, and determination. A woman is gently stroking a lion—she has completely tamed this wild beast. Strength shows what is possible when resilience and kindness is applied to a situation. Sometimes, it is not brute force, but inner strength that makes the most impact on a person or a relationship. 

Strength is not a traditional “love” card, and many readers get confused when it shows up in a love reading. Does it literally mean that someone feels strongly about you? There are many other cards that speak to romantic passion, so we have to ask ourselves, what is Strength trying to say in particular? As you’ll see, I interpret Strength as speaking to the dynamics between people. In love readings, Strength asks us to consider the balance of power and care in a relationship. 

Upright Strength as a Man

If Strength appears in a Tarot spread as a man, that means that this person is possessing quiet resilience, courage, and a compassionate demeanor. This is someone who doesn’t need to shout to be heard, nor resort to aggression to assert himself. He draws from an internal well of courage, guiding and influencing those around him with his unwavering spirit and genuine care.

For physical characteristics, Strength as a man represents someone who is robust yet gentle, with an assured posture and comforting eyes. His physique might not necessarily be bulky or overly muscular, but there’s a palpable vitality about him. His touch, firm yet tender, evokes a sense of safety, and the timbre of his voice exudes warmth, capable of soothing the most restless souls.

For emotional characteristics, Strength as a man represents someone who is calm in adversity, compassionate, and patient. He listens more than he speaks, showing genuine interest and empathy in his interactions. Even in the face of challenges or personal pain, his composed demeanor remains unshaken, showcasing an enviable emotional fortitude.

Astrologically, Strength as a man represents someone who is influenced by Leo, exuding confidence, warmth, and the strength of the Sun. His Leo placements might manifest in a charismatic aura that naturally draws people towards him. While Leos are known for their grandiosity, this man embodies the sign’s more refined qualities of generosity, loyalty, and a heart-centered approach to life.

For careers, Strength can represent a man who works as a counselor, wildlife conservator, or a humanitarian. In these roles, his innate ability to foster trust, combined with his unwavering commitment to care, makes him exceptionally effective. Whether he’s helping individuals navigate personal struggles, safeguarding endangered species, or advocating for the welfare of the marginalized, he operates with a deep-seated sense of purpose.

Strength as a man represents someone who makes you feel safe, empowered, and understood. His presence is like a protective shield, instilling a belief in oneself and the inherent goodness of humanity. Every interaction with him leaves one feeling more anchored, cherished, and confident in facing life’s adversities.

Reversed Strength as a Man

If Strength reversed appears in a Tarot spread as a man, that means that this person is showing signs of doubt, lack of confidence, or over-aggression. Unlike the upright position where inner and outer strength are harmoniously balanced, here, there’s an imbalance. Either he overcompensates with aggressive behaviors to mask his insecurities, or he retreats, questioning his capabilities and worth.

For physical characteristics, Strength reversed as a man represents someone who is tense, possibly with clenched fists or a furrowed brow. His movements might be more abrupt or erratic, revealing an underlying restlessness. To the touch, his hands may feel cold, a stark contrast to the warm and assured grip of Strength in its upright position. His voice, previously comforting, may now waver or carry a sharper tone.

For emotional characteristics, Strength reversed as a man represents someone who is insecure, impulsive, or struggling with inner turmoil. Instead of the calm demeanor and patient attitude seen in the upright position, this man is more unpredictable, at times oversharing his troubles or, conversely, shutting down completely. This emotional inconsistency can make interactions with him feel like navigating a minefield.

Astrologically, Strength reversed as a man represents someone who is battling with the challenges of a Leo placement, such as arrogance or lack of self-assurance. While Leo’s positive attributes are warmth, generosity, and confidence, its shadow side can manifest in this man as an exaggerated need for attention or a deep-seated fear of not being ‘enough.’ This internal battle with the less favorable traits of Leo can be a significant source of his distress.

For careers, Strength reversed can represent a man who works as a crisis manager, personal trainer, or rehabilitation therapist. These professions require one to address imbalances, be it in situations, physical health, or mental well-being. In these roles, his personal struggles might give him a unique perspective, allowing him to empathize and connect deeply with those he serves, even if he himself is on a journey to find balance.

Strength reversed as a man represents someone who makes you feel challenged, anxious, or uneasy. His unpredictability can stir feelings of insecurity or doubt, making interactions with him emotionally taxing. Even so, beneath the tumultuous surface, there’s a yearning for stability and assurance, hinting at the potential for the upright Strength’s attributes to re-emerge with time and understanding.

Conclusion

For relationships and feelings, Strength reveals the foundational state of a bond. It shines light into how secure a person is feeling. It also shows us what we need to do to bring that energy of strength and security into our lives–by leaning into our inner fortitude, kindness, and empathy. If you allow it, Strength’s energy will make your relationships stronger and more durable. Shine in your own confidence. 

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.