Strength as Hopes and Fears (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 Hopes and Fears

If you are asking about hopes, and you draw Strength, it means that you’re seeking inner courage, patience, and the ability to overcome challenges through compassion and self-control, emphasizing the power of will and gentle influence over brute force. This card signifies a journey of personal empowerment, where true strength is shown not by domination but through understanding and mastering one’s emotions. It highlights the importance of facing life’s adversities with grace and resilience, trusting in your ability to navigate difficulties with a calm and steady heart.

Strength as fears can represent fears of vulnerability, the overwhelm of challenges without the perceived necessary force, or doubts about one’s inner resilience and patience. This reflects a concern that you may not have what it takes to endure life’s trials, questioning your own capacity for perseverance and gentle power. It serves as a reminder that strength comes from within, urging you to trust in your inner resources and to confront your fears with kindness and courage.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, Strength in the hopes and fears position means you aspire to foster a relationship built on mutual respect and understanding, fearing only the potential for dominance or weakness to undermine these efforts. This card encourages you to embrace the virtues of patience and compassion in your partnership, suggesting that the strongest relationships are those where both individuals support each other in growth and healing. It warns against the dangers of imbalance, where one’s desire to lead or protect becomes a means of control rather than an act of love.

If you are asking about an ex, Strength in the hopes and fears position means there’s a hope for the strength to move on or reconcile with compassion, yet a fear that past weaknesses or unresolved issues may prevent healing. This indicates a deep desire for closure or a new beginning, rooted in the understanding and forgiveness of past shortcomings. It underscores the necessity of inner fortitude and kindness towards oneself and others in the process of moving forward, whether together or apart.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, Strength in the hopes and fears position means you’re aiming for a bond that withstands challenges through empathy and patience, yet worry about the strains that might test your resilience. This card reflects the desire for relationships that are robust and nurturing, capable of enduring life’s ups and downs with a spirit of mutual support. It highlights the need to cultivate a strong emotional foundation that can weather any storm, based on mutual respect and understanding.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, Strength in the hopes and fears position means you’re striving for success through perseverance and moral integrity, fearing only that a lack of assertiveness or internal doubts might hinder your progress. This underscores the belief that true advancement comes from a place of authenticity and ethical conduct, championing the idea that steadfastness and a strong moral compass are key to overcoming professional obstacles. It cautions against the temptation to compromise one’s values for quick gains, reminding you that real strength is found in integrity and the courage to stand by your principles.

Reversed Strength as Hopes and Fears

If you are asking about hopes, and you draw Strength reversed, it means that you’re concerned about a lack of confidence, resilience, or inner strength to face the challenges ahead. This card in its reversed position indicates a period where self-doubt and fear may be undermining your ability to persevere and remain steadfast in your convictions. It suggests the need for a deeper exploration of what is holding you back, encouraging you to reconnect with your inherent courage and to face your fears with compassion for yourself.

Strength reversed as fears can represent fears of vulnerability, inability to control one’s circumstances, or succumbing to one’s baser instincts. This reflects a deep-seated worry about not being strong enough to manage life’s obstacles, questioning your capacity to maintain integrity under pressure. It highlights the importance of acknowledging your vulnerabilities as a step towards overcoming them, reminding you that true strength involves recognizing when to seek support and guidance.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, Strength reversed in the hopes and fears position means there’s a concern about the relationship’s foundation being weakened by insecurities or a lack of mutual support. This card warns of the potential for doubts and fears to erode the trust and bond between partners, underscoring the necessity for open communication and reassurance. It encourages both individuals to work on building their self-esteem and to offer each other the strength needed to create a more secure and supportive relationship.

If you are asking about an ex, Strength reversed in the hopes and fears position means there might be unresolved feelings of weakness or inadequacy stemming from the relationship that you fear may still affect you. This indicates a struggle with overcoming past hurts and the impact they have had on your self-worth. It suggests the importance of self-reflection and healing, offering a reminder that reclaiming your inner strength is key to moving forward and finding peace.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, Strength reversed in the hopes and fears position means there’s a worry that personal challenges or vulnerabilities could strain the relationship or lead to dependency. This card points to concerns about becoming overly reliant on others due to a lack of self-confidence or the fear of facing difficulties alone. It encourages finding a balance between seeking support and cultivating your own resilience, fostering relationships that are both nurturing and empowering.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, Strength reversed in the hopes and fears position means there’s an apprehension about not having the fortitude to overcome professional setbacks or financial challenges. This reflects anxiety about your ability to navigate through tough times, fearing that a failure to assert yourself or take decisive action could result in stagnation or loss. It calls for an assessment of your self-belief and determination, urging you to tap into your inner resources to surmount obstacles and to pursue your goals with renewed vigor and confidence.

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.