X of Wands

The Heavy Burden

of Power

The culmination of your efforts may be more than you bargained for.

The X of Wands is symbolic of the pitfalls of accumulating power and responsibility. In the Hermetic Tarot it is known as the “Lord of Oppression.” The figure who was once supported by the clouds is now falling through the sky due the excessive weight of all the wands they’ve collected. They try to hold on to all of them but they can’t. They grasp desperately for the ones that are floating away as they plummet back to earth.

This card oversees the third decan of Sagittarius and is ruled by Saturn.

In a reading, this card may reflect that you are taking on too much for one person. Responsibility and the need for control may be weighing you down. However, you’ve worked very hard and your struggles may soon be at an end. With every success comes more work and responsibility. Keep pushing forward and accept that you can’t always do everything yourself. Lighten the load by employing the help of others. Remember to work smarter, not harder.

The reversed may reflect an inner struggle that is weighing you down. Perhaps you are keeping a secret or you experienced some trauma that you are not ready or able to share or process. It may also reflect a willingness and desire to de-clutter your life, either literally or figuratively. Let go of things, emotions, or relationships that no longer serve you and weigh you down. Accept what you can’t control and accept help where you can find it. Don’t forget that it’s okay to say no and prioritize yourself.