17 - The Star
Note: This guide is based on the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck. Other tarot decks may have unique meanings, or some of these meanings may not apply.
| Upright Keywords: | Hope, dreams, goals, inspiration, generosity |
| Reversed Keywords: | Loss of faith, broken dreams, lack of clear goals, arrogance |
At the center of the card, a naked figure kneels on one knee beside a pool of water. They hold a jug of water in either hand, both pouring -- one into the pons, and one onto the ground nearby. The water pouring onto the ground has formed little streams that extend off in all directions. Flowers are starting to grow and bud in the grass all around.
In the background, a tree grows on a hill. There is a red-colored bird perched in the branches. The sky is light blue, showing seven white, eight-pointed stars and one larger, yellow eight-pointed star directly in the center of the sky.
In Readings: Upright
The upright Star card is a symbol of dreams, indicating a person's high hopes for the future. The Stars above light up the sky to a day-like brightness. Thus, even in times of darkness, this card stands as a reminder that there is always a solution.
The figure on the card pours from cups that may never be truly empty. This suggests that the source of their hope, dreams, power, and so forth is endless if the subject of the reading is willing to engage with that source. A dream can come true, essentially.
When the Star appears upright in a reading, it is generally a positive sign. Of course, becoming too fixated on what might be as opposed to what's right in front of you isn't good.
Card Combinations:
Suggestions for possible meanings of this card when combined with others.
Five of Wands, reversed: The solution is to remember that you're all fighting for the same thing. Stop squabbling.
Nine of Pentacles: You'll get there if you actually try.
The Devil: Despite the horrors, there's a pretty nice view.
Page of Wands: A bit of good news will renew your hopes for the future.
In Readings: Reversed
When reversed, the hopeful nature of the Star is lost. Perhaps at one point, the light was a clear, powerful guiding force, but it has become obscured over time. Inspiration is lacking.
Hopelessness is a key feature of this card. There is a disconnect between the subject and their vision for the future. It's possible that the subject has lost their connection with their "higher self" or the parts of themselves that fill them with purpose and meaning.
Card Combinations
Suggestions for possible meanings of this card when combined with others.
Two of Wands: You'll just have to keep trying anyways.
Eight of Pentacles: The grind is soul-crushing.
Four of Cups: You want to be happy again, but you won't engage genuinely with the world around you - why?
Temperance, reversed: The way has been lost because of recent over-indulgence.
Other Perspectives
Thoughts from: Contributor Name
Contributor's thoughts here.
Thoughts from: Contributor Name
Contributor's thoughts here.