20 - Judgment
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: | Reckoning, enlightenment, purification, understanding, renewal |
| Reversed Keywords: | Doubt, lessons not learned, not ready to learn, deliberation |
A red-winged angel with hair like fire blows into a golden trumpet. Hanging on the trumpet is the red-cross flag of Saint George.
Below, gray-skinned people stand in the stone coffins they were once presumably buried in. Each of them looks upwards at the angel, most with their arms outstretched in prayer or gratitude. This is a direct Biblical reference to Revelation 20.
In the far distance, snowy mountains rise into the sky. The sky itself is a pale, clear blue, though the angel has manifested from the chest up in a swath of gray clouds.
This card is full of very plain Biblical references. In particular, it refers to Revelation 20 and 1 Corinthians 15. Both of these verses are about judgment in the afterlife and resurrection for those found worthy according to Christian values (of the time).
In Readings: Upright
This card embodies the concept of "getting what you deserve." The outcome of a set of events will be determined based on the actions taken. Reconciliation may be possible, or someone/something may be transformed beyond recognition. There is an element of letting go with this card - surrendering to Judgment and letting come what will.
A resolution is coming, whether the subject is ready or not. Decisions are being made, eyes are opening to the truth, and absolution may be reached. Perhaps this comes with forgivenness, but only if it's deserved. Redemption is possible.
Card Combinations:
Suggestions for possible meanings of this card when combined with others.
Six of Swords: It's time to cut your losses and go.
The Lovers: This is a make or break moment for this relationship. Both sides must be heard.
The Star, reversed: You'll have to let go of your lofty ideals and face reality.
Eight of Wands, reversed: A standstill is finally coming to an end as a decision is reached - perhaps long-delayed evidence is being delivered at last.
In Readings: Reversed
The mistakes of the past cannot be resolved... yet. When Judgment is reversed, it indicates that the appropriate conclusion hasn't yet been reached. There is still more to learn and to reckon with. What is it that the subject is avoiding? What do they need to deal with that they are trying to sweep under the rug?
On the other hand, this card can suggest that a conclusion reached is incorrect. The Judgment has been given, but it's incomplete or wrong somehow. Perhaps it's too harsh, leaving no room for redemption for the condemned.
There is no satisfaction to Judgment reversed. Guilt is a heavy burden. Uncertainty is equally difficult to carry.
Card Combinations
Suggestions for possible meanings of this card when combined with others.
King of Pentacles, reversed: The unreliable narrator has had the last laugh.
Seven of Swords, reversed: The judgment won't be in your favor if you fumble the details out of stubborn foolishness.
The Star, reversed: Due to a lack of clear vision, the problem remains unresolved.
Knight of Wands: It's wrong because it was rushed.
Other Perspectives
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