One of the most debated topics in tarot is how to handle reversed cards—those that appear upside-down when drawn. Some readers swear by reversals as essential for nuanced readings, while others never use them at all. Both approaches are valid. Understanding how reversals work will help you decide how to incorporate them into your own practice.
What Are Reversed Cards?
A reversed card is simply one that appears upside-down when you turn it over during a reading. This happens naturally when you shuffle your deck in certain ways, allowing some cards to flip in orientation. When you draw a reversed card, it offers an additional layer of interpretation beyond the card's upright meaning.
Not all decks are designed with reversals in mind. Some decks have symmetrical imagery that looks the same either way. Others have clear top and bottom orientations. If you want to read with reversals, ensure your shuffling method allows cards to flip—some readers deliberately rotate portions of the deck while shuffling.
Common Interpretations of Reversed Cards
There is no single correct way to interpret reversals. Here are the most common approaches:
Blocked or Delayed Energy: The most traditional interpretation views reversed cards as blocked, diminished, or delayed expressions of the upright meaning. The Sun reversed might indicate joy that is muted or delayed rather than absent. The Chariot reversed could mean determination that is not quite gaining traction.
Internal vs. External: Another approach sees reversed cards as internalized energy. An upright card represents external manifestation, while reversed indicates the same energy working internally. The Empress reversed might suggest nurturing yourself rather than others, or creativity that is gestating rather than being expressed outwardly.
Shadow or Excess: Some readers interpret reversals as the shadow side or excess of a card's energy. The Emperor reversed might represent tyranny rather than healthy authority. The High Priestess reversed could indicate too much focus on the hidden, leading to disconnection from practical reality.
Opposite Meaning: The simplest approach treats reversed cards as meaning the opposite of their upright interpretation. This works sometimes but can create contradictions with cards that are already challenging in their upright positions.
Invitation to Look Deeper: Some readers use reversals as signals to look more carefully at a card, asking what might be hidden or what nuance is being emphasized.
When Reversed Cards Change the Meaning
Consider how reversals affect specific cards. The Tower upright represents sudden upheaval and destruction of false structures. Reversed, it might indicate a disaster averted, internal transformation rather than external collapse, or fear of necessary change. Each interpretation adds dimension without completely negating the card's core themes.
The Death card upright signifies endings, transformation, and letting go. Reversed, it often suggests resistance to necessary endings, stagnation, or a transformation that is occurring internally and invisibly. The essential theme of transformation remains, but its expression shifts.
For challenging cards, reversals sometimes soften the energy. The Ten of Swords upright shows complete defeat. Reversed, it might indicate that the worst is over, recovery is beginning, or the situation is not as dire as feared. Check our complete tarot meanings guide for detailed upright and reversed interpretations of every card.
Should You Use Reversals?
The decision to use reversals is personal. Here are some considerations:
Arguments for using reversals: They add nuance and depth to readings. They can indicate timing, showing energies that are developing or waning. They expand the possible meanings of each card, giving you more interpretive flexibility. Many experienced readers find reversals essential for accurate, specific readings.
Arguments against using reversals: They add complexity that can overwhelm beginners. Each card already contains light and shadow aspects that can be read from the upright position. Some readers find intuitive interpretation more effective without the reversal layer. The tradition of reading without reversals is as old and valid as the practice of using them.
If you are new to tarot, consider starting without reversals until you have solid familiarity with upright meanings. You can always add reversals later. If you try them and find they confuse rather than clarify your readings, it is perfectly acceptable to set them aside.
Practical Tips for Reading Reversals
If you choose to incorporate reversals, here are some practical suggestions. First, develop a consistent approach—decide how you will interpret reversals and stick with it for a while before experimenting with other methods. Consistency helps you build reliable intuition.
Second, consider the context. A reversed card in a challenge position might mean the blocking energy is itself blocked—a double negative that could indicate relief. Context shapes meaning significantly with reversals.
Third, look at the surrounding cards. If mostly upright cards surround one reversal, that card may indicate a specific obstacle or internal process. Many reversals together might suggest a situation that is largely internal or in a state of flux.
Fourth, trust your intuition. Sometimes a reversed card will communicate something specific to you that does not match any standard interpretation. If it makes sense in context, go with it.
Reversals in Court Cards and Aces
Court Cards reversed often indicate the same personality type expressing in immature, blocked, or negative ways. The Queen of Cups upright is nurturing and emotionally intelligent; reversed, she might be emotionally manipulative or drowning in her own feelings.
Aces reversed typically indicate blocked potential, delayed new beginnings, or opportunities not yet ready to manifest. The Ace of Wands reversed might suggest creative inspiration that has not found its outlet yet—potential waiting to be activated.
Conclusion
Reversed cards offer a way to add depth and nuance to your readings. Whether you interpret them as blocked energy, internalized processes, shadow aspects, or invitations to look deeper, they expand your interpretive toolkit. But they are optional—many skilled readers never use them. The best approach is the one that helps you deliver clear, helpful readings. Explore both upright and reversed meanings for all 78 cards in our comprehensive tarot guide.