Ten of Wands Symbolism

Symbolism found in Ten of Wands

The symbolism of the Ten of Wands in the Rider-Waite deck is both vivid and instructive. The ten wands represent not just burdens, but also accomplishments , the fruits of one’s labour. The man’s struggle symbolises the final push toward completion, yet it also warns of burnout and the necessity of delegation.

The background shows a town, suggesting a destination or goal. It reinforces the idea of near-completion, that the end is in sight, yet it still requires effort to reach. This imagery serves as a metaphor for life’s journey, emphasising that while the goal is important, so too is the journey and the lessons learned along the way.

Man carrying the wands

In the Rider-Waite tarot deck, the Ten of Wands depicts a man struggling to carry ten wands. His posture is bent, indicating the strain of his load. This imagery captures the essence of the card: the challenge of bearing responsibility. The card reminds us that while burdens can lead to growth, they may also lead to exhaustion if not managed wisely.

Colour Symbolism

The muted earth tones in the card suggest a connection to practical, real-world issues , responsibilities, work, and obligations. These colours remind us that the burdens we carry often relate to our material lives and how we engage with the world around us.