The Chariot VII in the 5-Card Spread with the Rider Waite Tarot

The Chariot as second card : Challenge / Obstacle
in the Rider Waite Smith 5-Card spread

In the opposition position, The Chariot indicates a blockage linked to excessive willpower, poorly channelled impulsiveness or, conversely, an inability to move forward. The consultant may be torn between several directions, lack clarity in their intentions, or be fighting against internal or external resistance. The image of a chariot pulled by two opposing sphinxes is very telling here: if the forces are not aligned, the chariot does not move, or else it veers off course.

This opposition can represent excessive control, rigidity in one’s stance, or a desire to force things rather than guide them with intelligence. There may be a form of pride, a need to succeed at all costs, which prevents one from listening to subtle signals or adapting one’s strategy.

Conversely, some consultants may feel paralysed, unable to make a choice or assert their direction.

The Chariot as an obstacle can also indicate a headlong rush: wanting to ‘do’ without knowing why, rushing into action to avoid an inner confrontation. It therefore invites us to realign our head, heart and body.

The message: it is not enough to have energy, you also need to know where to direct it. The opposition of the Chariot is therefore an invitation to balance momentum with control, speed with awareness.

The Chariot as third card : Advice
in the Rider Waite Smith 5-Card spread

As advice, The Chariot encourages you to take control of your life, assert your will, and move forward with determination. It is time to act, to stop hesitating, and to fully commit to the direction you have chosen. This card urges you to mobilise your inner strength and not let yourself be distracted by doubts or outside influences. You are ready, you have the means, but now you must set a clear course and stick to it.

The Chariot also advises you to show courage: face what seems difficult, dare to assert your place and your vision, even in the face of adversity.

Discipline is also important here: move forward, yes, but with consistency, strategy and balance.

The card invites you to channel your emotions, not to act impulsively or out of anger, but to transform these energies into a driving force for success.

You may also need to assert yourself in a relationship or project, to show that you are in control.

Finally, The Chariot may be advising you to travel, to change your surroundings, to break out of inertia and regain your momentum. It is an invitation to get started, without waiting for all the guarantees, but with faith in your ability to guide your own chariot.

The Chariot as fourth card : Outcome
in the Rider Waite Smith 5-Card spread

In the outcome position, The Chariot heralds success, achievement or a major breakthrough. It suggests victory through determination, control and consistency.

This result may relate to a professional project, a milestone in life, a rediscovery of self, or a strong affirmation in a relationship or personal area. The Chariot shows that efforts will bear fruit, that the person will succeed in taking their place, achieving their goals, or regaining a positive momentum in life.

This outcome is not necessarily peaceful, but it is dynamic, in motion, and often brings new momentum.

It can also herald a move, a journey, a relocation, or an important transition. Success here depends on the ability to stay the course, control one’s impulses, and act with clarity.

The Chariot can also symbolise victory over old doubts or fears: the person manages to overcome internal obstacles and regain self-confidence. This is not an end in itself, but a crucial step that paves the way for further achievements and maturity.

In short, it is a card that validates progress, autonomy and personal victory.