Knight of Wands

Symbolism

The Knight of Wands shows an armored knight on a rearing horse, holding a wand aloft. He wears a yellow tunic patterned with salamanders, and red plumes flare from his helmet like flames. Behind him stretches a desert with pyramids. In the 1909 art, everything about him is fire: impulse, courage and a hurry to be off.

In general

The Knight of Wands is the card of passion in motion. It shows up when it's time to act boldly, set off on an adventure, get a change of scenery or go after what you want without hesitating. It's about energy, daring, charisma and travel. It's the side of fire that doesn't think twice. Reversed, it shows impulsiveness without direction: rushing, hasty decisions, projects dropped halfway, irritability or a lack of follow-through.

Yes or no

The Knight of Wands sets off at a gallop: yes, and with passion. It's time to dare and move. Reversed, the answer is maybe: the horse bolts in no particular direction, and impulsiveness could spoil what the energy started.

In love

In a love reading, the Knight of Wands points to intense, fast-moving passion: someone charming and adventurous who comes on strong.

If you're in a relationship, it brings adventure, travel and renewed desire. If you're single, it signals a whirlwind romance, though it may not last.

Reversed, it points to someone who disappears after a great start, impulsiveness, or fear of commitment.

As feelings

As feelings, the Knight of Wands means strong desire and an urge to act right now: this person is very attracted to you. Reversed, the interest is intense but unstable.

At work

At work, the Knight of Wands often points to fast changes, business travel, bold projects or a new job somewhere else. Reversed, it warns against hasty decisions and dropping things halfway.

With money

With money, the Knight of Wands points to momentum and the nerve to invest, but also the risk of impulse spending. Reversed, it asks you to hit the brakes.

In family and friendship

In family and friendship, the Knight of Wands brings travel, moves and lively people. Reversed, it shows arguments in the heat of the moment.

On the personal path

On a personal level, the Knight of Wands asks you to have the courage to go after what you want, now. Reversed, it's a reminder that courage without direction is just running around.

Advice

As advice, the Knight of Wands says: set off boldly, but know where you're going.

In the Celtic Cross positions

• The Present: you're ready to act and set off.
• The Challenge: the obstacle is rushing, or a lack of follow-through.
• The Crown: you want adventure, freedom and movement.
• The Foundation: underneath the question is a restlessness that's asking for change.
• The Recent Past: a quick decision set everything in motion.
• The Near Future: a trip, a move or someone passionate is on the way.
• Yourself: you're bold and full of energy.
• Your Environment: there's movement, excitement and impulsive people around you.
• Hopes and Fears: you want freedom, and you're afraid of standing still.
• The Outcome: this points to fast progress, as long as there's a direction.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Knight of Wands a good card?

Yes, in most readings. It's about energy, passion and courage. The catch is impulsiveness.

What does the Knight of Wands reversed mean?

Reversed, it points to rushing, impulsiveness, abandoned projects or flings that don't last.

Is the Knight of Wands a yes or no card?

Upright, it's a yes. Reversed, it's a maybe.

See also the Page of Wands, who comes before him, the Queen of Wands, the next step, and The Chariot, another card of momentum.