
Folio 28
Suit of Wands
Six of Wands
Upright
victory, · recognition, · confidence
Public recognition for your effort. Accept the credit with grace.
Reversed
bruised ego, · lack of recognition, · a fall from grace
The applause did not come, or pride spoke too loudly. Your worth does not depend on it.
Symbolism
The Six of Wands shows a rider crowned with laurels on a white horse, carrying a wand that's also topped with a laurel wreath. People on foot walk alongside him carrying wands, like a parade. In the 1909 art, it's the victor's homecoming: the hard work has been recognized in public.
In general
The Six of Wands is the card of victory. It shows up when you've overcome a challenge and the result is seen and celebrated: a promotion, an achievement, praise, support from the people around you. It's about self-confidence, well-earned success and leadership. Reversed, it points to recognition that's slow to come, insecurity, fear of failing in public, or depending on other people's approval.
Yes or no
The Six of Wands rides by, crowned with laurels: yes, with recognition. It's a victory others will see. Reversed, the answer is maybe: the laurels are slow in coming, and it depends less on applause and more on your own confidence.
In love
In a love reading, the Six of Wands points to a proud, happy time: a relationship that's going well and getting celebrated, or winning over the person you wanted.
If you're in a relationship, it speaks of mutual admiration and being proud to be seen together. If you're single, it shows that your confidence is attractive.
Reversed, it points to insecurity, jealousy over a partner's success, or needing validation to feel loved.
As feelings
As feelings, the Six of Wands means admiration: this person is proud of you and likes showing that you're together. Reversed, the feelings lean too heavily on other people's approval.
At work
At work, the Six of Wands often points to a promotion, public recognition, a goal smashed or a project that gets applause. Reversed, it shows a lack of recognition, or a reminder not to let success go to your head.
With money
With money, the Six of Wands points to well-earned gains and a good financial stretch. Reversed, watch out for spending to impress other people.
In family and friendship
In family and friendship, the Six of Wands brings pride, support and people celebrating your wins. Reversed, it can point to envy or a lack of support.
On the personal path
On a personal level, the Six of Wands asks you to acknowledge your own wins, even the small ones. Reversed, it's a reminder that your confidence can't depend on applause alone.
Advice
As advice, the Six of Wands says: accept the recognition with humility, and keep moving forward with confidence.
In the Celtic Cross positions
- The Present: you're enjoying a victory or some well-earned recognition.
- The Challenge: the obstacle is insecurity, or depending on others' approval.
- The Crown: you want success and recognition.
- The Foundation: underneath the question is a wish to be seen and valued.
- The Recent Past: a recent win gave you momentum for where you are now.
- The Near Future: a victory, good news or recognition is on its way.
- Yourself: you're confident and coming out on top.
- Your Environment: there's support and admiration around you.
- Hopes and Fears: you want to win, and you're afraid of failing in front of everyone.
- The Outcome: this points to victory and recognition.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Six of Wands a good card?
Yes. It's the card of victory and recognition.
What does the Six of Wands reversed mean?
Reversed, it points to recognition that's slow in coming, insecurity, fear of failure, or too much pride.
Is the Six of Wands a yes or no card?
Upright, it's a yes, with recognition. Reversed, it's a maybe.
See also the Five of Wands, which comes before it, the Seven of Wands, the next step, and The Chariot, another card of victory.

