A young hero or heroine stands upright in a splendidly decorated chariot, drawn by two creatures - one black and one white. Yet this imposing figure rarely has control of the reins, if any are shown. The Chariot as a symbol is found in many mythologies. The Greek Sun God, Helios, rode his chariot across the skies every day; Roman Mars was often shown riding his chariot of war, while in India the Lord of the World's great chariot rumbled inexplicably along the road of time. The creatures at the front of the chariot are usually said to symbolise night and day, conscious and unconscious, past and present. By understanding and working with these forces, one may come to terms with duality, gain control, and in consequence, succeed. The Chariot is very much about tuning in with those cosmic cycles, and realising that they are often more powerful than we are. By going against nature, we will ultimately fail and be destroyed; in many ways the Chariot is a card for our times. We have fought against nature, and briefly triumphed over her. Now she is fighting back. Linked with Cancer the Crab, this card expresses the tenacity of that sign. Crabs hang on tightly, do not give up easily, and often make intuitive moves sideways. They are extremely self-protective, for their tough outer shell cradles a vulnerable, soft interior. Ruled by the Moon, they are more aware than most zodiacal signs about the shifting nature of the universe. Glory, success and honour are changeable too. While the Chariot speaks of victory, it also warns against excessive pride. Interpretation The Chariot You have put in a lot of hard work, and are about to be rewarded. Your self-discipline may have been a struggle at times, but it has paid off - you are coming into the home stretch and victory is in sight at last. You may experience 'overnight' success. Others will tell you how lucky you are, but luck has little or nothing to do with it. This kind of success has been won after a battle - with yourself or obstacles in your path. You find yourself acting in a theatrical success after years of working in draughty provincial theatres. Your book becomes a best seller, but only after it has been rejected by twenty different publishers. You win coveted promotion by working long hours, and sticking to your plans. When the Chariot thunders into your life as a person, it represents someone who does not give up and who firmly believes in the motto 'if at first you don't succeed, try, try again'. Such a friend can inspire you, too, for he or she will encourage you not to give in. This is a successful person, or one who is about to become so. Sometimes the Chariot becomes a real physical vehicle. This vehicle brings news, or friends from far-flung places. In a more abstract way, it can bring you the energy and willpower to use your abilities to the full. Whatever gifts you have are there to be used, even if this entails a struggle with yourself. Switch off the television (often a visual drug) says the Chariot, and get on with it. Reversed Addiction, envy and avarice are the keywords here. The Chariot reversed suggests negative attitudes, limitations and loss of self-control. You may think that the world owes you a living, or be very gifted but afraid to use your abilities. Perhaps talents come too easily, or arrogance, or lack of self-confidence, are hindrances. This position can denote someone who buries his or head in the sand, using drink or drugs as a way to dull the senses and forget about reality. Also it acts as a warning against overwhelming ambition, burning up energy, and masking your resources. 0 - The Fool 1 - The Magician 2 - The High Priestess 3 - The Empress 4 - The Emperor 5 - The Hierophant or Pope 6 - The Lovers 7 - The Chariot 8 - Justice 9 - The Hermit 10 - The Wheel of Fortune 11 - Strength 12 - The Hanged Man 13 - Death 14 - Temperance 15 - The Devil 16 - The Tower 17 - The Star 18 - The Moon 19 - The Sun 20 - Judgment 21 - The World