Rev. Colleen Irwin

The Queens in Tarot embody wisdom, mastery, and deep understanding. They represent the mature, nurturing, and intuitive aspects of their respective suits, offering guidance, emotional depth, and personal power. Unlike the Pages who learn and the Knights who act, the Queens have mastered their domain and influence those around them with grace and strength.

Each Queen holds the energy of her element in a balanced and refined way, guiding us to embrace our inner authority. Their upright and reversed meanings provide insight into leadership, emotions, relationships, and personal growth. Additionally, the Empress serves as the archetypal Queen, encapsulating their collective wisdom and connection to divine femininity.

The Four Queens and Their Dual Natures

♣ Queen of Wands – The Confident Leader

Upright Meaning: Charismatic, ambitious, and independent, the Queen of Wands exudes confidence and passion. She encourages bold self-expression, leadership, and taking charge of one’s destiny. This card signifies personal power, creativity, and magnetic energy.

Reversed Meaning: Controlling, temperamental, or lacking confidence, the reversed Queen of Wands warns against arrogance, manipulation, or self-doubt. It can signal burnout or a need to reconnect with one’s personal power.

Major Arcana Connection: The Empress enhances her warmth and creative force, emphasizing abundance and self-assurance. If The Sun appears, success and radiance are undeniable. When paired with The Devil, it warns of excessive ego or power struggles.

♥ Queen of Cups – The Intuitive Healer

Upright Meaning: Compassionate, nurturing, and deeply intuitive, the Queen of Cups embodies emotional wisdom and inner knowing. She represents love, empathy, and spiritual connection, encouraging deep trust in one’s feelings.

Reversed Meaning: Overly sensitive, emotionally overwhelmed, or withdrawn, the reversed Queen of Cups warns of emotional instability, codependency, or ignoring one’s intuition. It can also indicate being overly self-sacrificing.

Major Arcana Connection: The High Priestess strengthens her intuitive nature, urging deep self-reflection. If The Moon appears, emotions may be clouded by illusion. When paired with The Empress, it signals profound nurturing energy and creative flow.

♠ Queen of Swords – The Wise Communicator

Upright Meaning: Intelligent, perceptive, and honest, the Queen of Swords values truth and clarity above all else. She embodies strong communication, logic, and independence. This card signals wisdom gained through experience and a sharp ability to see things as they truly are.

Reversed Meaning: Cold, overly critical, or emotionally detached, the reversed Queen of Swords warns against being too harsh, cynical, or dismissive. It may indicate a need to balance intellect with compassion.

Major Arcana Connection: If Justice appears, integrity and fairness are central themes. When paired with The Magician, it highlights strategic thinking and persuasive communication. If The Hermit is present, deep introspection and solitary wisdom are at play.

♦ Queen of Pentacles – The Grounded Provider

Upright Meaning: Practical, nurturing, and resourceful, the Queen of Pentacles represents stability, prosperity, and care for both home and career. She is deeply connected to nature, security, and long-term success.

Reversed Meaning: Overworked, materialistic, or neglecting self-care, the reversed Queen of Pentacles warns of imbalance between responsibilities and personal well-being. It may suggest financial concerns or a need to slow down.

Major Arcana Connection: If The Empress appears, abundance and fertility are amplified. When paired with The Hierophant, tradition and values are emphasized. If The Tower is present, financial or domestic disruptions may be ahead.

Interpreting the Queens in Readings

When a Queen appears, ask:

• Am I embracing my personal power and wisdom?
• How am I nurturing myself and others?
• What area of my life needs more emotional or intellectual maturity?

The presence of the Empress in a reading with a Queen deepens themes of growth, abundance, and feminine power. Other Major Arcana can highlight lessons in leadership, self-care, or boundaries.

The Queens in Tarot guide us to step into our power with confidence, grace, and wisdom. Whether through passion, emotion, intellect, or stability, they remind us that true strength comes from within. By understanding their upright and reversed meanings, along with their Major Arcana connections, we can align with their energy to create a life of purpose and influence.

What lessons are the Queens bringing into your life right now?