Symbolism in the Tarot Cards: Kings

Like the Queens, Kings are considered a fundamental part of the tarot. Whereas the Queen represents reflection and becoming, the King symbolizes the pinnacle of experience and understanding. Kings in the tarot also occupy four astrological element suits: King of Pentacles, King of Cups, King of Swords, and King of Wands. The King represents the fully developed manifestation of each suit—read on to find out what the King could be telling you in your readings!

The Kings of the Tarot

Who has more power and influence than a king? When you draw a King in your tarot reading, understand that he has complete control over his suit's feelings, emotions, and energy. In the cards, you will find the King dressed like the highest royalty seated on a throne surveying over his kingdoms. The King is stable and unshakable and can wield energy to actualize all dreams and goals. Expect earnest advice and guidance from this symbol of royalty and influence!

King of Pentacles: Virgo, Capricorn, Taurus

The King of Pentacles represents ambition, discipline, control, and strength. This card symbolizes the power of caring for others and providing guidance and sound advice. The King of Pentacles is truly a father figure who gains self-worth through his ability to share all the material riches he accumulates. This card also reminds us that diligence and responsibility are needed to secure success or achieve our material goals. The King of Pentacles might push you to harvest security, productively focus your energies, or become the guiding light for a person or situation in your life.

King of Cups: Scorpio, Cancer, Pisces

The King of Cups is the absolute master of his emotions and creative unconscious. The King of Cups is a strong example of the ability to balance emotions with intellect and thus can keep all emotions contained and in control. This card may remind you that you are facing or will face a situation where you feel emotionally balanced or deeply understand your feelings. But, on the other hand, this card may be calling you to work to develop these skills and tools to ensure your future success.

King of Swords: Gemini, Aquarius, Libra

The domain of the King of Swords is truth and intellect. The King of Swords has the courage and intellectual capabilities to accomplish anything he desires. This card symbolizes leadership, judgment, and governance. Drawing a King of Swords can serve as a reminder to turn to truth and logic and to keep an objective stance on a situation you may be dealing with. This card wants you to cut through all the noise so you can better take charge, solve your problems, and seek wisdom.

King of Wands: Sagittarius, Leo, Aries

Like the Queen of Wands, the King of Wands is fiery and fierce energy. The King of Wands represents creation and the origin of our goals and desires. This card reminds us of our visionary selves and pushes us never to stop dreaming. The King of Wands may suggest that you are already involved in a new opportunity or that one is on the horizon. This card reminds you that you are a leader in your own destiny, and there is no time for self-doubt as we work to become our most surprising and powerful selves.

The King is the symbol of our most developed and prosperous selves. So take his messages with great weight; they might be what you need to hear to secure your next success.