The World

Card Description

The World card depicts a dancing figure surrounded by a laurel wreath, symbolizing victory and achievement. In each corner of the card are the four fixed signs of the zodiac - the lion (Leo), bull (Taurus), eagle (Scorpio), and angel (Aquarius) - representing the integration of all elements and experiences.

The figure holds two wands, echoing The Magician, but now with mastery rather than potential. The World represents The Fool having completed the journey, integrated all lessons, and achieved wholeness.

Upright Meaning

The World is one of the most positive cards in the tarot deck. When it appears, it signals the successful completion of a major life cycle. You've achieved what you set out to accomplish and can celebrate your success.

• Successful completion of a goal or project
• Achievement of mastery in an area
• A sense of wholeness and integration
• Travel and expanding horizons
• Recognition and reward for efforts
• Feeling at one with the world

Reversed Meaning

When reversed, The World suggests incomplete cycles, shortcuts taken, or a feeling that something is missing despite apparent success. You may be close to completion but not quite there.

• Incomplete goals or unfinished business
• Taking shortcuts that lead to hollow victories
• Delays in reaching completion
• Lack of closure or resolution
• Feeling disconnected or fragmented
• Needing to tie up loose ends

The World in Love

Upright: Your relationship has reached a beautiful stage of fulfillment and wholeness. You and your partner complement each other perfectly, having integrated your differences into a harmonious union. For singles, this can indicate meeting someone during travels or feeling complete within yourself.

Reversed: There may be something incomplete in your relationship - an unresolved issue or a sense that you haven't quite achieved the connection you seek. Take time to address what's missing.

The World in Career

Upright: A major career milestone is reached - completing a big project, achieving a goal, or reaching a level of mastery in your field. This is a time to celebrate your accomplishments and enjoy the recognition you've earned. International opportunities may present themselves.

Reversed: You may be close to a career goal but not quite there, or feel that something is missing despite professional success. Consider what loose ends need tying up before you can truly feel complete.

The End of The Fool's Journey

The World represents the completion of The Fool's Journey through the Major Arcana. The naive Fool who began with nothing but potential has now gained the wisdom and experience of all 21 cards that came before. But this ending is also a new beginning - for the journey is cyclical, and The Fool will step off the cliff once more, starting a new cycle with all the wisdom gained.

Symbolism

• The Dancing Figure: Joy, celebration, mastery, cosmic dance
• Laurel Wreath: Victory, achievement, recognition
• Two Wands: Balance, mastery (echoing The Magician)
• Four Figures: The four fixed zodiac signs, four elements integrated
• Infinity Loop: Endless cycles of completion and new beginnings
• Blue Sky: Unlimited potential, cosmic consciousness
• Number 21: The universe, completion, fulfillment (7x3)

Saturn Connection

The World is associated with Saturn, the planet of time, karma, and hard-earned rewards. Saturn's energy teaches us that true achievement comes through discipline, patience, and completing what we start. The World's promise of success is not luck but the natural reward of sustained effort.