XXI ◆ THE WORLD
Rider–Waite–Smith (1909)Key themes
Completion · Recognition · Travel · Change of place
Card meaning
The World concerns an undertaking reaching a coherent result. Effort can be recognised, a cycle completed or the relationship between its parts understood more fully.
It also carries associations with journeys and a change of place. Completion may open a wider field of movement, while still asking you to bring the present stage to a proper close.
Key themes
Stagnation · Fixed conditions · Inertia · Permanence
Card meaning
Reversed, the World suggests a condition that remains fixed when movement is desired. An established arrangement may continue without developing, or a final step may be left unfinished.
Permanence can support stability, but it can also prevent a necessary passage. Distinguish what is worth preserving from what is simply being prolonged.
Image description
A lightly draped figure holding a short wand in each hand appears within an oval green wreath tied with red ribbons. The legs cross in a dancing pose. A human head, eagle, lion and bull occupy the four cloud-filled corners.
Symbolism
- Oval wreath
- — An enclosing form associated with completion and wholeness.
- Central figure
- — Life expressed within an integrated order.
- Two wands
- — Balanced activity held in both hands.
- Red ribbons
- — The joining of the wreath at its upper and lower limits.
- Four corner creatures
- — A wider order surrounding the completed central image.
Card advice
Acknowledge what has been completed, finish any remaining obligations and make room for the next stage.
Based on A. E. Waite’s The Pictorial Key to the Tarot (1910). Modern English adaptation — At Madame Shirley’s Table. Illustrations: Pamela Colman Smith (1909). Scan restoration: Steve P.