Learn Tarot: The Magician

Traditional Rider-Waite Deck

The second card in the pack. The Magician. But what does it mean, and what messages can we take away from a reading that pulls this card?

The first thing to notice is that The Magician is numbered "1", coming directly after The Fool’s "0". If The Fool represents pure potential, The Magician is the moment that potential takes form. This card marks the beginning of action, where ideas become intentions and intentions start to manifest. The Magician is grounded but connected, channelling energy from above into the world below. He doesn’t just dream; he does. Pulling this card is a powerful sign that now is the time to focus your will, use your tools, and begin creating something real.

Keywords:

Upright: Manifestation, power, resourcefulness, inspired action

Reversed: Manipulation, scattered energy, untapped talents, illusion

Description

Cards based on the Rider-Waite deck typically show The Magician standing tall behind a table, surrounded by nature. One hand points up toward the sky, while the other gestures down toward the earth. Above his head floats the infinity symbol, and around his waist is a snake biting its tail, a symbol of eternity. On the table before him lie the four tools of the Minor Arcana: a cup, a sword, a pentacle, and a wand. These represent emotion, thought, material resources, and willpower, all at his disposal. Red and white flowers bloom at his feet, suggesting both desire and purity of intention. This image represents the transformation of potential into reality. Unlike The Fool, who hasn't chosen a direction, The Magician is focused and deliberate. He is the channel between heaven and earth, using what he has to shape what will be. But with all power comes responsibility—misuse of these tools can just as easily create illusion as truth.

Carrot Tarot (Tyger's Eye)

General Readings

Upright: Pulling The Magician means it’s time to take action, you’ve got the tools, the skills, and the knowledge to begin making something real. Unlike The Fool, who hasn’t made a plan yet, The Magician is focused and knows exactly what he wants to create. This card suggests the universe is aligning with your intentions, but it’s up to you to use what’s available wisely. The surrounding cards will show where your power lies, or where you might be hesitating to step into it. If you've been waiting for a sign to start something—whether a project, relationship, or personal goal—this is it. It’s a reminder that your potential only becomes reality through action. Trust in your abilities, take the lead, and don’t be afraid to bring your ideas to life.

Reversed: Pulling The Magician in reverse suggests you may be doubting your abilities, or misusing the tools at your disposal. There's a risk that you're trying to force something into being before it's truly ready, or that you're presenting something as more than it is. Be wary of illusion, both from others and within yourself. The ideas you have may hold real value, but right now, they’re scattered or lacking direction. This card can also point to manipulation; either someone is misleading you, or you’re not being entirely honest in your motives. The surrounding cards will help reveal which. You need to slow down, ground yourself, and make sure your actions align with your intentions. Power without purpose can easily become chaos.

Love and Relationships

Upright: In Love & Relationship readings, pulling The Magician upright suggests strong potential and a powerful connection, either forming or deepening. If you're single, it may mean someone charismatic is entering your life; someone who knows what they want and isn’t afraid to go after it. This card can signal attraction, chemistry, and clear intentions. If you’re already in a relationship, The Magician encourages honest communication and shared goals. This is a time when your relationship can be shaped into something even more meaningful if both people are fully present and engaged. However, it's also a reminder: magic only works when both people are being authentic. Use this moment to speak clearly, act deliberately, and align your desires with your actions.

Reversed: When The Magician appears reversed in a love reading, it's a warning to look beneath the surface. Something may not be what it seems. This card can point to manipulation, charm used as a mask, or someone making promises they don’t intend to keep. If you're in a new relationship, be cautious; there might be hidden motives, or someone may be trying to impress you without showing their true self. In established relationships, it could mean a lack of honesty or a feeling that one partner is leading while the other follows without real communication. It's important now to ask: is this a real connection, or an illusion? Are you expressing your truth, or trying to control the outcome? Take a step back and ensure that what’s being built is based on trust, not tricks.

Mystical Fred (Tyger's Eye)

Money and Finances

Upright: In a financial context, The Magician upright is a positive sign. It suggests you have the skills, ideas, or resources to improve your situation, but you need to act. This card is about using what’s already within your reach. It might mean a new job opportunity, a side project with real earning potential, or simply getting smarter about how you manage your money. The key is confidence and clarity; know what you want, and take steps to make it happen. You have more control over your financial path than you might realise right now. This is the time to be proactive, resourceful, and focused. With the right mindset, you can turn a small opportunity into something long-lasting.

Reversed: Reversed, The Magician warns of missed opportunities, poor planning, or financial manipulation. You may be holding back from taking action out of fear or self-doubt, or you might be placing your trust in someone who doesn’t have your best interests at heart. There’s a chance that something sounds too good to be true, and likely is. Be especially cautious of financial schemes, hidden fees, or persuasive people offering quick fixes. It can also mean you’re not using your full potential; either you're doubting your ability to manage money well, or you’re letting your talents go to waste. Take a step back, reassess your finances with a clear head, and make sure you’re in control, not being controlled.

Careers and Job Opportunities

Upright: The Magician upright in a career reading is a powerful sign that you’re entering a period of opportunity and personal influence. You have the skills, confidence, and focus needed to make real progress, whether that’s stepping into a leadership role, launching a new project, or finally taking that leap into a new job or path. People are likely noticing your abilities, and you may be in a position to impress the right person at the right time. This card encourages you to be bold but strategic. You’ve got the tools, now use them. The Magician reminds you that success isn’t just about talent, it’s about intention. Be clear on your goals, and act with purpose. This is your moment to shape your path, rather than wait for it to appear.

Reversed: Reversed, The Magician suggests a lack of direction in your career, or worse, someone around you may be presenting themselves as more capable than they really are. This can point to manipulation in the workplace, a boss or co-worker taking credit for your work, or a situation where you’re being undervalued. On a personal level, it may mean you’re not using your strengths effectively. Perhaps you’re stuck in a role that doesn’t challenge you, or you’re hesitating to make a move because you doubt your own abilities. There’s potential here, but it’s being misused, ignored, or wasted. The message is clear: don’t let fear or outside influence steer your career off course. Reclaim your power, get clear on what you want, and make sure your next steps are aligned with your real strengths, not someone else’s agenda.

Download The Tyger's Eye Tarot Guide: HERE

Mystical Fred was the first Tarot deck designed by Charlotte at The Tyger's Eye