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Writer's pictureLaura Downs

The Hanged Man: Upright and Reversed Meanings

Introduction

The Hanged Man represents surrender, perspective, and the need to pause and reflect. As the twelfth card in the Major Arcana, it invites us to look at situations from a different angle and embrace the power of letting go. When this card appears, it often signifies a time for introspection and the exploration of new viewpoints, encouraging you to embrace a shift in perspective.


In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, The Hanged Man is depicted as a man suspended upside down from a tree, his arms in a relaxed position. This imagery symbolizes the idea of seeing things differently and suggests that the answers you seek may require you to change your approach. The halo around his head represents enlightenment and the wisdom gained from surrendering to the moment.


The Hanged Man upright

Upright Meaning

Keywords: Surrender, letting go, new perspectives, contemplation, pause.


When The Hanged Man appears upright in a reading, it signifies a time for surrender and contemplation. This card encourages you to let go of control and allow things to unfold naturally. It may indicate that you need to take a step back from a situation to gain clarity and insight. Embracing this pause can lead to profound realizations and personal growth.


In a love reading, The Hanged Man suggests a need for patience and reflection in your romantic life. If you’re in a relationship, this card may indicate a time to reevaluate your feelings and the dynamics between you and your partner. For singles, it encourages you to embrace this period of waiting, as it can lead to deeper self-awareness and preparation for future connections.


In terms of career and money, The Hanged Man highlights the importance of taking a break to reflect on your professional path. You may feel stuck or uncertain about your next steps, and this card encourages you to pause and reassess your goals. This period of contemplation can lead to new ideas and insights that will ultimately guide your career forward.


For a home or personal reading, The Hanged Man emphasizes the value of slowing down and taking time for introspection. This may involve reassessing your priorities, values, or relationships. It’s a time to reflect on what truly matters to you and to embrace the insights that arise from this pause.


Reflection Questions:

  • What situations in your life could benefit from a new perspective?

  • How can you practice letting go and allowing things to unfold naturally?

  • In what areas do you feel the need to pause and reflect before moving forward?


The Hanged Man reversed

Reversed Meaning

Keywords: Stagnation, indecision, resistance to change, lack of perspective.


When The Hanged Man appears reversed, it may indicate feelings of stagnation or an unwillingness to let go. You might be clinging to control or struggling to see things from a different angle. This card serves as a reminder that resistance to change can hinder your growth and that embracing a shift in perspective is essential.


In a love reading, the reversed Hanged Man can suggest feelings of frustration or impatience within a relationship. You or your partner may be resistant to addressing underlying issues, leading to a lack of progress. For singles, this card may indicate difficulty in letting go of past connections, preventing you from moving forward.


In terms of career and money, the reversed Hanged Man signifies a lack of direction or clarity in your professional life. You may be feeling stuck or hesitant to take the necessary steps toward change. Financially, this card warns against holding onto outdated beliefs or strategies that are no longer serving you.


For a home or personal reading, the reversed Hanged Man highlights the need to confront feelings of stagnation. You may be avoiding important decisions or resisting the necessary changes in your life. This card encourages you to find the courage to let go of what is holding you back and to embrace new perspectives.


Reflection Questions:

  • What are you resisting in your life, and how is it impacting your growth?

  • Are you stuck in old patterns that prevent you from moving forward?

  • How can you cultivate a mindset open to new ideas and perspectives?


Practical Application

To work with the energy of The Hanged Man, practice embracing moments of stillness and reflection. Take time to meditate, journal, or engage in activities that promote contemplation. Allow yourself to surrender to the moment and explore new perspectives on situations that may be causing you stress or confusion.


Conclusion

The Hanged Man serves as a powerful reminder of the value of surrender and perspective in our lives. Whether you’re facing challenges in relationships, career, or personal growth, this card encourages you to pause, reflect, and embrace the insights that arise from letting go. By doing so, you can unlock new possibilities and pathways to transformation.


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