Major Arcana
The Star: Meaning of the Tarot Card of Hope
The Star stands for hope, renewal and the quiet trust that light returns after dark times.
Upright
- hope
- optimism
- renewal
- inspiration
- serenity
- trust
Reversed
- discouragement
- disappointment
- self-doubt
- lack of direction
- lost faith in yourself
- exhaustion
- Number
- XVII
- Element
- Air
- Astrology
- Aquarius
- Yes or no?
- Yes
The card image
Our card shows a silver lake in the middle of a night-time desert of violet sand. Above it shines a large eight-pointed star in warm gold, surrounded by seven smaller ones forming a loose circle. Their light falls so clearly onto the water that every single star appears twice.
On the shore kneels a figure, seen from behind, with loose hair falling down her back like a veil. She holds two jugs: from one, water flows back into the lake; from the other, onto the sand, where it forms five small rivulets with delicate grasses sprouting along their edges. On a lone acacia tree a heron stands motionless in the starlight.
Meaning
Upright
After the storm of The Tower, The Star appears like a deep breath of clear night air. It is one of the most comforting cards in the tarot and stands for hope, renewal and the feeling of being connected with your own life again.
In a reading, The Star can suggest that a difficult phase lies behind you and that you are regaining confidence. Things don't have to be perfect yet, but you can feel that they are looking up. A dream you had already given up on may come within reach again.
The figure by the water gives generously without exhausting herself. She shows that emotional healing grows from openness and trust. Aquarius, her sign, brings a view towards the future and ideas that give others hope. The Star encourages you to let your light shine, even if it is only a small one at first.
Reversed
Reversed, The Star is hidden behind clouds. You may feel discouraged, or you have lost faith in yourself or in a plan. Disappointments have left their mark.
The card reminds you that the star hasn't disappeared just because you can't see it right now. Look for small points of light: a kind conversation, a sense of achievement, a moment in nature. Hope often returns step by step.
Love
Upright
In love, The Star stands for a healing, honest connection. After a difficult time, trust can return and you meet each other more openly than before. Shared dreams give you strength.
Reversed
Reversed, disappointment can cloud your view. Perhaps you expect too much, or you don't dare to hope. Talk about your wishes instead of hiding them.
For singles
For singles, The Star is a sign that old wounds are healing and you are becoming ready for something new. A meeting may feel completely natural and easy.
Career
Upright
At work, The Star shows inspiration and new perspectives. Creative and social projects are in a favourable light. After setbacks, a promising opportunity may open up.
Reversed
Reversed, you may be missing a sense of meaning in your work. Ask yourself what excited you in the first place, and look for ways to bring it back.
Money
Upright
Financially, The Star heralds a period of recovery. After tight times, things may slowly ease, especially if you plan realistically.
Reversed
Reversed, don't hope for a miracle; take small, reliable steps instead. A simple overview of your income and expenses gives you stability.
Wellbeing
For your wellbeing, The Star is an invitation to recharge: time by the water, a bath, restful sleep and evenings under the open sky. Treat yourself to things that fill you up inside.
Yes or no? Yes
The Star gives a hopeful yes. Things may still need a little time to develop, but the direction is right.
Yes/No oracleAs the card of the day
Today you are allowed to hope again. Look up at the sky this evening and think of something you are looking forward to. A small piece of good news or a kind word can lighten your heart today.
The card’s advice
Trust that your light keeps shining even after a storm. Pour out generously what you have, and allow yourself to be filled up again.
Combinations
The Star The Tower
With The Tower, the classic path from upheaval to renewal appears. What has broken makes room for a more honest new beginning.
The Star Six of Swords
Next to the Six of Swords, the path leads into calmer waters. You are leaving a hard time behind you.
The Star Ace of Cups
With the Ace of Cups, the heart opens to new feelings. A very healing, loving combination.
The Star The Moon
Together with The Moon, hope and uncertainty take turns. Hold on to what you can see clearly and let your fears drift away.
Frequently asked questions
Is The Star a good card?
Yes, it is one of the most hopeful cards in the tarot. It stands for renewal, optimism and the feeling of being back on the right path.
What does The Star mean in love?
It shows an honest, healing connection or the return of trust after a difficult time.
What does The Star mean reversed?
Reversed, it points to discouragement or disappointment. It reminds you to look for small glimmers of light and to regain hope step by step.
What does The Star mean as a card of the day?
It gives you a day full of confidence. Notice the beautiful little things and treat yourself to something that recharges you.
Which zodiac sign is linked to The Star?
The Star is associated with Aquarius, the sign of visions of the future, community and originality.