Major Arcana
The Sun: Meaning of the Tarot Card of Joy
The Sun stands for joy, success, clarity and a warmth that lets everything in your life blossom.
Upright
- Joy
- Success
- Vitality
- Clarity
- Optimism
- Warmth
Reversed
- Dimmed joy
- Arrogance
- Delay
- Exhaustion
- Unrealistic optimism
- Passing cloud
- Number
- XIX
- Element
- Fire
- Astrology
- Sun
- Yes or no?
- Yes
The card image
Our Sun rises over a wide field of sunflowers and golden wheat, yet the sky at the edges is still night blue, as if day were just taking over from night. The sun itself is large and round, with rays that alternate between straight and wavy, bathing everything in warm gold.
A child sits on a low stone wall, seen from behind, arms flung wide. Beside the wall a white foal grazes, and a kite of orange paper floats above the field. An orange tree at the edge carries blossoms and ripe fruit at the same time. Even the shadows look soft and friendly here.
Meaning
Upright
The Sun is one of the most joyful cards in the whole tarot. After the uncertainties of The Moon, it brings clarity, warmth and the feeling that life is on your side. In a reading, it can suggest that something is developing successfully and that you have every reason to be glad.
The card stands for vitality and self-confidence. You are allowed to show yourself as you are, without hiding. The child on the wall reminds you that joy can be very simple: a sunny day, a laugh, a piece of work that turned out well.
The Sun often stands for honesty and insight, too. What was unclear before now lies open in the light. It can signal success in exams, projects that come together, happy family moments or a time full of energy. Enjoy this phase consciously.
Reversed
Reversed, The Sun does not lose its light; it is simply hidden behind a cloud for a while. Perhaps a success is delayed, or you cannot fully enjoy what you have achieved right now.
The card can also warn against excessive optimism or overestimating yourself. Stay realistic, but do not lose heart. The cloud will move on, and you can already feel the warmth.
Sometimes the reversed Sun also shows that you are dimming your own light so that others do not feel smaller. It is kindly meant, but it helps no one. You are allowed to accept your successes, enjoy praise and be visible without apologising for it.
Love
Upright
In love, The Sun is a radiant sign: happiness, trust, shared joy and a relationship in which you both feel free and seen. Plans for a family or a home together are also under a lucky star.
Reversed
Reversed, everyday routine may dim the joy a little. Plan lovely experiences on purpose and remind yourselves why you chose each other.
For singles
If you are single, The Sun announces a time when you shine and draw others in. A cheerful, uncomplicated encounter is possible.
Career
Upright
At work, The Sun shows success, recognition and visibility. Your work is valued and projects succeed. A very good card for job applications, presentations and exams.
Reversed
Reversed, recognition may be delayed. Keep at it and do not overestimate yourself; success may simply arrive a little later than hoped.
Money
Upright
Financially, The Sun stands for a pleasant phase with stability and perhaps a reason to celebrate. Treat yourself without forgetting to be careful.
Reversed
Reversed, it advises against spending too carelessly. A little planning keeps the good mood going.
Wellbeing
For your wellbeing, The Sun invites you to light, fresh air and joy in life: time outdoors, movement that is fun, and moments of carefree laughter. In all the high spirits, be careful not to wear yourself out.
Yes or no? Yes
The Sun gives a clear, radiant yes. It is one of the most positive cards for yes or no questions.
Yes/No oracleAs the card of the day
Today you are allowed to shine. Step into the light, laugh a lot and share your joy with others. Whatever you begin with an open heart today has good prospects.
The card’s advice
Show yourself, be glad, live in the light. The warmth you give out comes back to you many times over.
Combinations
The Sun Ten of Cups
With the Ten of Cups, joy joins with family happiness. One of the loveliest combinations for questions about love and home.
The Sun Six of Wands
Next to the Six of Wands, a success is celebrated in public. Your achievement is seen and recognised.
The Sun The Moon
With The Moon, clarity follows uncertainty. What was blurry becomes bright and easy to understand.
The Sun Three of Pentacles
Together with the Three of Pentacles, teamwork goes especially well. Together you achieve a shining result.
Frequently asked questions
Is The Sun the best card in tarot?
It is considered one of the most positive cards of all, because it embodies joy, success and clarity. It gives almost any question a bright colouring.
What does The Sun mean in love?
It stands for happiness, trust and an open, warm relationship. For singles, it shows a time of great charisma.
What does The Sun mean reversed?
Reversed, it usually shows a brief cloud or delay. The fundamentally positive energy remains.
Does The Sun represent children?
It is often linked with children, playfulness and family joy. But it can just as well refer to your inner child and your zest for life.
Which celestial body rules The Sun card?
The card is associated with the Sun itself, a symbol of vitality, awareness and self-expression.