Tarot 101, The Hanged Man: Shifting Perspective & Self-Sacrifice

Today, we take a closer look at the Hanged Man, a card rich with symbolism and meaning in the realm of Tarot. The Hanged Man depicts a young man suspended upside down by one foot, a position reminiscent of certain Yoga poses that emphasize balance and surrender. This imagery is not merely aesthetic; it conveys profound themes of self-sacrifice, the necessity of seeing things from a different angle, and the experience of feeling stuck or in limbo. The card is associated with the number 12, which can signify completion and the cyclical nature of life. While the Hanged Man may initially evoke feelings of stagnation or entrapment, it also holds the potential for a significant awakening that can arise through the act of letting go and sacrificing personal desires for a greater understanding or purpose.

The Hanged Man, The Rider–Waite Tarot is a widely popular deck for tarot card reading, first published by William Rider & Son in 1909, based on the instructions of academic and mystic A. E. Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, both members of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.

Most often when I see this card in a reading, it conveys a powerful message that the querent is giving up too much of themselves, whether it be their time, energy, or emotional resources. This selflessness, while noble, can lead to disappointment if there is an unspoken expectation of reciprocity. The querent may find themselves in a position where they feel let down or betrayed because they anticipated a return favor or acknowledgment for their sacrifices. This situation raises an important question: how many of us have faced disappointment because we made an offer or commitment tied to an expectation of something in return? It’s a common human experience, and the Hanged Man encourages us to reflect on where we might be overextending ourselves in relationships or commitments, and whether those efforts are truly appreciated or reciprocated.

Less frequently, I receive messages from this card that indicate a necessary shift in perspective for the querent. Are they entrenched in a particular viewpoint that is limiting their ability to see the full scope of their situation? The Hanged Man invites introspection, urging the querent to consider whether they are viewing their challenges or blessings through a narrow lens. How else can they perceive their circumstances to extract deeper meanings or insights? This card serves as a reminder that sometimes, the key to overcoming obstacles lies in our ability to change how we interpret our experiences. It encourages a pause, a moment of stillness, and a willingness to embrace a different viewpoint that may lead to enlightenment and clarity.

In light of these reflections, what can you see differently in your life? Are there areas where you feel stuck, yet perhaps a simple shift in perspective could illuminate a path forward? The Hanged Man challenges you to look beyond the surface and to explore the possibilities that arise from letting go of rigid expectations and embracing a more fluid understanding of your circumstances. It is through this process of surrender and introspection that true growth and awakening can occur.