Introduction
The Ace of Wands is the first step in the progression of the suit of Wands. It represents the first spark of creation in the realm of spirit or super-consciousness. It is the source of all inspiration: thoughts, ideas and impulses. These things don’t come to us fully formed; it is our job to develop or act upon them. They are the essential seeds of energy and of life itself. Without this “first cause,” as Aristotle coined it, nothing else can form. We can think of the Ace of Wands as the Big Bang, the moment of conception or the bright idea that pops into our mind from nowhere.
Imagery
This card is often depicted as a disembodied hand reaching out from a small cloud. In the Rider-Waite tarot, the hand holds a sturdy staff that is sprouting leaves. Eight leaves have become detached and are floating around the staff. Below lies a peaceful landscape with a meandering river, trees, hills, a castle and distant mountains. These symbols represent the other three tarot suits, so the Ace of Wands energy acts as the conduit via which all things become manifest.
General Meanings
When the Ace of Wands shows up for you in a reading, be ready to grab an opportunity or act on a fantastic new idea. Get enthusiastic, see potential, and abandon yourself to creativity in all its forms. It’s a great card to appear for anyone thinking of starting something new, such as a business, a new career or even a new hobby. The Ace of Wands tells you to go for it. It’s a very positive, life-affirming energy – this card yells, “Yes!” every time.
If it appears reversed, the energy is still there but is weakened, so you might consider taking things at a more cautionary pace for the time being. It warns against acting rashly, taking on too much or not planning your next step properly.
Interpretations in Various Areas of Life
Work
In a work-related reading, the Ace of Wands indicates that you are in a good place right now. You are offered an opportunity to prove your expertise and capabilities. You may even be head-hunted by another organization. There could be a new challenge, and you are ready for it. This is your time to show just how good you are. If you are looking for work, go out there and impress your potential employers – give them your special brand of “wow factor”. You’ll be offered your dream job very soon.
Love
Strong attraction, love and passion are all possibilities. You could be on the brink of a whirlwind romance, or your current relationship can explode into a new, positive phase. The Ace of Wands can sometimes indicate pregnancy depending on what other cards accompany it. The Empress, Page of Cups, Eight of Wands and Queen of Pentacles combined with the Ace are very strongly connected with conception and birth. If this is something you both want, then it’s looking good. If not, then be careful!
Finances
If you’ve been thinking about how to attract more money, the Ace of Wands will provide plenty of ideas. Explore as many as you can and decide which make you feel most enthusiastic. New earning opportunities are likely to come your way; don’t refuse any of them until you have investigated their potential. If this card appears with other cards such as the Ace of Pentacles and the Wheel of Fortune, can mean that a gift, win or raise in salary is imminent.
Health
You feel good. Health issues recede or improve. Your energy levels increase and you have lots of enthusiasm for moving your body. Spend time out of doors and you will reap the benefits of fresh air and sunshine.
Spirituality
Your interest in the spiritual aspects of life grows. A new path may beckon, and you will feel as though you can channel energy from a higher plane. This energy permeates right through your body, mind and spirit. You may find it difficult to sit still and meditate at this time because the energy is so strong; you feel the need to move. Dancing, stretching and walking are good ways to meditate actively. Let the spirit fill your soul.
