The Hanged Man Tarot Card: Surrender, Sacrifice, And Transformation

The Hanged Man tarot card is a multifaceted symbol that invites inspection and reflection on the nature of surrender. In essence, this card portrays the willingness to sacrifice oneself and let go of old patterns in order to facilitate a transformational experience.

Although it might be a painful and uncertain period for you, it is quite necessary for you to undergo it. In most cases, this powerful card comes up in a reading just to warn the seeker about the truth that they have been disregarding.

What Does The Hanged Man Tarot Card Mean?

Overall picture of the hanged man tarot card

So, what does the hanged man mean in tarot cards? The Hanged Man tarot card features a male figure, suspended upside down by one foot from a tree branch.

The other leg is bent at an angle forming a cross shape. The man’s arms are positioned behind his back and his head is tilted downward, symbolizing a state of rumination.

The figure’s clothing and surroundings are also worth mentioning: His simple garments indicate a lack of material attachment and the background contains elements such as water, trees, and mountains, which emphasize the card’s connection to the natural world.

Correspondence of hanged man tarot card

• Keywords

Release, Surrender, Introspection, Spiritual Growth, Sacrifice.

• Element

The tarot card Hanged Man card is associated with the element of water which represents intuition, letting go, and the universal subconscious mind. Water is a powerful symbol of transformation, as it can both nourish and destroy life and is constantly in motion.

Moreover, water can let go of what is no longer working and can adapt to its surroundings. Similarly, the Hanged Man card invites us to let go of our preconceived notions and allow ourselves to be transformed by our experiences, trusting that we will emerge stronger and wiser.

• Number

The number of The Hanged Man is 12. This number represents the undergoing a process of deep transformation and moving towards a state of balance. From a numerological standpoint, the suspension of the figure can be interpreted as duality, as the male figure is both surrendered and in control, still and in motion.

In some interpretations, the number 12 can also be seen as a symbol of sacrifice and service, due to its association with the 12 disciples of Jesus and the 12 signs of the zodiac.

This reinforces the idea that the Hanged Man’s journey is one of selflessness and devotion, in which he is willing to let go of his ego and personal desires so as to serve a higher purpose.

• Astrology 

Pisces is the corresponding zodiac sign for tarot card the Hanged man. Pisces is a water sign linked to emotions, spirituality, and self-realization. Additionally, Hanged Man is associated with the dreamy planet Neptune, which simply equals soul searching.

Overall, the astrological correspondence of the Hanged Man card emphasizes the necessity of experiencing a period of hiatus that will contribute to the querent’s spiritual and emotional depth.

• Hebrew alphabet 

In Hebrew mysticism, the Hanged Man tarot card is associated with the letter “Mem” (מ). This letter is an embodiment of emotional and intuitive themes such as the purification of the soul.

The shape of the Hebrew letter Mem is also conspicuous, as it is said to resemble a womb, emphasizing the idea of spiritual birth and transformation.

• Kabbalah

In Kabbalistic tradition, the Hanged Man is connected to the path of “Daleth”. Daleth is the fourth path on the Tree of Life, which bridges the sephiroth of Binah (understanding) and Chesed (mercy).

In a nutshell, the path of Daleth represents the journey of spiritual rebirth and transmutation, as the individual surrenders their personal desires for the purpose of disposing themselves with a higher purpose.

Interaction with other cards

• The Fool tarot card:

When the Hanged Man and The Fool cards are together in a spread, they can indicate a time of spiritual exploration and new beginnings. The Fool represents a fresh start, while the Hanged Man symbolizes a period of introspection and self-discovery before taking action.

• The Tower tarot card:

While The Tower card represents sudden disruption, the hanged man (tarot card) emphasizes surrender and letting go. When these two cards come into sight together, it usually means that the upheaval is necessary to be able to facilitate spiritual growth and transformation.

• The Chariot tarot card:

When The Chariot and Hanged Man tarot cards are together, it means that the seeker needs to let go of the need to control everything in their life if he/ she desires to move forward.

• The Empress tarot card:

While The Empress card represents creativity, abundance, and nurturing, the Hanged Man demands surrender and release. When these two cards are together, the best way to access the Empress’s energy is through surrender, rather than trying to force outcomes.

The upright hanged man tarot card meaning

• Emotions

For the matter of love, the upright Hanged Man usually symbolizes a period of profound reflection. This is not necessarily a period of selfish enjoyment, instead, it is a time to let go of old habits and past discussions in order to create a deeper connection with your partner.

This card may also suggest a need to surrender control and trust in the journey of love. Remember, after all, it is the journey that counts, and not the end destination.

• Career

In the context of career, this tarot card wants you to pause and reflect before making any further moves. This is a period of (necessary) uncertainty, therefore, go over your choices carefully and don’t sign any new papers until you are fully confident.

What’s more, given that this is a waiting period, it will take time for your financial opportunities to unveil. Meanwhile, you’re expected to reevaluate your current path, trust in the journey of your career, and be open to new perspectives.

• Wealth

Your beliefs are rooted in financial restraint, but you need to create a more sustainable approach to your finances. This is a time to reassess your relationship with money and material possessions, and if possible, see a professional to utilize your savings.

• Health

In health, this card is a warning for you to prioritize self-care and take a break from the stresses of everyday life. Use this time wisely to rest and reflect, and focus on your physical and emotional well-being.

The reversed hanged man tarot card meaning

• Emotions

In love, the reversed Hanged Man usually points out reluctance and even resistance to change. Furthermore, it can indicate a need to pull out from negative cycles that are detrimental to your relationship.

Sometimes this card may also symbolize the tendency to blame others for problems in the relationship. Overall, if you receive this card in your love reading, you got to realize that your lack of willingness to take responsibility for your actions is undermining your current partnership.

If you’re single, read this card as a cautionary message to work on your communication abilities and self-awareness.

• Career

Regarding professional life, the reversed Hanged Man tarot card represents an aversion to trying new things.

On a different note, it may indicate feeling stuck or stagnant in your current position, with a hesitation to take on new challenges. This card kindly advises you to take risks in order to achieve success and fulfillment in your career.

• Wealth

The scarcity mentality you have is leading you to avoid making decisions altogether. But you should stop fearing to take risks with money.

In general, you need to be more open to new perspectives and opportunities, as it is the only way towards acquiring greater abundance and financial security.

• Health

Your stubbornness to hold back from changing your habits is destroying your health. Unless you break free from old habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol, your well-being will not improve.

See this card as an ‘aha moment’ that enables you to work on your emotional pain and helps you understand why you started those habits in the first place.

Inspiration By The Hanged Man Tarot Card

The Hanged Man tarot card advises the seeker in several ways, including letting go of control, seeking deeper meaning, and embracing discomfort in their own skin. The Hanged Man reminds us that sometimes the best way to move forward is by relinquishing control and trusting the universe.

This can be a powerful lesson in releasing perfectionism, micromanagement, and the need to have everything figured out. It also encourages us to delve deeper into our thoughts and emotions in order to gain a better understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Moreover, The Hanged Man hints to us that growth often requires us to step outside our comfort zones and embrace challenges so that we can learn to face difficult situations with strength.