Moon Tarot Card Meaning: Upright, Reversed, and More

Co-authored by Stina Garbis and Kira Jan

Last Updated: October 16, 2022

The moon card is one of the most mysterious, potentially illuminating cards in the tarot deck. Whether you draw it upright or reversed, the moon card urges you to get in touch with your intuition. But how should you interpret those gut feelings? And what does the moon card mean for your life? We’ve put together a complete guide to interpreting a moon card tarot reading so you can discover its meaning and prepare for what lies ahead.

Section 1 of 4:

Moon Card Overview

The moon card is the 18th card of the Major Arcana in a tarot deck. The card depicts a full moon containing a crescent moon, which symbolizes illumination and intuition. A long path leads into the distance, representing an uncertain journey. Two towers on the card and the dual moons symbolize duality. The howling wolf and dog demonstrate how primal instincts and intuition can take over. In the distance, the stream running to the ocean and a crayfish emerging from the water represent your subconscious.
- The Major Arcana in a tarot deck represent major life themes. The Minor Arcana give you insight into daily life.
- Because the moon card sits between the star card (17th card) and the sun (19th card), it’s a card of spiritual and mental illumination.
- The moon card is associated with the sign Pisces, and its ruling element is water.
- If you’re looking to purchase a tarot deck, you can find a traditional Rider-Waite deck here.

Section 2 of 4:

Moon Card Upright Meaning

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General Interpretation Drawn upright, the moon card generally symbolizes uncertainty, mystery, and illusion. You’ll likely draw the moon card when the path ahead of you is unclear or you’re entering a time of confusion. You might even be dealing with secrets and illusions.^{[1]
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Research source} Treat the card as a signal to reflect and examine what’s going on underneath the surface.^{[2]
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Research source} Check any assumptions you’ve made—things might not be as they seem. If you’re feeling a bit uneasy about what’s ahead, dig deeper and ask yourself, “Why am I feeling this way?”
- Try journaling about your dreams to unlock the secrets within your subconscious.
- Go with your gut rather than relying on logic. The moon is closely linked to your intuition.
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Love and Relationships Meaning In love and relationships, the moon card can indicate uncertainty and insecurity. At the heart of that uncertainty, you might find a lack of balance between partners. Do you feel seen and heard by your partner? Are you putting in effort to make your partner feel seen and heard?
- If you’re in a relationship, be prepared for old arguments might bubble up to the surface.
- If you’re dating someone, take it slow. The moon card can mean that the person you’re dating isn’t quite who they seem to be.
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Career Meaning In a career reading, a moon card means your career path might be a little hazy. It’s possible you’re facing changes in your organization or you’re contemplating a career change. The moon card can also mean that you’re struggling with communication in your work life.
- Take charge of the situation by sending important communications over email so you have written documentation. Don’t be afraid to repeat yourself to avoid misunderstandings.
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Financial Meaning Hold off on making important monetary decisions. Drawing a moon card can signal that you don’t have the full picture. If you’re about to make an important investment or purchase, press pause.
- Do thorough research and ask lots of questions before you proceed with any big financial moves.
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Health Meaning It’s time to tune into what your body really needs. How do you feel on a day-to-day basis? The moon card can spur you on to start up a new exercise routine, reset your sleep schedule, or clean up your diet.
- Start making small changes towards healthier habits.

Section 3 of 4:

Moon Card Reversed Meaning

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General Interpretation If you draw the moon card reversed, that means the truth will soon come to light. You might draw the moon card reversed if you’ve been dealing with fear and uncertainty. Fortunately, the moon card reversed means things will turn around! Negative energy will fade, chaos will become clarity, and you’ll find the answers you need.^{[3]
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- If you've been hesitant about making a change or shaking things up, now's the time to push past the fear and move forward.
- If you're searching for an answer, be patient and trust your instincts—the right path will soon be clear.
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Love and Relationships Meaning You’re about to see people for who they really are. A close friend might admit they have feelings for you. Or, on the other hand, you might discover your partner’s been unfaithful. These revelations might feel surprising or unsettling, but in the end, you’ll be one step closer to finding people who really respect and love you.
- Treat everyone with kindness, but pay attention to signs that people aren't being truthful with you.
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Career Meaning You might be facing an obstacle, but not for long! Whether you’re struggling with closing a deal or feeling stagnant in your day-to-day life, you’re about to make a breakthrough. If you've been feeling anxious about your job or concerned about a new role, the moon's nurturing energy means you're going to get through it.
- Keep an open mind when it comes to new jobs or tasks. The path the universe provides might not be what you initially expected.
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Financial Meaning You might uncover dishonesty—like credit card theft, fraud, or a dishonest business partner. However, the moon card reversed could also mean you’re about to gain a better understanding of your financial situation and future.
- Check out your accounts and investments to make sure you're on track with your financial goals.
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Health Meaning If you’ve been dealing with a physical or mental illness, the moon card reversed can symbolize renewal and healing. However, if you draw the moon card reversed with “negative” cards like the tower or death, it’s not traditionally a good sign. Some people believe the moon card reversed means it might become hard to separate truth from delusions.
- If you're struggling with mental illness, you can speak to a therapist or counselor at BetterHelp.

Section 4 of 4:

Does the moon card mean yes or no?

The moon card can be interpreted as a “no.” This card is a spiritual sign to take a step back.^{[4]
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Research source} Its energy of confusion and illusion means you should tune into your instincts before you make a decision.
- For a complete guide to interpreting tarot cards, check out How to Read Tarot: A Modern Guide.