The Hanged Man
#12 · Major Arcana
Upright
Surrender, letting go, new perspective, sacrifice, suspension
Reversed
Stalling, resistance, indecision, delays, needless sacrifice
Surrenderletting gonew perspectivesacrificesuspension
Tips
When upright, let go of control and gain new perspectives.
When reversed, avoid unnecessary sacrifices and stop delaying decisions.
Symbolism
The man hanging upside down represents voluntary sacrifice. The halo around his head shows enlightenment. The living wood of the cross represents connection to life.
History
Originally associated with traitors in medieval Italy, the card evolved to represent spiritual sacrifice and gaining wisdom through surrender.