what does the emperor mean in tarot?

As the forefather of the Tarot, The Emperor approaches situations with structure, logic and rationality. He knows how to wield power, make use of consistency and implement order in our lives. Regardless of whether this represents the person in your life or not, the emperor means the dominance of logic over emotions, mind over heart.   

the emperor energy and symbology

The emperor is a symbol of power and authority, represented by his staff. Symbolic of the emperor's rule and the kingdom in which he rules. The person behind the emperor represents an old man who is good at business and wealthy. 

The Emperor has a golden orb representing his rule over his empire. Therefore, he signifies the highest level of leadership and governance. If you harness the positive upright energy of the emperor, your efforts will be successful. 

In my experience, in a general reading, the imperial card represents a person who is a male authority figure. If you have witnessed a male father figure in a patriarchal society, you can identify with the card as that person. If the emperor is shown during a reading, the relationship with your father or other authority figures may need to be healed. 

the emperor in love

The Emperor is a serious man with purpose, and for this reason, he can be a positive sign in love. If you are single, the Emperor represents an older man who can positively change your life. More than likely he is a father or serves as a father figure. This person seeks someone who embodies traits of the Empress. This person brings common sense, structure, discipline and logic into relationships and romance. 

If asking how someone feels about you, they feel you embody qualities of the Emperor. This could be good, bad, or neutral depending on what this person values.

In love readings, this card is a reminder to examine what you prioritize in romantic settings and if you have the qualities or willingness to work with The Emperor. Since he creates structure and rules within the relationships, you will need to nurture and create within these constraints. Two Emperors in a relationship simply won’t do.

the emperor as advice

The Emperor asks you to evaluate your relation with authority, control, authority, responsibility and discipline.  Create structures in your life that will support the stability you seek in a particular area.

Take control of a situation and act with authority and confidence. You will need to subdue emotions in order to achieve the results you seek. Create a plan and stick with it. Delegate tasks as needed.

the emperor reversed

If The Emperor appears in reverse, if you are single, it may mean that you have unresolved fatherly issues that affect your relationship. Are you extremely rigid regarding lists and rules or the opposite extreme do you never pay your bills? This card indicates that you are not going to change imbalances, mistakes or injuries that have happened. You see your contract is hurting you at the present moment and you are having difficulty resolving them.

The Emperor reversed indicates that there is a power imbalance in the relationship. One person is too dogmatic and rigid, which creates a power imbalance and can make the other feel trapped and unhappy.  The intentions of this person are clouded by their own misguided fears leading them to develop intentions that are not a good fit for either side.

A lesser known meaning for The Emperor indicates someone who is passive to the detriment of a relationship or situation.   

Conversely, the emperor's card denotes an authority figure who abuses his power over you and leaves you with resentment and a strong urge to rebel. This person or situation can have outdated views on how you should behave. Obliging to this emperor may cause you to compromise on your values in favor of pleasing the authority figure.