Getting back with an ex and rekindling a relationship is one of the most frequently asked topics in my tarot readings. And while the context of the spread can indicate a yes or no, there are 11 cards, in my opinion, that have the highest likelihood of announcing a return.

In this article, we’ll explore those eleven specific tarot cards that, at least from my perspective, are most directly related to the idea of an ex coming back or the possibility of having a second chance.

Getting Back with an Ex According to Tarot

The Cards I Don’t Include for an Ex’s Return

The Meaning Isn’t Everything; It’s About Interpretation

As I always mention in my articles, books, and even in my personal readings, everything in tarot is about interpretation. We depend on the context of the cards for an answer, we don’t just go by the meaning of one card, but by analyzing the context of all the cards and how they respond to the question we’re asking.
There are cards, especially the well-known love cards, like the Ace of Cups, the Two of Cups, the Ten of Cups, the Star, and even, to some extent, the Empress, the Fool, the Wheel of Fortune, and many other cards from the Minor Arcana that in a certain context can suggest the possibility of getting back with an ex.

Cards That Say Yes, But Not Clearly

Obviously, these are positive love cards, as I said, and they can give us a favorable response to the question of getting back with an ex, but in general, these are cards more focused on new relationships or the start of love for the first time, and strictly speaking, they don’t have much to do with rebuilding a past relationship.
Even the two cards most associated with good news, such as the Knight of Cups and the Star, don’t clearly announce the return of a relationship, nor do many other court cards that are generally messengers of good news when they appear upright.

The 11 Cards That Predict Getting Back with an Ex

I’ve selected these 11 cards because their individual meanings clearly suggest the possibility of rekindling a relationship. In other cards, it may be implied or tacitly suggested that there’s a chance for a second opportunity, but these 11 cards specify it.
However, you may face both scenarios: one of these clear 11 cards for getting back with an ex could appear in your reading but be surrounded by many negative cards, meaning your interpretation wouldn’t necessarily be that the relationship could be rekindled. On the other hand, you may not get any of these cards but may have others that subtly suggest it.

The Importance of Common Sense in Interpretation

It’s undeniable that if you’re asking about getting back with an ex and cards like the Ace of Cups, the Two of Cups, the Star, the Knight of Cups, the Magician, or the happy family of the Ten of Cups show up, it clearly implies that there’s a manifest possibility of returning to an ex.
Therefore, as mentioned: the context of the cards is what really matters, and we must interpret based on that, looking at the group of cards we have, unless you decide to ask and draw just one card, in which case these 11 that I list in this article are, of course, the most positive for announcing the return of an ex or the possibility of a second chance, whether with recent or old loves coming back into our lives.

11 Tarot Cards That Signal Getting Back with an Ex

6 of Cups

The Six of Cups is a card that gently evokes nostalgia, memories, and the innocence of past affections. In the context of tarot and relationships, this card often suggests a return to emotional connections we’ve experienced before, making it a potent symbol when it comes to the return of an ex-love or the possibility of rekindling a past relationship.
Visually, the 6 of Cups depicts a tender and serene scene: two figures, often children, exchanging cups in what seems to be a peaceful, familiar garden. This image evokes a sense of pure, selfless sharing, a reminder of the bonds formed in a simpler, less complicated past.

The Weight of History in a Relationship

In tarot, this card invites us to reflect on our past relationships with warmth and affection, remembering the good moments shared and the lessons learned.
For this reason, when the Six of Cups appears in a love or relationship reading, it may indicate that a past love is thinking of you or that there’s an opportunity to rekindle a significant relationship, whether it was recent or long ago. This card suggests that the past isn’t entirely closed, and that the emotions and connections that were once strong may still have relevance in the present.

Getting Back with an Ex, But Not Just for the Sake of It

Additionally, the Six of Cups can represent the idea of a “second chance.” In this context, it’s not just about reliving a relationship for the sake of going back to the past, but about rediscovering and reconnecting with someone with whom you shared a genuine and deep connection. This card encourages us to approach these possibilities with an open heart, innocence, and emotional honesty.
However, it’s important to remember that the Six of Cups doesn’t guarantee a romantic return 100% (no card does, really), but rather opens the door to the possibility. It reminds us that while the past offers valuable lessons and memories, any steps toward rekindling a relationship must be considered with maturity and clarity, ensuring that the decisions made are healthy and beneficial for both people.

3 of Cups

The Celebration of Reuniting

The Three of Cups is a card that radiates joy, celebration, and reunion—elements that make it particularly relevant when exploring the possibility of rekindling a past love or reviving a previous relationship. In my readings, I’ve often found that this card appears where there’s an opportunity for reconciliation and the renewal of emotional bonds.
Visually, the 3 of Cups shows three people toasting, symbolizing community, friendship, and the sharing of positive emotions. This image is a powerful reminder of the happy moments shared, and in the context of a past relationship, it may suggest the possibility of reliving those moments. The card speaks of the joy of reuniting, of leaving behind differences, and celebrating what was once shared.

Getting Back with an Ex, and Doing It Right

The Three of Cups can indicate that reuniting with an ex could not only be possible but also positive, as it may suggest that both of you have grown and matured since the separation and are now in a place where you can better appreciate what you had. This card encourages us to open our hearts to the possibility of happiness and to remember the good times, allowing those memories to light the path toward possible reconciliation.
At the same time, it’s important to approach this possibility with a clear mind and an open heart, recognizing that the reunion should be based on mutual growth, not just nostalgia. The Three of Cups invites us to celebrate love in all its forms, but it also reminds us of the importance of communication and mutual understanding to build a stronger and healthier relationship. With this card, we honor the past but also look forward with hope and renewed love.

4 of Cups Reversed

Looking Within and Returning Consciously

The Four of Cups reversed is a fascinating card in the context of tarot, and its interpretation can be particularly revealing when it comes to love, especially concerning the return of an ex or the possibility of giving a past relationship a second chance. This card often signals a shift in perspective or attitude that can open the door to reconciliation and reunion.
Upright, this card often represents dissatisfaction, stagnation, or apathy, as if we’re too absorbed in our own emotions or disappointments to see the opportunities around us—including the chance to get back with an ex, who may be offering us the cup from the cloud.

Shifting Focus

Conversely, when the card appears reversed, it suggests that we’re coming out of a period of introspection or discontent, indicating that we’ve gone inward, asked ourselves questions, and found answers. As a result, we’re starting to recognize the missed or ignored opportunities, including the possibility of rekindling a past relationship.
This card may suggest that both you and your ex are reconsidering what you once had. Perhaps in the past, one or both of you were too focused on the negatives or on what was missing in the relationship, preventing you from seeing the positives that were also there. It speaks to leaving behind that attitude of indifference or disappointment and being open to new possibilities.

I’m Coming Back Not Just Because I Can, But Because I Want To

In the context of a past love, this card can indicate that it’s time to reevaluate old feelings and past connections. It can be a sign that you’re ready to move past apathy or resentment and consider a second chance from a renewed and more mature perspective because you’ve thought it through long enough.
It’s important to remember that the Four of Cups reversed encourages us to act with caution. It invites us to reflect on what we truly want and need, and to ensure that any decision to rekindle a past relationship is based on personal growth and a deeper understanding of what both can offer each other now, rather than simply trying to relive the past.

Ace of Pentacles

An Undeniable New Opportunity to Get Back with an Ex

The Ace of Pentacles may not be a card you typically associate with getting back with an ex, right? The Ace of Cups would seem like the more instinctive choice. However, this Ace of Pentacles symbolizes new opportunities, beginnings, and the potential for growth in many areas of life.
In the context of love and relationships, this card can be a significant indicator when it comes to the return of an ex or the possibility of giving a past relationship a second chance. This arcana offers a unique and very positive perspective.

It certainly suggests the possibility of a new beginning or a rebirth in the relationship, as this card is like a seed that, if planted and nurtured properly, can blossom into something beautiful and lasting. In the case of an ex-love, the Ace of Pentacles can indicate that there’s a solid foundation on which to rebuild the relationship, offering a new opportunity to grow together in a more positive and healthy direction.

Maturity, the Key to the Return

The Ace of Pentacles also speaks to potential and possibilities, and in reference to a past relationship, it can mean that both individuals have matured or changed in ways that now make a more successful relationship possible. It can be a reminder that, although the previous relationship ended, there is new potential for something different and more fulfilling.
Additionally, this card can symbolize the manifestation of desires and goals, indicating that both have reflected on what they truly want and need in a relationship and are ready to work together to make those desires a reality.

Relationships Broken by Material Concerns

Just like the reversed Five of Pentacles (which we’ll get to soon), these two cards can’t ignore their material aspects and their relation to money. They’re very positive for those couples who saw their relationship fail not because of a lack of love, but due to the financial challenges of modern times.
We see many couples breaking up daily because financial struggles take their toll on love. These two cards can now assure that these material aspects that led to the breakup are now resolved and will no longer be an obstacle to having a second chance.

However, it’s important to approach this new opportunity to get back with an ex with realism and practicality. The Ace of Pentacles encourages us to be pragmatic and make sure that we’re entering this renewed relationship with clear expectations and a solid understanding of what it will take to make it work, with both willing to invest the effort and attention needed to make this new phase of the relationship flourish.

5 of Pentacles Reversed

The Five of Pentacles reversed is a card associated with overcoming difficulties and recovering from loss. In the context of love and relationships, this card can be particularly revealing when it comes to the possibility of rekindling a past relationship or giving an ex-love a second chance.
In its upright, ruinous position, the 5 of Pentacles can represent very tough times, feelings of abandonment or lack, relationship difficulties, and breakups. But when it appears reversed, it suggests a positive shift in all these circumstances and may indicate that the period of loneliness or separation is coming to an end, and there is light at the end of the tunnel.

What Doesn’t Kill Us Makes Us Stronger

In the case of an ex-love, the Five of Pentacles reversed may indicate that both have gone through a period of reflection and personal growth following the breakup. It suggests that the difficulties in the relationship, which may have led to the separation, are beginning to resolve or be viewed from a new perspective. It can signal a renewal of hope and the possibility of reconnecting on a deeper and more meaningful level.

A Slow, Hard-Earned New Beginning

Like the Ace of Pentacles, as I’ve already mentioned, the reversed Five of Pentacles can symbolize overcoming financial issues that may have affected the relationship in the past. Now, these problems are being addressed or resolved, removing a major obstacle to reconciliation.
It’s important to remember that while this card involves a “new beginning,” it’s slow and hard-earned. We emerge from a tough situation and rise step by step, so any potential reconciliation should be approached with caution and realism. The Five of Pentacles reversed reminds us that while circumstances have improved, it’s crucial to recognize and learn from past difficulties to avoid repeating the same patterns.

The Sun

The Sun is one of the brightest and most positive cards in the tarot, and its appearance in a reading can be an encouraging sign, especially in the context of romantic relationships, signaling a period of clarity, joy, and success. This could very well translate into the renewal of bonds and the return of an ex-love.
The Sun Arcana represents the light that dispels shadows, which in a relationship could mean overcoming misunderstandings or past problems. Its energy is one of optimism and happiness, suggesting that difficult moments may now be behind you, giving way to a brighter and more positive phase. When it comes to getting back with an ex, The Sun may indicate that both individuals have gained a greater understanding and appreciation for what they once shared, now viewing the relationship from a more optimistic and hopeful perspective.

This Time We’ll Do It Much Better

This card also symbolizes success and fulfillment, which, in relation to a past relationship, may suggest that there’s now an opportunity for the relationship to flourish in a way that wasn’t possible before. It could be a sign that both have grown and evolved, and that they are now better prepared for a successful, fuller, and more satisfying relationship.
Additionally, The Sun is a card of pure energy and vitality, which could indicate a rebirth of passion and emotional connection, reigniting the spark that once existed, as “where there was fire, there’s still warmth,” but now with new maturity and understanding.

We must remember that The Sun also invites us to be realistic, for while the card suggests a time of happiness and success, it’s crucial to approach any reconciliation with honesty and open communication, ensuring that both are on the same page and willing to work together to keep the relationship in this bright and positive state.

The Lovers

The Lovers is a deeply symbolic card in the tarot, generally associated with love, relationships, and important decisions of the heart. In the context of an ex-love or the possibility of rekindling a previous relationship, The Lovers can offer a unique and hopeful perspective at key moments where decisions of the heart are front and center.
The Lovers represent union, not only in a romantic sense but also in terms of choices and life paths. In the context of a past relationship, it can suggest that you’re at a point of reflection, considering whether getting back with an ex-love is the right path for you. It may indicate that there’s a deep connection that still lingers and that this connection deserves to be explored further.

This card also symbolizes harmony and balance in relationships, which in the case of an ex-love may suggest that both have reached a new level of understanding and maturity, making a more harmonious and balanced relationship possible if they choose to reunite. It could serve as a reminder that, although the past relationship had its challenges, there’s the possibility of a new beginning based on greater balance and mutual understanding.

The Centrality of Decisions

The Lovers is typically a card that speaks of important decisions and crossroads, and this could mean making the conscious decision to give a past love a second chance, recognizing that this choice could have a significant impact on your life.
This card invites you to consider all facets of the relationship and make a decision based on a deep understanding of what you truly want and need. The Lovers remind us that every choice has its consequences, and we must be prepared to accept them, whichever path we choose.

The Hermit

The Hermit is a card that might surprise you to see in this list of figures associated with getting back with an ex, as it’s commonly linked to introspection, inner wisdom, and the search for truth.
At first glance, it may not seem directly related to the return of an ex-love or the possibility of rekindling a past relationship. But in my experience, I’ve seen many times that The Hermit can play a significant role in these contexts and be a crucial indicator on the journey toward reconciliation and understanding in relationships.

The Essential Inner Truth

The Hermit represents a time of reflection and evaluation. In the context of a past relationship, it can suggest a period during which both you and your ex are contemplating what happened in the relationship, learning from past experiences, and gaining a deeper understanding of what each truly needs and desires in a partner. This introspection may be key to having a successful reunion.
This card also symbolizes wisdom and advice, so it may indicate that after a period of solitary reflection, you now have a better understanding of the issues that led to the breakup and how these could be addressed in the future. The Hermit encourages you to seek the truth within yourself, which may lead you to recognize and perhaps want to rekindle a lost connection with an ex-love.

If I Change, Everything Changes

Additionally, The Hermit can represent the discovery of new aspects of yourself or your ex-partner that weren’t evident when you were together. This new self-knowledge can open the door to a more mature and satisfying relationship if there’s been a true, conscious change.
We must also remember that The Hermit advises us on the need for time and space, meaning reconciliation shouldn’t be rushed. This card reminds us that personal growth and understanding are essential before resuming the past relationship, but once this stage has happened, there are many possibilities that the reconnection will turn out well.

The World

The World Arcana is one of the most positive and complete cards in the tarot, symbolizing fulfillment, happy closure, integrity, and success. In the context of getting back with an ex or the possibility of rekindling a previous relationship, it offers a unique and hopeful perspective, signaling the closure of a cycle and the beginning of a new one filled with possibilities.
The World represents the culmination of a journey and the achievement of goals, which could mean that both you and your ex have completed an important cycle in your lives separately, learning and growing from past experiences. This newfound maturity could be the foundation for a renewed and stronger relationship.

Unity is Strength

This card also symbolizes unity and wholeness, which in the context of an ex-love can indicate that both are at a point where they can view the relationship from a more holistic perspective, recognizing both the good times and the challenges, and understanding how each aspect contributed to personal growth. The figure of The World suggests that now there’s an opportunity to reunite and share this new understanding, creating a more balanced and satisfying relationship.
On the other hand, The World is a card of celebration and recognition, which could signal that it’s time to celebrate what’s been achieved individually and what could be achieved together, indicating that the relationship has the potential to be rewarding and enriching, bringing both to a sense of completeness and satisfaction.

But (because there’s always a but), it’s important to approach any reconciliation with realism and honesty. The World encourages us to look at and acknowledge the entire journey, including the lessons learned, and make sure that any decision to rekindle a past relationship is based on a deep and genuine understanding of what both desire and need in the present.

The Chariot

The Chariot is a card that symbolizes willpower, movement, control, and determination. When it comes to the return of an ex-love or the possibility of rekindling a previous relationship, it can indicate a time for decisive action and overcoming obstacles on the path to reconciliation through great willpower to achieve it.

The Willpower to Achieve Anything

The Chariot represents victory and moving forward despite challenges, through unshakable willpower. In terms of romantic relationships, it could mean that both you and your ex are ready to overcome past issues and move toward a more positive and healthy relationship. This card suggests that there’s a driving force behind this second chance, whether it’s a mutual desire to resolve unfinished business or a deeper understanding of what each person wants and needs in a relationship.
Our energetic chariot also symbolizes the balance between the mind and the heart, indicating that both have found a balance between their emotions and logic, allowing them to approach the possibility of reconciliation in a more balanced and mature way. This provides a strong opportunity to steer the relationship in a more constructive and satisfying direction.

Who Holds the Reins

It’s also a card of confidence in general and self-confidence in particular, which could signal that it’s time to take control and make bold moves toward reconciliation, as the relationship has the potential to make significant progress if both are willing to put in the necessary effort and determination.
While both must decide to reunite, The Chariot often indicates that one person is usually in control and holds the reins—one has the real power to decide “yes or no,” so it’s important to consider whether the card is referring to both of you, just to you, or to your ex-partner.

This Arcana also warns us of the need to maintain control and not get carried away by impulsive actions, as the “speed” this card implies can sometimes represent hasty returns, very soon after the relationship ended. We should know whether this could be a mistake or the right choice. For this reason, The Chariot encourages us to move toward reconciliation with a clear plan and an understanding of what it takes to make the relationship work in this new phase, which may require a bit more time.

Judgement

Our final card in this list of getting back with an ex is Judgement, a powerful card in the tarot symbolizing renewal, transformation, forgiveness, and crucial decisions. When we associate this with the return of an ex-love or the possibility of rekindling a past relationship, the card can be a significant indication of a time to reevaluate and review the past and consider a future together again.

The Epiphany of What Needs to Be Done

Judgement represents a call to awaken, a moment of clarity and deep understanding that could mean both you and your ex are experiencing a moment of revelation about what really happened in the relationship and what each person wants for the future. This card suggests that there’s an opportunity to leave behind old patterns and problems and start anew with a fresh perspective.
As this card also symbolizes judgment and evaluation, it can indicate that both are in a process of judging and evaluating the past relationship, learning from its mistakes and successes, and deciding if it’s worth trying again. Judgement invites honest and deep reflection, which could lead to a more conscious and mature reconciliation.

The Healing Balm of Forgiveness

Judgement is a card of transformation and rebirth, usually achieved through forgiveness, both toward oneself and the other. This “making peace” can signal that it’s time to transform the relationship into something new and more meaningful, genuinely forgiving past mistakes from the heart. This is the way the relationship has the potential to evolve and grow, as long as both are willing to work together and accept the necessary changes.
Judgement also always warns us about the need to make decisions based on truth and authenticity, encouraging us to move forward with reconciliation with a clear understanding of what it takes to make the relationship work in this new stage.

Final Thoughts on These Cards for Getting Back with an Ex

Tarot offers us a fascinating window into the dynamics of our past and present relationships, providing us with guidance to better understand the paths of the heart. Through these 11 cards, we’ve explored how the deck can indicate the possibility of reuniting with an ex-love and the chance to give a past relationship new life.
Each of these cards carries a unique message about love, reflection, transformation, forgiveness, and renewal. They remind us that, while the past cannot be changed, our understanding of it and our actions in the present can open doors to promising futures and more mature and fulfilling relationships.

The Infinite Sea of Possibilities

At this point, it should be clear that tarot offers us guidance, not a predetermined fate. The final decisions and actions we take must be based on our intuition, wisdom, and understanding of our own needs and desires, as well as those of our partner or ex-partner. Tarot is a tool for reflection and self-awareness, showing us a state of things and possibilities, helping us navigate the complex seas of love and relationships.
So, whether you’re considering rekindling a relationship with an ex-love or simply trying to better understand the cycles of your past relationships, tarot can be a valuable ally. But always remember to approach your readings with an open mind and a heart ready to learn and grow.

What Do You Think?

I’d love to hear your thoughts and see if you agree with my list of 11 cards. Did any surprise you by being here, or do you have your own cards that you associate with getting back with an ex and repairing a previous relationship? Feel free to leave me a comment below to share your point of view!