<P> The Hanged Man (XII) is the twelfth trump or Major Arcana card in most traditional Tarot decks . It is used in game playing as well as in divination . </P> <P> It depicts a pittura infamante (pronounced (pitˈtuːra iɱfaˈmante)), an image of a man being hung upside - down by one ankle . This method of hanging was a common punishment at the time for traitors in Italy . However, the solemn expression on his face traditionally suggests that he is there by his own accord, and the card is meant to represent self - sacrifice more so than it does corporal punishment or criminality . </P> <P> In other interpretations, The Hanged Man is a depiction of the Norse god Odin, who suspended himself from a tree in order to gain knowledge . There is also a Christian interpretation that portrays Judas, and include the bags of silver in his hands . </P>

What is the meaning of the hanged man