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The Swords- 14 Cards


tarot card image
Art by Seth Singer

The Swords suit in Tarot is one of the four suits in a standard Tarot deck, along with Wands, Cups, and Pentacles. The Swords cards are often associated with the element of air and are generally associated with the intellect, thoughts, communication, and challenges. In a Tarot reading, Swords cards often represent situations involving mental and emotional conflict, decisions, and challenges. Here's an overview of the Swords suit and its individual cards:

  1. Ace of Swords: This card represents a new beginning or a breakthrough in intellectual or mental matters. It signifies clarity of thought, a fresh perspective, and the power of the mind.

  2. Two of Swords: This card often depicts a figure blindfolded and holding two swords crossed. It suggests a need for decision-making, but the individual may be hesitant or in denial about a situation. It can also symbolize a delicate balance.

  3. Three of Swords: This card typically shows a heart pierced by three swords, symbolizing pain, heartache, and emotional suffering. It can indicate a difficult emotional period, loss, or sorrow.

  4. Four of Swords: This card represents rest, retreat, and recuperation. It suggests a need for a break from mental stress or conflicts to regain strength and perspective.

  5. Five of Swords: This card often depicts a figure holding three swords while two others lie on the ground, indicating victory through less than honorable means. It can represent conflict, rivalry, and the need to choose your battles wisely.

  6. Six of Swords: This card symbolizes a journey, often a mental or emotional one, from a challenging situation to a more peaceful and stable one. It suggests moving on from difficulties.

  7. Seven of Swords: This card can indicate deception, trickery, or a need for caution. It advises being wary of someone or something, and it may suggest the need for strategic thinking.

  8. Eight of Swords: This card often depicts a figure bound and blindfolded, surrounded by eight swords. It symbolizes feeling trapped or restricted by one's thoughts or circumstances. It can indicate a need to break free from self-imposed limitations.

  9. Nine of Swords: This card represents anxiety, worry, and nightmares. It often indicates mental anguish and distress. It can suggest the need to confront and address your fears and concerns.

  10. Ten of Swords: This card typically shows a figure lying face down with ten swords in their back, symbolizing a situation that has reached its lowest point. It often signifies a painful ending or a situation that can no longer be sustained.

  11. Page of Swords: This card represents a youthful and curious energy related to communication and ideas. It can suggest the need for open-mindedness and a willingness to learn.

  12. Knight of Swords: This card represents swift action, determination, and often a rush to judgment. It can indicate a need for assertiveness but also warns against impulsivity.

  13. Queen of Swords: This card embodies qualities such as wisdom, clear thinking, and independence. The Queen of Swords is a strong and intelligent figure who is unafraid to speak her mind.

  14. King of Swords: This card represents a strong, authoritative, and logical figure. The King of Swords is a master of intellectual pursuits and often signifies wise decision-making.

In readings, Swords cards can provide insight into the mental and emotional aspects of a situation. While some cards may represent challenges and conflicts, others can indicate clarity of thought and the ability to overcome obstacles through intellectual strength and strategy. The interpretation of Swords cards depends on their position in a spread and the surrounding cards.







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