Six of Swords -
Tarot Card Meaning
Part of a full-series guide of all 78 Tarot Cards. See the full guide here.
Written by Made Musings
SIX OF SWORDS
At a glance:
The Six of Swords signifies a period of transition and the necessity of accepting what has happened to be free from it.
Upright Keywords:
Moving on, transition towards healing, transition plan, journey
Reversed Keywords:
stagnant, clinging to old habits
Numerology:
6 - harmony, balance, and symmetry
Six of Swords: Upright Meaning
The Six of Swords depicts a parent and child huddled together in a boat, being rowed away to a new destination. The scene suggests a journey towards a brighter future, moving away from past difficulties. This card signifies a period of transition and the necessity of accepting what has happened to be free from it. It encourages charting out a logical path towards success, embracing change, and leaving behind what no longer serves you.
Numerology and Suit Meaning:
In numerology, the number 6 symbolizes harmony, balance, and symmetry. The number 6 often relates to domesticity and the home, emphasizing the importance of mutuality in a harmonious environment.
The suit of swords is connected to concepts of communication, intelligence, ideas, belief, and logic. Many cards of the suit also deal with conflict, both internal and external.
Elementally, swords are associated with air. Like thoughts and spoken words, air cannot be seen. Nevertheless, it can still be felt such as when a calming breeze blows or a roaring gale strikes. Wind can also cut through the skin similar to how our words can pierce deeper than any weapon.
Love/Relationships
The Six of Swords love meaning suggests unhealthy energies, dynamics, or behaviors that you are leaving behind. If certain connections are currently causing harm, it’s crucial to cut them out and focus on healing. Moving forward might mean ending unhealthy relationships or adopting new, healthier patterns of interaction. By doing so, you can pave the way for more positive and fulfilling connections.
The Six of Swords may also reflect your relationship to yourself and how it’s time to leave a part of yourself behind so that you live more authentically.
Money/Career
When it comes to money and career, the Six of Swords suggests the end of a stressful work period. Alternatively, this could also signify a transition period in your career as you leave your old job behind. This phase is ideal for reassessing your career goals and financial strategies as you move towards something new and exciting. Ensure you have a new, solid plan that supports your long-term stability and success. Making thoughtful adjustments now can lead to greater security and prosperity in the future.
Spiritual/Self
The Six of Swords represents a time of moving away from past hardships towards a period of calm and clarity. This card encourages acceptance and letting go of past burdens. Accept this transitional phase as an opportunity for growth and reflection, however it is important to remember that brighter times lay ahead. Since you are also leaving a tough situation behind, there are probably many lessons to be learned. What can you take away from this and how can you use that as you embark on your new path?
It is important to note that this card represents the “in-between” rather than the past or the destination itself. Think about how you can use the energy of this space to aid in your healing process.
“The Six of Swords represents a time of moving away from past hardships towards a period of calm and clarity. ”
Astrology
The Suit of Swords in Tarot is intimately linked to the element of Air, representing intellect, communication, and mental clarity. This connection resonates strongly with the zodiac air signs of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, highlighting their analytical minds, communicative skills, and intellectual pursuits. The air signs are notorious for their curiosity, adaptability, mental agility, and mastery in diplomacy. These characteristics align with the Swords' themes of objectivity, fairness, and progressive thinking. The Swords' and the Air signs are the visionaries of the Zodiac. Together, they remind us of the power of clear thinking, effective communication, and mental agility in navigating life's challenges and achieving harmony.
Note: It's important to recognize that not everyone incorporates astrology into their Tarot readings. The extent to which astrological references are used can vary greatly among readers. Each reader has a unique approach; some may draw heavily on astrological archetypes, while others might not use them at all. This information is meant to offer an additional perspective that could be helpful in your interpretations by highlighting parallels between Tarot and Astrology.
Although some argue that astrology wasn't originally part of Tarot, more modern interpretations like the Rider Waite Smith and Thoth decks may have integrated astrological concepts to align with their modern time mystical beliefs. Many contemporary decks made in this current decade also feature astrological references. Ultimately, every individual develops their own unique relationship with both Tarot and Astrology.
Reversed Meaning
Reversed, the Six of Swords indicates that you might be falling back into old habits or struggling to let go of the past. This can signify a need for a better transition plan or unresolved issues that still need to be addressed. You may find yourself repeating patterns that prevent you from moving forward. Take time to reflect on what is holding you back and consider seeking external guidance if necessary. Accepting and resolving these issues is crucial for beneficial. Embrace this, even if it’s challenging, and trust that it will lead to a more positive future.
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Our 78-card deck and comprehensive guidebook offer you the perfect tools for your daily readings.
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Our compact 188-page guidebook, aptly named the Little Black Book, offers the meanings behind each Tarot allowing both beginners and experts to interpret effectively.
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The Cards:
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Note: Illustrations are from the classic 1909 - 1910 deck that was hand-illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith.
-Deck comes packaged in a sturdy, slider box.
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Deck Box
-3 1/8" x 1 3/4" x 5" h
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CARD SUMMARY
Chart out a logical path towards success, embrace brighter times ahead, and leave behind what no longer serves you.
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