Tarot Swords
Cards of the Swords suit represent intellect and conflict.
Swords have two sides of the blades and represent the mind which solves complex problems but can also be a source of conflict and destruction and is to be used carefully. It is a great power that can be used for either good or ill.
Ace of Swords *
The Aces of all suits typically represent new beginnings or the inspiration of a new idea or feeling. This card indicates the eruption of a new point of view, the inspiration of discovery or intellectual accomplishment.
This card represents the beginning of a conquest or victory. It is a card of triumphs, victories and new beginnings. The Ace of Swords is a card of great power and is thus a sign that temperance may be necessary.
II of Swords *
The II of Swords represents the contest which is in stalemate. There will be no loser or winner. The situation may represent the coming to terms with situations and compromises being made. This card portends a situation that is delicate and in precarious balance against adversity.
This is a card of choice; of the difficulty of indecision. The woman in this card is intentionally blinding herself in avoidance of a very difficult choice which must be made. Sometimes we attempt to hide from such choices, yet what we need is courage because they will not go away of their own accord.
III of Swords *
The III of Swords is a card of loss and difficulty; of sacrifice and broken relationships. The choice has been made and we are now experiencing the consequences of our action. This is a painful card, so this situation needs being taken care of before you can go on.
Often our choices involve choosing one good over another, or one evil over another, and thus when we’ve finally made our decision we are still left with the pain of losing the option we have not chosen. Frequently, however, from the pain something better is established.
IV of Swords *
This card is a card of solitude and the need to experience time apart from others to gather one’s thoughts and feelings. Solitude, although often difficult to bear, is necessary for us to be able to “recharge our batteries” and rejuvenate our spirits.
The Four of Swords indicates a time when you can or should relax. Some actions may be abandoned during your retreat from the situation. The retreat may be necessary to regroup your resources and conserve your energy. This is a time for resting and retreat. There is a need to plan and think, to recover and prepare.
V of Swords *
The V of Swords represents conquest. Aggressiveness will accomplish objectives, while being passive might mean to be forced to give in. This cards represents ambition without regard to the consequences to oneself or others results ultimately in a situation of loss for everyone.
If your focus is solely on winning your goals at any cost, you will eventually discover to your own dismay that the price of winning may not have been worth the reward.
VI of Swords *
This card is telling of coming out of a difficult experience and that you cannot dwell on the past. It talks about movement away from eminent danger and functioning in a difficult situation while fleeing to safety. You endured a difficult transition and are now more able to deal with what may come.
There are times when we are forced to let go of something to which we may have been attached, and the process of letting go is frequently quite difficult. However, the sadness of the “loss” will ultimately be replaced by brighter future and a more peaceful experience of life.
VII of Swords *
The card heralds caution and circumspection when attempting to use cunning to gain an advantage. There is no question that there are times in life when it is necessary to act shrewdly or do something in secret, yet in the long run, deception may in fact cause much damage to our relationships and reputation.
This card is a card of deception or even betrayal. It indicates the difficulty in life of trying to “get away with something.” Caution and wisdom are necessary in the face of a temptation to achieve gain by dubious means.
VIII of Swords *
When we see this card it is telling us the person is feeling trapped and powerless, also restricted and vulnerable. Help is available if you ask though, and restrictions will gradually fade. When we see this card in a spread it’s telling us that we are in a catch 22 situation that is keeping our hands tied.
It seems like you are stuck and unable to ac, so it is hard for you to see what to do, but you need to realize that you are not trapped; that you are free to move. The blindfold represents that you are not able to see something otherwise obvious.
IX of Swords *
The IX of Swords indicates the paralyzing nature of our fears and negative expectations. If we allow ourselves to be bound by fear of the future we may eventually create a negative reality for ourselves by virtue of our expectations.
This is the card of fear and nightmares. Our experience of the world is greatly influenced by our expectations, desires, and fears. In large measure we are the creators of our own world and our attitudes determine how we experience that world.
X of Swords *
The X of Swords indicates that there is finally closure to a difficult issue. When the last bucket has fallen, you can expect a turn for the better. Though the hopes and dreams of the past may be dashed, new ones will arise in time.
The X of Swords portends a difficult experience of loss or release, but a new awareness and a positive sense of relief that the difficulty is finally finished will eventually follow the pain of this experience. This is a card of endings and possibly loss, but as with all endings there is heralded a new beginning, a rebirth, and a rejuvenation of the spirit.
Page of Swords *
Personality Traits: Quick witted, intelligent youngster; eloquent and sharp, eager to learn, and adept at turning situations to own advantage.
This card can indicate intellectual stimulation and excitement. It also talks about the turbulent nature of intellectual discovery and inspiration unchecked by experience or wisdom.
Knight of Swords *
Personality Traits: A gallant hero who is strong and brave, initially helpful, but actually self-seeking. He is eloquent, confident, fast moving, easily bored; a warrior, always at his best in a difficult situation.
This card can indicate that the person this card represents can bring struggles or strife, which will cause you to stand up for yourself. Or you may need to think of ways to turn ideas into reality with your ingenuity and self-esteem, or frustration and defensiveness will cause you trouble. Respond now with cleverness, outspokenness and foresight.
Queen of Swords *
Personality Traits: Powerful and intelligent woman. In a position of authority, she has the influence over the querent’s ability to make decisions. She is perfectly competent on her own; often separated, divorced or widowed.
The Queen of Swords represents the sternness of a mature rationality which is devoid of emotion. Mythologicaly, the feminine is associated with emotion, yet in this card the woman is stern and composed, obviously without much feeling. This card represents the intellect’s ability to judge and discern impartially, without the influence of subjectivity or sentimentality.
King of Swords *
Personality Traits: His application of intelligence has made his heart cold, and he holds back any subtle feelings. He understands human nature and uses this understanding for his own advantage. He is in possession of trust and authority; logical and calm. He dislikes overt displays of emotion.
This card is a symbol of power and superiority which may assist you in your individual quests during life. Stay detached and you will be able to perceive the truth in situations. Using independent judgment you should be able to achieve what you set out to do.
