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Six of Swords

A Journey into the Unknown, Escaping Problems and a Calm Passage

Six of Swords Tarot card

Symbolism and Meaning

The Six of Swords is a card of passing from a state of chaos to a state of calm. The picture shows a boat sailing on the water. In the boat are a woman and a child (or hooded figures), with their backs to the viewer. The ferryman slowly and rhythmically pushes the boat along with a pole. Importantly, the water on one side of the boat is rough (the past), and on the other calm and smooth (the future).

Six swords are stuck into the bottom of the boat. They symbolise the baggage of experiences and thoughts the passengers take with them. Although the swords are in the boat, they do not pierce it or sink it. This means that although the memory of difficult events remains, it is no longer destructive. It is a mental or physical journey whose aim is rescue and comfort.

This card rarely means euphoric joy, but rather relief and calm. It is the moment when we decide to leave a painful situation behind (a conflict, a bad relationship, a stressful job) and head towards "calmer waters". It is a healing process that requires movement and a change of perspective.

Interpretation of the Card

In a spread, the Six of Swords most often heralds a journey - it may be a literal trip, a move to another town or even emigration. Metaphorically it means a change of attitude, coming to terms with a loss and moving on. It suggests that the worst is over and you are heading in the right direction, although you may feel sad about what you are leaving behind.

Light (Upright)
  • A journey, a trip, moving house
  • Escaping from problems, getting out of a crisis
  • Calm after the storm, regaining balance
  • Logical planning of the future
  • Help from someone who will guide you through a difficult time
  • Accepting change and moving on
  • Leaving a toxic partner or environment
Shadow (Reversed)
  • Being unable to escape, being stuck in problems
  • A cancelled journey or complications on the way
  • Resistance to change, clinging to the past
  • "Emotional baggage" that drags you down
  • Returning to a toxic situation
  • No progress in healing or therapy
  • Feeling trapped

Card Attributes

Element: Air (the movement of thought, travel)
Keywords: Passage, journey, relief, baggage, water, boat.
Action: Moving on, calming down, leaving behind, rescuing.
Astrology: Mercury in Aquarius - an objective view and the ability to navigate.
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