Six of Swords Tarot Card Meaning

Six of Swords Keywords

Transition, movement, moving on, letting go, change, progress, advancement, continuation, avoidance, stuck

Six of Swords Numerology

6

Six of Swords Astrology Zodiac

Air: Aquarius

Six of Swords Tarot Suit

Minor Arcana, Suit of Swords

Journal Prompts for Six of Swords Tarot Card

– What changes am I ready and willing to make and why? (What changes am I resisting and why?)

– What lessons am I taking with me as I move through this experience?

– What can I learn from this transition?

Six of Swords Card Meaning

Three people on a boat–a man, woman (or at least what we assume as such) and child–are seen making their way across calm waters. They are facing forward and what appears to be a body of land ahead of them. Their backs are turned toward the viewer(s). The male figure is standing, guiding the vessel with his oar toward their destination.

The cloaked woman sits closely next to the child to her left. In front of them are six swords facing downward. There is a calm, serene tone to the colors and imagery in the Six of Swords.

*Card description dased on the Rider Waite Tarot Deck

Six of Swords Upright

Peaceful transitions are often associated with the Six of Swords tarot card meaning. The appearance of water seen in this card may even suggest the influence of emotions being overcome by the mind, mental focus and/or clarity. The calm nature of the waters seems to support energies of peace and flow. 

While the destination of the traveling trio is unknown, overall, they are leaving something behind. That being said, regardless of your inquiry, consider whether or not you are carrying any baggage from the past. Though we all have previous experiences that impact how we deal with things, this card encourages you to process your thoughts and emotions accordingly, rather than ignore them.

The upright Six of Swords card indicates that you are in a position to move on from something and/or someone. Embrace this period as an opportunity for you to reflect upon what you are taking with you and what you are leaving behind.

If you are or have been experiencing any form(s) of conflict, this card reveals that you will soon enter into a time of harmony. Communications could also be improving, especially if there has been tension or misunderstandings.

When it comes to love, in general, the Six of Swords appearing in a tarot reading can be a hopeful card to receive. If you are single, this could be a sign that you are ready to move on from heartache and open up to a new relationship. 

If your inquiry concerns a relationship, you and your partner are and/or will be experiencing progress after a period of challenges, disagreements and/or hardships. The man, woman and child in the image could mean that the two of you will move forward together, peacefully. Any arguments will be overcome and you are heading toward tranquility. If anything, the Six of Swords upright meaning suggests a relationship that is peaceful (as it is) and will continue to head in a pleasant direction.

This card can also symbolize actual travel and/or relocation. Rest assured, this card emphasizes smooth transitions so any physical movement should go well.

If you are focusing on a new line of work or a different position within your current company/industry, the Six of Swords represents a sign that change is underway. Additionally, your career is and/or will be going well with this card present. 

Relationships with co-workers could be changing but if anything, everyone involved will likely be agreeable or amenable to any shifts. 

Financially, you are ready to focus on improvement(s) and better times. If you have experienced any losses or difficulties with money, this card reveals that you are and/or will be leaving such challenging moments behind.

Six of Swords Reversed

The Six of Swords reversed meaning could represent difficulties when it comes to moving forward and/or letting go. You and/or others involved may be resisting changes. Delays may also come up when this energy appears. Ask yourself if there is something or someone that you are not yet ready to let go of. Additionally, you may be reconsidering things or changing your mind when it comes to your current situation.

When reversed, based on the transitional nature of this card, the six of swords suggests that you are experiencing a difficult transition. You may feel as though you’re going in circles. There may be elements of the past that are creating some form of strain and/or preventing you from moving forward.

If you have been thinking of traveling or relocating, the reversed Six of Swords may indicate possible delays and/or setbacks. You may lack confidence about a possible move or change. Are you feeling reluctant when it comes to residing in a new area? Do you feel like you are not ready to move away from familiar surroundings? If anything, think about what is influencing your uncertainty so that you can clear through any indecision or confusion.

You could be hesitating to get involved in a new relationship with the reversed Six of Swords present. Perhaps you are still holding on to an ex and do not want to move on. You may be hoping for some form of reconciliation and are therefore unwilling to let go. It is also possible that you are struggling to heal and are finding it difficult to open your heart up to someone new. Whatever your reasons, just make sure that you are not hurting and/or blocking yourself in the process. 

When it comes to your career, the when the Six of Swords  appears reversed it could mean that you are struggling to make progress in some way or form. If you are inquiring about a position shift and/or raise, you may not see the kind of advancement that you are hoping for. However, this reversed card may mean that while you could experience improvements, it may take a while and/or there could be a lot of back and forth negotiations before you get your desired outcome.

Financially speaking, do not be afraid to deal with any money issues or concerns. It is in your best interest to face things head on, rather than to ignore it.