The interpretation of this card can be difficult for beginners. The minor arcan Tarot card Six of Swords can mean travel, problem solving, spiritual anguish and even death. So let's take a closer look at everything. In this article we will look at the description and meaning in relationships of an upright and inverted card, interpretation and combination with other cards in layouts for love, health, career and work.
In all its meanings, the Six of Swords indicates a certain transition; you can forget about stability here
Description of the map
In the miniature of the classic deck, we see a man driving a small boat with two passengers - a woman and a child. The flow of the river is calm, the helmsman confidently holds the oar, there are no visible dangers, but the figures are bent silently and sadly, as if they are swimming across not much, but the Styx itself. People are depressed because they were in trouble, but they managed to survive and save the most valuable thing - the child.
Traditional meaning. The woman under the veil is the soul of a person, the hero driving the boat is his mind, the river is the waters of the unconscious, and the child is new opportunities. Therefore, the card speaks of difficult spiritual development, a transition to a new level of consciousness.
Card of the day
The Rider-Waite deck depicts a ferryman and passengers on a boat.
They cross to the other side. Passengers wrapped themselves in a warm blanket, symbolizing recovery from emotional turmoil. In the Tarot of Thoth, the Arcana depicts swords piercing a rose and a cross in the center of the card. Diverse ideas meet at one point. The rose and cross symbolize the truth that allows you to break away from old patterns of thinking. New discoveries transform familiar areas of life.
In the “78 Doors” deck, the Arcana depicts a young man sitting at a computer. Geographic maps and ethnic masks hang on the wall. Perhaps the young man is thinking about an upcoming trip or dreams of visiting distant lands.
General meaning of the Six of Swords in the layout
This card speaks of an available way out of any situation. No matter how confusing, complex and even dangerous the situation may seem, you can get away from problems. But you shouldn’t wait for help from above; salvation depends only on your actions. To find a way out, you will need to distance yourself from the situation psychologically, gain calm and self-control. If you succeed, a completely new path awaits you.
The Six of Swords Tarot advises you to leave all your sorrows behind and set a course for new shores. You should move forward, even if you feel fear and doubt your abilities or the correctness of your goals. It will no longer be possible to stay in place. If you don't start moving yourself, life will force you to leave your cozy haven.
Miniature variations. It is interesting that in some decks six swords are directed from the shore to the back of a swimming traveler
But don’t be afraid if the Six of Swords of the Tarot appears in the reading; the meaning of the card may indicate that you will be able to avoid serious troubles, you will find safety and peace. Neighboring cards will tell you how easily you can get out of the situation, and whether there will be losses. Surrounded by positive Arcana, this card suggests that problems remain in the past, everything will soon get better, even if it doesn’t seem so now.
If the Six of Swords is surrounded by negative cards, we may be talking about a forced need for change, a change in life guidelines. In this case, you should calm down and open yourself to life lessons. Even if you are scared or sad, remember that any situation is given to a person to test the spirit and self-development.
Archetype of journey and transition
Quite often, the Six of Swords directly indicates trips and travel, including water travel. It could be a business trip, vacation, romantic trip with your loved one, or exploring new places. In a broader sense, it may mean moving to another city.
But the journey is not always physical; sometimes it is a metaphor that indicates a change of job, a new partner, or a reassessment of mental guidelines.
- The Six of Swords is also a card for gaining new knowledge. Perhaps you will discover another country with its traditions and customs. Or maybe you will read a book that will completely change your worldview. Or you will take a job with completely different standards than those to which you are accustomed.
- Gaining new knowledge also manifests itself in different ways. This could be higher education, advanced training courses, or self-study.
- In this case, the helmsman leading the boat is interpreted as a teacher and mentor. Searching for the truth, revealing secrets, exchanging ideas and useful information, planning for the future. The Mind, which is associated with the suit of Swords, is actively working here.
- Or it may be that your home is just that quiet haven where travelers go. In this case, expect guests to arrive soon or a message asking for help. The Six of Swords is also historically associated with messengers. Therefore, wait for news and messages that are likely to make you move and take action.
It is interesting that in the old days the Six of Swords predicted marriage for a girl. Wedding traditions used to be different, so the young bride often experienced not so much joy as anxiety, sadness and lack of understanding of what awaits her in the future, the pain of breaking up with her family.
Advice on interpretation. If the card fell last in the layout, then the outcome of the situation has not yet been determined. In any case, changes and a break from the usual way of things await you. But how it will all end is not yet clear. It only depends on your actions.
The meaning of the 6 of Swords, taking into account the nuances
The meaning of the Six of Swords in Tarot depends not only on the position of the card. Neighboring arcana play an important role in prediction. In order for the layout to most clearly answer the questions posed, it is necessary to carefully study every nuance.
Upright
The card symbolizes progress, dynamics and insight. The lasso also represents common sense and intelligence. If the direct position of the card serves to characterize a person, then we can say about him that he is lucky. Such a person will find a way out of any situation. The main character traits of such an individual are calmness, self-control, and perseverance.
The card in the upright position encourages the fortuneteller to take a rest and relax. This will help replenish both physical and emotional strength. A new stage of life awaits a person, which will require perseverance and patience from him.
Interpretation for the inverted position
In an inverted position, the Six of Swords warns that it will not be possible to find a way out of a difficult situation. It is better to return to the starting position and think about everything again. Anything related to water can be a source of problems.
To correct the situation, you will need to use all your strengths and connections. The main thing is that there is no need to put problems on the back burner. Ignoring them will only make things worse. If the alignment is made on a person’s character, then the lasso symbolizes selfishness, self-interest, unprincipledness and lack of conscience.
In combination with major arcana
The combination of the 6 Swords with the major arcana must be considered carefully.
The trump cards in the layout are real signs of fate that allow you to understand the current situation. A detailed interpretation of the duet of cards can be found in the table.
Arcana | Interpretation |
Emperor | Arkan promises pleasant changes in the business sphere. An interesting project or a high position awaits the fortuneteller. The main thing is to believe in your own professionalism |
Empress | The card portends poor health and health problems. If the alignment is made for a woman, it means that she will have a difficult pregnancy. |
High Priestess | Represents mystery. Soon a long-hidden family secret will be revealed. |
Hierophant | The card speaks of the spiritual tossing of the fortuneteller. The person for whom the alignment is being made rethinks his life goals and values |
Jester | The lasso promises a long journey. A vacation or a new place of residence awaits ahead |
Hanged | In a duet with the 6 of Swords, the card indicates that a person is capable of sacrificing anything to achieve a goal |
Mage | Symbolizes useful contacts. You will have connections at work that will help you move up the career ladder. |
Lovers | The card warns that you will soon have to make a difficult choice. You need to listen to your heart, and not be guided only by your mind |
Force | Symbolizes vital energy. Spiritual growth is just around the corner |
Chariot | The lasso symbolizes knocked down landmarks. To get away from a crossroads, a person needs to make a choice. But before that, something will have to be sacrificed |
Justice | The resolution of important matters will be delayed. A lengthy trial awaits |
Wheel of Fortune | The fortuneteller awaits the right path, which is prescribed by fate |
Hermit | A lonely traveler portends loneliness. Whether it will be a personal choice or a heavy burden depends on the fortuneteller |
Death | The lasso symbolizes spiritual relief. The past will be left behind, and new changes and victories await ahead |
Devil | You should choose a different path, since the road that the fortuneteller follows will bring nothing but deception and disappointment. |
Tower | Symbolizes the loss of life direction. It is necessary to think everything over, otherwise there is a high risk of losses |
Moderation | fast recovery |
Moon | Arkan warns about hypocritical individuals who surrounded the fortuneteller. You need to be alert and trust strangers less |
Star | Fulfillment of desires |
Court | The dual meaning of the duet. On the one hand - punishment, on the other - reward for labor |
Sun | The man chose the right path. She will lead him to happiness |
World | In the near future there will be spiritual harmony |
READ Fortune telling with Tarot cards for all occasions
With Swords
The Suit of Swords represents the air element, which is responsible for the intellect and mind of a person. How to interpret the fortuneteller's future if a six lands together with a lasso of the same suit is shown in the table.
Arcana | Interpretation |
Ace | Don't run away from problems |
King | There is a high risk of a quarrel with a man |
Queen | Possible conflict situation with a woman |
Knight | Changes in life will be unexpected |
Page | An important decision needs to be made |
Ten | There will be a way out of a difficult situation |
Nine | Mental anguish due to separation is coming |
Eight | You will have to overcome obstacles along the way |
Seven | Need to become a more confident person |
Five | A dark streak comes in life |
Four | Pleasant stay |
Troika | You will have to end the relationship against your own will. |
Deuce | Find the path to peace of mind |
With Pentacles
Pentacles represent the earth element. The suit characterizes financial situation, success in the workplace, and business development.
Arcana | Decoding |
Ace | Expecting a promotion at work or a promising position |
King | You need to be patient a little. A second wind will soon open |
Queen | Symbolizes a well-deserved reward |
Knight | To solve the problem, you need to try carefully |
Page | Find a way out of a difficult situation |
Ten | An exciting journey ahead in the company of dear people |
Nine | The right path has been chosen. It will lead to success |
Eight | The card foretells that it is necessary to make a sacrifice for the sake of the happiness of another person |
Seven | You'll have to pay your karmic debt |
Six | Impressive financial savings |
Five | Don't dwell on the past |
Four | For feelings to flare up again, you first need to pause |
Troika | Expected business trip |
Deuce | Uncertainty will hang over your relationship with your partner |
With Cups
The suit of Cups symbolizes the water element, filled with emotions and feelings. The combination of these arcana with the 6 of Swords personifies relationships, psyche, impressions and the inner world of a person. The table will tell you how to interpret the duet with the Cups.
Arcana | Interpretation |
Ace | You will be able to discover the right path to developing abilities |
King | A loved one needs support |
Queen | Symbolizes a choice that was made based on the desire of the heart |
Knight | The union of the arcana represents the fear of ending a love affair |
Page | Romantic intrigue awaits ahead |
Ten | Return to home |
Nine | The dark streak in life will soon end |
Eight | Need to change |
Seven | It's time to make plans |
Six | It's impossible to hide from the past |
Five | No need to worry despite the changes |
Four | The fortuneteller is waiting for a new job, which he is unlikely to like |
Troika | A celebration you don't want to attend |
Deuce | The conflict with your loved one will be resolved |
READ Card of 10 Pentacles (Coins) in Tarot: meaning in layouts
With Wands
Wands are the suit of the fire element. Cards symbolize development, growth and achievement of goals.
Arcana | Decoding |
Ace | Will be able to determine the right path |
King | You are approaching an acquaintance with a man in whom you will see a kindred spirit. |
Queen | Getting closer to a beautiful person |
Knight | Crossroads on life's path |
Page | Strong Relationships |
Ten | Problems cannot be avoided |
Nine | Can't come to terms with the current situation |
Eight | Quarrel and divorce are approaching |
Seven | Mental anguish |
Six | It's time to improve yourself |
Five | An unpleasant situation will not pass by |
Four | Peace of mind will come soon |
Troika | You need to say goodbye to the past |
Deuce | Moving to a new place of residence |
Personal Description
Hesitation and uncertainty about the future. Something is happening around, but the person does not understand what exactly, and does not know how he should act. He anticipates upcoming changes that either make him happy or sadden him. He experiences both anxiety from the disruption of his usual way of life and anticipation of new shores.
Positive features
The human mind is ready to accept new ideas. He thinks flexibly and is ready, if not to make a scientific discovery, then certainly to expand his horizons. A person perceives reality objectively, knows how and loves to learn. For him, logic is a priority over emotions and feelings.
He is inclined towards a philosophical view of the world and knows how to find positive aspects in everything. Able to psychologically distance himself from a situation in order to make the right decision in it, understand the reasons for its occurrence and determine a way out of the impasse. A person has internal integrity and is able to make real, feasible plans for the future. He controls his life and develops in the direction he has chosen.
If a person’s life is stagnant now, then soon everything will change. He has already made his decision and is ready to take the right step. Perhaps at the same time he feels internal resistance and reluctance to act, but he knows how to force himself. Man knows how to leave the past behind and move towards the unknown.
Negative traits
A person has given up something important to him in the name of a better future, so he experiences sadness and memories of the past come to him. Or perhaps he lacked the determination to take that very step, and now he regrets it.
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On a deeper level
Traveling on water is a deep archetypal symbol. First of all, it is associated with the descent into the underworld. Here one can recall both the River Styx and the helmsman Charon, who transported the souls of the ancient Greeks, and the Viking custom of equipping a funeral boat for the dead and then setting it on fire with an arrow.
Symbolically, traveling on water, like death, signifies deep personal transformation. One personality within a person dies, and another is born to replace it. It is no coincidence that the figures depicted on the boat are women and a child. The river can also symbolize the passage of time, which “flows.” In this case, it indicates remembering the past, planning for the future, and even visions of past lives.
According to the Six of Swords, a way out of a confused situation is achieved through a person’s internal work on himself. By changing his own personality, perceiving the problem from a different point of view, a person finds its solution, and changes for the better occur in his life.
The Six of Swords speaks of a person’s deep spiritual work
The card is associated with the sign of Virgo, so it is influenced by the planet Proserpina, which is responsible for the internal rebirth of a person and the renewal of his soul, as well as Mercury, which pushes one on a spiritual search for oneself and the search for higher knowledge. The Second Decan of Aquarius, which is associated with the card, is associated with science and discovery, so the Six of Swords embodies freedom of thought.
But Aquarius does not embody scientific thinking, but deep spiritual wisdom. In the Second Decade, Spirit and Reason are combined, so the deep secrets of the universe are revealed to man. He is able to comprehend this truth, and then carry it into the world, not forgetting his purpose. Such a person is able to forget about everything that is not related to his great mission, so the Six of Swords advises taking care of those around you and being able to appreciate the present moment.
In some images, the Six Swords are folded into a six-pointed star - a symbol of the unity of the material and spiritual world. Therefore, the card speaks of the integrity of the individual, who has both a sharp logical mind and deep faith in what cannot be proven scientifically. This is a map of a person’s relationship with the world, which dissolves internal contradictions. In this case, you will probably have to face your fears. It is possible to work under the guidance of a spiritual mentor who will guide you on the right path.
Characteristics of the lasso
In Rider Waite's mind: a symbol of rapid change. Options: sailing to foreign lands, settling in a different area. In the sphere of feelings - a search for yet unknown sensations, accompanied by a departure from the old.
Detailed image description:
- Number 6 - family and duty.
- People in a boat - striving forward, moving.
- Concerned faces - loss of stability, the passing of a well-known person into the past.
- Water is information, another spiritual level.
- Swords stuck into the boat - being in a vulnerable position.
Closely associated with spirituality, growth or fall. But it is no longer possible to remain at the current point. The questioner is not free in his choice. Is in conditions where active activity is necessary. Otherwise, degradation, an abyss.
Literally: moving, changing physical location.
The meaning of the card in various layouts
For career and work
You are expected to change jobs or get a new position, not necessarily a promotion, there may be a personnel reshuffle. With a high probability, the Six of Swords indicates a business trip. Training, obtaining a second higher education, advanced training or retraining. Launching a new project with unclear prospects. Lack of confidence in one's abilities as an employee.
All professions related to transport are connected with it: drivers and conductors, pilots and logisticians, traffic inspectors, etc. This card can also indicate the transportation of contraband. It is also associated with those who make money with the help of their minds - scientists, analysts, chess players, etc. It can talk about receiving a diploma, academic degree, title.
Sometimes the appearance of a card in a reading indicates that the development of your project requires the help of an expert or teamwork. The Six of Swords indicates teamwork, negotiations, and the search for business partners. But at the same time, it can indicate that a person “drives his own boat.” If there are conflict situations at work, they will soon be resolved.
For finances and property
You have all the information available to improve your financial situation, or at least prevent it from getting worse. Unfortunately, the Six of Swords often appears in situations where wealth “floats out of your hands”, and all that remains is to say “they have arrived.” Conscious renunciation of one's rights and property in favor of another person. Debtor's escape from creditors. Change of residence due to lack of finance, sale of real estate. The cause of negative consequences is wrong decisions.
For love and relationships
Six of Pentacles Tarot meaning in relationships can speak of the distance that separates people. An unexpected departure of one of the partners or a lover’s flight from responsibility is possible. Disagreements, threat of divorce. Forced separation, the end of a relationship, and even the death of one of the partners.
At the same time, the Six of Swords is a symbol of the River of Time, where the connection between generations is strong, where children in relationships repeat the fate of their parents. May reflect the negative influence of close relatives on existing relationships. In this case, you need to visit a family therapist.
In its ancient meaning, the card can mean for a girl a forced marriage, which she does not want to enter into, but for some reason is really necessary. There is a feeling of powerlessness and dependence on others. But perhaps someone will save the girl and “transport her to the other side.” This card also contains unexpected declarations of love.
The Six of Swords is also associated with love correspondence and close communication. In its absence, the partners become distant, but a sincere conversation will help resolve any conflict. Sometimes a card can indicate that the family helps the questioner overcome any problems and is his “safe haven.” But more often it indicates a break in existing relationships and the search for new ones.
For health status
If you are sick, then with a high probability a trip to a resort, to a doctor in another city or country will bring you healing. But do not forget that the Six of Swords is associated with death and, surrounded by other similar cards, indicates a fatal outcome. In an inverted position, it speaks of agoraphobia, panic attacks, and asphyxia due to nervousness.
Interpretation of the card
Most cards have a clear definition - negative or positive. In this case, not only the interpretation of the symbol will be important, but also the position of the card in the layout.
Correct position
In the correct orientation, the “Six of Sabers” can be interpreted in different ways. These are new forces, but often a lot will depend on the “man in the boat” (that is, on the man himself). It is worth paying attention to the proximity with other arcana: “Strength” brings with it indestructible intentions, “Hierophant” - wisdom and nobility.
Example values are described below:
- change and movement towards it. Most likely, the forecast of the cards is positive: the bad has already passed, and new events are visible on the horizon;
- moving away from past activities, unnecessary attachments and old habits;
- a negative experience from which a person will learn a useful lesson;
- good news from an unexpected direction;
- change of marital status: imminent wedding or separation;
- victory of common sense over emotions.
Incorrect position
In the opposite position the meaning is symbolized completely differently; it takes on a negative interpretation:
- uncertainty will continue for a significant period of time;
- troubles will remind themselves and intensify;
- escape from reality, immersion in the world of dreams;
- inability to accept someone's help;
- obstacles on the way to the intended goal.
The action has stopped at this moment in time: the “boat” is not moving.
Absolutely any event can be to blame for this: this is how the circumstances developed; someone from the outside violated the plans, or it was their own reluctance to solve other people’s problems. In this case, it is better to return to the start of the path - then the situation will stop getting worse.
Often an inverted symbol indicates selfish intentions in which there is no place for principles and rules.
Council of the Six of Swords
Now you should study, new knowledge will open up great prospects for you. Both travel and spiritual practices will benefit you. Solve problems, don't run away from them. Open up to new experiences and stop clinging to the past. But remember that your knowledge and your experience do not give you a reason to be arrogant in front of other people.
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Topic "Tarot Card Meanings"
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General section “Tarot Cards”
Card of the day
As a card of the day, the 6 of Swords warns that today reality will not show its best side. But even a small step in the right direction will improve the situation. In relationships, you need to be guided by logic, not emotions, and take a safe position. In terms of health, you should be wary of heartburn and do not provoke it.
The 6 of Swords speaks of moving between two banks. The specific meaning depends on the attitude of the questioner - whether he is happy about the upcoming changes or feels uncertain about them. A new shore in the distance does not necessarily mean a physical journey. These could be new rules of the game, norms of behavior, acquaintance with unexplored scientific areas, self-knowledge.
The meaning of a reversed card
The Six of Swords reversed indicates that there is no obvious way out of the situation. Now you are at a dead end. Problems accumulate one after another, and attempts to solve them do not bring results. Other people refuse to help you. Most likely, you made a wrong step, try to find it and return what is still possible to save.
The most common mistake with the inverted Six of Swords is the lack of desire to change something in your life, clinging to old foundations. Using others for your own purposes. Unprincipled. Risky undertakings that can end even in the courtroom. Revealing a secret you wish you could hide.
Reversed card advice. If you are planning a trip, be careful. At best, it simply won’t happen or you’ll be delayed. At worst, an accident will occur on the road. Most often, the Six of Swords indicates death from drowning, but other disasters are possible during the trip.
Work and business
In business, the 6 of Swords speaks of an easily controlled environment. The dynamics of the situation are clear. No danger is expected. There is movement towards the goal. An element of smuggling is possible - Arkan favors the transportation of secret cargo and parcels.
Goals will be achieved through technology. Work in the field of science, information retrieval, IT is expected. Arkan points to professions where it is necessary to share knowledge with other people.
Conflicts in the organization will be overcome. The new organizational culture is being adopted successfully. The 6 of Swords means a transition from an unpleasant job to a more successful one. The new position offers good remuneration and ample opportunities.
Depending on the context, the 6 of Swords can mean dismissal, moving to another position, or the emergence of new job responsibilities. The card indicates that the questioner will have to say goodbye to familiar affairs and master a previously unfamiliar area of activity. This creates uncertainty. But Arkan warns: you cannot reach a new shore without leaving the old one. The transition is subjectively felt as a “suspended” state, fear of failure.
Combined with other cards
How is the Six of Swords interpreted in combination with other cards:
- With Strength – the intention to change your life;
- With the Star - losses along the way;
- With the Three of Wands - serious study, obtaining new information;
- With the Four of Wands – you should now rest;
- With the Eight of Wands, a journey awaits you soon
- With the Ten of Wands - you will struggle with all difficulties alone;
- Reversed with the Ten of Wands - delays in business;
- With the Three of Cups, you will soon be able to relax;
- With the Four of Cups - deep depression and sadness;
- With the Eight of Cups - a trip somewhere alone.
Straight position
In the upright position, the card predicts a new future, something will radically change in life for the better. But the path will not be easy; the goal can only be achieved by overcoming obstacles and coping with difficulties.
The unknown is scary, there are many mysteries in it, and therefore you may experience mixed feelings of fear, panic, and anxiety. But there is no need to give in to feelings of melancholy and nostalgia; by leaving the notorious comfort zone, a person discovers a new self.
Six of Swords (Determination) Tarot of Black Cats
Learn more about the Tarot of Black Cats.