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The Six of Swords Tarot card recreates a scene that inevitably makes us think of a transition, a journey, or a painful change. Sitting on a boat, a family leaves for a new destination, but this will not be a fun or joyful trip. No, this family is taking with them all the learning, suffering, and regrets they have experienced so far.
Even though it seems painful, in the long run, this transition will mean an improvement in their lives. On the other hand, they will continue to experience the sadness of leaving and the attachments and loved ones they will have to leave behind.
Six of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
New beginnings, painful farewells, challenges, and changes will be necessary if you are to feel in harmony with yourself once again. The querant is facing the need to make decisions, and this process may be causing a state of emotional depression. However, this will not prevent them from slowly navigating toward a place of well-being.
The Six of Swords Tarot card means that we have to leave our past behind and learn to let go so that we can move forward. It is a lesson that will strengthen the querant’s soul, but it won’t be a bed of roses. When the Six of Swords Tarot card appears reversed, it indicates the possibility of depression, delays, dangerous trips, obstacles, or, in the worst-case scenario, that the hopes and projects of the querant are about to sink.
The Six of Swords Tarot Card in the Upright Position:
In its upright position, the Six of Swords Tarot card tells us that we are “navigating” towards a necessary but unwanted transformation. How? Changes are happening, and we must face them even though we would prefer not to. Nevertheless, the apathy, hopelessness, and boredom that we currently feel do not allow us to appreciate the bigger picture. Disconnected and apathetic, we can see that the crew of this ship is mired in sadness.
However, the swords nailed in the prow of the boat of this card indicate that, in the long run, we can expect a positive result. The querant is recovering from past wounds and staying afloat despite adversities. When this card appears in a spread, it tells us that the querant has gone through a rough ride emotionally, physically, and spiritually, but that there’s still some hope ahead.
Although reluctant, sad, and having few expectations of the future that awaits them, the travelers of the Six of Swords Tarot card have decided to leave for a new destination. They will find changes, novelty, and personal growth. Don’t think that their retreat means they are defeated. They may have lost a battle, but they haven’t lost the war.
The meaning of the Upright Six of Swords Tarot card when it comes to:
Love
In questions regarding love, this card indicates that there can be transformations in your relationship. This does not necessarily imply a breakup, but you do need space to put things in perspective and re-ignite the flame. For singles, it is time to visit new places, let bygones be bygones, leave the past behind, and strengthen your self-esteem.
Health
You are finally beginning to see improvements in your health. Achieving the spiritual and mental strength to control your emotions is giving you the energy to take care of yourself. Your unhealthy habits and sedentary lifestyle are slowly coming to an end. You just have to keep trying.
Work
Whether it be a trip or a promotion, you need a change to feel less bored and frustrated in the office. Start a specialization course and look for new positions and opportunities.
Money
It is not the time to lend money unless you are willing to forget about getting paid. It is not necessarily a bad time economically speaking, but it’s moving at a slower pace. Be prepared to wait for a long time to see any returns on your investments. Staying positive and patient are the two keys to being successful at this time.
The Six of Swords Tarot Card in the Reversed Position:
When we find the Six of Swords Tarot card reversed in a spread, it indicates that there are some difficulties and obstacles in your way. Although you have worked on making important changes to heal from your past experiences, there are things you just haven’t let go of. Your recovery and personal growth can’t develop due to your inability to adapt.
However, don’t throw in the towel! If you are going to overcome this rough patch, you need to persevere. Your will is the main engine of the boat you’re in, and you will learn new forms of happiness if, and only if, you believe in yourself. Your own fears and doubts form the anchor that is holding you back.
On the other hand, you may be resisting change because you feel it as something imposed. But, even if that were the case, and you feel that what is happening to you is an injustice, it’s happening for your own good. You may not be able to see it now, but this change will bring you great benefits in the long run. Also, it’s time for you to accept that you are not in control of everything. The universe is chaotic.
The meaning of the Reversed Six of Tarot card when it comes to:
Love
There is no point in fighting change, it will happen, and it will be good for both of you. When desire and love are gone, letting someone go will avoid unnecessary emotional pain and resentment. Don’t run away from your problems. Face the issues that are in front of you so that the relationship can finally grow…or end.
Health
Wake up! Your body needs movement, exercise, and flexibility. Muscles that aren’t used become atrophied. Actions such as working on a healthier diet, visiting a nutritionist, and signing up for a gym are the first steps towards making a significant change in your life.
Work
This card announces the collapse of projects that were poorly planned. If you are the captain of this ship, so to speak, you have to fine-tune many details if you want the company to stay afloat. Work to raise the spirits of your employees and co-workers as the generalized feeling of frustration is lowering productivity.
Money
Look for professional advice before venturing into any new investment or business. Even if you are feeling adventurous and want to take risks, it is best to plan your finances thoroughly to avoid major setbacks.
The Six of Swords In A Yes Or No Question:
According to numerology the number six indicates that we’re entering a period of restoration and of harmony and balance that we thought lost in the previous cycle. It is a moment of enlightenment, personal discoveries, and transformation. Six is a number of equilibrium and opposites that complement each other, as well as a number of restoration and healing.
The harmony and tranquility present in the Six of Swords Tarot card indicate that this change will happen for good and will enable you to build a better life. This card suggests the willingness of the querant move on, to grow spiritually and professionally. Therefore, in a question of yes or no, the Six of Swords Tarot Card means: Yes.
Six of Swords Tarot Card Keywords:
Upright: A new course, changes, painful transitions, unexpected trips, retreat, an inner journey, personal growth, sadness, healing, letting go.
Reversed: Evasion, obstacles, difficulties, withdrawal, escapism, drastic changes, depression, resistance to change.
Six of Swords Imagery and Symbolism:
When we observe the Six of Swords Tarot card, we find a family about to embark on a journey. Although they look sad, mother and son sit at the center of the boat looking straight ahead to the future that awaits them. She is wearing a dark cloak covering her head. A pilgrim with a single oar navigates the boat. In the bow, six sharp swords stand in the bow floor. The sea looks calm on the starboard side, or right side, of the ship, and turbulent on the port side, or left side. There are islands full of trees on the horizon.
The scene described points to elements of change, sadness, and prosperity. It is an exciting combination since the islands are full of trees and leafy nature. Yet the family attitude isn’t festive or joyful. Instead, the mother’s covered head hints that she tries to hide the sorrow she feels in leaving.
The boat has just one oar, so in a way, this tells us that once the pilgrims manage to take the boat out to the sea, they will be adrift. It will be the tides that will decide their future. Although pessimistic, the protagonists of this card are heading towards a better future. If only they had the ability to see it.
Important Card Combinations:
To fully understand the message of the Six of Swords Tarot card, we have to evaluate it in conjunction with the other cards that appeared in the reading. We must also recognize the dominant influence of major over minor arcana. It is also important to use our intuition, aiming to decipher the tarot’s mysteries for the querant.
Six of Swords combined with The Sun:
Truth comes to light and, although painful to digest, this will put you on the right path towards personal growth.
Learn The Sun card meanings.
Six of Swords combined with the Two Of Cups:
Prepare to start a new relationship.
Learn The Two of Cups card meanings.
Six of Swords combined with the Wheel Of Fortune:
Unexpected changes will have a happy and profitable ending.
Learn The Wheel of Fortune card meanings.
Six of Swords combined with Death:
The change that is about to happen in your life is absolutely necessary, but it will bring great sorrows and emotional turmoil.
Learn The Death card meanings.
Six of Swords with The Fool:
You should plan and take more precautions in your projects and decisions. Think twice before acting.
Learn The Fool card meanings.
Rider-Waite images used with permission of U.S. Games Systems, Inc., Stamford, CT c. 1971 by U.S. Games Systems.