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King of Swords is one of the minor arcana. This card exhibits a king sitting uprightly on his throne. He faces forward and ready to show his authority, prepared to face whatever life has in store for him.
He holds a sword with a double-edged blade in an upright position as if ready for battle. The sword represents intellect, truth, authority, rational mind, and intuitive mind. He holds it with his left hand. Left is the side of the subconscious and intuitive mind.
This represents his logical and rational thinking. With this, he is decisive and good at making sound decisions. He uses his intellect, reasoning, and rationality to make the best decisions when given a dilemma. He is open to his intuition and can assess things that present themselves to him.
The king is wearing blue clothing. His blue cloth represents his spiritual understanding and his deeper connection with the spiritual realm. He wears a cape of purple and red that symbolizes his passion and intellect. The king’s throne is adorned with butterflies, symbolic of transformation and change. The crescent moon and the angel provide him guidance—the light in the dark and an angel that whispers wisdom.
King of Swords Upright Keywords
- Intellectual
- Analytical
- Articulate
- Authority and Power
- Rational
- Logical
- Strength
- Manners
- Communication
- Honesty and truth
- Justice
- Morally upright
- Methodological
- Clarity
- Ideas
- Space
- Law enforcement
- Discerning
- Integrity
King of Swords Reversed Keywords
- Lack of structure
- Using intellect in a wrong way
- Oppressive
- Hypercritical
- Irrational
- Illogical
- Power-crazy
- Dictator
- Cruel
- Corrupt
- Unlawful
- Powerless
- Cold
- Judgemental
- Punishment
- Arguments
- Injustice
King of Swords General Meaning
The king of swords symbolizes intellectual power. The king has the authority, strength, and bravery to achieve what he puts his mind to. He is in the rule of his own life rather than being suppressed by another party. The mind is a powerful element that influences our well-being. If we dwell too much on negative things, we might lose sight of reality. The king is logical, and therefore, he protects his mind from things that cannot do him any good.
The king uses his intellect, represented by the sword, to continue his journey and win battles. The king is firm, and when he knows what is right, he is not shaken by outside forces. He trusts his judgment and makes sure that they are right.
He may be an air sign, like Aquarius, Gemini, Libra, and a bit private about his emotions. He does not let emotions and unnecessary feelings rule over him. His goal is clear. Striving to be a good ruler, he is also a good communicator, loyal, caring, and protective of the people close to him.
King of Swords (Upright) Meaning
The king of swords tells you that you have the authority, power, and intellect. You will be using these qualities to go through the obstacles in your life. You have an authoritative voice that can lead people, and they will listen to you.
You can perceive and think things clearly, which allows you for a better assessment of your situation. You can immediately pinpoint stumbling blocks along your way to achieving your goals. King of swords also represents your firmness and your ability to watch over your emotions. A lot of us get easily swayed by our feelings. Some of these emotions lead us to do things we regret later on.
You are someone who knows how to assess situations clearly and shove emotions in their proper places. This doesn’t mean that you are devoid of emotion. You are just careful about your feelings, and you don’t let them get in the way of your growth.
Feeling things is normal. However, if we dwell on these emotions for long, we might never escape and stagnate. It’s good to be objective about them without getting devoid of them. Again, balance is vital.
The king of swords suggests that you should be objective in your current situation. You will find truth by being steadfast to the facts present. When faced with a challenging situation, you should consider all the things that could come after. By that, I mean all the consequences and not just those you want to keep. Look at them all to come up with the best solution or decision.
This card encourages you to use your intellect and reasoning in dealing with life. An issue might come that needs a decision without bias. Remember to be objective and consider all possible consequences. This way, you will grow more prepared to win over the barriers.
King of Swords (Upright) in In Love and Relationship
The King of Swords card is an essential card in a love reading. You may be someone who can offer long term commitment to a person.
This is because you have high standards and can absolutely provide. You’re someone who can be mentally and financially stable.
You may be fond of suppressing your emotions and being silent about them. You may be holding back and not show them at all. These kinds of people tend to express themselves very directly. You are excellent, and you treat your relationship with respect.
You’re someone who is willing to push your partner to be better. So you never hesitate to help them whenever they’re struggling.
You can manifest a relationship with the right person.
If you are single, this signifies that you are going to meet someone who embodies these qualities. This card also tells about your need to be with someone whom you connect to intellectually.
King of Swords (Upright) in Career and Finance
As I’ve mentioned earlier, the king of swords holds high standards. He is most likely to exhibit this in different areas in his life like love, household, or work life. You are hardworking and do what you need to do to achieve your goal.
This card might also tell you of a person at work that’s going to challenge you. He might be your senior or someone of a higher position. He tends to be quite strict and expects a lot from you, and he has high standards.
It’s best to be yourself and keep holding your integrity in the works you do. Behave accordingly and use your intellect. This may impress him, and eventually, you will gain his respect. It’s an excellent avenue for learning. He might help you in your work journey, and in turn, you can learn a lot from him.
This card urges you to be disciplined and has positive control over your finances in your financial aspect. It advises you to have a more structured routine that can help you propel forward.
You must view your financial needs and wants objectively. Like mentioned, letting your emotions drive or rule your life might lead you to unbeneficial paths. It would be helpful to do your research. This way, you can make a sound and more informed decision.
King of Swords (Upright) in Health
As mentioned above, the structure is quite crucial at these times in your life. Perhaps, you should incorporate more systems in the aspect of taking care of your health. This card encourages you to establish a routine that will help in the betterment of your health.
This can be a challenge like putting up diet plans or workout routines, time management, resetting your body clock, and many more.
If you are struggling with an illness at the moment, this card can represent surgeons and consultants. They may potentially be involved in your care.
King of Swords (Upright) in Spirituality
In the context of spirituality, this can mean that you have the time to learn as much as you want. Learning can be in terms of spiritual practices. Learning facilities can include workshops, seminars, listening to podcasts, reading books, and many more.
King of Swords (Reversed) Meaning
The king of swords, in reversal, indicates that you possess quiet power. This means that you are not that vocal about the things in your mind. You are not the loudest voice in a room. However, you have great potential and ideas that can contribute significantly to your situation. You hold your strength and power within.
A king of swords reversed can be a warning for being out of control. This represents being unfair or oppressive. You tend to let great power go to your head, and you let your ego get the best of you.
With these qualities, you can be manipulative and negatively persuasive. You may be punishing the people around you by manipulating or persuading them to do things to your benefit.
This card can be a signifier of great intelligence and arrogance. You may be letting your skill and intelligence get to your head. You can be consistently showing off your intelligence and become insensitive along the way. In other words, you might be using your intelligence in the wrong way.
Your judgment is clouded, and you may be lacking structure in your life. You are indecisive and lost. This card also represents a lack of logic, reason, and integrity. You may fail in discerning correctly and be at risk of instigating negative change.
King of Swords (Reversed) in Love and Relationship
The King of Swords, in reverse, shows that the relationship is toxic. If you have the King of Swords, then you put your power to abuse.
Manipulation is evident in this relationship. It could be possible that you constantly gaslight and manipulate your partner.
You’re the type of person who would exert dominance on your partner. As a result, your partner may be thinking of leaving this connection.
You might be letting your emotions rule over you rather than be objective. This can affect your relationship, especially if no one tries to mend it together. You might grow distant as you keep the issue unsettled for longer and longer.
This card represents your low standards in finding your potential partner and relationship if you are still single. It’s exciting to feel all those butterflies in your stomach and “sweep you off your feet” kind of lines. However, you must visualize and assess your future with the particular person.
The earlier, the better. You need to know if he/she is a good fit for you. Do you see him in your future? How about his attitude and personality? Do you guys match at all? Ask yourself questions like that. Do not get pulled merely by feelings alone.
King of Swords (Reversed) in Career and Finance
The king of swords in reverse in the aspect of your career is not a good sign. You may experience hardships in your workplace. It may not be the best place to be during these times.
There might be someone at your workplace that exhibits a dominating personality. This person can be very dictatorial, aggressive, and power-hungry. This is not a person you want to socialize with, right? This person might use his power and authority in the wrong and corrupt way. This specific person can even be bullying you.
If you don’t see these qualities in your workmates, you may shift into possessing these qualities. It’s helpful to assess yourself and your behavior at work or as a whole. You might find that you are exhibiting these things.
In awareness, we can mend our mistakes and change our unhelpful attitudes. It’s a vital step to be informed. This is why assessment is critical.
This card can represent losing your cool and acting unreasonably. You might fail to work logically and on the verge of abandoning every piece of integrity you have. This is so not you, and you feel it, but you just don’t realize it yet.
This card in reverse can mean you are losing motivation and energy. Try to counter these if you ever realize you are in a slump.
In the financial aspect, this can indicate that you have been careless lately. You have failed to uphold your discipline in handling your finances. Your financial decisions lack structure and, in some ways, very random.
You might have been overspending and are pursuing unnecessary things. You may be purchasing too much or investing in the wrong items that are not helping you at all. These situations might create a sudden urge to act out of impulse. You might encounter temptations to resort to ways that are irrelevant and crazy. Do not give in to this nudge.
King of Swords (Reversed) in Health
The king of swords reversed n the context of your health can represent powerlessness. This means you might be powerless in your current situation. If you are undergoing medical treatment, doubts may pour into your mind like rain as you worry over your medical condition.
You might think that these professionals and health workers are overlooking your real feelings and thoughts. A gentle reminder that it’s your health we are talking about. If anyone has a say in it, the first person must be you.
You need to listen to the professionals but not be passive and ignore your own experiences and feelings. Make sure you inform your medical aids. You need to be with people who listen and understand you, people who are actually passionate about making their patients better.
King of Swords (Reversed) in Spirituality
Similar to the Ace of swords tarot card, in the aspect of your spiritual life, the king of swords in reverse symbolizes your need to engage more. This card encourages you to let yourself engage more in your spiritual development.
You might have been quite negligent of your spiritual growth, so you need to work on it. Discernment can be challenging during these times, but it’s to your benefit to be careful and observant. Do not take just anything offered to you. Assessment is vital.
In short, do not believe everything that you see, hear, or learn. You might tend to believe in things that appeal to your emotions blindly. Again, a gentle reminder not to let your feelings fool you. Be objective in making your decisions, find what’s good, and throw away the bad ones.
King of Swords: YES or NO?
If you are currently in a dilemma and need a quick answer, this card is not the best place to find solutions. The king of swords is a neutral card in relevance to giving you a solid answer. This card is along the side of “maybes.” You would need to use your intellect and logical reasoning to find a concrete answer to your question.
King of Sword Advice
The King of Swords card, as advice, wants to remind you to take action. This may be the sign that you need to put your logic into practicality.
It’s essential to set your emotions to the side for a while. Don’t hesitate to take the leap of faith and trust yourself for this journey.
You have the ability to take full command of the situation. You have what it takes to handle the challenges that will go your way.
You’re someone who is willing to thrive constantly. But there’s nothing wrong with asking help from others once in a while.
King of Swords Reversed Advice
The King of Swords, in reverse, shows that you put your powers into abuse. This could mean that you use your abilities for adverse effects.
This could result in manipulation or corruption. Perhaps you felt the need to increase your power even if you’re already powerful.
So you need to work on changing your beliefs and attitude. You need to change for the better instead of choosing to be wrong.
So you need to seek immediate advice or help from others. Letting yourself hear the suggestions and ideas of others is a good thing.
Don’t cross boundaries; you’ll regret it.
King of Swords as a Person
The King of Swords as a person, is someone who has a leadership figure. Perhaps you’re the kind of person who would teach others to grow.
You’re someone who stands on having rational ideas. You would never hesitate to use your logic despite the circumstances.
You also rely on ethical or moral standards to influence others. This is because you want to prove that you can be a good example.
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You’re someone who is always working hard to achieve your goals. You’re the kind of person who is academically and life smart.
Never fail to show your radiance to others.
King of Swords Reversed as a Person
The King of Swords, in reverse, is someone who lacks logic. Perhaps you often prioritize your emotions first to respond to a situation.
You’re someone who shows dominance to others to feel superior. You would never fail to disgrace or let others down because of their ranks.
You’re aware that this is wrong, but you kept on doing it. Which is why you finally put your powers and abilities into abuse.
You’re someone who is also aggressive in handling situations. So others may be uncomfortable to be around you.
You can have the ability to make someone’s life constantly miserable.
King of Swords Present
In the present, you’re currently spending time with a mentor. This person has a strong father figure that can help you boost your confidence.
This person is willing to help you achieve your goals. So you need to remain patient and try to listen to their suggestions and ideas.
Because eventually, you’ll learn a lot from this person. They may become your inspiration in terms of being a good influence.
So put your trust in them in order to help you through the day. Because you’ll have to follow in their footsteps one way or another.
You have leadership skills.
King of Swords Past
In the past, you encountered countless hardships. But these are necessary to bolster your growth as a strong figure for power.
You used to lack the skills to exert good leadership. But this is valid since you used to have zero knowledge about it.
You faced situations that enabled you to act on them immediately. These situations were responsible for your path toward growth.
You were someone who hesitated in accepting authority. But now you’re enjoying the fact that you can lead other people.
Be grateful for the long journey you encountered in the past. You’ll do more soon enough.
King of Swords Future
In the future, you'll be able to harvest more strength and power. You'll face a new stage in your life that is related to your leadership.
Perhaps you'll have the opportunity to exert leadership on others. So you need to make sure that what you'll teach is right.
You'll encounter hardships that are beneficial for your individual growth. So be sure to never give up despite the difficulty of the situation.
You'll soon find yourself in the state of becoming successful. You'll finally have everything you want to have in life.
This isn't always about wealth, but it's for fulfillment.
King of Swords as How Someone Feels About You
Someone may already have feelings for you. But they don’t want you to know it at the moment.
Maybe because they’re having difficulty telling it, they feel like it will only lead them to rejection or embarrassment.
This person feels intimidated whenever they think about you. Maybe you look like someone who is hard to approach at first sight.
You may be someone that they want to see as an inspiration. They feel like they can also become successful because of you.
But they may also deny the fact that they like you. But they’re not ready to move yet.
King of Swords Outcome
The King of Swords, as an outcome, wants you to make a decision. You need to think carefully about this decision before stepping right in.
It could be possible that this is related to your leadership skills. You may want to have to reevaluate your ideas first before saying them.
An important person will be necessary to be in your life. This person will help you in terms of legal, personal, or professional advice.
You’ll change yourself for the better. Perhaps you’ll try to be more open and expressive to others.
This is important in order to finally reach out.
King of Swords Pregnancy and Fertility
The King of Swords may show signs of pregnancy. This could mean that a strong male figure is ready to accept his fate.
You’re probably preparing yourself to have a child. You’ve been waiting to hear this news for a while, and now it’s here.
So you continue to work hard in order to provide for your child. You want to be mentally and financially stable before taking on the obligation.
You’re someone who is confident that this will turn out fine. You’ll do anything it takes in order to ensure your child’s safety.
You’re now entering the stage of parenthood.
King of Swords Energy
The King of Swords has an intense energy for leadership. You may be someone who presents an intellectual figure to many.
This intense energy encourages you to succeed constantly. It enhances you to go further from where you’re now standing.
It’s okay to take your time in evaluating a situation. It’s okay to take your time before choosing to be impulsive and aggressive.
You may be someone who will never give up. This is because giving up on your dreams is never the solution.
This strong energy enhances you to be a good influence on others. You’re doing your best.
King of Swords as Action
The King of Swords as an action shows practicality. You may be someone who makes wise decisions for wise results.
So continue to show that you’re capable of managing things. It seems that it would look so effortless when you accomplish a task.
You’re someone who is willing to make good judgements. You’ll never waste your time in being impulsive to come up with a decision.
If you want to accomplish something today, you’ll gladly do it. And it doesn’t matter how long it will take you.
You’re persistent when it comes to your goals. You don’t want to surrender.
King of Swords as Intentions
The King of Swords definitely has good intentions. You’re someone who is willing to be the best version of yourself.
So you won’t hesitate to change and improve yourself. This is because you believe you have more room for growth.
You’re someone who is willing to achieve peace of mind. You don’t want to constantly suffer in confusion and overwhelming events.
You’re someone who constantly wants to be an adventurer. You’re someone who is willing to explore and learn new ideas.
You’re someone who loves to know more about history. This could also mean that you can solve problems.
King of Swords as How Someone Sees You
Someone sees you as someone who is a father figure. This could mean that this person views you as their old mentor.
They see you as someone who is intelligent and prioritizes logic. You’re the kind of person who will set aside your emotions first.
They see you as someone who is willing to succeed. You probably planned a lot in order for your goals to come true.
This person may see you as intimidating most of the time. They feel like it can be difficult to just approach you.
But they serve you as their inspiration to do better.
King of Swords Time Frame
The King of Swords can have a specific time frame. But this will always depend on your present situation and energy.
A specific period may start on May 11 and will end on June 10. This may be related to a result that will bolster your current progress.
The King of Swords has the element of fire. Its numerical value may always be the number four.
A specific event may happen in a matter of hours or days. Whatever the result is, be sure to prepare yourself because this is big.
You need to prepare yourself to accept greater things.
King of Swords as a Woman
The King of Swords may be a representation of a woman. You may be someone who has a resemblance to the Queen of Swords.
So this means that you prepare to be independent. You like to be in control of everything by following your own way.
You’re someone who has a strong leadership figure. Perhaps you’re a mentor to some people and teach them to be good.
You’re someone who doesn’t want to show your feminine energy. You don’t want to be seen as someone who is fragile or vulnerable.
And you’re always dedicated to your goals for the future.
King of Swords as a Man
The King of Swords is a representation of a man. So you may be someone who has a strong fatherly figure.
You have what it takes to succeed constantly. You may be someone who exerts authority and influence on other people.
But this doesn’t have to be in a negative way because you’re trying to influence others to become better.
You’re someone who doesn’t hesitate to try new things. You’re someone who loves to explore and learn new ideas and principles.
You’re someone who is willing to improve despite the circumstances. You have the potential to be a great leader.
King of Swords Communication
The King of Swords may be an essential card for communication. You may be someone who is willing to offer a helping hand to others.
This card is all about exerting strong influence on others. So you may have the potential to lead a large group of people.
And this will only be possible according to your words and actions. You need to have the ability to make a command that will influence others.
Or you can be the kind of person who would give advice. Maybe you’re willing to help people in order to solve their problems and worries.
King of Swords Reconciliation
The King of Swords may be a good sign for reconciliation. This could mean that a person may want to have you back.
But this person is currently taking their time before stepping up. Because they regret the wrongdoings, they committed in the past.
This person wants to change solely for the better. When they come forward, they should already be at their best version.
This person has excellent communication skills. So expect to have a decent and honest conversation in the future.
They want to start a new beginning with you. So they’re still trying their best to improve.
King of Swords Physical Appearance
The King of Swords can have a specific physical appearance. But it will always depend on the person who received the card.
You may be someone who looks like you’re always intimidating. This is because you present a strong figure of a father or a mentor.
You look like someone who has the resemblance of a king. This is possible since you can exert influence and command on others.
Since you look intimidating, others may find it difficult to approach you. They may want to ask for specific advice.
You’re someone who has a strong masculine presence that can astonish you.
King of Swords Reversed Outcome
The King of Swords, in reverse, shows you’re looking after yourself. Maybe you now feel at ease without having more responsibilities.
You believe that now isn’t the right time to reach out to a substantial figure. So you’re taking your time to manage things all by yourself.
You have the ability to make a wise decision for your growth. Perhaps you’re currently in solitude exploring on your own.
You’re someone who doesn’t want to get involved with others. You don’t want to insert yourself into the problems of other people.
So take this as a time for rest and relaxation.
King of Swords Reversed Pregnancy
The King of Swords, in reverse, is a sign of pregnancy. But this could mean that you’re not ready to provide for a child.
You need to take your time to decide if this is what you want. If you’re having second thoughts, it’s best if you step back.
If pregnancy isn’t in place yet, choose to improve yourself more. Choose to focus on your goals in order to be stable.
Because before you start a family, you need to be financially stable. You need to work hard in order to provide for your family.
It’s okay, don’t rush yourself.
King of Swords Friendship
The King of Swords is a good card for friendships. This is because you’re currently having a good time with your friends.
You’re currently trying your best to be a good influence. You believe that it’s your responsibility to help them become better.
The energy is currently positive in terms of friendship. As long as you provide good communication, you’re good.
Your friends will always be here to support you despite the circumstances. They want to see you in every achievement you make.
Trust that your friends will be here through all the ups and downs.
You’ll alwas be okay.
Karen Hyman
Karen is a Psychic Medium, a Professional Astrologer, a Spiritual Advisor, and a Life Coach who has been in this career for 19+ years. She specializes in numerology, tarot and oracle cards, twin flames, love & relationships, zodiac, horoscope, dreams interpretation, and astrology. She aims to provide comfort and assurance using her abilities to offer answers to those who seek professional guidance. Read More About Karen Here.
