The King of Swords embodies the theme of the entire suit of Swords; action, decisions and swift movement.
As with any King card, take the meaning of the King of Swords seriously when you see it. Also take note of any other Sword cards which are drawn, as their importance has now been magnified.
At a glance
The King of Swords is a Minor Arcana tarot card, and it is typically associated with authority, leadership, and clear thinking. It is often depicted as a king holding a sword, symbolizing the ability to cut through confusion and to see things clearly. This card can indicate that you are feeling more confident and that you are able to make difficult decisions with clarity and certainty.
In a reading, the King of Swords can indicate that you are feeling more confident and that you are able to think clearly and make decisions with certainty. It can suggest that you are feeling more decisive and that you are able to cut through any confusion or uncertainty. This card can also indicate that you are feeling more in tune with your own thoughts and feelings, and that you are able to communicate them effectively.
The King of Swords can also suggest that you are feeling more assertive and that you are able to stand up for yourself and your beliefs. It can indicate that you are feeling more independent and that you are able to express your opinions with confidence. This card can also suggest that you are feeling more intellectual and that you are able to think critically and analytically.
If the King of Swords appears in a reading, it may be a sign that you are in a position of authority or leadership and that you need to rely on your own intelligence and clarity of thought in order to make difficult decisions. It can also suggest that you need to be more assertive and to stand up for yourself and your beliefs.
In a reversed position, the King of Swords can indicate that you are feeling more uncertain or that you are struggling to make decisions. It can suggest that you are feeling more confused or that you are having difficulty seeing things clearly. It can also indicate that you are feeling more disconnected from your own thoughts and feelings, and that you are having difficulty communicating them effectively.
Card meanings
Past
The King of Swords represents the maturity you may have had when making decisions. Perhaps you were smarter beyond your years, or you had a quick, and correct, answer to every question as a child.
You possibly became an ‘expert’ on a subject, something which you may or may not have kept up to now. Think about why this may be. Did you lose a passion?
The King of Swords in the past position can also represent your upbringing; possibly strict but dynamic. You may have experienced lots as a child.
Present
The King of Swords can represent a strong paternal influence in your life when placed in the present position. You may already know who this may be. Take their advice seriously, and work on any lessons they give you. They are only trying to help you grow.
You may feel as though you are excelling in your professional life and while this may be the case, don’t let it get to your head. Modesty is a brilliant quality to possess. Look to help others get up to your level.
Future
A great card to draw in the future position, the King of Swords shows what you could be if you put your mind to it. The King of Swords is powerful, respected and dedicated. You will need to work to achieve this but the end result will be so worth it.
Look to embody these qualities now, one day at a time. Become more assertive. Understand what you actually want from life rather than drifting through the days. Day by day, you can become a stronger, more structured person.
Work, careers and education
Look up and listen to your elders when you see the King of Swords placed in a career position. Learning from those who came before is one of the tenets of humanity; we all learn from and then improve on our ancestors. This can be the case anywhere.
The King of Swords, while representing somebody higher up in your career, can also show the qualities you know you need to succeed in life. Assertion, decision, logic and power. You can be so much more if you believe in yourself.
Love and Relationships
The King of Swords is a good card to draw for love and romance. You should expect to be in a mature, serious relationship soon enough. Perhaps you will learn even more about your partner.
The King of Swords is good to draw if you are looking for love. You should be sure of what you want, and don’t hesitate when given a chance. It may not come again, so act quickly.
Wealth
The King of Swords is a good card to draw for money. You should be in charge of your money. If anything seems amiss, then investigate any suspicions you may have. It’s unlikely you’re being stolen from, but something may need your attention quickly.
The King of Swords understands money as a system. You should make mature decisions about your money. Buy things you need. Buy good quality, and buy things that will be good to you. Actively look to eliminate the bad.
Health and well-being
The King of Swords is a mature card, as as such so should you be when concerning your health. Anything that seems strange or different is usually a warning sign. Be decisive and get it checked out as soon as possible.
You may do well to look for a role model, specifically somebody who you would like to become. The key is to not be lazy. Laziness doesn’t get us anywhere. If you look at yourself in 5 years, you want to see progression, you want to get better. Don’t wait for motivation. Use your willpower.
Other associations
Element: Air
As a Yes or No question: Yes
Keywords
Power, authority, decisions, logic, discipline