Six of Swords Tarot Card Meaning

Tarot, like astrology, has long been one of our favorite divination systems. Interpreting either takes practice. As you learn, we wanted to help you to quickly connect to the cards and use them in ways that are actionable and practical in every area of life. xoxo, Tali & Ophira

Co-authored by James Kerti

What does the Six of Swords tarot card mean?

The Six of Swords represents a stage of transition, of letting go of the past and moving forward into a hopeful future.

The Six of Swords tarot card carries an optimistic message, especially for those who’ve been struggling: you’ve sailed through the storm intact and are entering calmer seas.

If you’ve been considering a major sea change, such as moving or leaving a job or relationship, you might interpret the Six of Swords to be in support of that decision. Pain is likely unavoidable, particularly at the outset. But if you know that this transition is for the best, this minor arcana card encourages you to move ahead.

The Six of Swords acknowledges the potential for great healing—both in letting go of something that’s no longer right for you, and in the sense of confidence you build when you choose yourself in that manner.

What is the Six of Swords zodiac sign?

The zodiac sign of the Six of Swords is Aquarius

Six of Swords Tarot Guide

Keywords for the Six of Swords: Healing, moving on, letting go, relief, acceptance, transition

Yes or No: Yes

Planet of the Six of Swords: Mercury

Element of the Six of Swords: Air

What does the Six of Swords card mean in a love reading?

Are you in a relationship? A period of conflict or disharmony is coming to an end. How? The Six of Swords doesn’t specifically indicate that part, but it tends to be an optimistic card.

Perhaps you’ve made your way through a tough time, and the relationship is starting to feel easier and more harmonious again. If tension is not quite resolved yet, it may soon be.

However, if you’ve been trying to manage a relationship that has proven to be toxic or abusive, the Six of Swords may be your cue to leave—for the sake of your own peace, and for the possibility of a healthy relationship in the future.

For singles, the Six of Swords often indicates letting go of past wounds that are holding you back from embracing a new relationship. If you’re grieving a previous heartbreak or betrayal, this minor arcana card gently encourages you to keep healing, so that you can be ready for love when it arrives.

What does the Six of Swords tarot card mean for career, money and finance?

When the Six of Swords pops up in a career reading, things are about to get easier at work. This is especially true if you’ve been dealing with a stressful work environment for some time. Perhaps it got bad enough for you to consider leaving your job. The forthcoming shift will be a big relief for you.

However, this card can also mean exactly that: you might find yourself moving on to a job that’s a better fit for your personality and talents. While it may feel unsettling to hear that now, your peace and happiness matter as much as your outer security. If the ideal opportunity hasn’t materialized quite yet, quietly start looking around. There may be more opportunity at your behest than you realize.

From a financial standpoint, the Six of Swords can predict better times on the horizon. If you’ve been on shaky ground, this minor arcana card indicates that if you take responsibility for your situation, and clean up your integrity, circumstances will soon start to improve.

What does the Six of Swords tarot card mean for health?

If you’ve been dealing with an ongoing illness or other health issues, the Six of Swords is a great card to draw.

While you may not feel 100% again overnight, this card does suggest that recovery is right around the corner. It may be a process to feel all the relief you desire, but you’ll be noticing positive changes in your health very soon if you haven’t already.

Six of Swords Tarot Card in Reverse Meaning

The Six of Swords, when it appears in a reverse position, corresponds with feeling resistant toward a change or transition.

This card’s reversed message can be especially strong (and relevant) if you’re being pulled against your will into a new chapter. Maybe you can sense the tides yanking you into an uncertain future that you’re not ready for, or even wanting.

If that resonates with you, the Six of Swords in reverse suggests that you shift your mindset. Look for the positives in the new direction instead of flailing against the current. While this might not be your ideal choice, once you accept this direction, you may start to see things in a more optimistic light.

From there, perhaps you can more easily allow yourself to let go. Surrender and allow the sea of change to carry you into smoother waters.

Is the Six of Swords tarot card a yes or no?

As the Six of Swords represents healing and moving on in a positive way, this card is a yes in a yes or no reading, particularly if your question aligns with its message.

What does the Suit of Swords mean?

Swords are associated with air signs (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius), which get things moving, acting as the winds of change. Air energy is communicative, and people with air signs like to connect and share ideas.

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Feature art by Diana Hlevnja