King of Swords
Expect straight-talking, cool logic, and sound advice, but nothing very emotional.
King of Swords [Upright]
The king of swords tarot card features the royal ruler looking very much in charge. He sits proudly upright on a high-backed throne, facing his audience, and making his role as a leader very clear.
His authority is reinforced by the large sword he effortlessly holds upright with just one hand. This figure radiates status, but there’s nothing soft or gentle in his demeanor.
King of Swords Keywords [Upright]
- Mental clarity
- Authority
- Truth
- Integrity
- Intellect
- Structure
- Discipline
- Logic
- Self-discipline
King of Swords Meaning [Upright]
The upright king of swords stands for objectivity. If you have decisions to make, then take the time to get all the facts first. Don’t be swayed by pestering people, bribes, or any kind of pressure, as your fair-minded attitude is essential for justice to be done.
Don’t be afraid to use your brains when sharing opinions or making a presentation. Not everybody wants to be out there making a lot of noise, like an obvious leader might, but a quieter approach is just as valid.
The king of swords reminds us it’s important to leave emotions to one side when taking a leadership role. That isn’t always easy, but it’s important, as your judgments could have long-term consequences. As a king, you rely on respect, which comes from being trusted as an impartial observer.
Key Points – Love [Upright]
- In a love reading, the upright king of swords represents someone with their feelings well under control. That can be positive, as they can nurture the emotions of others. Watch out, though, as love isn’t always best understood through logic.
- In current or prospective romantic partnerships, be wary of creating checklists. It’s important to gel on well with a partner, but an unrealistic wish list may mean nobody could ever be good enough.
Key Points – Money [Upright]
- If you have financial goals, then the upright king of swords challenges you to meet them. You may need a push to start saving regularly or a nudge to seek advice on debt management. That’s okay; there’s plenty of support and information out there.
- You may need to sacrifice some things to make your money situation work, so be prepared for that. This is an excellent time to jettison bad financial habits and jump at more favorable opportunities.
Key Points - Career [Upright]
- The upright king of swords represents a person with high standards. You can rely on the king to be fair, but they will not let you cut corners or take shortcuts. That might feel quite boring or annoying, but it’s a great way to reach your full potential.
- You could be this person, responsible for upholding standards and being a good role model. Or this card might appear when you need to seek this person out to help your work-life somehow.
The King of Swords [Reversed]
King of Swords Keywords [Reversed]
- Manipulation
- Dictator
- Dishonesty
- Misuse of power
- Inhumane
- Irrational
- Oppressive
- Ruthless
- Controlling
King of Swords Meaning [Reversed]
The reversed king of swords isn’t the nicest of the tarot characters. He represents a handful of unpleasant behaviors that we can all be guilty of.
Think manipulation, domineering, power-crazed decisions, rudeness, and bossy behavior. All of these unattractive qualities are used to boost the transgressor’s position.
If you are that person who spreads rumors, tells tales on others, or puts people down, you need a reality check. Life won’t always let you tread water by stepping on the heads of other swimmers; eventually, you’ll go under yourself.
On the other hand, if you are suffering at the hands of a person like this, cut and run. There’s nothing worth fighting for.
Key Points - Love [Reversed]
- The reversed king of swords in a love reading suggests you are dealing with a difficult partner. They may use words as swords, through sarcasm or criticism, and are probably quite selfish.
- If your partner is unpredictable, controlling, or just generally makes you unhappy, take the reversed king of swords as a sign it’s time to evaluate things. You are not destined to be in a negative relationship.
- If you are acting this way, perhaps therapy is the obvious next step.
Key Points - Money [Reversed]
- If you have any money worries be very careful right now. Maybe you’ve been busting your budget, wasting cash to boost your mood, or been pretty slack in paying debts.
- The reversed king of swords suggests you could be tempted to simply ignore things, which never ends well. This card may represent a figure keen to offer you illegal or unethical opportunities to boost your income.
Key Points - Career [Reversed]
- The reversed king of swords represents current turmoil at your workplace. A dominating, ignorant, bossy, and generally unpleasant supervisor or boss figure creates a terrible atmosphere. Do your best to avoid them.
- If there is no apparent shady person, it pays to stay alert. There could be a snake in the grass waiting to strike.
