King of Swords Tarot Card

King of Swords Tarot Card Meaning

Get a Free Reading Featuring This Card

Keywords

Upright: Intellectual authority, truth, logic, ethics, fairness, clear judgment.
Reversed: Manipulation, cruelty, abuse of power, irrationality, authoritarian.

Tarot Card Description

The King of Swords sits on a throne, holding his double-edged sword upright, a symbol of his intellectual power and commitment to truth and justice. He is the master of the mental realm. His gaze is direct and unwavering, signifying his ability to see any situation with absolute clarity, free from emotion or bias. He represents the pinnacle of intellectual authority, ruling with logic, integrity, and a strong ethical compass.

Upright Meaning

The King of Swords upright signifies a time for clear, logical, and ethical leadership. You are being called to use your intellectual authority to make a fair and impartial judgment. This card represents a mastery of the mind and the ability to see the truth without being swayed by emotion. It is a time to act with integrity, to follow the rules, and to communicate with authority and clarity. This card can also represent a powerful, intelligent, and ethical man in your life, such as a lawyer, a judge, or a doctor.

Upright Love Meaning

In a love reading, this card suggests a relationship based on a strong intellectual connection and honest communication. It represents a partner who is intelligent, truthful, and values clear communication. While he may not be the most romantic, he is loyal and operates with a strong sense of fairness.

Upright Career Meaning

In a career context, the King of Swords is a powerful sign of success through intellectual leadership. You have the authority and clarity to make sound, ethical decisions that will lead your team or company to success. It is an excellent card for careers in law, academia, or any field that requires a high level of expertise and clear judgment.

Upright Finances Meaning

Financially, this card advises a logical, ethical, and well-thought-out approach to your money. It is a good time to consult with an expert, such as a financial advisor, to create a clear and fair plan for your finances. Your decisions should be based on facts, not feelings.

Upright Yes or No

The answer is **Yes**. A clear, logical, and ethical approach will guarantee success.

Reversed Meaning

When reversed, the King of Swords warns of an abuse of intellectual power. This card can represent a manipulative, cruel, and authoritarian figure who uses their intelligence to intimidate and control others. It can also signify irrationality, where your thoughts are clouded and your judgment is poor. It is a warning against acting like a tyrant or being influenced by one. Your logic may be sound, but it is being used without compassion.

Reversed Love Meaning

In love, the reversed King of Swords can point to a partner who is emotionally cold, controlling, and verbally abusive. They may use their intelligence to manipulate and "win" arguments, creating a toxic and unfair dynamic. There is a lack of emotional connection and compassion.

Reversed Career Meaning

Career-wise, this card can indicate a tyrannical boss or a corrupt work environment where power is abused. It can also suggest that your own irrational or overly harsh decisions are causing problems. It is a sign of unethical and manipulative professional behavior.

Reversed Finances Meaning

Financially, the reversed King of Swords is a warning against making decisions based on poor judgment or being swayed by a manipulative "expert." Be extremely wary of financial scams or any advice that seems logical but feels wrong. There is a risk of being intellectually outmaneuvered for financial gain.

Reversed Yes or No

The answer is **No**. Abuse of power, manipulation, or poor judgment is corrupting the situation.