Upright keywords
Restriction, Cornered, Victim Mentality
Reversed keywords
Overcoming Fear, Self Love, New Perspectives
As the old saying goes
Think outside the box.
Element
Air
Eight of Swords description
Stepping into the Eight of Swords, you find a woman (or man) who has been tied up, blindfolded, and imprisoned in a cell of swords. But you pause when you realize that the ties are not tight, they practically hang off of her body. And there are large gaps between the swords, can’t she see? It’s a gray, cloudy day and she looks damp and cold. A warm castle is in the distance behind her. This is secruity coming into view, but she’s not sure how to get there and it seems difficult. Puddles pool around her feet, scattered, shallow emotions. The fact that she is blindfold represents being so focused within that she cannot see what is right in front of her. She needs to free herself from this situation, and soon as she shakes off those ties, she’ll able to look outward and leave this shitty situation.
Upright meaning
The Eight of Swords can be a sign that you are feeling trapped by a situation, a relationship, etc. However, there is a good chance you’re only trapped by your own thoughts. You are putting restrictions on yourself, essentially selling yourself short. You might be in a state of paralysis caused by fear of leaving this situation. Your own inhibitions are causing this state of inaction and indecision. You might be feeling helpless or little “hemmed in.” Rely on your inner guidance to move you forward. Drop into your body, use your sense to feel what it around you. Can you loosen some of those ties or use on those those swords to cut through the bullshit? This card can also arrive when one is experiencing an identity crisis. They have one version of themselves held back.
Reversed meaning
When reversed, the Eight of Swords is a sign that you are overcoming some self limiting beliefs. You are being kinder with yourself, and that is being reflected back to you in your relationships. While your in a more positive state, address some of your deep pain points. Address your inner critic and dig into why s/he says the things you hear. This is a sign that you are breaking out of a negative cycle of events. You adopted ways of thinking or behaving that served you well when you were in the past. Now, you are no longer in that situation. You can start to release some of your old ways of beings and raise your eyes to the limitless possibilities.
Eight of Swords quote
“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” Marcus Aurelius
Want to check in with your higher self?
Tarot helps you step back and consider the bigger picture. This is just a snapshot in time. All things shall pass! Let’s take a look at past, present, and future themes in your life and consider a new direction.