Upright keywords
Charismatic, quick witted, analytical, unemotional, commanding presence
Reversed keywords
Judgemental, somber, close minded, dominating
As the old saying goes
There’s not a wise man without fault.
Element
Air
King of Swords description
The King of Swords illustration is filled with cool colors, especially when compared to the fiery King of Wands. He is seated high up in the sky. his throne adorned with butterflies. Swords are the suit of air. You can see the butterflies growing on the throne, a symbol of his more developed functions of thinking and sensing. He is less attuned to feelings and intuiting. The crown is a symbol of authority, a higher expression of the personal self. The angels bring messages from the higher self. His swords leans to the right because he thinks he is always right. it’s not easy to change his mind, though he might let you try.
Upright meaning
This card brings a whirlwind of ideas and action. You have a new found sense of clarity and authority to see it done. This King brings mental clarity, new thought patterns, or new information that helps you get a better perspective on the project at hand. Approach things with analytical sense and reasonable logic. Be careful that you’re not being too blunt or judgemental with others. You might be so sure that you are absolutely right, but considering the perspectives of others will help them gain new experience and you develop a stronger team. This King is associated with all things arising out the of the idea of judgement – law, power, command, military intelligence, government agencies, etc. This can be a sign that you should solicit some help from an expert, mentor, or advocate.
Reversed meaning
The King of Swords reversed is a sign that power is being misused, that punishments or consequences are unjust. Your intentions, or the intentions of the person of your inquiry, are evil, cruel, or perverse. There is a difference between being witty and being shrewd. This person is essentially tone deaf and stubborn, not a good combination. This can manifest as someone who likes to show off their intelligence to others and only has their own personal interest in mind. While sometimes this can be a sign of inflated ego, sometimes it is a sign of deflated one. Are you speaking up for yourself or are you marginalizing your own contributions? Are you being indecisive about where your best opportunities lie? You need to sit down and really give it some thought. If you have something to contribute, this is the time to speak up.
King of Swords quote
“The great virtue in life is real courage that knows how to face facts and live beyond them.” D. H. Lawrence
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.