Six of Swords
The Six of Swords is the card of transition — moving away from difficulty towards calmer waters. It's not always easy, but it's a journey in the right direction.
What's on the card
A ferryman poles a small boat across the water. In the boat sit a woman wrapped in a cloak and a child, with six swords standing upright in front of them. The water on one side of the boat is choppy, but ahead it's smooth, and the far shore is in sight. They carry their troubles with them, but they're leaving the worst behind.
Six of Swords Upright
Upright, the Six of Swords shows a move away from a painful situation. You may be recovering, leaving a difficult relationship or job, or simply moving on mentally. Things are getting better, even if you still carry some sadness.
It can also point to a literal journey or relocation.
Six of Swords Reversed
Reversed, the Six of Swords can suggest resistance to leaving a difficult situation, or a transition that has stalled. You may be carrying too much emotional baggage to move forward.
It can also show a return to unresolved issues.
Six of Swords in Love & Relationships
In love, the Six of Swords may point to moving on from a difficult relationship, or a couple working through a hard time towards calmer days. Reversed, it may show being stuck in old patterns.
Six of Swords in Career & Work
At work, it suggests a transition to a better role or environment, or leaving a stressful situation. Reversed, a move may be delayed.
Six of Swords and Money
Financially, the Six of Swords points to gradual recovery and moving towards stability. Reversed, old money problems may follow you.
Advice
Keep going — calmer water is ahead.
Six of Swords — Yes or No?
The Six of Swords is a yes to moving on.
The other Sixs
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Six of Swords mean?
Transition, recovery and moving towards calmer times.
Does the Six of Swords mean travel?
It can. As well as emotional transitions, it traditionally points to journeys, especially over water.
What does the Six of Swords reversed mean?
Resisting change, a stalled transition, or unresolved baggage.
| Group | Cards | Traditional Theme |
|---|---|---|
| Major Arcana | 22 | Life’s big turning points and archetypal themes |
| Wands | 14 | Traditionally linked to fire — ambition, energy, creativity |
| Cups | 14 | Traditionally linked to water — emotion, relationships, intuition |
| Swords | 14 | Traditionally linked to air — thought, conflict, communication |
| Pentacles | 14 | Traditionally linked to earth — money, work, the material world |