Court cards are some of the most difficult cards to read in the Tarot deck. While the Major Arcana cards are relatively easy to apply to any situation, it’s pretty hard to separate court cards from their personality. This issue with the Knight of Swords is no different.
Knights in the Minor Arcana are highly actionable. They have enough experience to believe in themselves and know what they’re doing. However, they may land themself in trouble because they do not have the full life experience the King and Queen have; thus, they move from one extreme to another.
This influx of feelings can be either positive or negative for the Knight of Swords, depending on the circumstances. He’s definitely a strong card!
Today, I’ll be going over every single aspect of the Knight of Swords. Hopefully, you will find a description in this post that accurately applies to your reading.
The Knight Of Swords
The Knight of Swords is a card used in Latin suited playing cards. This card is part of the Minor Arcana, which suggests subtleties and details of a person’s day-to-day life. The most popular image of this card dates back to 1910 in respect to the Rider-Waite tarot deck.
In general, the Knight of Swords is associated with being assertive, direct, honest, quick-witted, and intellectual. But that does come at a price too. Often, his quick wit and single mind land him into trouble.
To fully understand the power of this youthful Knight, you have to apply this Minor Arcana card to specific situations. Below I’ll explain how this card can manifest in various aspects of your life.
Visual Elements:
The Knight of Swords shows a knight dressed in armor. With a sword raised in one hand, he charges ahead with great energy on his regal white horse. His heroic stature is a symbol of his dedication to his purpose and mission.
In the card, the white horse symbolizes the intellectual energy that motivates the knight. Behind him, storm clouds are beginning to form, and the trees bend in the strong wind. But the knight, ever so bold and adamant, does not allow the wind to stop him. Instead, he heads directly into it, invested in the completion of his mission.
As he raises his sword, the young Knight seems ready to charge into battle – his polished silver armor reflecting the sun’s rays and his courageous stature. This whole scene represents the unparalleled strength the Knight of Sword embodies. He is a powerhouse, an unstoppable force that will get rid of anything that stands in his way.
Upright Knight Of Swords General Meaning
This Minor Arcana card showing up in your Tarot spread signifies that a big change is coming, one that you have been patiently waiting for.
Just as the image depicts, you’re dashing, daring, brave, and rebellious. The Knight of Swords indicates that by nature, you go against the flow and have great leadership qualities. You’re also a perfectionist and a risk-taker.
This may also imply that you are assertive and rational but can quickly get impatient or impulsive when things don’t seem to go your way. At this moment in time, remind yourself that life is a mystery, one that needs to be gently unfolded and not rushed into.
Dial back, think, and strategize before you go into things headfirst.
Reversed Knight Of Swords General Meaning
A reversed Knight of Swords also indicates that big change is coming your way; however, you are failing to recognize or seize it. It’s likely that you are not ready to jump in, or you feel out of place.
In any case, the reversal of this card is a sign that if you continue to overlook opportunities, you will be left behind.
This Minor Arcana card may also portray you to be insincere, self-obsessed, rude, hurtful, sarcastic, or cynical. Therefore, it’s important to be mindful of your words and the effects they have on others.
Try to use your quick-wit and intellectual abilities for the benefit of others, especially if you’re seeking good karma from the universe.
Knight Of Swords Keywords
Here are some of the most common keywords associated with the Knight of Swords.
Upright:
- big chances
- opportunities
- assertive
- direct
- honest
- quick-wit
- ambitious
- risk-taker
- brave
- courageous
- rebellious
Reversed:
- missed opportunities
- unfocused
- coward
- vicious
- dangerous
- hurtful
- rude
- insincere
- criminal
- aggressive
- forceful
Knight Of Swords in Love Descriptions
Upright:
In a love Tarot reading, the Knight of Card represents that you or your partner exhibit the brave, courageous, assertive, rational, and impulsive qualities of the Knight.
It may also signify that a change you have been waiting for is imminent, and it may take the form of a more profound commitment such as a marriage or romantic proposal. If such an opportunity arises, draw from the braveness of the Knight of Swords, and jump in with both feet.
For someone who is single or just coming out of a breakup, the Knight of Swords is a good omen. It signifies that you will meet someone who embodies the qualities of the Knight. This Minor Arcana card tells you to be prepared, for this person is soon going to sweep you off your feet.
If the Knight of Swords in love is describing you, then it may be a message to slow down and “smell the roses.” Take time to enjoy what you have, whether this is your relationship with someone else or your relationship with yourself if you’re single.
Reversed:
For someone in a relationship, a reversed Knight of Swords is a particularly negative sign. This card can signify that either you or your partner embody the negative characteristics of the Knight, such as being controlling, abusive, aggressive, violent, or dangerous.
If you experience negative thoughts like these or see these traits in your partner, this card is a sign to seek help. Get in touch with someone who can help you safely navigate this situation so that you can protect yourself and your partner.
If you are single, the Knight of Swords reversed can mean that you will meet someone who can be aggressive, vicious, and dangerous. It’s a warning to be prepared so that you don’t get blind-sighted.
This card may also imply that the person you are interested in does not share the same feelings, and you may need to fight for their attention. While this may be upsetting news, take this as a sign that the universe is protecting you from someone malicious and that it’s not meant to be. Focus on the good in your life and trust that a higher power knows what’s best for you.
Knight Of Swords as Feelings Descriptions
Upright:
The Knight of Swords usually represents a strong sense of determination. If this card appears in your tarot spread, it is an indication of your actionable nature.
If you were waiting for a sign, the Knight of Swords in the upright position serves as confirmation that you’re ready to make moves.
Generally, the Knight indicates feelings of excitement and action. It can also indicate that you’re feeling a bit impatient with others who aren’t as efficient as you see yourself.
Reversed:
The Knight of Swords reversed means that energy or feelings are blocked. The individual may be feeling weary, depressed, or simply lifeless. They don’t have the energy to fight that the upright Knight possesses.
This card can also indicate feelings that have disappeared. The Knight of Swords reversed can have a really short attention span, so it can mean that someone’s feelings are now gone.
Knight Of Swords in Career Descriptions
Upright:
In a career context, the Knight of Swords represents ambition, drive, and determination. This Minor Arcana card may also indicate a big change in your career, so you may get that promotion you were hoping for after all.
Take this card as a sign of the universe telling you that anyone who dares, wins. So be bold, brave, and courageous, and go after what you want full throttle!
Reversed:
A reversed Knight of Swords may be a sign that you are currently feeling out of depth in your work life. This reversed Minor Arcana suggests that great opportunities are around, but you may be hesitant to go after them and take the reins.
When this card appears, ensure that you are attentive and do not miss out on anything important at work. Focus your attention and try to pick up on the little things. Sometimes, this card is a warning that you’re letting things slip by due to a short attention span.
Knight Of Swords in Money Descriptions
Upright:
The Knight of Swords represents a positive upswing in finances or big opportunities coming your way.
When this Minor Arcana card appears, you can expect to get a great investment opportunity or an unexpected financial windfall. Look around for potential opportunities, and approach them wisely once they are revealed. Generally, this card is saying now is the time to take action relating to your finances!
Reversed:
In a financial context, a reversed Knight of Swords can indicate criminality. It may also represent missing a financial opportunity or getting left behind.
When this card appears in your Tarot, don’t be afraid of jumping in when chances come your way, but be sure to thoroughly research the people and businesses you’re dealing with. You really can’t be too cautious with this card.
Bear in mind that the Knight of Swords reversed isn’t a bad thing in a financial reading. It simply indicates that you need to be wary and that you shouldn’t rush into anything.
Knight Of Swords in Health Descriptions
Upright:
An upright Knight of Swords represents good news in the health arena. If you have been struggling with a sickness or injury, this card is a sign that a positive change is coming. Hang in there, and when you feel energetic and revived, be sure to make the most of it!
This can also be a sign that you need to take the reigns and take charge of your own health. You may be waiting for a health professional to “fix” you, but the answers are within you.
Reversed:
When related to health, the Knight of Swords reversed is a sign of disappointing news. If you are currently suffering from an illness, this card may signify that you are frustrated or impatient with the rate at which you are recovering.
However, do not lose hope. Spend your time indulging in activities that bring you joy, and surely, a happy mind will manifest into a healthy body. This will be a slow recovery, but you will recover. You just need to take small, steady steps each day.
Knight Of Swords as Spirituality Descriptions
Upright:
In light of spirituality, the King of Swords speaks about a change coming your way. This card signals a moment in your life when all elements come together at the right time and place, giving you an opportunity to excel in life and embrace your destiny.
It can sometimes indicate a spiritual switch or may mean that you’ll soon discover new information. If you’re currently into something “different,” this card is telling you that you’re on the right track for your spiritual/energetic body.
Reversed:
A reversed Knight of Swords may be an indication that you need to slow down and reevaluate. You may be getting spiritual information that you’re absorbing that’s actually false, regardless of where this information comes from.
The Knight of Swords reversed is a clear lesson that you need to practice discernment or you’ll start to accept some seriously harmful false beliefs.
Knight Of Swords as a Person Descriptions
Upright:
As a person, drawing the Knight of Swords signals you are someone who relishes the opportunity to make important decisions. No matter how difficult the choices, you wield power and can make it look easy.
Your quick wit, charm, and will to forge ahead have gained the attention of those around you and made you a social hit. This Minor Arcana card is an indication to seize this opportunity and work your way towards the natural leader you were born to be.
Reversed:
The Knight of Swords reversed signifies a person may be overly smug and impulsive to the point he risks putting others in jeopardy.
The reversal of this card indicates that the seeker is not the most intelligent or communicative, or that they use those strengths in the wrong way.
If you often find yourself rushing headfirst into things without thinking, the Knight of Swords recommends slowing down and considering the well-being of yourself and those around you.
Knight Of Swords Yes or No Meanings
Upright:
Drawing the Knight of Swords in a yes/no reading is an indication that you need to find the answer from within. As the master of logic and reason, this card is a good omen but isn’t necessarily a yes. Instead, it tells you that you already know the answer. If logic and your intuition are both telling you that the answer is yes, believe it!
Reversed:
A reversed Knight of Swords is considered a “no” card because it indicates some heavy challenges coming your way. The Knight of Swords revealing itself is a sign that it’s time to take some thoughtful steps in order to protect yourself and prevent as much damage as you can.
It can also be a “slow down” answer to your question. The Knight of Swords reversed can indicate that you’re missing some key information in your question.
Knight Of Swords Advice Descriptions
Upright:
When seeking advice, the Knight of Swords may be hinting to confront a situation or person. If you feel something is off or untrue, turn around and face it. Your intuition is correct here.
Even though you may find yourself in the midst of a stormy period, do not give up – remain focused on your goal and carry on. It’s your perseverance that will make your goals happen! The action needs to come from within you.
Reversed:
A reversed Knight of Swords is often an indication that you need to think before you speak. Instead of assuming you’re right, listen up.
Aggression may not be necessary at this time. Wait until you have the facts, and find a way to bring calmness or detachment to the situation.
Symbolism in the Knight Of Swords
The Horse:
The horse in the Knight of Swords symbolizes strength, motion, action, and vitality. As demonstrated in many ancient traditions, the horse is a strong spiritual symbol of incorporating all four elements of the Earth to maintain the balance of all things in the universe.
The Clouds:
In the Knight of Swords, the clouds symbolize divine revelation. In Tarot, it is considered to be an epiphany that appears out of the midst of our deepest thoughts.
Sometimes, clouds may point towards confusion or clouded judgment. But, primarily, clouds represent higher thought and messages from the divine.
These clouds seem to represent both logic (air) and intuition (the divine above), sending the message that the querent needs to use a combination of both skills to make decisions.
Birds:
Birds and feathers in the Knight of Swords deal with higher thoughts and matters of the spirit. As creatures of the air, they symbolize higher ideals, freedom, and ascension.
Birds in the Knight of Swords are a message that we are rising to a higher level and that we need to free ourselves from bondage and go easy on our hearts.
