Six of Swords
The Six of Swords shows a boat carrying passengers across calm waters, leaving choppy waves behind. This card represents transition, moving away from difficulties, and finding hope in new horizons. When the Six of Swords appears, it’s a sign that healing is underway and you’re moving forward from challenging times. This journey may not be easy, and you might still carry memories or lessons from the past, but smoother waters are ahead. The card encourages you to trust the process, accept help if needed, and know that each step is taking you toward greater peace and understanding.
Six of Swords — General meaning
Upright meaning
The Six of Swords upright is about leaving behind stress, conflict, or pain and heading toward a calmer, more hopeful place. You may be recovering from a difficult experience, making a move, or slowly healing from emotional wounds. This card encourages you to trust in the process of change, even if the destination is not yet clear. Allow yourself to release the past and embrace the lessons you’ve learned. Transition can be uncomfortable, but it also brings the promise of renewal. Accept help from others if needed and focus on the peaceful future ahead.
Reversed meaning
Reversed, the Six of Swords suggests difficulty letting go of the past, feeling stuck, or resisting necessary change. You may be struggling with regret, anxiety, or fear about moving forward. Sometimes, this card indicates returning to old situations or patterns that no longer serve you. The advice is to seek support, reflect on what’s holding you back, and give yourself permission to heal. Progress may feel slow, but every effort counts. Be gentle with yourself, ask for help when needed, and remember that letting go is a gradual process.
Upright keywords: Transition, Moving on, Healing, Relief, Change
Reversed keywords: Stuck, Regret, Resistance, Old patterns, Difficulty
Six of Swords — Love meaning
Upright meaning
In love, the Six of Swords upright can mean moving on from past hurts, healing together after conflict, or taking a relationship to a healthier place. If you’re single, you might be letting go of old heartbreak to make room for new love. Couples could be working through challenges and finding new understanding. The card encourages honest conversations, forgiveness, and a willingness to start fresh. By leaving behind negativity, you allow space for deeper connection and happiness.
Reversed meaning
In love, the Six of Swords reversed can show trouble moving past old arguments, emotional baggage, or lingering pain in a relationship. You or your partner may feel unable to fully move on, causing tension or distance. If single, unresolved wounds could block new love. The card encourages honest communication, therapy, or self-reflection to support healing. It’s important to address what’s unresolved so you can make room for happiness.
Upright keywords: Healing, Letting go, Renewal, Moving forward, Forgiveness
Reversed keywords: Emotional baggage, Block, Unresolved, Distance, Slow progress
Six of Swords — Career meaning
Upright meaning
For career, the Six of Swords upright points to leaving a stressful job, recovering from workplace conflict, or moving into a more supportive environment. You may be transitioning to a new role, changing teams, or finding relief after a demanding project. The card advises patience and trust as you navigate these changes. Focus on learning from past experiences and building a healthier work-life balance. Better opportunities are ahead as you embrace this new phase.
Reversed meaning
For career, the Six of Swords reversed points to feeling trapped in a stressful job, trouble adapting to change, or resisting a transition at work. You may be holding onto old ways or doubting your ability to succeed elsewhere. The message is to reach out for guidance, consider new options, and trust in your ability to adapt. Let go of what’s holding you back and be open to growth.
Upright keywords: Transition, Recovery, Relief, New environment, Growth
Reversed keywords: Stuck, Difficulty, Old ways, Transition, Doubt
Six of Swords — Spiritual meaning
Upright meaning
Spiritually, the Six of Swords upright signals a time of healing, releasing old wounds, and seeking peace. You may feel drawn to meditation, travel, or practices that help you let go of negativity. This card encourages you to be patient with yourself, honor your journey, and know that growth comes with every step. Trust that you’re moving toward greater clarity and spiritual understanding.
Reversed meaning
Spiritually, the Six of Swords reversed can indicate holding onto pain, resisting new practices, or struggling to trust your path. You may feel disconnected or unsure about what comes next. The card invites you to embrace small steps, seek gentle healing, and allow yourself time to let go. Trust that, in time, clarity and peace will return.
Upright keywords: Healing, Release, Clarity, Peace, Growth
Reversed keywords: Holding on, Disconnected, Trust issues, Gradual process, Letting go