Learning Minor Arcana - Six of Swords

Six of Swords – Moving Forward, Transition, and Healing

The Six of Swords is a card of transition, moving away from difficulties, and finding relief after hardship. It signifies leaving behind a challenging situation and heading towards a more peaceful future. This is a card of progress, healing, and the acceptance that sometimes, the best choice is to walk away from what no longer serves us.

While the transition may not be easy, the Six of Swords reminds us that we are on the right path, even if the journey feels uncertain. It speaks of emotional recovery, learning from past experiences, and embracing new horizons.

Imagery and Symbolism of the Six of Swords

In traditional tarot decks, the Six of Swords depicts a boat carrying a cloaked figure and a child across a body of water. A ferryman is steering the boat forward, guiding them away from troubled waters towards a calmer destination. Six swords stand upright in the boat, representing the mental baggage and lessons carried from the past.

The image conveys both sorrow and hope—the figures are leaving something behind, but they are moving towards a more peaceful place. The contrast between the rough and smooth waters symbolises that while the past may have been turbulent, calmer times lie ahead.

Upright General Meaning of the Six of Swords

The Six of Swords upright represents a period of transition, healing, and necessary change. You may be moving on from a difficult experience, whether that be a toxic relationship, a stressful job, or an emotional struggle. This card suggests that better days are ahead, even if the journey towards them is not immediate or without difficulty.

This card also signifies emotional or physical travel. Some may be relocating, going on a retreat, or simply taking a break to clear their minds. Others may be shifting their mindset, releasing old patterns, and embracing a new way of thinking.

While this card is hopeful, it does acknowledge that the transition may come with some sadness or emotional weight. There may be a sense of leaving something behind that was once important. However, the message remains clear—you are moving towards a brighter future, and healing is taking place.

Reversed General Meaning of the Six of Swords

Reversed, the Six of Swords suggests resistance to change, difficulty moving on, or feeling stuck in a cycle of struggle. You may be holding onto past pain, unable to release emotional baggage, or finding it difficult to leave a toxic situation.

This card can indicate delays in progress or feeling like you are trapped in rough waters with no clear direction. There may be obstacles preventing forward movement, whether they are external circumstances or internal fears. The reversed Six of Swords asks you to acknowledge what is holding you back and make a conscious effort to move forward.

It can also indicate unfinished business—perhaps there is a lesson that still needs to be learned before you can truly leave a situation behind. Take the time to reflect and ask yourself what still needs closure.

Six of Swords in Love

In love, the Six of Swords suggests moving away from relationship difficulties and entering a more peaceful phase. If there have been arguments or emotional struggles, this card indicates that things are beginning to calm down. There may be healing, reconciliation, or simply a newfound understanding between partners.

For those in troubled relationships, this card may represent a necessary departure, whether that means taking a break to gain clarity or fully walking away from a connection that no longer serves you. While there may be sadness, the transition is leading you towards emotional stability.

For singles, the Six of Swords suggests healing from past heartbreak and gradually opening up to love again. It may take time, but you are moving towards a place where you can welcome new, healthier relationships into your life.

Reversed Six of Swords in Love

Reversed, the Six of Swords indicates struggles with moving on from past relationships or lingering emotional baggage. You or your partner may be holding onto resentment, making it difficult to fully heal. There may also be on-again, off-again relationships or difficulty in letting go of an unhealthy connection.

For singles, this card suggests that past wounds may still be influencing your ability to trust or open up to love. Healing must take place before you can move forward fully. If you feel stuck in patterns of attracting the wrong people, it may be time to reflect on what needs to change within yourself.

Six of Swords in Career and Finances

In career readings, the Six of Swords indicates moving on from a stressful work environment or transitioning to a better job. You may be leaving behind a toxic workplace, changing careers, or finding a new sense of stability in your professional life.

If you’ve been struggling with work-related stress, this card reassures you that things are improving. You are either adapting to the challenges or making a shift that will bring more peace and satisfaction.

Financially, the Six of Swords suggests recovering from financial struggles or making smarter financial decisions. If you have been in debt or dealing with money problems, you may finally be seeing a light at the end of the tunnel.

Reversed Six of Swords in Career and Finances

Reversed, this card suggests feeling stuck in an unsatisfying job or struggling to move forward in your career. You may want to leave a toxic work environment but feel unable to do so due to financial concerns or self-doubt. The reversed Six of Swords urges you to take action rather than remaining in a stagnant situation.

Financially, this card can indicate ongoing money problems that are not improving. Poor financial decisions, unexpected expenses, or an inability to save may be creating stress. Now is the time to reassess your financial plans and seek guidance if needed.

Six of Swords in Health

In health readings, the Six of Swords represents recovery, improvement, and moving towards better well-being. If you’ve been struggling with illness or mental health issues, this card indicates that healing is happening, even if it is gradual.

It may also suggest that a change in environment or lifestyle is necessary for your health. This could mean taking a break from stress, seeking therapy, or making lifestyle changes that support your well-being.

Reversed Six of Swords in Health

Reversed, this card can indicate struggling to recover from an illness or emotional difficulties. Healing may be delayed due to stress, anxiety, or an inability to let go of unhealthy habits. It is important to seek support, focus on self-care, and be patient with the healing process.

If you have been ignoring your health or putting off necessary changes, this card warns that it’s time to take action before things become more serious.

Six of Swords in Spirituality

Spiritually, the Six of Swords represents leaving behind old beliefs, transitioning to a new way of thinking, or healing from spiritual struggles. You may be moving away from negativity, embracing a more peaceful mindset, or seeking higher wisdom.

This card can also indicate a spiritual journey, whether physical or internal. You may be seeking a place or practice that offers you a greater sense of calm and clarity.

Reversed Six of Swords in Spirituality

Reversed, this card suggests resistance to spiritual growth or feeling lost in your journey. You may be holding onto outdated beliefs or struggling to release past wounds that prevent you from fully embracing your spiritual path.

It may be time to trust the process, allow yourself to let go, and embrace the lessons that come with transition. Growth often requires leaving something behind, even if it feels uncertain.