
Six of Swords: complete tarot meaning
Upright
Moving on, transition, healing
Reversed
Resistance to change, emotional baggage
Numerology | 6 | Harmony, Love, Responsibility, Healing |
Element | Air | Thoughts, Challenges, Logic, Clarity, Communication |
Yes / No | Yes | – |
Astrology | Aquarius | Intelligent, Inventive, Humanistic, Friendly, Altruistic, and Reformative |
Planet | Mercury | Mind, Communication, Intellect, Reason, Language, Intelligence |
Symbols & Imagery
Upright
Figure in Boat | Transition, moving forward, and leaving behind difficulties |
Stormy Waters | Moving from turmoil to calm, emotional recovery, or escaping a challenging situation |
Sword in the Boat | Carrying lessons learned from past struggles, mental clarity, or protection during transition |
Distant Land | Hope for a brighter future, a new beginning, or a better place ahead |
Dark Sky | Progress, change, and emotional healing |
Reversed
Figure in Boat | Refusing to move on, staying stuck in past troubles, or avoiding necessary transitions |
Stormy Waters | Unresolved conflicts or emotions holding one back from progress |
Sword in the Boat | Carrying unresolved issues, mental baggage, or failing to learn from past challenges |
Distant Land | Fear of the unknown, lack of direction, or doubt about what’s ahead |
Dark Sky | Continuing emotional struggles or being unable to move past hardship |
General Interpretation
Upright
The Six of Swords represents transition, moving on, and leaving behind difficult situations. It signifies a journey—whether physical or mental—toward calmer waters and a brighter future. This card suggests that you are in the process of healing. You are letting go of past struggles. You are making progress toward a more peaceful state of mind.
“I release the past and move forward with clarity.”
Key Meanings
- Transition and moving on: Leaving behind difficult situations or emotional turmoil.
- Healing and recovery: Finding mental or emotional peace after hardship.
- Journey toward peace: Progressing toward a calmer and more stable state of mind.
- Mental clarity: Gaining perspective and insight to move forward.
Advice
- Embrace the process of letting go and moving forward.
- Allow yourself the time to heal and find peace after hardship.
- Trust that your journey will lead you to a better, more stable place.
- Focus on mental clarity and the lessons learned from past experiences.
Final Message
The Six of Swords marks a turning point in your journey, where healing and progress are taking place. Let go of the past and move forward with hope, knowing that brighter and more peaceful times lie ahead.
Reversed
The Six of Swords reversed indicates emotional resistance to change. You may have difficulty moving on. It can also mean lingering in a situation that no longer serves you. This card suggests that you may be avoiding necessary transitions, staying in uncomfortable circumstances, or feeling stuck in your journey. It can also indicate unresolved emotional baggage that’s preventing progress.
“I release the past and embrace my present.”
Key Meanings
- Resistance to Change: Struggling to move forward or let go of the past.
- Stagnation: Feeling stuck in an emotional or mental rut, unable to move on.
- Unresolved Issues: Carrying emotional baggage that hinders your ability to progress.
- Difficulty Letting Go: Avoiding necessary transitions or unwilling to leave behind what no longer serves you.
Advice
- Embrace change: Recognize that moving on is necessary for growth and healing.
- Release emotional baggage: Address past pain or unresolved issues that are holding you back.
- Trust the process: Know that moving forward will bring new opportunities, even if it feels difficult.
- Take small steps: Progress may be slow, but each step forward is important.
Final Message
The Six of Swords reversed challenges you to embrace change and release the past. Moving forward is essential to healing. It is also crucial for growth. Take the necessary steps to leave behind what no longer serves you.
Love & Relationships
Upright
The Six of Swords signifies transition, moving away from difficult situations, and seeking peace and healing. In a love reading, this card suggests that you or your partner may be experiencing emotional turmoil or difficulty. However, you are ready to leave the past behind. You are prepared to move forward toward calmer waters. The Six of Swords encourages both personal and relational growth. The worst is over, and a more peaceful chapter is ahead.
“I release the past and embrace healing, moving forward with peace and emotional clarity.”
Key Meanings
- Transition and Moving Forward: Leaving behind past difficulties or emotional struggles in search of peace and resolution.
- Healing and Recovery: A period of emotional healing, where both partners work to recover from past hurts or challenges.
- Leaving the Past Behind: It is necessary to release old baggage. Let go of past arguments. Abandon negative emotional patterns to create a more harmonious future.
- A Journey Toward Peace: A time to move away from emotional chaos toward clarity, understanding, and calm.
Interpretations by Situation
If Single:
- The Six of Swords suggests that you are in the process of healing from past emotional pain or heartbreak. If you’ve recently experienced a difficult breakup, this card indicates that you are now ready to move on. You can embrace a brighter future in love.
- This is a time for emotional recovery and leaving the past behind. You are beginning to open yourself up to new possibilities and are on a journey toward emotional peace and stability.
- Be patient with yourself during this healing process. Trust that moving on will make room for new love and growth.
In a Relationship:
- In an existing relationship, the Six of Swords indicates that both partners may be experiencing emotional healing. They might be resolving issues together. You could be recovering from past arguments, misunderstandings, or difficult times together. This card signals that things are improving. You are moving toward a more peaceful phase.
- The Six of Swords encourages both partners to focus on emotional healing. They should leave behind past issues that may have caused turmoil. It’s a time for growth, understanding, and a mutual desire to create a more harmonious and balanced relationship.
- This card also suggests that communication and emotional support are essential. They will help both partners transition to a calmer and more peaceful chapter in the relationship.
Reconnecting or Reconciliation:
- If you are seeking reconciliation, the Six of Swords indicates readiness in both parties. They are prepared to move past the pain. Challenges that have occurred are also being left behind. Emotional healing is happening. Both individuals are willing to leave behind past difficulties. They desire to begin a new chapter together.
- Reconciliation requires mutual understanding, forgiveness, and the ability to move on from past arguments or misunderstandings. The Six of Swords offers hope that healing is possible. Both partners can transition to a more peaceful and emotionally fulfilling connection.
Final Message
The Six of Swords indicates a transition toward peace, healing, and emotional recovery. Whether single, in a relationship, or reconciling, this card suggests that the worst is behind you. A calmer, more harmonious future is ahead.
Reversed
When the Five of Swords appears reversed in a love reading, it suggests an opportunity for resolution after conflict. There may also be a chance for healing following an argument or emotional battle. The reversed Five of Swords can indicate that one or both partners are seeking peace after a period of tension. There may also be a desire to make amends after a disagreement.
“I release past conflict and embrace peace, knowing that love thrives in a space of understanding, forgiveness, and emotional healing.”
Key Meanings
- Resolution After Conflict: The Five of Swords reversed suggests that tensions or misunderstandings from the past can now be resolved. It may be an opportunity to clear the air and move forward with greater understanding.
- Seeking Peace: This card indicates that you or your partner may be actively seeking peace after a period of conflict. There is a desire for harmony and a willingness to make amends.
- Letting Go of Resentment: The reversed Five of Swords may indicate that it’s time to let go. Release past arguments or feelings of resentment. Holding on to past conflict will only prevent emotional healing.
- Avoiding Further Drama: This card can indicate that you or your partner are choosing to avoid drama. You are opting for a more peaceful and mature approach to resolving differences.
Interpretations by Situation
If Single:
- The Five of Swords reversed suggests that you may have recently experienced a conflict or emotional battle with someone, whether it’s a past partner or someone you’re dating. You may have unresolved feelings or resentments that need to be addressed before you can move forward in love.
- This card encourages you to let go of any grudges or negative feelings from the past. You must find peace within yourself and resolve any lingering conflicts before inviting new love into your life.
- Focus on forgiveness and emotional healing, letting go of any past negativity.
In a Relationship:
- In an existing relationship, the Five of Swords reversed indicates that the conflict or tension between you and your partner is coming to an end. Both of you are seeking a way to make amends. There is an opportunity to clear the air and restore peace in the relationship.
- If there has been a power struggle or hurtful words spoken, it’s important to have an open conversation. Express your feelings to rebuild trust and understanding.
- This card encourages letting go of petty arguments or resentment in favor of emotional healing and growth.
Reconnecting or Reconciliation:
- If reconciliation is the goal, the Five of Swords reversed suggests that both partners are ready to reconcile. They aim to make peace with past conflicts. There is a desire to let go of past grievances and approach the relationship with renewed understanding.
- Reconciliation will require honest communication and a commitment to moving forward without bringing past hurts into the future.
Final Message
The Five of Swords reversed encourages resolution and healing after conflict. Let go of resentment, seek peace, and be open to moving forward in love with a renewed sense of understanding. It’s time to clear the air and build healthier, more harmonious connections.
Career
Upright
The Six of Swords appears upright in a career reading. It signals transitions. You are leaving behind difficulties. You are moving toward a better professional situation. You are heading toward a more peaceful and stable career phase.
“I move forward in my career with confidence and trust in the future.”
1. Moving on from Career Struggles
- The Six of Swords suggests that you are leaving behind a stressful job or work environment.
- Advice: Embrace change—it is leading you to a better professional future.
2. Finding a More Peaceful Work Environment
- You may be transitioning to a new job, team, or role that brings more stability.
- Advice: Trust that this move is for your highest good—stay open to new opportunities.
3. Overcoming Career Challenges
- This card indicates that you are finally putting workplace struggles behind you.
- Advice: Reflect on the lessons learned and focus on moving forward.
4. Considering Relocation for Career Growth
- The Six of Swords can suggest job opportunities in a different location or industry.
- Advice: If a move aligns with your goals, take the leap—new horizons await.
5. Recovering from a Job Loss or Career Setback
- You may have experienced professional hardships, but now you are finding a path to recovery.
- Advice: Let go of past difficulties and focus on rebuilding a strong career foundation.
Final Message
The Six of Swords (Upright) reminds you that sometimes, the best career move is leaving situations that no longer serve you. New opportunities will bring peace and progress.
Reversed
When the Six of Swords appears reversed in a career reading, it signals difficulty moving on from a negative work situation. It may also indicate resistance to change or feeling stuck in your job.
“I release fear and move forward with confidence in my career.”
1. Feeling Stuck in Your Career
- The reversed Six of Swords suggests that you are struggling to move forward in your career. You may feel trapped in an unsatisfying job.
- Advice: Identify what’s holding you back. Sometimes, fear of the unknown prevents you from making necessary career changes.
2. Delays in Career Progression
- This card indicates that transitions in your career are taking longer than expected, leading to frustration.
- Advice: Be patient. Even slow progress is still progress. Trust that things will shift in time.
3. Returning to a Past Job or Career Path
- You may be considering going back to an old job, career field, or company due to unresolved matters.
- Advice: Ensure that returning to the past is truly the best move for you. Don’t go back just because it’s familiar—assess if it aligns with your goals.
4. Resistance to Necessary Change
- The reversed Six of Swords warns against staying in a stagnant or unhealthy work situation out of fear of change.
- Advice: Let go of resistance. Change is necessary for growth, and staying in a bad situation won’t benefit you in the long run.
5. Lingering Workplace Tensions
- Even if you thought you moved past a difficult workplace situation, lingering conflicts may still affect you.
- Advice: Address unresolved tensions head-on. Suppressing emotions will only create further issues.
Final Message
The Six of Swords (Reversed) urges you to release anything holding you back from career progress. Embrace change and trust that movement, even slow, is leading you toward something better.
Finance
Upright
Financial Transition & Moving On
1. Leaving Financial Struggles Behind
- Symbolism: The Six of Swords represents transitioning from financial difficulties toward stability.
- Advice: Focus on rebuilding finances—better times are ahead.
2. New Financial Horizons & Relocation
- Improving Money Situations: This card can indicate relocating for work, changing careers, or restructuring finances.
- Advice: Embrace financial changes that lead to long-term stability.
3. Warning Against Carrying Past Financial Baggage
- Lingering Money Worries: Holding onto past financial mistakes may hinder progress.
- Advice: Learn from financial errors, but don’t let them define your future.
Final Message
The Six of Swords in finance represents financial recovery and transition. It advises leaving behind money struggles and moving toward stability.
Reversed
Financial Delays & Struggles to Move On
1. Struggling to Move Forward with Money Matters
- Symbolism: The reversed Six of Swords suggests difficulty in progressing financially. It indicates holding onto financial burdens, staying in an unfulfilling job, or delaying financial changes.
- Advice: If financial progress feels blocked, identify what’s holding you back and take action to move forward.
2. Relapsing Into Unhealthy Money Habits
- Repeating Past Mistakes: This card warns against backtracking financially—falling into old debt, bad spending habits, or financial dependency.
- Advice: Avoid repeating financial patterns that have previously led to trouble. Learn from past experiences and make better choices.
3. Avoiding Necessary Changes for Financial Growth
- Fear of the Unknown: The reversed Six of Swords suggests resisting necessary financial shifts. There is a fear of leaving a stable but limiting financial situation.
- Advice: Growth requires change. Trust that financial transitions, though uncomfortable, can lead to better stability.
4. Handling Unplanned Expenses & Financial Delays
- Temporary Hardships: This card warns of financial roadblocks—unexpected bills, business delays, or postponed promotions.
- Advice: Stay flexible. Prepare for financial uncertainties with emergency funds and adaptable strategies.
Final Message
The reversed Six of Swords warns against financial stagnation, delays, and resisting necessary changes. It advises taking steps toward financial progress and avoiding old financial pitfalls.
Health
Upright
Six of Swords (Upright), symbolizing transition, recovery, and moving toward stability.
1. Physical & Emotional Recovery
- Moving Away from Health Struggles: Leaving behind an illness, toxic habits, or a stressful situation that affected well-being.
- Healing Process Underway: Health is improving, though patience is required for full recovery.
2. Mental & Emotional Relief
- Letting Go of Stress & Anxiety: A calmer mind leads to better physical health.
- Embracing a Positive Shift in Well-Being: Transitioning to healthier habits, relationships, or a new environment that supports healing.
Cautions & Balance
- Don’t Rush the Healing Process: Moving forward takes time—allow space for gradual progress.
- Avoid Holding onto the Past: Emotional baggage can slow down recovery.
Advice
- Trust the Healing Journey: Improvement is happening—stay patient and consistent.
- Let Go of What No Longer Serves Your Health: Negative environments or stressors should be left behind.
- Embrace Healthier Routines: Make choices that support continued wellness.
Final Message
The Six of Swords upright signifies recovery and movement toward better health. It encourages patience, releasing past struggles, and embracing positive change for well-being.
Reversed
Six of Swords (Reversed), symbolizing resistance to change, unresolved issues, and stagnation.
1. Struggling to Move Past Health Challenges
- Feeling Stuck in a Health Condition: Recovery may feel slow, or past health issues may resurface.
- Resisting Necessary Changes: Clinging to unhealthy habits instead of embracing healing.
2. Mental & Emotional Struggles Affecting Wellness
- Holding Onto Stress & Emotional Baggage: Anxiety and unresolved trauma may be contributing to physical symptoms.
- Fear of the Unknown in Health Matters: Worrying about medical treatments or resisting new approaches.
Cautions & Balance
- Don’t Resist the Healing Process: Change is necessary for improvement.
- Avoid Ignoring Lingering Health Concerns: Seek help if symptoms persist.
Advice
- Trust That Progress Will Come: Recovery is not always linear—stay patient.
- Let Go of Fear-Based Thinking: Don’t allow stress to block your healing process.
- Seek Support for Emotional & Physical Healing: Therapy or lifestyle changes may help with deeper healing.
Final Message
The Six of Swords reversed warns against resisting necessary health transitions. It encourages embracing change, letting go of stress, and trusting the healing journey.
Spirituality
Upright
The Six of Swords represents transition, healing, and moving forward from difficult times. It signifies a journey—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—toward peace and clarity. Spiritually, this card is a reminder that growth often requires leaving behind what no longer serves you. It encourages trusting in the journey ahead.
1. Moving On & Leaving the Past Behind
- A Time for Transition & Change: You may be stepping away from past struggles. You may also be leaving toxic relationships or limiting beliefs. Are you ready to release the past?
- Trust That You Are Heading Toward Peace. The journey may feel uncertain, but the universe is guiding you toward something better.
2. Emotional & Spiritual Healing
- Letting Go of Pain & Struggles: This card suggests healing after hardship. Are you allowing yourself to fully process and move forward?
- A Time for Inner Peace & Reflection: Do not dwell on the past. Focus on the future with an open heart.
3. A Journey of Spiritual Growth & Renewal
- Leaving Behind Old Patterns: Are you releasing limiting beliefs and stepping into a higher vibration?
- Entering a New Phase of Enlightenment: The lessons from the past have prepared you for this new chapter—embrace it.
4. Trusting the Process & Divine Timing
- You Are Being Guided Toward Something Greater. Even if you don’t see the full picture yet, trust that this transition is for your highest good.
- A Reminder That the Storm Has Passed: Better days are ahead—allow yourself to embrace this new beginning.
Spiritual Warnings & Balance
- Beware of Holding onto the Past: If you are resisting change, this card encourages you to let go. It urges you to move forward.
- Avoid Overthinking the Journey: You don’t need to have all the answers right now—trust that clarity will come with time.
Actionable Practices
- Journaling on Release & Transition: Write about what you are leaving behind and what you are moving toward.
- Water Meditation for Renewal: Imagine floating on calm waters, being carried toward peace and new beginnings.
- Affirmations for Healing & Trust: Repeat statements like “I release the past with gratitude. I trust in the journey ahead.”
- Take a Symbolic Step Forward: Do something physical. Declutter your space or take a walk in nature. These actions represent moving into a new phase.
Final Message
The Six of Swords upright encourages embracing change. It calls for trusting the journey. Move forward toward peace and renewal. It teaches that healing requires releasing the past and stepping into the unknown with faith. Let go, trust the process, and allow yourself to be guided toward a brighter future.
Reversed
The Six of Swords reversed represents resistance to change, difficulty moving on, or being stuck in emotional or mental turmoil. It signifies a time when you may be struggling to leave behind a difficult situation. You know it’s necessary for growth. Spiritually, this card is a reminder that healing and progress require acceptance, trust, and the willingness to move forward.
1. Resistance to Change & Holding Onto the Past
- Feeling Stuck in a Difficult Cycle: Are you clinging to something that no longer serves you?
- A Call to Release & Move Forward: Growth comes when you let go of what is weighing you down.
2. Struggling to Heal or Let Go of Pain
- Emotional Baggage is Slowing You Down: Past wounds may still be affecting your present—what can you do to start healing?
- A Need to Fully Embrace the Healing Journey: True healing occurs when you stop resisting. Allow yourself to process emotions.
3. Fear of the Unknown & Trust Issues
- Wanting Change But Afraid to Step Into It: Are you delaying a necessary transition out of fear?
- Trust That the Universe is Guiding You: Even if the next steps are unclear, have faith. You are being led toward something better.
4. Repeating Old Patterns Instead of Moving Forward
- Falling Back Into the Same Lessons: The past keeps repeating itself until you break free—are you learning from your experiences?
- A Time for Inner Work & Self-Reflection: What limiting beliefs or fears are keeping you from progressing?
Spiritual Warnings & Balance
- Beware of Self-Sabotage: Are you unconsciously blocking your own healing by resisting change?
- Avoid Staying in Toxic or Stagnant Situations: It’s time to take steps toward freedom, even if they are small.
Actionable Practices
- Journaling on Moving Forward: Write about what is holding you back and what steps you can take to release it.
- Meditation for Emotional Release: Visualize yourself letting go of past burdens and stepping into a new, lighter energy.
- Affirmations for Trust & Healing: Repeat statements like “I release the past. I trust my journey and move forward with ease.”
- Symbolic Action for Letting Go: Write a letter to your past self or situation. Then safely burn or release it. This action symbolizes moving on.
Final Message
The Six of Swords reversed is a call to release the past, trust the journey, and move forward with courage. It teaches that resistance only prolongs suffering and that true growth comes when you let go. Step into healing, embrace change, and trust that brighter days are ahead.
Personality
Upright
A person moving on from difficulties. Seeks mental peace and transition to better times.
Reversed
A resistant-to-change, stuck, or emotionally burdened individual. Avoids moving forward.