VI
Six of Swords
Symbols in the artwork
On the wooden boat, six swords are planted, three on each side. A person standing at the back is propelling the boat with a long pole, while an adult and a child draped in cloaks sit facing forward. Behind the boat are waves, but ahead is relatively calm water and a bright horizon with a village visible. Like the swords carried aboard, even when moving to a different path, past thoughts and experiences may remain. The person moving the boat suggests moving forward with help. This does not necessarily predict a journey or a move, nor does it mean all problems are solved.
Sources and interpretation
The original deals with journeys and routes through waterways, and the reversed deals with declaration, confession, or public announcement. It is read with a focus on modern resistance to transition and change.
Written with reference to Rider–Waite–Smith symbolism and modern interpretations.
A. E. Waite's original text · Tina Gong / Labyrinthos modern interpretation
Upright
Movement away from difficulty · Transition and distance · Moving forward with experience
When moving toward a more comfortable direction, remember to take necessary help with you.
Core meaning
Six of Swords symbolizes transition and creating distance from difficult situations. It suggests carrying past experiences and sorrows, so it doesn't mean a start that is completely light.
Like the people riding with the six swords on the boat, you don't have to abandon everything alone to change. You can convey what is necessary or ask for help, and you can also take time to get used to things. Rather than expecting everything to get better just because you arrive somewhere new, try to find out what will actually change. It would be good to decide on one small thing to try today and the help you will receive.
What to keep in mind
Even if the environment changes, past problems and emotions do not all disappear. Cherish the experiences that helped you, and separately examine the areas that still need to change.
One small step today
Choose one new thing to start. Write down the materials to take, the tasks to organize, and the help you need, and decide when to start with something small.
A question to consider
What do you want to change? And who can you ask for what kind of help in that process?
A thought for today
Even if there are lingering feelings, you can move toward a more comfortable direction.
Reversed
Resistance to change · Unresolved issues · Being held back by the past
If moving is difficult, divide what still needs preparation and what needs to be organized.
Core meaning
The reversed Six of Swords follows the modern interpretation that it is difficult to accept change or that one is stuck in the past due to unresolved issues. It reads the stagnation of mind and situation as importantly as a mere delay in movement.
Conversely, you might just be changing environments or methods because it is difficult to face uncomfortable matters. Separately think about the actions you can change and what you can ask from those around you. It's okay to go back or slow down, but this time, it would be good to also find out what will change. Rather than rushing, prepare for the next step by organizing the necessary help and the tasks to hand over.
What to keep in mind
Don't blame yourself if the change is slow. Just because the same burden remains, it doesn't mean nothing has changed. Look at the improved points and the things that are still needed separately.
One small step today
Think of one postponed change. Write down what still needs to be prepared and what needs to be organized, and choose one small thing to look into or deliver today.
A question to consider
Is it difficult to move because of lack of preparation, or are there still things difficult to face?
A thought for today
Time spent slowing down and preparing what is needed also helps the next step.
Tarot offers a way to reflect on yourself through its symbols. Read it as a point of reference, not a certain prediction of the future or another person's feelings.