KING
King of Swords
Symbols in the artwork
A king with gray hair and a beard sits on a stone chair, looking straight ahead. In one hand, he holds a sword upright, and his other hand rests on the armrest. The chair and clothing are decorated with butterflies and crescents, and in the background, there are mountains, water, clouds, and birds. His upright posture and raised sword suggest clear judgment and taking responsibility for one's decisions. Just because one wears a crown does not mean one is always right. This card does not necessarily predict the appearance of an authoritative figure.
Sources and interpretation
I have referenced the original judgment, authority, and intellectual power, as well as the reverse aspects of cruelty and malice. I also read into modern interpretations of principles and the abuse of power or manipulation.
Written with reference to Rider–Waite–Smith symbolism and modern interpretations.
A. E. Waite's original text · Tina Gong / Labyrinthos modern interpretation
Upright
Intellect and Authority · Judgment based on principle · Truth and responsibility
Consider things calmly and make a decision. Also, think about the impact that choice will have on others.
Core meaning
The King of Swords symbolizes the power to judge and decide based on reason and authority, and to take responsibility for those decisions. It represents someone who possesses knowledge and discipline, prioritizing evidence over emotion.
The upright sword holds clear judgment and the responsibility that follows. Just adhering to principles doesn't solve everything. Check if anyone is overextending themselves because of your decision, or if there is anyone who needs help. It is good to set aside time to review whether things are actually going well after a decision. If something is difficult to decide alone, ask someone you know, as new information can change your mind.
What to keep in mind
Just because your words are logical does not mean that other people's experiences are wrong. Look not only at whether the explanation is correct but also at what actually happens.
One small step today
Choose one thing you need to decide right now, and write down the reason for your choice and who will be affected. Also, set a time when you will review this decision again after making it.
A question to consider
Why did I make this choice? Could it be causing difficulty for someone?
A thought for today
Deciding calmly, and knowing when to correct oneself, is also a responsible attitude.
Reversed
Abuse of power · Cruelty and manipulation · Dishonest judgment
Reflect on whether you are pressuring others with your authority, or only presenting facts that favor you.
Core meaning
The reversed King of Swords symbolizes manipulation using knowledge and power, or cruel or dishonest judgment. You can examine not just the act of stubbornly judging, but also how authority is being misused.
Conversely, you might be hesitant to ask questions because of the other person's confident tone or high status. Even the words of someone experienced can be questioned for their reasoning. You cannot judge someone as unfair based on this card alone. Look into what decisions were actually made, and who is in charge of them. It is a good start to begin by questioning what you do not understand and finding a place to discuss it again.
What to keep in mind
Speaking decisively or having a high status does not always mean one is right. Do not judge people based on the card alone; observe their actual words and actions.
One small step today
Reflect on a decision you made recently. Look for instances where you judged people differently, or stories you dismissed because they differed from your own thoughts.
A question to consider
Did I gather enough information before judging, or did I only listen to stories that fit the answer I wanted?
A thought for today
Changing one's mind does not end with admitting a mistake. It can lead to a better choice.
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.