Tarot card meanings › Six of Swords
Minor Arcana · Swords
Six of Swords tarot card meaning
- Transition
- Moving on
- Calmer waters
- Progress
- Yes or no
- Yes
- Element
- Air · Mercury in Aquarius
- Reversed
- Resistance to change · Unfinished business · Delays · Holding on
AdviceCarry only what you need and move gently towards calmer waters.
What the card shows
A woman with long golden hair rows a white-and-gold boat across calm, shining water, with six swords standing upright at its bow. Lilies float around her and a bright star glows over a distant bridge and waterfalls. She is gently leaving rougher times behind and heading towards calmer, brighter shores.
Six of Swords upright
The Six of Swords shows a gentle transition from a difficult time towards something calmer. You may be leaving behind a situation, a habit or a way of thinking that no longer serves you. The journey may feel quiet or a little bittersweet, but you are moving in a good direction. This card can also point to travel or a change of scene. Trust the process, carry only what you need and know that more peaceful waters can lie ahead of you.
Love
In love, the Six of Swords suggests moving on from a stressful period into a calmer phase. In a relationship, you may be working through past difficulties together and finding smoother waters. If you are single, you might be leaving old patterns behind and making room for happier connections. Each gentle step brings you closer to peace.
Career
At work, this card can show a positive move, perhaps a new role, a change of team or simply a calmer way of working. Challenges that once felt heavy may begin to ease. Focus on where you are heading rather than what you are leaving. Steady progress and a hopeful outlook can carry you towards a more settled place.
Finance
With money, the Six of Swords points to a gradual improvement. Things may be moving from a stressful phase towards something more stable. Keep to your plan, make steady adjustments and avoid looking back with worry. Small, consistent steps can help you reach calmer financial waters and give you a welcome sense of relief and progress.
Six of Swords reversed
Reversed, the Six of Swords suggests that moving forward may feel slower than you would like. You might be holding on to something familiar, even if it no longer feels right, or there may be unfinished business to settle first. Be patient with yourself. Change can take time, and it is fine to move at your own pace. When you are ready, the calmer shore will still be there.
Love
In love, you may find it hard to let go of the past or move into a new chapter. Old feelings may linger. Acknowledge them gently, talk openly about what still needs resolving and give yourself all the time you need to heal and move on.
Career
At work, a planned change may be delayed or feel harder than expected. You might be reluctant to leave a familiar setting. Look at what is holding you back, tie up any loose ends and take one small step towards your next goal.
Finance
Financially, progress may feel slow or stop-start for a while. Try not to be discouraged. Review your plans, settle any outstanding matters and keep moving steadily. Patience and consistency can carry you towards calmer waters.
