Upright sword
Integrity and justice: the sword is aimed at no one; it is a symbol of the law.
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Minor Arcana · Swords
King of Swords Tarot Card Meaning
The King of Swords is the power of reason. A bearded king sits on a throne holding an upright sword, with the sun shining behind him. The card speaks of logic, justice, authority and decisions based on facts.
Upright
- reason
- logic
- authority
- justice
- professionalism
Reversed
- harshness
- manipulation
- abuse of power
- cold calculation
- tyranny
Yes or no
Yes
“Yes,” if the decision is logical and backed by facts.
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Card symbolism in our deck
In Heinrich Pangrau’s deck, the King of Swords sits on his throne half-turned. He holds the sword upright in front of him, a large sun shines behind his head, and a branch grows nearby.
Sun behind his head
Clarity of thought, an intellect that illuminates the situation.
Calm posture
The King does not attack — he judges.
Branch by the throne
A sound decision brings growth, not just order.
King of Swords meaning
The upright King of Swords is a time for professionalism and logic: lawyers, doctors, experts, official decisions.
The card advises you to separate emotions from facts and play by the rules.
King of Swords reversed
The reversed King is power without heart: manipulation, harshness, using one’s intellect against people.
Sometimes it points to abuse of position or an unfair decision.
King of Swords in love, work, money and health
Love and relationships
Upright A mature, honest relationship, a partner with a clear head.
Reversed Cold control, manipulation, pressure.
Feelings This person respects you and judges with their head. They may be reserved in showing feelings.
Work and career
Upright Management, law, medicine, science, analytics, official bodies.
Reversed An authoritarian boss, legal problems.
Money
Upright A competent, well-grounded financial decision.
Reversed Harsh terms, manipulation in deals.
Health
Upright An experienced doctor, an accurate diagnosis. Tarot is no substitute for a doctor.
Reversed Strain from control.
King of Swords as a person
As a person: an intelligent, authoritative man — a lawyer, doctor, expert or manager.
The card’s advice
Upright Rely on facts and play by the rules.
Reversed A mind without heart turns into cruelty — check your motives.
Card of the Day
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King of Swords as the card of the day
As the card of the day: a day for logic and official business.
Combinations with other cards
- King of Swords + JusticeCourt, the law, an official decision.
- King of Swords + The EmperorFirm authority and order.
- King of Swords + Queen of SwordsAn alliance of smart, honest people.
- King of Swords + King of CupsA balance of head and heart.
- King of Swords + The HierophantAn authoritative expert.
Frequently asked questions about King of Swords
Is the King of Swords a yes or no card?
Yes, if the decision is backed by facts.
What does the King of Swords mean in love?
Maturity and honesty — or cold control.
What does the King of Swords reversed mean?
Manipulation and abuse of power.
What does the King of Swords mean as a card of the day?
A day for logic and official business.