King of Swords: Meaning, Symbolism & Reversed Interpretation

King of Swords tarot card

Keywords: intellectual power, authority, truth, ethical leadership, clear thinking

What King of Swords Means

The King of Swords represents mastery of the mind—intellectual authority, ethical leadership, the ability to cut through complexity to essential truth. This king leads through clarity and principle, not emotion or force. When he appears, step into clear leadership, make decisions based on principle, and communicate with authority.

Reversed Meaning

The King of Swords reversed suggests abuse of intellectual power, manipulative authority, or cold analysis without wisdom or heart. The mental strength may have become tyranny.

Love & Relationships

Intellectual approach to love, authority in relationships, clear-thinking partner.

Career & Money

Intellectual professional leadership, authority through expertise, ethical career choices.

Symbolism & Imagery

A king sits on a throne decorated with butterflies and angels—transformation and higher truth. He holds a sword, representing authority through clarity. His gaze is direct and assessing.

See King of Swords for each zodiac sign · Browse all 78 tarot cards