Six of Swords: Meaning, Symbolism & Reversed Interpretation

Six of Swords tarot card

Keywords: transition, moving on, leaving behind, journey, calmer waters

What Six of Swords Means

The Six of Swords shows figures being ferried across water—leaving turbulent waters for calmer shores. Six swords stand in the boat, baggage from the past being carried forward. This is transition, moving on, the difficult journey toward something better. You're leaving something behind. The journey isn't easy, but you're heading toward calmer waters. Keep moving.

Reversed Meaning

The Six of Swords reversed suggests inability to move on, returning to troubled waters, or a transition that's stalled. The boat may be stuck or going backward.

Love & Relationships

Leaving a relationship, moving toward healthier love, transition in partnership.

Career & Money

Career transition, leaving a difficult work situation, professional fresh start.

Symbolism & Imagery

A ferryman guides a boat carrying figures and six swords. The water is choppy on one side, calm on the other—the transition is visible. The cloaked figures suggest grief or protection during vulnerable passage.

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