Symbolism
A ferryman steers a boat across the water toward a distant shore. In the boat sits a hunched woman with a child, and six swords stand upright in the bow. The water on one side is rough, on the other smooth. The card shows the journey from trouble to calmer days.
Six of Swords upright
The Six of Swords shows a transition from a difficult time to a calmer one. The journey may be quiet and a little sad, but you are moving in the right direction. Take with you only what you need.
Six of Swords reversed
Reversed, the Six of Swords suggests you are not ready to leave, or that old problems are traveling with you. Deal with what's left before moving on.
Reversed keywords: unfinished business, resistance, stuck in transition.
Six of Swords in love and relationships
Leaving a hard period behind, or a relationship going through a quiet transition.
Six of Swords in love: feelings, reversed, yes or no →
Six of Swords at work and in your career
A change of position, a move, or leaving a stressful situation.
Six of Swords and money
A slow improvement. Keep going.
Is Six of Swords a yes or no card?
Upright, the Six of Swords is a maybe: things are improving, but slowly. Reversed it leans toward no until you let go of the past.
Six of Swords in a spread
In the past position it points to where this began: leaving difficulties behind and moving toward calmer waters. That earlier chapter still colors the situation now.
In the present position it names the energy around you right now: transition, moving on, calmer waters.
In the future position it shows where things are heading if nothing changes, and what you can do about it: move on calmly, and leave behind what doesn't belong on the boat.
The card’s advice
Move on calmly, and leave behind what doesn't belong on the boat.
Swords: Air: thoughts, words and decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What does Six of Swords mean in tarot?
The Six of Swords shows a transition from a difficult time to a calmer one. The journey may be quiet and a little sad, but you are moving in the right direction. Take with you only what you need.
Is Six of Swords a yes or no card?
Upright, the Six of Swords is a maybe: things are improving, but slowly. Reversed it leans toward no until you let go of the past.
What does Six of Swords reversed mean?
Reversed, the Six of Swords suggests you are not ready to leave, or that old problems are traveling with you. Deal with what's left before moving on.
What does Six of Swords mean in love?
Leaving a hard period behind, or a relationship going through a quiet transition.