In love
In love, a relationship may end suddenly and definitively. Give yourself time to grieve and support to recover. If you’re in a dark place, reach out to someone you trust; in the US and Canada you can call or text 988 at any time.
At work
At work it can describe a sudden loss or a final, unmistakable ending to a situation that wasn’t working.
The two cards on their own
Ten of Swords
A painful ending, and the point from which things can only improve. Keywords: painful ending, rock bottom, closure.
Reversed, the Ten of Swords suggests recovery. You are getting back on your feet and learning from what happened.
The Tower
A sudden shake-up that brings down what was built on weak foundations. Keywords: sudden change, upheaval, revelation.
Reversed, The Tower suggests you are trying to hold up something that is already crumbling, or putting off an inevitable change. The longer you wait, the harder it can be.
Reading a combination
A pair of cards is more than two meanings added together. Notice which card came first, which one is in a stronger position in your spread and whether either is reversed. If the combination feels heavier than your situation, read it as a warning to pay attention rather than as a verdict. Tarot is a tool for reflection: it can’t decide for you or predict what another person will do. For more, read our guide to tarot card combinations.
Frequently asked questions
What do Ten of Swords and The Tower mean together?
The Ten of Swords is a painful ending, the point where something is clearly over; The Tower is a sudden collapse. Together they describe rock bottom: a dramatic ending that leaves no doubt.
Is the Ten of Swords and The Tower combination a yes or a no?
Mostly a no, when both cards are upright. Let it be over. Dawn comes after the darkest part of the night.
What if one of the cards is reversed?
A reversed card weakens or turns inward its usual meaning. Read the reversed meanings on this page and ask which part of the combination feels blocked.