Six of Swords

The Six of Swords represents transition, healing, and moving away from difficulty. It marks a journey — physical, mental, or emotional — from turmoil toward a calmer, more stable place. This card suggests that while the process of change may be challenging, you're heading in the right direction. Trust in the passage ahead and allow space for peace to return.

Key Symbolism & Imagery

• Number: Six – harmony, progress, movement forward
• Element: Air – thoughts, clarity, mental transition
• Astrological Association: Mercury in Aquarius – thoughtful communication, forward thinking, analytical detachment
• Visual Symbols: Boat with passengers (journey), six swords (mental baggage), calm water ahead (relief), rough water behind (past struggles)

Card Description (Rider-Waite-Smith)

In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, the Six of Swords depicts a boatman ferrying a woman and child across a body of water. The swords stand upright in the boat, symbolizing that the lessons of the past travel with them. The water is choppy on one side and smooth on the other — a clear metaphor for the transition from hardship to healing.

Common Questions About Six of Swords

Does it mean things are getting better?

Yes. The Six of Swords signals a period of healing and moving on from past hardship. While the journey may still be difficult, the destination promises calm and recovery.

Does it involve travel?

Sometimes. It can symbolize literal travel, relocation, or a spiritual/mental journey from pain to peace.

Is this card about letting go?

Absolutely. It suggests it’s time to release the past, stop clinging to pain, and focus on what lies ahead — even if you're not sure what that is yet.

What's its spiritual message?

Spiritually, this card is about faith in the process of healing. Even if you can’t see the shore, trust that you’re moving toward the light. Growth comes with movement, not stagnation.

Is it a “yes” or “no” card?

It leans toward “yes” — especially when asking about moving forward, relocating, or healing from the past.

Love & Relationships

Upright: Healing after a breakup, moving forward together, peaceful resolution, escaping toxic patterns.

Reversed: Emotional baggage affecting the relationship, difficulty letting go, unresolved issues from the past.

Career & Finances

Upright: Transitioning jobs, recovering from workplace stress, improving communication at work, steady professional growth.

Reversed: Career stagnation, clinging to a failing role, slow progress, reluctance to accept change.

Spiritual Meaning

The Six of Swords is a sign of spiritual passage. You're moving through a healing process, guided toward inner peace. Even if the destination is unclear, your soul knows the way. Trust the journey.