Six of Swords

Upright Meaning

A ferryman poles a boat carrying a woman and child across water. Six swords are embedded in the prow of the boat. The water on the near side is choppy; ahead, it calms. They are moving away from difficulty toward something more peaceful — not joyfully, but deliberately.

Reversed Meaning

Reversed, the boat won't move, or keeps returning to the troubled shore. Transition is being resisted; old patterns drag the vessel back.

Guidance & Advice

Upright

You are already in motion. The hardest part — deciding to leave — is done. Trust the journey; the waters are calming.

Reversed

Name what's keeping you anchored and decide whether it's worth the price of staying.

History & Symbolism

Six brings harmony after conflict. In swords, this harmony is the hard-won peace of departure — moving through grief or difficulty toward a necessary new shore.

What to Look Out For

You are leaving, not arriving. The calmer water ahead is not yet the destination. Patience is still needed.