King of Swords

Upright Keywords
Intellectual power, authority, truth, ethical judgment, logic, clarity, justice, strategy, discipline
Reversed Keywords
Misuse of power, tyranny, dogmatic, overly rational, detached, manipulative, cruel, severe judgment
Upright Meaning
The King of Swords represents intellectual power, authority, truth, and ethical judgment. He is a master of logic, reason, and clear communication, able to make fair and objective decisions. This card signifies mental clarity, strategic thinking, and leadership based on impartial justice. He encourages you to use your intellect wisely, uphold high standards of integrity, and communicate with authority and precision. He is a respected authority figure who values truth and order.
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, the King of Swords can indicate misuse of power, tyranny, or being overly rational and detached. He may be using his intellect to manipulate, becoming dogmatic, or lacking compassion in his judgments. This card warns against becoming ruthless, overly critical, or disconnected from emotions. It suggests a need to balance intellectual authority with empathy and to ensure that power is wielded responsibly and fairly.
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