Now, let's talk about the final court card in the Swords suit: the King of Swords.
This king can also represent someone who is quick-thinking and decisive, able to see both sides of an argument and make a judgment swiftly.
He is not afraid to speak his mind or stand up for his beliefs.
The king can be an excellent leader, but he can also be inflexible and domineering.
Let's review the history and appearance of the King of Swords tarot card.
The History And Appearance Of The King of Swords
The King of Swords is one of the most recognizable tarot cards.
Its image is that of a regal figure seated on a throne, holding a sword in one hand.
The card has been used for centuries to divinate the future, and its meaning has varied depending on the culture and era in which it was used.
The earliest known use of the King of Swords tarot card was in Italy during the 15th century.
At this time, the card was known as il re di spade, or "the king of swords."
It was used as part of a game called trionfi, similar to modern-day tarot games.
In this game, players would use cards to predict each other's futures.
In some cultures, the King of Swords tarot card has also been associated with the Devil.
This is likely because the king is often shown holding a sword, symbolizing power and authority.
In addition, in some decks, the king is shown with horns, another sign of the Devil.
When you look at the King of Swords tarot card in the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, you see the king sitting on his throne, looking forward as he is ready to take on any new challenges.
His sword is in his right hand, which is the hand that represents the rational mind and consciousness.
However, he points the sword to the left in an upright position which means the subconscious mind and intuition.
Therefore, it shows that he is decisive and flexible, but at the same time, he leans on his intuitive side as well.
In addition, the king wears a blue tunic which means he wants to gain spiritual knowledge, along with a purple cape, as it shows that he is compassionate and intellectual.
On his throne in the back area is an angel and crescent moons, as you see it near his left ear, which will guide him intuitively.
He has clouds settling behind him, showing stability as the winds have died down. The trees are standing still, too.
Let's now go over what the King of Swords means in a reading.
What It Means When You Get The King of Swords In A Reading
The King of Swords is one of the most powerful cards in the tarot deck. He represents authority, knowledge, and justice.
When this card appears in a reading, it indicates a situation where these qualities are needed.
The king can be a positive or negative force, depending on the context of the reading.
He is a fair and unbiased ruler, but he can also be ruthless and unmerciful.
It is up to the reader to interpret the king's meaning in each specific instance.
Seeing this card in a reading may also signify that you need to use your head rather than your heart.
Trust your intuition, but don't be afraid to do some research and get all the facts before making any decisions.
This is a time for clear thinking and logical solutions.
Keep your cool, and don't let anyone take advantage of you.
When you think of the King of Swords regarding an occupation, you may think of someone professional, a lawyer, a surgeon, or a chef.
The King of Swords is not charismatic and optimistic in the same way as the King of Wands.
They are known to be serious.
However, they are leaders who possess a lot of intellect and use their minds and research to inspire others.
You can immediately think of that business or science professor who may not have been the most charming or charismatic, but you saw him as a brilliant and resourceful man.
He was generous when sharing his knowledge and a perfect planner. There is a geeky side to this King.
However, the King of Swords has a strict side and will deliver constructive criticism when necessary.
He is disciplined and will be the type to discipline others. But he has morals and integrity.
That is not the case with the King of Swords in reverse.
Now, let's talk more about the King of Swords reversed.
King of Swords Reversed
When the King of Swords shows up in reverse, it can represent the abuse of power or manipulation.
It can also mean being too quiet even when in a powerful position and withholding the truth.
But when you think of this card reversed, you picture the one who is that ruthless dictator.
He comes off as oppressive, cold, dishonest, and very irrational.
Chances are everyone has a teacher or professor who fits that description, whether a man or a woman.
You can imagine that Risa Green's mother, in particular, possesses those qualities in addition to the Queen of Swords reversed.
But that was not the case when she was with her sister.
You see a lot of that kind of thing in toxic families such as her family.
Growing up, having a parent treat you that way will cause you a lot of trauma, which is what has happened to Risa.
And that is the case as well with her father, as he never did anything to intervene.
Now, let's talk about how you can apply this card upright in your life.
How To Apply The King of Swords To Your Life
The time to apply this tarot card to your life is when you are in a situation where you are in position where you need to hear both sides of a story.
For instance, you have two friends that got into a spat and are no longer talking to one another.
You like both of these friends, and you don't want to have to pick sides.
Therefore, one friend tells you everything that happened with the other, and vice versa.
However, you do not know which story is true. Consequently, you will want to call upon the King of Swords to help you listen to both sides of the story without being judgemental.
And the other way the king can help you is by offering both of them solutions to find a way to repair their friendship.
The King of Swords applies, too, when you are in a situation where you have to make a quick decision after having to make some careful evaluations.
For example, if you end up with two different job opportunities, you will have to decide to take one quickly, or you may not take either of them.
But you will have to do something after careful evaluation and consideration. If you are in a position like that, then this card can help.
This concludes the swords suit, and the subsequent suit I will go over is the Cups suit, starting with the Ace of Cups.