Exploring Tarot: King of Swords
The King of Swords sits on his throne holding his sword slightly askew in his right hand. Butterflies adorn the tapestry behind him with one butterfly surrounded by crescent moons. And if you look over his left shoulder, you may notice what appears to be an angel providing him with higher counsel. You may also interpret his crown to show an additional angelic or higher influence. Clouds appear in the sky behind him while two birds reminiscent of Odin’s ravens, Huginn (thought) and Muninn (memory) fly above. Cypress trees are visible on either side of the King in the background.
The King’s sword represents the soul, justice, and truth. A Court card reflecting Elemental Air, The King of Swords represents an older man in authority who is intelligent and wise and invokes strength and demands justice. He’s rational, logical, and clever and his sword cuts through illusion to discover the truth.
Reversed, given the slightly askew sword in his hand, The King may describe an individual who has his own agenda that may color whatever truth he demands.
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Thank you... Jan Erickson
