King of Swords
Minor Arcana · Swords
Keywords
authorityclear thinkingintellectual powertruth
Reversed Keywords
tyrannymanipulationabuse of power
Card Imagery
A king sits on a throne decorated with butterflies, angels, and crescent moons, holding an upright sword in his right hand. His expression is stern and commanding. Trees sway in the background and clouds move swiftly. He is justice and authority personified.
Upright Meaning
The King of Swords wields authority through intellect, truth, and clear ethical thinking. He makes decisions based on logic and principle rather than emotion. He represents fair judgement, high standards, and the power of a disciplined mind.
Reversed Meaning
Reversed, the King of Swords may indicate intellectual tyranny, manipulation through clever arguments, or abusing a position of authority. Power without ethics is dangerous.