King of Swords
Minor Arcana · Swords · number 14 · Re di Spade
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The King of Swords sits enthroned with his sword slightly tilted, looking straight ahead: judgement, power, command, authority, militant intelligence, law, offices of the crown. He is a man who decides, a judge, an executive, a lawyer, a stern doctor, or the part of you that can say the right thing even when it is unwelcome. If these days you must face an authority, an interview, a hearing, an assessment, it is no accident: the card tells you to show up prepared and with your papers in order. The practical advice: speak clearly and without detours, bring the documents, and do not try to move someone who only wants to understand.
Source: Arthur Edward Waite, The Pictorial Key to the Tarot (1910) · read the original passage
Reversed
Reversed, the King of Swords abuses the blade: cruelty, perversity, barbarity, perfidy, evil intention. Authority turns into bullying, and intelligence is used to do harm methodically. If these days you are dealing with a boss who humiliates, an ex who uses the law to strike, an adviser who keeps you in check, it is no accident: the card warns you that the intention is not good. Be careful not to answer in the same coin. It is not a sentence, but a defence. The practical advice: put everything in writing, never be alone in difficult meetings, and get assistance from a professional you trust.