King of Swords
Upright Meaning
The King sits rigidly on his throne, sword raised in his right hand, the left resting firmly. His expression is stern. Behind him, the sky is clear except for two birds — his mind is ordered, his environment controlled. The King of Swords represents the highest authority of the intellect: the judge, the surgeon, the strategist who makes difficult decisions based on principle rather than emotion. He is fair because fairness is rational. He is honest because deception is inefficient.
Reversed Meaning
Reversed, the King of Swords becomes the intellectual bully — using superior logic and verbal precision to dominate rather than to serve truth. His judgment becomes judgmental; his authority becomes authoritarian. If this represents a person in your life, they are using their intelligence as a weapon. If it represents you, consider whether your commitment to 'being right' has cost you your humanity.
Quick Reference
- Arcana
- minor
- Suit
- swords
- Number
- 14
- Element
- 💨 Air