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Ten of Swords: Embracing Endings for New Beginnings

Ten of Swords Tarot Card Meanings



Keywords - Upright and Reversed

Upright Keywords: Betrayal, Backstabbing, Enemies, Bitterness, Badmouthing, Doormat, Ruin, Failure, Exhaustion, Collapse/ Breakdown, Inability to Cope, Hitting a wall, Rock Bottom, Dead End, Severing Ties, Nail in the Coffin, Goodbyes, Exaggeration, Attention Seeker, Martyr, Playing Victim


Reversed Keywords: Over the Worst, Rising Above Problems/ Haters, Being Saved, Things Getting Better, Surviving Disaster, Escaping Ruin, Learning from Past Hardships, Pulling Yourself Together, Fears Coming True, Worst is Yet to Come, Beyond Help, Despair


Description

The image shown on the Ten of Swords card depicts a man lying lifeless on the ground with his face in the dirt. From his back to his legs, he is draped in a red piece of cloth. He might not have seen this ending coming as ten long swords are thrust into his back. The air is eerily silent, and the sky above him is dark and clouded, evoking the fear and pessimism associated with death. The lake in front of him is completely calm, with no waves, contributing to the card's unsettling stillness. The sun is rising on the horizon in the east, and the weather, despite the darkness, appears to be calm. It suggests that this is the lowest moment in one's life and that things cannot get any worse. At the very least, the sun is rising, even in this situation.


Upright Meaning

General Meaning

The Ten of Swords has a negative connotation, indicating that someone is backstabbing or speaking ill of you, leading to bitterness and adversity. It could also represent a downfall, failure, collapse, farewell, or severing of ties. Signs of nervous breakdowns, exhaustion, and an inability to cope may be present. The card could also suggest that you have hit rock bottom or are stuck in a rut. Furthermore, it could imply that someone is seeking attention by acting like a victim or martyr or exaggerating a situation.


Finances and Career

In a career Tarot reading, the Ten of Swords is not a favorable card. It may indicate that you have reached a dead-end in your job or that it is time to break ties with your current role. Furthermore, be aware that colleagues may be gossiping, backstabbing, or bad-mouthing you. If you've been overworking yourself, this card serves as a reminder to take a step back and avoid pushing yourself to exhaustion.


If you own a business, this card may not bode well. It suggests that disaster, failure, or company collapse could be on the horizon. In a financial Tarot spread, the Ten of Swords is not an auspicious omen since it implies financial collapse and failure. Be cautious and avoid taking unnecessary risks during this period.


Love and Relationships

If you are in a relationship, the Ten of Swords in a Love Tarot spread is not a good sign. It may indicate a breakup, separation, divorce, or bitterness leading to severed ties. If a breakup is in the cards, you may already be aware that your relationship is on shaky ground. This card may also be a warning that you are acting like a victim or seeking attention, which could lead to the end of your relationship if you do not alter your behavior. If you're in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, the Ten of Swords is a cautionary sign, reminding you to take immediate action to secure your safety and well-being.


If you are single, the Ten of Swords may imply that you're still struggling to come to terms with a past breakup. Despite knowing that the relationship was toxic, accepting the breakup has been challenging, and you may still be grieving. Take the time to heal and rediscover your identity, regardless of whether or not you are in a relationship.


Health and Spirituality

In a health reading, the Ten of Swords indicates that your mental or physical health is not in good shape. It's crucial to take a break and focus on self-care. Ignoring the problem or neglecting your health may exacerbate the situation. Remember, putting yourself first is crucial for your long-term happiness and well-being.


Reversed Meaning

The reversed Ten of Swords is a card of hope, signifying improvement, escaping devastation, and surviving tragedy. It represents coming together and learning from your mistakes, resurrecting something from the edge of failure or death.




It may also indicate that your darkest fears may come true, or that you are helpless in a situation. It could imply that you have experienced absolute failure, relapse, despair, or recurrence of difficulties. Embrace the lessons learned from these experiences, and use them to create a brighter future.

Keywords The Ten of Swords tarot card interpretation, Symbolism of the Ten of Swords card in tarot, Exploring the Ten of Swords tarot card, Tarot symbolism and meanings, Minor Arcana tarot cards

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