Ten of Swords

The Ten of Swords is a card from the Minor Arcana of the Tarot deck, often associated with endings, defeat, and betrayal. It is one of the more dramatic and somber cards, reflecting a significant moment of closure and transformation.

Upright Meaning

• Painful Endings: You may be experiencing a difficult ending or significant loss. It’s a time of letting go and accepting the situation.

• Betrayal: There may be a sense of being betrayed or deceived by someone close to you.

• Finality: The card signifies that a particular phase or relationship has definitively ended, making way for new opportunities.

Reversed Meaning

• Recovery and Healing: In the reversed position, the Ten of Swords suggests the beginning of recovery and healing after a difficult period.

• Resilience: It indicates resilience and the ability to bounce back from adversity.

• Delayed Endings: There may be a delay in the completion of a painful situation, or a reluctance to let go.

Symbolism

• Figure with Swords: The image typically depicts a figure lying face-down with ten swords piercing their back, symbolizing the ultimate betrayal or defeat.

• Dark Sky: The dark sky in the background represents the difficult and painful times, while the dawn breaking suggests the potential for new beginnings.