Knight of Swords: Tarot Card Meaning

The Knight of Swords is fast, direct and driven. In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck a knight in armour gallops at full speed on a white horse, sword raised, through a stormy sky with trees bending in the wind. He is determined and brave, and he is not looking where he is going.

Upright meaning

Upright, the Knight of Swords brings fast action, bold ideas and sharp communication. You are decisive and ready to charge ahead. Use that drive, but keep checking your direction and your impact on others. Speed without care can leave a trail of damage.

Reversed meaning

Reversed, rushing, bluntness or aggression may cause problems. You might be acting without thought, speaking harshly or being stubborn about a bad plan. It can also mean a stalled advance. Slow down, listen and consider how your words and actions will land.

In love

In love, the Knight of Swords suggests a direct, intense partner or fast-moving situation, and sometimes blunt words. Reversed, it points to coldness, being dismissive or leaving a relationship abruptly.

In career

At work, it points to ambition, quick progress and decisive communication. Reversed, it warns of rushing, conflict with colleagues or acting without a plan.

As a yes or no answer

As a yes or no answer, the Knight of Swords leans no, because haste is likely to cause trouble. Reversed, it is also a no, as impulsiveness is getting in the way.

Advice from this card

Pause before you send, speak or leap, and check the facts first. Speed is useful when it travels with a little care.

At a glance

• Arcana: Minor Arcana, court card in the suit of Swords
• Element: air, linked with thought, truth and communication
• Number theme: action, pursuit and momentum
• Yes or no reading: No when upright, No when reversed

Explore more cards

Continue with Page of Swords or Queen of Swords. You can also compare it with the Knight of Wands, Knight of Cups and Knight of Pentacles. Or draw your own cards for a reading.