The Ten of Swords is one of the most ominous and visually striking cards in the deck. It depicts a man lying face-down on the ground, his body covered by a red cloth that extends from his chest to his legs. Ten swords are deeply embedded in his back, indicating that he may have been caught off guard and unprepared for this fate. The sky above him is dark and overcast, symbolizing the negative emotions and fear that come with death. The water in front of him is still and undisturbed, contributing to the eerie stillness and finality of the card. However, despite the darkness, the sun is rising in the east, and the weather seems calm. The Ten of Swords suggests that this may be the lowest point in one's life, but it also implies that things can only get better from here, as even in the darkest of moments, there is always hope for a new beginning.
Meaning of Upright Ten of Swords
Ten of Swords is commonly regarded as a highly unfavorable omen, as it has the potential to indicate hostility, deceitful actions, gossip, and other negative behaviors that undermine trust. This Minor Arcana card symbolizes defeat, calamity, downfall, the breaking of bonds, bidding farewell, and the end of a situation or connection. It may also suggest mental turmoil, chronic fatigue, overwhelming exhaustion, and a sense of being overwhelmed.
Upright Ten of Swords: Love
The love meaning of the Ten of Swords tarot card can unfortunately indicate the conclusion of a relationship, or a phase filled with agony, sorrow, bitterness, and pain. It is possible that the relationship was already headed for failure, and you may have had prior knowledge of this. This card may also imply betrayal, possibly through infidelity. While this phase can be extremely challenging, you must come to terms with it and accept the inevitable end. If you are single, you may be experiencing similar emotions that have carried over from a past relationship. True healing and progress can only be achieved through acceptance. Despite the bleak outlook, things can only improve from this point forward.
Upright Ten of Swords: Career
In a career tarot reading, the Ten of Swords is a negative sign that could imply that you've hit a professional roadblock or that your tenure in your current job is about to end, resulting in the severance of ties. Be vigilant for colleagues who may try to undermine you, as they may be spreading rumors, gossiping, or backstabbing you behind your back. It could also indicate that you've been overworking yourself, leading to exhaustion or burnout. If you're at a breaking point, you must prioritize your own well-being, as no one else will benefit if you burn out.
Upright Ten of Swords: Finances
Your financial situation may be in a precarious state due to a potential investment that has not yielded positive results and has resulted in losses. It is important to cease any payments related to this failed project and instead, explore alternative options. It would be wise to prioritize safety rather than taking unnecessary risks as the Ten of Swords in a financial tarot card reading is considered unfavorable, indicating potential failure and ruin. Therefore, exercise caution in your financial dealings and avoid any unnecessary risks during this time.
Meaning of Reversed Ten of Swords
When the Ten of Swords is reversed, it can suggest an improvement in situations, the ability to overcome the worst, survival or avoidance of tragedy, and a call for self-reliance and learning from past experiences. This Minor Arcana card in reverse may symbolize something being rescued from the brink of collapse or death. Conversely, it may also indicate that the worst is yet to come and there is no way to prevent it. It can also serve as a representation of complete failure, despair, setbacks, and recurring difficulties. The appearance of the Ten of Swords card elicits intense emotions.
Reversed Ten of Swords: Love
The reversed Ten of Swords tarot card can indicate a potential for healing, even if you carry emotional scars from past romantic wounds. If you're currently in a relationship, there may be a chance for reconciliation, as the previously broken bonds between you and your partner start to mend. Alternatively, if the relationship has already ended, you may have already found ways to cope with the pain and come to terms with the lessons that the heartbreak has taught you. Although you may still experience feelings of despair and anger, the reversed Ten of Swords suggests that you'll emerge from this experience with greater strength and resilience.
Reversed Ten of Swords: Career
In a Tarot reading focused on career, the reversed Ten of Swords could indicate several possibilities. It could suggest that you have recently ended a job that was causing you extreme stress and exhaustion, or that you have managed to cope with and overcome the worst of the difficulties associated with your current employment. On the other hand, it could also imply that your current job is so unbearable that it is negatively affecting your mental and emotional well-being. In such a case, you may want to explore other career options that are more conducive to your overall health and happiness. If you are involved in business, the reversed card could indicate either a recovery or a complete collapse of your enterprise.
Reversed Ten of Swords: Finances
The Reversed Ten of Swords suggests that you could be on the brink of a financial disaster, but there is still hope to prevent it from happening. You may be currently focusing on recovering from a financial setback such as bankruptcy or divorce and getting back on track.
Conclusion
The Ten of Swords in the Tarot foretells of imminent or current sorrow, tears, and grief. While it is not a card of death like the Nine, it signifies anguish, failure, and devastation. This card may neutralize any good luck, or worsen the effects of other unfavorable cards.