Ace of Swords image

Nine of Swords Tarot Card Meaning

One of the Minor Arcana tarot cards, Nine of Swords, deals with worry, stress, and anxiety. Considered a negative card, 9 of Swords suggests that a person is feeling burdened by his own thoughts and losing sleep over his fears. This card indicates that having fears may be scary, but there is always hope for relief. This is why it encourages an individual to face his fears confidently and take help from his loved ones if needed.

Main Features of Nine of Swords

Understanding the main features of the Nine of Swords tarot card can help one decode its influence on tarot readings. So, let's learn a bit more about this card by looking at its main features, such as its elements, zodiac signs, and planets associated with it!

  • Parts of Nine of Swords: Upright and Reversed
  • Element: Air
  • Planet: Mercury
  • Zodiac Signs: Gemini, Libra and Aquarius
  • Yes or No Card: No
  • Crystal: Amethyst, Rose Quartz

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Nine of Swords Card Symbol Meaning

In the Nine of Swords tarot card image, we see a person sitting on the bed, looking really upset. He is covering his head with his hands like he is in a lot of pain. Above him, we can see nine swords hanging on the wall. The whole scene seems pretty dark, heavy and sad. Looking at the picture, we can tell that the person is struggling with something that is keeping him up at night. Below is the detailed meaning and representation of each element and symbol in the appearance of the 9 of Swords tarot card:

  • Nine of Swords: The nine swords we see hanging on the wall symbolise a specific worry or problem that a person is currently dealing with. The swords also show how mentally disturbed the person seems to be due to these problems.
  • Quilt: The person is using a quilt with a print of astrological signs and roses. The red roses are believed to provide the person with strength and comfort. The quilt also promises that things will soon improve and brings a tiny ray of hope into their life.
  • Dark Atmosphere: The dark atmosphere of the room represents the mental state of the person. It shows how hopeless and clueless the person feels currently. He has become tired of carrying the emotional baggage of his problems.

Nine of Swords Tarot Card- Upright

Also known as the ‘Cruel King’ or ‘The Nightmare Card,’ the Nine of Swords upright speaks about fear, stress, and worries you are currently facing. The thoughts are so scary and negative that they keep you awake at night or prevent you from living in peace. Getting this card in a tarot card reading is no less than a reminder that encourages you to face fears with courage.

If doing this seems complicated, the 9 of Swords also suggests asking for help and discussing worries with someone you trust. At the same time, the card senses that the reason you are feeling so helpless and fearful is your negative thoughts. The problems you currently face aren’t even that bad and can be solved easily with positivity and guidance.

Nine of Swords AspectsNine of Swords Keywords (Upright)
CareerStress, tension and pressure at work,
LoveGuilt, lack of trust and love
HealthHealth issues due to emotional stress & anxiety
FinanceFinancial problems such as loans or debts
SpiritualityDisconnection with the spiritual self

Nine of Swords Upright Meaning in Love

In love relationships, the appearance of the Nine of Swords love is a red flag indicating a rough patch in the relationship. The card senses that conflicts, misunderstandings, fights and arguments have become a common part of your love life. If this is not the case, then you are currently in a relationship that has no trust, understanding or affection towards each other.

The reason? Your own fears and insecurities have cast a shadow on your love relationship. As a result, your relationship is now suffering from a difficult situation that needs to be solved soon. To bring back the love, care and affection in your love life, it is essential that you both figure out the issues. Establishing open and honest communication could be a key to making your relationship happy and healthy.

Nine of Swords Upright Meaning in Career

In a career reading, the appearance of the Nine of Swords tarot card highlights feelings of stress, anxiety, and fear. It seems that the current environment at your workplace is not peaceful and supportive and instead gives you unnecessary burdens. Either you feel burdened by the work deadlines or expectations of the people around you. Or maybe the reason behind your panic is your stuck career with no growth.

Whatever the situation, it is taking a huge toll on your mental and physical health. This is why the Nine of Swords career card advises you to take a break and find ways to come out of the phase of self-doubts and confusion. It is entirely up to you whether you want to find a solution by yourself or want a mentor, colleague, or advisor to get involved.

Nine of Swords Upright Meaning in Health

The appearance of the Nine of Swords upright reveals that stress and tension are the biggest enemies of your overall health and well-being. You have spent endless nights overthinking your situation and have lost the luxury of safe and sound sleep. As a result, you suffer from physical and mental health issues such as insomnia, migraine, anxiety and depression.

Though Nine of Swords is a negative card for your health, it is a green sign to do something about your messed up and poor health. The card encourages you to put a full stop to all the negativity and health issues by seeking medical and professional help. Engaging in stress management activities or taking therapy can make you a happy and healthy person like you once were.

Nine of Swords Upright Meaning in Finance

Pulling a 9 of Swords card in a tarot reading is not a positive sign for your finances. It hints at a period of financial responsibilities, tight finances, and helplessness. Questions such as ‘How will I handle everything with tight finances?’ or ‘How to overcome unnecessary financial burdens (loans or debts)?’ run in your mind on a loop.

However, the 9 of Swords card reveals that your current financial situation isn’t even that bad. It is just the thoughts about financial stability and security that keep you up at night. In this scenario, the only option that will work wonders for you is taking advice from finance experts. It is better to get help from an outsider rather than spend restless nights worrying about your financial future.

Nine of Swords Upright Meaning in Spirituality

When it comes to spirituality, the 9 of Swords meaning is disconnection with the divine and spiritual self. The reason? An internal battle that prevents you from establishing a deep connection with your spiritual self. The card senses that something is acting as a barrier between you and your spiritual development. This is why you are not able to focus on your spiritual abilities and feel occupied by stress, anxiety, and stress.

Getting the Nine of Swords tarot card in a spiritual reading is a clear sign of paying attention to your spiritual connection. You can get help from several spiritual activities such as reiki healing, meditation, and journaling. Performing all these activities will help you return to your spiritual track and have a stronger connection with the divine.

Nine of Swords Tarot Card- Reversed

When the Nine of Swords tarot card appears in a reversed position, it suggests a period where all your worries and problems will fade away one by one. Soon, you will witness a tiny ray of hope or a light at the end of the tunnel, indicating that your problems will not make you suffer anymore. You will say goodbye to the negativity around you and become open towards introspection and healing.

The 9 Swords reversed card says that your fears and difficulties will not disappear until you become determined to face them. Moreover, the Nine of Swords reversed tarot card signals a turning point, where the worst is behind you, and you will begin to see things more positively.

Nine of Swords AspectsNine of Swords Keywords (Reversed)
CareerClarity, peace at the workplace
LoveTime to overcome issues in love relationships
HealthRelief in health problems
FinanceFinancial problems fading way
SpiritualityFinding peace and connection with the spiritual self

Nine of Swords Reversed Meaning in Love

Also known as the ‘Lord of the Cruelty’, the Nine of Swords love card senses that you are being cruel to yourself right now. You have built an armour around your heart that protects your inner feelings. This is why you choose not to share whatever emotional turmoil, stress, guilt or anger you are dealing with your partner. Remember that by doing this, you are not only being unfaithful to you but also hurting your partner’s feelings.

This is why you and your partner must work together to overcome the current challenges in your relationship. For singles, the 9 of Swords love card brings a tiny ray of hope, indicating that whatever you are dealing with now will soon be a thing of the past. You will start a journey of healing and recovery from your past and work towards your happiness.

Nine of Swords Reversed Meaning in Career

In a career reading, the appearance of the 9 of Swords reversed is no less than a ‘double-edged sword’. On one hand, the card suggests that the stress and tension you are currently experiencing at work will begin to fade away. You will notice that your fears and issues will start to resolve themselves. Moreover, you will get motivated to come to work and deal with your stress in a positive way.

But on the other hand, your problems will get worse instead of better. If this is the case, then Nine of Swords in reverse career asks you to be prepared for the worst. If you run a business, there is a chance that your sales and profit will witness a drastic loss. For working-class professionals, there is a chance of losing their job.

Nine of Swords Reversed Meaning in Health

In a health reading, the Nine of Swords in reverse tells two different meanings: one positive and one negative. Firstly, focusing on the positive sign, the 9 Swords reversed says that soon you will learn new ways to overcome your mental and physical health issues. By choosing the side of positivity, you will regain strength and confidence to deal with the current situation. However, on the negative side, the appearance of the 9 of Swords card is not a favourable sign for your health.

It says that soon, your mental health issues will take a drastic turn, and you might develop health issues such as night terror, psychosis or even hallucinations. There is also a chance of developing physical health ailments such as hormonal imbalance, menopause or ovary-related health issues (for females). But don’t worry; the 9 of Swords reversed card also comes as a sign of hope that if you seek medical professional help soon, you can overcome these issues with ease.

Nine of Swords Reversed Meaning in Finance

Financially, the reversed 9 of Swords meaning is that your current financial condition isn’t even as bad as you think. Maybe you are not ready to let go of past financial mistakes and are still punishing yourself. This is why you are dealing with stress and anxiety, and your mental health suffers. If this is the case, then the 9 Swords reversed card advises you not to take everything too seriously.

If the question of your financial future concerns you, then it is better to get in touch with finance experts and look for solutions with them. Another Nine of Swords meaning is that your finances are soon going to come back on track. If you are worried about your financial ups and downs, you will gain confidence and hope.

Nine of Swords Reversed Meaning in Spirituality

When it comes to spirituality, the 9 swords reversed card reveals that soon, a ray of positivity will knock at your door, giving you hope. Enough about the dark and negative phase you were in; now is the time to let your past and overcome all your issues. Soon, the universe will bless you with the inner peace and comfort that you used to pray for in your lowest phase.

However, at the same time, feelings of sadness, regret, or guilt will also stay, making you regret what’s happening. Don’t worry; this is the way of the universe telling you that not everything is permanent. Instead of regretting, you must focus on your spiritual growth and development. All you have to do is never lose faith in the power of the universe and focus on making your spiritual journey better.

Nine of Swords Yes or No Meaning

In a yes or no tarot reading, the Nine of Swords tarot card appears as a negative card. Despite its negative intent, this card’s meaning can vary based on its upright or reversed position. So, let us look at how the 9 of Swords meaning differs in a yes or no tarot reading!

  • Upright: No—Pulling the 9 of Swords in a yes or no tarot reading means an absolute no. The card senses that the internal turmoil going on inside you will influence your decision. This is why it is better to aim at the things that are in your hands right now rather than aiming at the bigger picture.
  • Reversed: No—Nine of Swords yes or no tarot reading in reverse position is also a negative sign. Though in reverse position, there is a possibility of everything getting better soon, you are completely overlooking the potential challenges coming your way. This is why you must take a break and think twice before making a big decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

The ninth card in the Suit of Swords, Nine of Swords meaning, revolves around guilt, regrets, fear, depression and stress. It indicates that the person is dealing with a lot right now. Moreover, the problematic situations he is facing currently have taken a huge toll on his mental and physical health.
In a yes-or-no tarot reading, the appearance of the 9 of Swords is considered negative. With an absolute ‘no’ answer, the card asks the reader to deal with his problems, fears, and difficulties. This is because all the fears, stress, and anxiety stop him from moving forward towards betterment.
The Nine of Swords reversed love indicates that the individual feels inclined toward correcting past mistakes and misunderstandings with their partner. Leaving behind past trauma or damage, the individual now wants to restore peace, harmony, and love in their relationship.
9 of Swords as an obstacle sense that the individual is so focused on negative thoughts that the tiny ray of positivity goes unnoticed by him. His fears, insecurities and worries act as a barrier to his growth. This is why the card asks him to work on his fears and negative thoughts first to come out of this rough patch.
The Nine of Swords as feelings tells about a person who is currently occupied with his own insecurities, fears and negative thoughts. The situation is so bad that he feels completely clueless about what to do next or how to overcome this difficult situation.
In an upright position, the Nine of Swords is a person who constantly feels fearful, stressed, and anxious. However, in a reversed position, Nine of Swords as a person, feels confident and ready to face all his fears and worries.
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