Eight of Swords (Upright) | Tarot Card of the Day
“Conquer your fears, and reclaim your worth.”
Eight of Swords (Upright) | Tarot Card
The Eight of Swords depicts fear that clouds our perception, trapping us in the memories of the past and overshadowing the present moment
It's the embodiment of mental constraints, where one's own beliefs and past traumas prevent forward movement or clear sight. The woman in the card, blindfolded and bound, symbolizes being held captive by one's own thoughts and apprehensions.
However, the key message of this card is the potential for liberation. The very tools that imprison her (the swords) can be used to free her if only she realizes her power and capacity for change. The reality is, no one is coming to save her but herself. This card prompts you to question: What fears are holding you back? Are they based on past experiences? Remember, past events don't dictate future outcomes. By confronting and understanding these fears, you have the potential to liberate yourself from their shackles.
The surrounding waters represent emotions. Perhaps she's afraid of confronting her feelings, but it's worth noting that her feet are on solid ground, symbolizing that there's stability and grounding available to her once she chooses to move forward and leave the past behind.
Is fear blinding and binding you somehow?
Has a traumatic experience from your past made you feel damaged or worthless? Are you so focused on potential catastrophes that you can't see your many opportunities? Do you rationalize your fears using past traumas to validate their existence?
The Eight of Swords uses grey imagery that makes the woman's situation look hopeless and bleak. But always with the tarot you must look closer....
She can free herself! So easily!
Wait, whaaaa?!
She could use any one of the abandoned swords that flank her to cut the ties around her hands. With her hands free she could quickly remove the blindfold. Her legs obviously work so she could still run to the safety. Perhaps she could seek sanctuary in large castle behind her. Why is she not focusing on fighting for herself, or her survival? Why is she accepting the shame cast on her by others without fighting?
It's because she really believes she is worthless.
The Eight of Swords challenges you to see if there's still some fight left in you.
Cut away the fears that bind you, rip away the blindfold! Stand up to what is scaring you. Feel your mighty worth. The past can't get you now so don't let it continue to overthrow your mind. Do not give into the illusion that you are trapped.
The Eight of Swords, believe it or not, is a beacon of empowerment — urging you to shatter the chains of past fears that may linger in your mind. It stands as a reminder of your inherent ability to break free from mental confines and embrace the present with courage and determination. It's a call to discard the blindfold of anxiety and take a stand against the things that terrify you.
Your strength and resilience are your greatest assets in this battle. The Eight of Swords challenges you to tap into this strength, to face your fears head-on, and to recognize your worthiness. The past no longer holds power over you; you've grown, you've learned, and now it's time to reclaim your sense of self and worth. Cast away the illusions of entrapment, for you are far more capable and free than you might perceive. Remember, you are not defined by the fears that once bound you.
Feelings of worthlessness are lies that will keep you scared and bound. Today you must see your worth! If you are having trouble seeing your worth, look at the people that love you most. How would they feel without you in their lives? How sad would they be if they never experienced the special memories you made together? Reflect on your irreplaceable light today. Your light is so special, so uniquely you. In the whole cosmos, there is only one like it.
You are a survivor. You are worthy.
Eight of Swords in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Eight of Swords will alert you if you are setting yourself up for failure in new relationships by energetically showing up as a victim. Maintain your dignity, power, and self-respect. Watch out for being too eager to please, or passively waiting for the other person to recognize the wonderful person you are. Know your worth walking in.
Long Term Partnership
The Eight of Swords can warn of unhealthy dependency in relationships. One partner might rely on the other to “make them” feel good, solve all their issues, or take care of their responsibilities. Relationships work best when both people show up in their power. This card can also signify a partner who is being passive aggressive or needy.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, the Eight of Swords could represent feeling hopeless as you “endlessly” wait for your ideal relationship to arrive. A watched pot never boils. Switch mental gears. Engage in activities that empower you. This will have the added benefit of making your aura much more attractive to be around and will get the energy moving again.
