Knight of Swords as a Person (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

The Knight of Swords is the card of assertiveness, impatience, focus, daring, and ambition. This card shows a knight charging forward on his horse. His sword is flying through the air. This is a man who waits for no one. He is focused and he is fearless. He knows what he wants and he does what it takes to get it. 

The Knight of Swords is a reminder that a take-charge attitude can be necessary to achieve our goals. As they say, you miss 100% of the shots that you don’t take. When it comes to the things we most desire in life, this card urges us to go for it. How will they know that you love them if you don’t tell them? Seize the day. You can do this.

Upright Knight of Swords as a Person

If the Knight of Swords appears in a Tarot spread as a person, that means that this person is straightforward, even blunt. This person means what they say, and says what they mean. They prioritize the truth above all. This card is astrologically associated with the element of Air. Because the element of Air carries a masculine energy, this card embodies an active, assertive energy. We all have a little bit of both energies expressed in a balanced way, regardless of which gender we identify as.

For physical characteristics, the Knight of Swords as a person represents someone who is no nonsense when it comes to their physical appearance. Regardless of what gender they identify as, they’re going to be a “no frills” kind of person. They’re unpretentious, and they tend to be more practical and utilitarian in their style. In some cases, they enjoy muted colors. They tend to be very physically active. They love biking, running, swimming, hiking, and sports. 

For emotional characteristics, the Knight of Swords as a person represents someone who is emotionally honest. This person does not play mind games, and they are unafraid to admit when they are wrong. They typically exhibit a slightly more mature manifestation of the Swords signs. Like a Gemini, they will not be afraid to express themselves. Like a Libra, they are fair in their dealings. Like an Aquarius, they tend to take a more cerebral approach to love. 

For careers, the Knight of Swords can represent someone who works in a field where quick thinking, wit, truth, and integrity are required. They may be required to work fast in a demanding industry. They may work in media where fast turnarounds are the norm. They may work in tech, where skills and requirements are constantly changing. They are very rational people who know how to think on their feet. If they are an attorney, they make excellent litigators. They may also excel in STEM fields or finance. Alternatively, this person may be super ambitious.

The Knight of Swords as a person represents someone who makes you feel like you know exactly where you stand with them. If you’re romantically involved with this person, you’ll know exactly where your relationship is headed. This is the type of person who will be clear about what they are looking for, whether that’s FWB or marriage. Either way, this person is serious about what they say. If they say they’re just looking for a little fun, don’t assume that they’ll be open to something more serious along the line. This card is letting you know in advance to take everything they say at face value. The truth may hurt, but at least they are telling the truth. 

Reversed Knight of Swords as a Person

If the Knight of Swords reversed appears in a Tarot spread as a person, that means that this person tends to be in a rush to get what they want with little consideration for others. This person has tunnel vision, and they are hellbent on having things their way—and fast. Because this is a Minor Arcana card, some of these traits will not be inherent aspects of their identity. If they are behaving unfavorably, they might just be going through a temporary phase. It may be a behavioral pattern that they can still unlearn, if they choose to. Good or bad, nobody is perfect, and people can use their free will to change for the better.

For physical characteristics, the Knight of Swords reversed as a person represents someone who is always in a hurry. However, their energy is not efficient or effective. They are rushed, scattered, and insensitive. You may even physically feel uncomfortable around this person, because the anxious energy they carry is unsettling. They often look frazzled. They are not well put together. This person may also waste energy overthinking or overly intellectualizing.

For emotional characteristics, the Knight of Swords reversed as a person represents someone who is inconsiderate, in both their cutting words and their actions. They typically exhibit a slightly more mature manifestation of the shadow sides of the Swords signs. Like a Gemini, they know exactly how to use their words to hurt others. Like a Libra, their idea of “justice” is skewed and twisted. They can be very entitled as well. Like an Aquarius, they may be cold to others when they believe they’re doing something for the greater good. 

For careers, the Knight of Swords reversed can represent someone with a twisted idea of what intelligence and truth should look like in a professional setting. Much like the Page of Swords reversedʼs energy, this person might be an intellectual snob. They might even look down on those who are meant to be under their care, such as patients and clients. They don’t understand the concept of treating their customers as king, if they deem that customer to be less intelligent than themselves. If this person is in the public eye, they will consistently underestimate the intelligence of their audiences. They might come off either condescending or arrogant in their acts of dishonesty. They can also be cunning in climbing the corporate ladder. 

The Knight of Swords reversed as a person represents someone who makes you feel belittled or hurt by their words. This is a very callous person who takes pride in hurting others. They have no qualms about hurting others who have different beliefs, especially if they see those beliefs as being illogical or scientifically unproven. They would rather make an enemy than show tolerance for other people’s different ways of living. Being around this person is uncomfortable. If you’re romantically involved with this person, they might be verbally, mentally, or psychologically abusive. Know your worth, know your rights, and know when to walk away.

Conclusion

For love readings, the Knight of Swords represents assertiveness and confidence. Sometimes people get what they want just by being quick and bold. This card is a reminder to ask for what you need. Don’t hesitate to make a decision and be bold in your approach. You might just be surprised by what happens next. 

If you find yourself needing further clarity in your relationship matters that go beyond reading for yourself, Sibyl offers unlimited tarot readings on love & relationships, as a neutral and objective third party.