Eight of Swords as External Influences (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

The Eight of Swords is the card of helplessness, powerlessness, imprisonment, victimization, and feeling trapped. This card depicts a woman bound and blindfolded. Eight swords seem to be trapping her in place. However, if she took off her blindfold, she would see that she can walk away free. This is a symbol of limiting mindsets and beliefs. 

The Eight of Swords reminds us that most of our issues around feeling trapped are mental in nature. If you are feeling trapped, open your eyes and look around. There may be another way out, if you just take initiative. This can be overcome. The Eight of Swords is a reminder that our mentality in terms of how we approach our relationships will often influence the success of the relationship.

Upright Eight of Swords as External Influences

If you are asking about external influences, and you draw the Eight of Swords, it means that you may be hindered by limiting beliefs and fear instilled by those around you, preventing you from seeing the way out of your current predicament. This situation often arises when the opinions and negative outlooks of others cloud your judgment, leading you to believe that your options are more restricted than they actually are. It is a reminder to reevaluate the power you give to the voices around you and to seek clarity within yourself, recognizing that the barriers before you are surmountable with the right perspective and determination.

The Eight of Swords as external influences can represent people such as overprotective family members or controlling partners who inadvertently create feelings of helplessness or entrapment. Their actions, though possibly well-intentioned, can significantly limit your sense of autonomy and confidence in making decisions. This dynamic emphasizes the importance of establishing boundaries and asserting your own agency, encouraging you to trust in your ability to navigate your life’s path independently.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, the Eight of Swords as external influences means that communication barriers or third-party opinions are causing misunderstandings and feelings of isolation within the relationship. Friends or family members who insert their perspectives and judgments into the dynamic between you and your partner can exacerbate these issues, highlighting the need for clear, open dialogue between you and your partner to address and resolve these external pressures.

If you are asking about an ex, the Eight of Swords in the external influences position means that mutual friends or family may be influencing one’s ability to move forward or reconcile, due to their own biases or unresolved issues. These external voices can reinforce a sense of stagnation and conflict, suggesting that distancing oneself from these influences or seeking impartial advice might be necessary steps towards finding resolution or peace.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, the Eight of Swords in the external influences position means that their current struggles might be significantly impacted by societal pressures or expectations from their immediate social circle. This influence can manifest as a fear of judgment or failure, constraining their actions and choices. It calls for a supportive approach that encourages them to challenge these limiting beliefs and to embrace their own path, free from the weight of others’ expectations.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, the Eight of Swords in the external influences position means that workplace dynamics or a lack of support from colleagues are restricting growth opportunities and creative freedom. This environment may stem from a competitive atmosphere, unsupportive management, or a culture that stifles innovation. Recognizing and addressing these issues is crucial for breaking free from these constraints, requiring you to advocate for yourself and seek out environments that value and foster your professional development.

Reversed Eight of Swords as External Influences

If you are asking about external influences, and you draw the Eight of Swords reversed, it means that an awakening is happening, indicating the shedding of external pressures and the realization of personal power to overcome obstacles. This signifies a pivotal moment where you, or someone involved in the situation, start to break free from the mental chains and limitations that have been imposed by others or by oneself. It’s a time of empowerment and clarity, where the fog of doubt and fear begins to lift, revealing the potential for progress and self-determination.

The Eight of Swords reversed as external influences can represent people such as mentors or therapists who encourage autonomy and help in identifying paths to liberation from past restraints. These individuals play a crucial role in the journey towards self-realization, offering guidance, support, and tools to dismantle the barriers that have been holding you back. Their influence is instrumental in fostering a sense of freedom and confidence, helping to navigate out of the confines of perceived limitations towards a broader horizon of possibilities.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, the Eight of Swords reversed as external influences means that external advice or counseling is helping to break down barriers, fostering a deeper understanding and connection between partners. This could be the result of professional relationship counseling, advice from a trusted friend who has overcome similar challenges, or even a shared experience that has opened both partners’ eyes to the strengths and potential of their relationship. It marks a transition from isolation and misunderstanding to unity and mutual support, strengthening the bond and paving the way for a healthier, more open relationship.

If you are asking about an ex, the Eight of Swords reversed in the external influences position means that external perspectives or time apart are offering clarity and aiding in healing past wounds, making reconciliation or closure possible. The influence of unbiased third parties, personal growth experiences, or simply the passage of time can provide new insights into the nature of the relationship and the reasons behind its dissolution. This newfound understanding can either pave the way for a healthy closure, allowing both parties to move on with peace, or open a door to reconciliation with a clearer vision of what each can bring to the relationship.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, the Eight of Swords reversed in the external influences position means that they are beginning to overcome external negativity or criticism, finding strength in their own convictions and support from true allies. This process might involve distancing themselves from toxic influences, seeking supportive environments, or engaging in self-reflection and personal development activities. The shift away from external judgment and towards self-empowerment fosters a healthier, more positive self-image and strengthens their relationships with those who genuinely offer support and understanding.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, the Eight of Swords reversed in the external influences position means that new opportunities or supportive colleagues are emerging, offering a way out of stagnation and towards professional growth. This could manifest as a mentor within the workplace who recognizes your potential and advocates on your behalf, a networking connection that opens doors to new possibilities, or even a personal realization of your own capabilities that drives you to seek out and embrace new challenges. The removal of previous limitations and the encouragement from those who believe in your abilities can significantly alter your career trajectory, leading to fulfillment and success that once seemed out of reach.

Conclusion

For relationships and feelings, the Eight of Swords represents feeling trapped and suffocated. These feelings are often caused by our own false beliefs that hold us back. The Eight of Swords is a reminder that our attitude and approach is key to the success of the relationships we have with others. 

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.