Eight of Swords as Past (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 Past

If you are asking about the past, and you draw the Eight of Swords, it means that there was a period where you felt trapped, possibly stifled by self-imposed limitations or external circumstances that hindered your freedom and personal growth. This period might have been marked with frustration and a feeling of being held back despite wanting to forge ahead. It was essential during this time to recognize that some of the barriers could have been mental, and breaking free would entail not only changing circumstances but also mindset, embracing an attitude of openness to the possible paths that lay ahead.

The Eight of Swords as the past can represent a time of feeling powerless, where it seemed like there were no good options available, creating a situation where you may have felt stuck or unable to see a clear path forward. This challenging time required an immense inner strength to navigate, as it could sometimes feel like a never-ending maze with no exit. However, it was also a period for deep introspection, a time to learn resilience and to understand that sometimes, the way forward is carved through persistent effort and a belief in one’s self.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, the Eight of Swords in the past position means there might have been a phase where the relationship felt restrictive, perhaps characterized by limiting beliefs or fears that prevented the relationship from blossoming fully. This time could have been a testing ground for the relationship, requiring both partners to face and overcome deeply entrenched fears and insecurities. Despite the hurdles, it was a period that offered a chance for growth, a time to work on breaking free from the chains of limiting beliefs and fostering a relationship that allows both individuals to flourish.

If you are asking about an ex, the Eight of Swords in the past position means that the relationship might have been marked by feelings of entrapment, with one or both partners feeling like they were stuck in a situation that wasn’t beneficial, possibly leading to a breakup. The dynamics during this period might have felt suffocating, creating a cycle of negativity that was hard to break. It was a challenging time that tested the strength and compatibility of the relationship, and might have brought to the surface underlying issues that needed to be addressed for personal growth and wellbeing.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, the Eight of Swords in the past position means there could have been times of misunderstanding and communication barriers, creating a situation where it felt difficult to express oneself freely and honestly. These communication barriers might have stemmed from a variety of sources, including past grievances or different perspectives on life. This period might have been one of learning and understanding, where working through the difficulties could have potentially laid a foundation for a stronger, more understanding relationship built on trust and open communication.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, the Eight of Swords in the past position means that there might have been periods of feeling stuck in a role or financial situation, with a perception of limited options and avenues for growth and expansion. During this time, it might have felt like you were spinning your wheels, unable to gain traction and move forward in your career. Despite the challenges, this period also represented an opportunity to hunker down and focus on building skills and resources that would be beneficial in the future, positioning yourself for success when the tides change and new opportunities arise.

Reversed Eight of Swords as Past

If you are asking about the past, and you draw the Eight of Swords reversed, it means that there was a period of breaking free from limitations, gaining a fresh perspective, and finding a way to liberate yourself from restrictive situations. This phase might have brought with it an exhilarating sense of freedom and the breaking of chains that were once holding you down. It was a time to rediscover your strengths and abilities, allowing you to forge a path towards a brighter future, characterized by personal growth and self-discovery.

The Eight of Swords reversed as the past can represent a time of personal empowerment, where you managed to overcome obstacles and free yourself from situations that were holding you back. This period likely marked a significant turn in your journey where you embraced your inner strength and started to see opportunities instead of hindrances. It was a powerful reminder of your own resilience and ability to shape your destiny, proving to yourself that you have what it takes to overcome adversity and find your footing.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, the Eight of Swords reversed in the past position means there might have been a time of breaking free from unhealthy patterns, possibly leading to a more liberated and open relationship. This period would have seen both parties working hard to remove the barriers that were preventing deeper connection and understanding. It represented a positive transition, where openness and understanding started to replace fear and restriction, nurturing a more loving and supportive dynamic in the relationship.

If you are asking about an ex, the Eight of Swords reversed in the past position means that there was likely a realization that led to freeing oneself from the restrictive dynamics of the relationship, finding freedom and personal space. This time would have been marked by a lot of self-reflection and understanding of what you truly needed in a relationship. It signaled a period of growth and self-awareness, where you recognized the importance of personal freedom and the necessity to forge a path that honored your individuality and well-being.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, the Eight of Swords reversed in the past position means there could have been a period where you worked through misunderstandings and found a way to communicate more openly, breaking free from previous restrictions. This transition would have opened up new avenues for connection, fostering a deeper and more understanding relationship. It was a time of setting aside past grievances and learning to communicate in a more open and loving manner, paving the way for a healthier relationship built on trust and mutual respect.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, the Eight of Swords reversed in the past position means there was a phase of breaking free from limiting beliefs or situations, and embarking on a path of greater freedom and opportunities. During this time, you might have started to see potential where you previously saw none, taking steps to advance in your career through embracing new perspectives. This was a time for renewed energy and a fresh approach in your professional life, where you dared to break away from convention and pursued paths that truly resonated with your skills and aspirations.

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.