Eight of Swords as Situation (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 Situation

If you are asking about a situation, and you draw the Eight of Swords, it means that you may be feeling trapped or restricted by circumstances that might be more perceptual than real. You could be wrapped in thoughts and beliefs that make you feel bound, but upon closer examination, you might find that these are largely self-imposed. This card suggests that changing your perspective or challenging your own thoughts might provide the way out of your perceived entrapment.

The Eight of Swords as your current situation can represent a mindset of victimhood, self-imposed limitations, or feeling paralyzed due to perceived obstacles. These self-limiting beliefs may be causing feelings of isolation and helplessness, but remember, this card often suggests that the real barriers are more within our minds than in reality. It’s a call to reassess your perception and consider that the power to change the situation is within you.

If you are asking about a potential relationship’s situation, the Eight of Swords as a situation means there could be feelings of entrapment, perceived powerlessness, or self-created barriers affecting the progress of the relationship. These perceptions could be impeding the relationship’s growth or causing unnecessary tension. This card is an encouragement to challenge these beliefs and open up communication to break down these perceived barriers.

If you are asking about an existing relationship’s situation, the Eight of Swords as a situation means there may be perceived barriers, self-limiting beliefs, or feelings of being trapped in the relationship. Such feelings could be causing distance or miscommunication. This card calls for introspection to understand whether these barriers are real or self-imposed, and a willingness to confront these issues openly with your partner.

If you are asking about your situation with an ex, the Eight of Swords as a situation means that you may be holding onto past hurt or feelings of victimhood that are preventing you from moving forward. You might feel entrapped by the past, but this card urges you to realize that these feelings might be self-imposed, and that moving on is possible. It’s a call to release past hurts and open up to the potential of the future.

If you are asking about a career or financial situation, the Eight of Swords as a situation means that you might be feeling trapped in your current job, constrained by perceived limitations, or powerless to change your financial situation. You might feel stuck, but this card suggests that these feelings may be based on self-imposed beliefs. It’s a reminder that the ability to change your circumstances often starts with changing your mindset and believing in your capabilities.

Reversed Eight of Swords as Situation

If you are asking about a situation, and you draw the Eight of Swords reversed, it means that you may be starting to recognize self-imposed limitations and are preparing to break free. You’re beginning to challenge the restrictive thoughts and beliefs that have held you back, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and liberation. This card suggests a shift in perspective, where you start to see the power within you to change your circumstances.

The Eight of Swords reversed as your current situation can represent a growing awareness of your own power, the process of liberation from self-limiting beliefs, or the start of a journey towards self-empowerment. You’re beginning to shed the shackles of perceived helplessness and stepping into your potential. This card suggests that you are actively working to overcome obstacles, mainly those rooted in your own self-perception.

If you are asking about a potential relationship’s situation, the Eight of Swords reversed as a situation means there might be a process of overcoming perceived limitations, or an increased willingness to break down barriers in the relationship. This shows that both parties are willing to address the self-imposed constraints that have been holding the relationship back. The card is a positive sign of personal growth and a willingness to work together to overcome obstacles.

If you are asking about an existing relationship’s situation, the Eight of Swords reversed as a situation means that there might be a shift towards liberation from perceived entrapment, or a mutual endeavor to overcome self-imposed barriers. This can manifest as a conscious effort to confront issues head-on and work on communication. It suggests that both individuals are committed to overcoming any self-perceived limitations and working together to improve the relationship.

If you are asking about your situation with an ex, the Eight of Swords reversed as a situation means that you might be beginning to liberate yourself from past emotional entanglement, or starting to recognize the power you have to move forward. You’re beginning to see past the emotional constraints of the relationship and realizing your ability to move on. This card represents an important step towards healing and personal growth.

If you are asking about a career or financial situation, the Eight of Swords reversed as a situation means that you may be acknowledging your power to change your circumstances, or starting to break free from perceived financial constraints. You’re challenging the beliefs that have kept you feeling stuck or restricted and are starting to make strides towards change. This card suggests you’re on the path towards greater financial freedom and control over your career.

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.