Eight of Swords as Third Party (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 Third Party

If you are asking about a third-party situation, and you draw the Eight of Swords, it means that fear, feeling trapped, or self-imposed limitations are affecting the situation. One or both individuals may feel powerless, as if they have no control over what happens next, even though a solution may exist. This card suggests that uncertainty and external pressures are keeping the situation in a state of inaction.

The Eight of Swords as third party suggests that the connection between them is restrictive, with one or both feeling stuck, powerless, or unable to make a move. They may feel emotionally or mentally confined, unable to break free due to fear, guilt, or a sense of obligation. This suggests that while the connection exists, it may not be thriving, as it is weighed down by limitations and anxieties.

If you are asking about the third party’s intentions, the Eight of Swords indicates that they may feel trapped in the situation, believing they have no way out. They might be hesitant to take action because they feel powerless, stuck in a cycle of fear or external pressures. This card suggests that their lack of action comes from a deep-seated belief that they have no control over what happens next.

If you are wondering if your person will leave the third party, the Eight of Swords suggests that they feel unable to make a decision, paralyzed by fear or external pressures. They may believe that leaving is not an option, even if they are unhappy or unfulfilled. This card indicates that unless they find a way to confront their fears, they may remain stuck in an unsatisfying situation.

If you are wondering where you stand in this situation, the Eight of Swords indicates that you may be feeling stuck, but in reality, you have more power than you think. You may feel as if you are waiting for someone else to take action, but this card encourages you to recognize your own ability to make choices. The key to moving forward is seeing past the fear and realizing that you are not as powerless as you might feel.

For the future of this situation, the Eight of Swords suggests that the most likely outcome is continued stagnation, where fear and indecision prevent real progress. The situation may remain stuck unless someone actively works to break free from their mental or emotional limitations. If no action is taken, the relationship may continue in a cycle of avoidance and uncertainty.

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Reversed Eight of Swords as Third Party

If you are asking about a third-party situation, and you draw the Eight of Swords reversed, it means that someone is beginning to break free from fear, illusions, or restrictions. The energy is shifting, and there is a realization that the obstacles once perceived as unbreakable are actually surmountable. This suggests that clarity and empowerment are emerging, making forward movement possible.

The Eight of Swords reversed as third party suggests that the connection between them is loosening, with one or both realizing they are not as trapped as they thought. If they previously felt confined by circumstances, they are now recognizing that they have options. This card indicates that the relationship may be shifting, as someone starts to take control of their choices rather than feeling stuck in a situation they believed was beyond their control.

If you are asking about the third party’s intentions, the Eight of Swords reversed indicates that they are starting to gain confidence and consider new possibilities. They may no longer feel bound by the past, opening up to the idea of making changes in their love life. This suggests that rather than feeling restricted, they are finding the courage to acknowledge their desires and take steps toward a new path.

If you are wondering if your person will leave the third party, the Eight of Swords reversed suggests that they may be freeing themselves from self-doubt and taking steps toward change. They are beginning to see their situation more clearly, and with this awareness comes the ability to act. This card suggests that movement is happening, and they may no longer allow fear to dictate their choices.

If you are wondering where you stand in this situation, the Eight of Swords reversed indicates that clarity is returning, and you may soon feel more in control of your decisions. If you have felt stuck in uncertainty, this card signals that the confusion is lifting, allowing you to see things as they truly are. This newfound awareness will help you decide what is best for your emotional well-being moving forward.

For the future of this situation, the Eight of Swords reversed suggests that the most likely outcome is liberation, where someone gains the courage to break free from a limiting situation. Whether this means ending the third-party connection or making a firm decision, the energy of stagnation is finally shifting. This card encourages taking bold steps toward freedom, clarity, and a path that aligns with true happiness.

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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.