Six of Swords as Hopes and Fears (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

The Six of Swords is the card of moving on, departure, leaving behind, and acceptance. This card shows a man rowing a woman and child on a boat to a new place. They are leaving something behind, as their backs are turned towards us. The woman and the child have their hoods up, perhaps hiding their true identities. Though this scene is sad, they are moving towards a better future. 

The Six of Swords reminds us that we are all on a journey. Sometimes, we find people who will be at our side forever. Other times, we find people who will travel with us for only a period of time. The Six of Swords is a reminder that it is okay to move on. Release what no longer serves you. We will continue onwards with all of the lessons that we have learned.

Upright Six of Swords as Hopes and Fears

If you are asking about hopes, and you draw the Six of Swords, it means that you are moving towards a calmer state, transitioning from troubled waters to a place of safety and stability, signaling a journey towards healing. This card reflects the process of leaving behind difficult circumstances or mindsets and moving towards a more positive future. It suggests that while the journey may require leaving something behind, the direction is towards greater peace and well-being, emphasizing the importance of forward movement for personal growth.

The Six of Swords as fears can represent the fear of the unknown as you leave behind the familiar, even if it was painful, for a future that is uncertain. This fear stems from the natural human tendency to cling to what is known, even when it is detrimental, because the unknown represents uncharted territory that can be intimidating. It highlights the challenge of embracing change and trusting that the journey ahead, despite its uncertainties, holds the promise of a better situation.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, the Six of Swords in the hopes and fears position means you are hoping for a transition to a more stable and peaceful phase in your relationship, fearing the journey may bring its own challenges. This card indicates a desire for improvement and growth within the relationship, acknowledging that changes are necessary for this evolution. However, it also brings up concerns about the potential difficulties these changes might entail, emphasizing the need for mutual support and understanding as you navigate this path together.

If you are asking about an ex, the Six of Swords in the hopes and fears position means you are ready to move on and heal, yet you may fear what moving on truly means for your emotional well-being. This signifies a willingness to leave past relationships and their associated pains behind, seeking personal peace and closure. Yet, there’s apprehension about the loneliness or identity shifts that may accompany this process, highlighting the bittersweet nature of moving forward from a significant part of your life.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, the Six of Swords in the hopes and fears position means you are looking for a resolution to past issues and a smoother relationship moving forward, with apprehensions about the changes this may bring. This card suggests an effort to overcome misunderstandings or conflicts, aspiring for a harmonious relationship. However, it acknowledges the concern that resolving these issues and altering the dynamic might fundamentally change the relationship in unexpected ways.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, the Six of Swords in the hopes and fears position means you are navigating towards new opportunities or environments, hopeful yet cautious about the transition and its implications for your career path. This reflects a period of professional change, possibly involving a new job, career path, or work environment, seen as a necessary step for growth and improvement. Nonetheless, there’s a natural concern about the uncertainties and challenges this change might present, emphasizing the need for preparedness and adaptability in embracing new professional landscapes.

Reversed Six of Swords as Hopes and Fears

If you are asking about hopes, and you draw the Six of Swords reversed, it means that you are experiencing delays or resistance in moving away from difficult situations, with a reluctance or inability to leave the past behind and move forward. This card suggests that you might be holding onto something that is no longer serving you, whether due to comfort in the familiar or fear of the unknown. It highlights the importance of addressing whatever is holding you back, encouraging you to find the courage to release the past and embrace new opportunities for growth and healing.

The Six of Swords reversed as fears can represent the fear of being stuck in a negative situation without progress, unable to find the path forward to a better state. This fear is rooted in the feeling of being overwhelmed by current circumstances, making it difficult to see any possible solutions or exits. It underscores the need for perspective and possibly external support to help identify and navigate a way out of stagnation towards a more positive and fulfilling situation.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, the Six of Swords reversed in the hopes and fears position means there is a struggle to progress beyond current issues, with a fear that the relationship may not be able to move forward to a healthier place. This indicates a recognition of the need for change and growth within the relationship but facing challenges in making these transitions happen. It calls for open and honest communication between partners to address underlying issues, fostering a mutual commitment to healing and moving forward together.

If you are asking about an ex, the Six of Swords reversed in the hopes and fears position means you may be finding it difficult to fully detach and heal, fearing that you are unable to leave the past relationship and its issues behind. This card reflects the complex emotions involved in letting go of someone significant, highlighting the internal struggle between wanting to move on and feeling anchored to the past. It suggests the importance of self-reflection and possibly seeking closure or therapy to work through these emotions, allowing for true healing and the ability to move forward.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, the Six of Swords reversed in the hopes and fears position means there is a hesitation to move past conflicts or misunderstandings, with concerns about the relationship remaining in a state of tension. This reveals a desire for reconciliation and peace but an uncertainty about how to achieve it, possibly due to unresolved issues or a lack of effective communication. It emphasizes the need for making the first step towards resolution, understanding that healing begins with the willingness to address and work through the difficulties together.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, the Six of Swords reversed in the hopes and fears position means there are obstacles to making a necessary transition in your career, with fears about remaining stuck in an unsatisfactory situation. This card suggests that you are aware of the need for change to achieve personal and professional fulfillment but feel hindered by external circumstances or internal doubts. It encourages identifying the barriers to your progress and actively seeking solutions or new paths, reminding you that movement and growth often require taking calculated risks and embracing the unknown.

Conclusion

For relationships and feelings, the Six of Swords represents the journey of love. It is okay to move on when a situation is no longer serving you and your needs. It does not make the love that we have experienced any less valid. You will always take the lessons learned from it with you, and it will stay there within your heart. 

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.