Eight of Swords

The Eight of Swords has strong ties to the Planet Mercury, which is the planet of mind and mouth. This shows that these cards refer to matters of communication and creative expression. It can also be linked to Planet Jupiter, which symbolizes expansion and influence. The Eight of Swords can be linked to Gemini, which is represented by flexibility and cleverness. The Swords suit would point towards a mental journey.

The Eight of Swords shows a figure tied up and blindfolded, surrounded by swords. She is helpless and trapped, which is the theme of this card. The swords seem to cut off any escape, but they are at either side and there is a path directly forward.

Upright- Unproductive, hopelessness, helplessness

The Eight of Swords upright shows the inability to remove the blindfold and try to escape. You may feel trapped in a repeated cycle, clinging to what feels comfortable. A major change may be in order to break off from this destructive behavior and forge a new path. Much like removing her blindfold and escaping, the path ahead may not be easy. This prison is within your mind completely and be open to finding a new answer to your problem that you may not have initially considered. You are not powerless.

Reverse- taking control, independence, freedom

The reversed Eight of Swords says your beliefs are holding you back from realizing your true potential. You may not believe that you deserve happiness or you will be able to find a new job, so you don’t put in your application for one. Expand your mind to new ideas and reflect on what has worked in the past. Another meaning could be that you’re already letting go of old patterns and finding something new that works. Whatever step you’re in in your journey to self acceptance, the Eight of Swords is here to tell you that you are more than what you believe yourself to be.

**In a yes/no reading, the Eight of Swords is a no.