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Nine of Swords Tarot Card
The Empress tarot card

Card reading

The Nine of Swords

 
 
 

The Nine Of Words Tarot Card Meaning

When the Nine of Swords becomes present in your reading there is an experience in your life that you are going to need to analyze very carefully.

Focus on your priorities and keep moving. This card is representative of ill tidings coming your way. Sometimes life throws us curveballs that exist for the purpose of giving us the experience of working through the problems that they create and this is the case for you at this time. Often this card is depicting some kind of loss that has thrown you completely off of your normal routine.

The image that is depicted in the Rider-Waite deck shows a woman waking up in the dead of night in despair. Her head is in her hands and there are nine heavy swords hanging over her head. This is symbolic of loss, suffering and sometimes misery or oppression. This card could be symbolic of a loss of a loved one either in an end in a relationship or a death. When you have gotten this card in your reading you will need to take a step back emotionally and take a look at your situations as they currently are.

If you are experiencing this level of loss and you are right in the middle of grieving this could be hard to do. But this card tells you that it is important for you to keep focused on your end goal primarily because for one thing it will help with your grief and for another you will find that even though this is a difficult time, much growth will come as a result of you having the strength to keep on moving. You will definitely need to prioritize because you will not be able to take on very much right now, so what you do take on needs to be gentle and easy for you to handle. When you prioritize then you are giving the pain something positive to transform into, and often times pain and suffering can be excellent motivations. You need a distraction that will help you get through your grief. Immerse yourself totally and trust that you know what you need to do to succeed. At this point, the higher mind can take the wheel, and you should allow it to. Healing is found when one connects to their higher source energy.

Right now the combination that can be found in Knowledge and in Wisdom should be treated as interrelated. You cannot carry out a responsibility without the knowledge necessary to do so and you can’t be truly informed or knowledgeable on anything without the assistance of responsibility. There is a copasetic relationship here that cannot be denied. At this point in the Suit of Swords, you must take the responsibility inherent in the Knowledge that is at your fingertips so that you might get through this devastating time unscathed.

The time to fine-tune your personal philosophy and set goals for this lifetime is now. Even though it may be difficult to do so, there is nothing healthier for you at this time then to focus on improving yourself in life. Take the time now to consider how you are putting yourself down and being counterproductive, what is causing you suffering at this time? What is causing you to be depressed?

The Nine of Swords in Love

This is just a time in your life that you have to learn to figure out what you need to do. You have been so devastated by a loss in the past, or with a mistake that you have made that you cannot possibly fathom how you can ever be free to pursue something right and good ever again. Therefore you are stunted and you continue to attract those that are not good for you, they take advantage, they cheat and lie and betray you. This is a cycle that is feeding on itself because you have not healed from the grief of this big loss in your past. If you unravel the pain from your past, then you will be able to experience true happiness in the future.

The 9 swords in love can mean that someone has suddenly come to a realization in love and that they are suffering greatly in their love life. This card can mean the subconscious mind is working over-time and that they are worried about getting too carried away with someone. Another interpretation is that someone likes playing games, they like the chase and the early part of relationships. Even the on/off of how relationships pan out. If the situation is comfortable then one of the partners might get too bored. It could mean the end of a relationship as one or both parties are not in the real frame of mind. The 9 of swords in love can also indicate a breakup, or someone likes sexual or psychological pain. They use control and abuse to get what they need and want in life.

These are some keywords for the 9 of swords in love.

  • Enjoy sexually by pain or gets turned on by this.
  • Uses control and abuse in life.
  • Does not want the relationship to go anywhere.
  • Hurt by another so likes humiliation of love interests.
  • Likes playing games to hurt you and provides abuse.

The Nine Of Swords As Feelings

This card as an answer to feelings “how does he or she feel about me” can mean that there was real love pain for the person in the past and that this is keeping them awake in life. It can suggest they feel anxious about love but they like inflicting pain and playing games. 

It can also suggest you are not even in the mind of this person because they have so much going on in life. It can mean that the feelings they have for you are stressful and they are worried. Also, a sense of fear to some degree, maybe they are scared to have any relationship with anyone due to being hurt.  It could mean this person has deep feelings even, but cannot do anything because they are not ready for a real relationship, or that they don’t see any happiness around spending time with you only stress.

The Nine of Swords in Health

The Nine of Swords in health describes a time of depression. You have experienced grief, and then grief grabbed a hold of you and is sucking you dry slowly. Instead of taking the time that is necessary to grieve and then move on, you have instead become addicted to the doldrums sadness that came from that loss. You are reliving it on a regular basis. The first item of business for you is to recognize that you are perpetuating a cycle, and then once you have done that then you must begin to take action that is going to get you out of the house, to try to pursue new activities. Clean your house, do a house cleansing using salt and sage. Sage will clear out the negative energies and the salt will absorb it. You need to cleanse yourself and all that is around you so that you may begin anew.

The Nine of Swords in Work and Wealth

In work and wealth the Nine of Swords is recognizing that you have experienced a loss in your work situation or are you are in the process of working through one that you fear is on its way. Your business is going to be affected directly by the fear that is all around you right now. This is a passing phase, but if you wish to be prepared for this time of your life, then you should make sure that sign off on all of your paperwork, leaving nothing to chance. You need to have all of your bases covered in this instance as right now a lot can go wrong very easily.

Nine of Swords Advice 

Pulling this card in the advice position indicates that you are moving from a difficult time in life. This is a positive card to have in the advice position. It can indicate that you will be under pressure and you may feel uneasy about making decisions. In order to move forward, it is important for you to overcome the uneasiness that you will be feeling. 

Nine of Swords Outcome

The overall feeling of this card in the outcome position can mean that the longer-term result of the situation may not be as you hoped. It can mean feeling stressed and obsessing over something or someone. In love as an outcome, it can mean you are feeling anxiety. This card is also about projecting your hopes and dreams on other people. It could mean that you are still wanting something back from the past, such as a relationship or job. The 9 of swords in an outcome position could also be a warning of possible depression and that you are feeling unloved by someone. This card is drawn in love matters when there is someone toxic that is taking too much from you. 

The Nine Of Swords in the Reversed Position

The Fool Reversed

Reversed Meaning - Nine Of Swords

The 9 of swords reversed in a spread can mean that problems that you are experiencing are real and since you can’t directly attack them you are taking out your anger and resentment on yourself and others. You are being stubborn, incapable of flexibility as well as overly fixed in your beliefs. Be patient and believe in yourself at this time, for you have won. Trust that good news is on its way and take care not to rush anything.

Remember not to be too hard on yourself. The 9 of swords indicate that there is dedication in life and that you have inner cruelty. The nine shows an alleviation of the pressure. It can suggest that a sense of hope may return. More importantly, that healing is underway. I often feel the 9 of swords reversed is like a sun rising and that the sub-conscious can recover after a difficult time. Everyone must face the fear of rejection and overcoming problems and the stakes are high when this card is drawn. The 9 of swords indicate the turmoil, unworthiness, and guilt are to go into the foreground to never return.  

Nine Of Swords Reversed Love

Swords are associated with communication and drawing the 9 of swords for love in the reversed position can indicate that there is real hope for this relationship but there is also the danger of delusion. The card can also imply though some "temporary fling" you may find love, this card upright also means depression so the relationship might not bring happiness. Reversed the 9 of swords in love can suggest feeling happier in your love life - but it will only be temporary.

If there is a relationship that you are questioning it can indicate things are going to be concluded, even hidden secrets revealed. The card can also mean that you have suffered stress in relationships and they are not safe and secure. The suffering of love can not mean that things are over so don't worry if you have just started out on this love path. Sometimes grief from past relationships can sometimes haunt us and this could be why this card arose.

Nine of swords Reversed As Feelings

As feelings drawing the 9 of swords can mean that the person’s past is coming in the way of how they feel about future partners. It can suggest that they are worried about being hurt so they would rather not embark on love at all. The 9 of swords reversed in love can also a declaration that something is going to happen, either a declaration of love (which is rejected) or moving onto a new relationship.

Upright Nine of Swords Meanings in Keywords

  • Overcoming sadness
  • Finding happiness
  • Recovery
  • Trusting again
  • Gaining insight
  • Growing strong
  • Feeling reborn

Reversed Nine of Swords Meanings in Keywords

  • Reliving the past
  • Overthinking
  • Mental issues
  • Forced smiling
  • Rejecting help
  • Being alone
  • Rejecting people

The Empress

 
 

The Empress Tarot Card Meaning

The Empress is so caring but also hard, she has had to be, she has been through the washing machine of life, the stress cycles and stands there as the person who is adored. This is a woman who sits on that throne because she created the throne and the kingdom around her, she needs no permission. 

The most important thing I want to say to you, is this women does not need it validated. She does not need anybody to tell her she's doing fine. She KNOWS. She is really fucking powerful. And here is the bit nobody talks about. The Empress raises life. That is her power! But this is not soft. When this card appears in your reading she isn't saying "just chill and enjoy the abundance." She isn't saying YOU ARE THE ABUNDANCE. She is saying stop looking outside yourself for something you already are. Stop letting someone else give you what you built. And, that now, in this moment the harvest is ours. You grew it, and more importantly it is about making sure you stop apologising for taking up space.

If anyone has made you feel stressed out over the last few weeks - like your work isn't important, your body isn't enough, your creativity is pointless - the Empress has a message for them. She barely looks at them. Because, she does not need to. She keeps growing things. That is the most devastating response anyone can ever give, in the face of stress, even failure she keeps building and she keeps growing. You don't fight them, you don't argue, you keep creating. So one day they are in YOUR garden wondering how it got so big.

What does the Empress represent?

The Empress represents mothering love, an authority figure that is looking out for you and is often a kind guardian, it could also represent you, that you are now on the higher levels of spirituality, that you have learned your lessons. She is wise and has attained her place in the hierarchy of the older tarot through her own missteps and finding her way. She has learned her lessons and is now in a position to give her wisdom to you. This is usually a motherly representation in one way or another indicating that you need to look out for someone around you or that someone is looking out for you. She can be represented as an older woman with authority in her own right that has come from wisdom and experience.

She is a reminder that life is precious and can be found in even the smallest of moments. By her side stands a guardian to protect and watch over us in our journeys ahead. Her aura is one of elegance, power, beauty and love - an invitation to explore the possibilities of life. She is the Empress and she stands ready to nurture us all.

As I have said above the Empress also represents a pure form of abundance. If you have received this card in your reading, you are going to be well taken care of. You will get everything that you desire and more. 

She symbolizes the Land of Milk and Honey after a long journey of hard labor and stress. She is the Universal Goddess: Isis Unveiled, fertile, strong and dynamic. She is also Venus: plump and curvy, attracting wealth like a magnet. This woman is represents female strength as well as a symbol of ultimate abundance in your life. I want you to know that her needs will be fulfilled with joy and satisfaction. There is no need to fear. Having the Empress on your side is like having a fierce mother, protecting you always. Receiving this card in your reading means that you are making the right decision, that you are supported, and that there is a vast array of possibility for abundance currently transiting around you. Many rewards are coming your way.

The Empress, governed by so many feminine energies is pure emotion and deep intuitive understanding. The lessons that you have learned in your life will now continue to benefit you. As you apply what you learn, you will reap the benefits of emotional rewards. She encourages you to express unfiltered emotions because you have earned the right to do so.

The Empress In Love

When the Empress shows herself in a reading about Love whoever you are thinking about ADORES you. So be prepared to go through a cycle of being worshipped. Everyone wants to be close to you because you are The God/Goddess of Love. How can they resist you? It is practically impossible. This is your time to say what you want exactly the way that you want it and have others rush to your side to provide it. Take this time to be a little selfish; do not compromise your beliefs or your integrity for anyone that isn’t similar to you. Take this opportunity to attract someone fantastic, that matches your energy, and let it happen. Now is the time.

The Empress As Feelings

As I have said above if someone feels the empress towards you they ADORE you. They are going in with an open heart and generous spirit, the Empress tarot card speaks to us of a connection that is deeply honest and honoring. She means to “feel adored” and accepted by another person on a soul level - as if they hold you thought dear, respect and care for each of your needs. Regardless of circumstances or external factors, this tarot card can serve as a powerful reminder to show respect for others. As long as we do not attach any strings, requirements, or conditions to our love, we become an incredible force for healing.

The Empress has meaning that extends beyond just pregnancy, but also the earth by extension and the act of lovemaking, too. In your enquiry of feelings, it points to clear and obvious physical attraction that pulls the person you ask after towards you like a moth to a flame. Tread carefully, lust clouds the head like fog – physical love doesn’t guarantee feelings beyond the surface level. If the attraction is shared, take small steps forward to see if you are also compatible in terms of opinion and lifestyle before going any further with the relationship. 

The Empress Love Reconciliation

Yes, you will likely get back together this is commitment, beauty, happiness, and, of course, the starting of a family. There’s a REAL feeling here, and pregnancy. If you are single, a new romance is likely to blossom. Keep your eyes open and enjoy every minute, this next love may well be “the one” you’ve always waited for. Remember to stay in tune with the emotional side of any fledgeling relationships, it is not just the physical attraction that matters, but emotional compatibility, too.

The Empress in Health

When the Empress comes up with a reading where health is asked, she is telling you that you have been working too hard and it is time stop and smell the roses. You likely are in a place where you can enjoy the rewards of your hard efforts and look upon them from a comfy chair overlooking the ocean and be pleased with what you have been able to accomplish. The act of healing from a busy time is just as important as any other preventative measure one to protect their health.

When stress is allowed to eat at the body, it begins to disintegrate. The Empress informs you that you need to give yourself the time off that you deserve so that you can have the perspective of a job well done. The Empress also weighs in on reproductive health. If you are trying to get pregnant or are pregnant, this card bodes well for you because you have her support. If you are trying to increase circulation or need to focus on feminine issues, the Empress will help you.

The Empress in Work, Money, Business, Career, and Wealth

Take or plan a vacation and enjoy the moment rather than constantly trying to find ways to make more money. Often this card will pop up when you are at risk of spreading yourself too thin. Do not make large decisions regarding change of employment or financial issues. If you are seeking work, the Empress says that it is going to take time. Even in the most dire situations, there are solutions that can be found and likely others that are willing to help you get on your feet until a more productive air is around you. As the empress is connected to the earth element in work she brings with her a nurturing move on the part of an employer or employee. Something is delicate, almost born. It can mean that you might be aiming high but you need time to develop yourself. The empress also indicates that one must be guided firmly but surely if contemplating a new career path.

The Empress Advice

The advice of this card is to be who you are and stop asking for permission. That's the message. Pulling the Empress into advise mode, she looks you in the eye and says WHY ARE you WAITING? And you know what to do, you know this for weeks. But the Empress doesn't check, she creates. She chooses and then builds and if someone does not like what she built they do not tear it down - they plant something else next to it. Whatever decision you are circling now, there is no information shortage going on right now. The Empress in advice is like your grandmother telling you to just do it.

The Empress Yes Or No

This card for this position is a yes. The Empress is connected to positive outcomes and new beginnings. In questions regarding fertility or pregnancy, this card carries extra meaning; your answer is it will happen, and there is very likely to be a baby in your future. 

The Empress Past

The Empress highlights a significant female figure from your past, she walked through the pages of your history like a leader, leaving her mark and paving the way for you. She might have been maternal, she might have been an equal, whatever the case, did she teach you lessons that you are now ignoring? This card may also appear in your past position when an opportunity you seized in the past has come good in the present. Seeds do not grow overnight but instead, they must be cared for and watered in order to become something more. The card reminds you that hard work is worth it, even when the rewards lie further down the road than you’d like. 

The Empress Present 

And something new is coming! The thing I want to remind you is that you don't have to be BRAVE in the way you think brave looks. No need to charge forward with a sword, as the Empress wears no sword. Yes, she really grows things, she is strong but not loud. It is deep and still and immovable if you know what I mean. It's the woman who keeps the whole family together and nobody notices until she stops. So stop figuring out what this new thing is. She needs soil and time and the will to keep going when nothing is visible yet. Seeds are already in the ground. And here I am telling you that you were the one who planted them - believe it or not. That was planting. every decision you made recently, every hard conversation, every door you closed - that was planting. And now let it grow, you will change with this new chapter. Let it change. 

The Empress Future and Outcome

All I can say is massive abundance is coming.  You will blossom into something much, much more; it could be a personal ambition about to take flight, a new relationship or stage of commitment with a loved one, or simply a change in location and lifestyle. Whatever the transformation, be happy that you have it all to come - the results will be as beautiful and distinct as a crystal blue sea.

The Empress As Friendship

For friendship, this is having real friends for once. If you are seeing this card, you are an important part of that balance so keep on doing what you’re doing and the happiness within your friendships will continue to fill each of you with gratitude and joy. If you have broken a friendship or had problems with a female then this is a kind of healing card. Things are going to work out. 

Empress Tarot Reversed

Reversed Empress In A Reading

The Empress in the reversed position, in my view, is symbolic of infertility, inconclusiveness, lack of abundance and confusion as well as instability and sometimes financial issues. It can also be a female that is starting to really ANNOY you. This happens when one is too caught up in attempting to make everything perfect and there is never any rest to gather what was. This also means that you need to use caution in your spending habits so as to not flitter away financial resources.

Take care to set up a nest egg for yourself so that you might be prepared should something go wrong. Question your poverty mindset and your feelings toward money or abundance. Do you feel worthy of relaxation? Of reaping the benefits that you have sown after hard work? Do you feel as though it is impossible to catch up? Ask the Empress to help heal your poverty mindset so that you can reap the benefits of the abundance that she has to offer you.

The Empress Reversed - Love and Romance

Your relationship is bad right now this card drawn means the lover is both tender and sad at the same time. It could be that you fight over little stuff. Maybe somebody gets mad about nothing. This often occurs when we realize something has gone, or that you forgotten to love each other. The Empress reversed also carries warnings of a love that has resulted in some hardness and lack of empathy. For some of you, you and your partner may have been arguing or ignoring opportunities to be tender and loving with one another.

The Empress reversed - Family and Home

Thsi card can sometimes end up in spreads  when the maternal figure of the family has been too busy or occupied to take on her normal role as the carer and nurturer of the family. If this figure is usually you (reversed), then it is worth refocussing your attention. Remember that communication and affection are two of the most important things in any happy, healthy family talking.

The Empress Reversed - Work and Finances

I often see this when someone's career has become dull and unfulfilling, it may not be awful, but like bread without butter, it’s far from ideal. Perhaps the pay is good, but the emotional side of things are lacking and leave a hole in your life. The Empress asks if you have put money and status above what you’re truly passionate about? Or maybe you are working hard and enjoying your tasks but not feeling the benefit of appreciation from your colleagues or boss. Sometimes we can improve things without making huge changes, we just need to look at things in a new light and keep an open mind to see the possibilities before us. 

The Empress Reversed - Health and Wellness

Remember that the best way to break out of a lull of energy is to force yourself to get more active and reignite your passion for life, through movement and the great outdoors. This card has a connection with nature, and when reversed it may highlight that a person is spending too much time indoors and away from the natural world, are the four walls closing in? For women trying to conceive, this card reversed often suggests complications or issues with infertility. Go to your doctor for a check-up to see what your situation is.  These complications may appear both for women who do want to conceive and for those who may unknowingly be pregnant and so it’s better to be safe than sorry.  

The Empress Reversed - Personal Spirituality

The Empress reversed points to a crossroads of the true spiritual path. You may have allowed yourself to disconnect from your spiritual journey, sometimes the daily bustle of life gets in the way of the deeper meaning that sits behind everything. This card reversed urges you not to get caught up in the mundane things in everyday life. 

The Empress Upright Meanings in Keywords

  • Romance
  • Pregnancy 
  • Birth
  • Growth
  • Motherly

The Empress Reversed Meanings in Keywords

  • Delay
  • Domestic problems
  • Family problems
  • Stuck feminine energy