The INDIAN TAROTS – Eight of Swords

The Eight of Swords depicts a bounded figure surrounded by a cage of swords. This card appears whenever we feel trapped by outside forces. While the figure appears to be in a hopeless situation, the card allows for the possibility that they could escape their bonds and be free.

The Eight of Swords depicts a woman bound from head to toe. These bounds suggest a limit of thought. They are a manifestation of her caged mind. While it appears that she is trapped, the bounds look easily escapable because of its thinness. This implies that the woman’s mental limits can be overcome through self-realization.

Along with the bounds, the woman is blindfolded. The blindfold limits the intellect. In order for the woman to reach spiritual maturity, she must first remove the blind so that she can tie it on her own. The eight swords around the woman reiterate the parody of the blindfold. The swords should be tools used by the woman to cut the binds; they should be extensions of her. Instead, they trap her and limit her mobility. The swords emphasize the need to reclaim oneself from self-delusion. Water near her feet symbolises subconscious. It tells that though she is physically bound, her mind is still free.

The woman’s red clothing matches the paradox found in the clothing of the man in the Seven of Swords. The red illustrates the woman’s passion and zeal; however, the surrounding environment suggest that her emotions are consuming her. The card thus calls for a balance. There is water behind the woman. Like most of the water symbolism found in the Swords suit, the water here illustrates the woman’s connection to her subconscious. While her body is trapped, the woman still has the power of her mind; it is up to her to use it to set herself free. Behind the woman is a large castle. The security of the castle is juxtaposed with the insecurity of the sword cage. The castle is built to protect a person while the swords and binds are built to limit the woman. The castle furthers the interpretation that the woman needs to regain control of her surroundings and to use them for her advantage rather than her disadvantage.

Upright meaning

This card often represents feeling trapped, restricted, or powerless. It suggests that you may be limiting yourself or allowing others to control you, and that you need to find a way to break free. The card encourages you to trust your instincts and to find a way to regain your power.

Reverse meaning

This card can indicate freedom, release, or a shift in perspective. You may be finding ways to overcome your limitations and to break free from any negative patterns or beliefs. The card suggests that you may need to take a leap of faith and trust that everything will work out.