
This post is intended to be a mini Nine of Swords Tarot Guide. It is important to mention that the longer you work with the cards the more you will discover how they speak to you. For example, the Nine of Swords does have a theme and traditional meaning but I recommend leaving “space” for the card to speak to you. Over time, you may discover that the card represents unique insights or themes for you personally.
Suit of Swords Summary

Numerology of the #9 – Themes
- The Number 9 is completion but NOT finality in the cyclical sense, process of transformation, compassion and kindness for the greater good.
- Positive energetics of the Number 9 – through life experiences come transformation and inner wisdom, leading by example, respect for others and a willingness to help.
- Negative energetics of the Number 9 – resentment, sacrificing the self for others too much, experiencing suffering and struggle.
Nine of Swords Tarot – Upright Meaning
- Anxiety and loss of sleep. The “Nightmare card” – one’s mind is making a hell of heaven.Thinking bad things might happen or having bad dreams over things that really aren’t so bad.
- Letting irrational fears or thoughts take over and get the best of you. Obsessive thoughts. Worrying about too many things that aren’t real. Your time is plagued by worries (worry about the future; anxiety about the past).
- This card tells us when the anxiety or worry comes it is time to tap into our tools / powers. It’s a message that yes things may be bad but they are not as bad as they appear to be. (Chicken little). The sky is not falling and the best approach is to look at tangible facts and evidence and to count blessings and stay grounded.
- Feeling like a failure or blaming yourself for what has happened (whether it is true or not)
Shadow Side of the Nine of Swords
- A lesser degree of anxiety, haunting and pain.
- Healing is starting to take place, pain is receding, the worst is over and there is optimism.
- There are two sides to a coin – take the worst case scenario you fear and turn it inside out. Turn negative thinking around and choose thoughts that are empowering.
Where to Find the Tarot Decks In Pinterest Pins Linked to this Post
- The Dark Wood Tarot by Sasha Graham
- Tarot Familiars by Lo Scarabeo
- Oraculum Leviathan: Draconian Tarot Deck & Grimoire by Asenath Mason and Bill Duvendack
- Tarot Apokalypsis Deck by Kim Huggins and Eric C. Dunne
- Tarot of Pagan Cats by Lo Scarabeo
- Light Seer’s Tarot Deck by Chris-Anne
- Tarot of the Ages by Mario Garizio
Artist Attribution
The featured image for this post is by M. Wrona. Discovered on Unsplash.com.
References
- My own experience
- The Dark Wood Tarot by Sasha Graham
- Holistic Tarot: An Integrative Approach to Using Tarot for Personal Growth by Benebell Wenn
Disclaimer
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