This post is intended to be a mini Ten 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 Ten 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 #10 – Themes
- The Number 10 is the end of a cycle, independence and infinite possibilities. It also resonates with leadership, optimism, confidence, independence, creative powers, success, energy, originality, adaptability, determination and individuality.
- Positive energetics of the Number 10 – independence, infinite potential, wholeness, self-determination and exploration
- Negative energetics of the Number 10 – failing to see the potential in something and feeling unfulfilled. Feeling self-righteous, proud and arrogant.

Ten of Swords Tarot – Upright Meaning
- The situation or circumstance is really over and done. There is an end but may not be bad but it will hurt somehow. If related to work or career – likely not a good ending.
- Heavy and bitter disappointment and finality.
- This card may come up if someone is asking the same question over and over again.
- Can also represent a total annihilation of a mental idea or belief and shows up when something someone believed to be true comes crashing down. Keep in mind this will be a mental approach, perspective, belief, attitude and therein lies the hope. What is being destroyed is no longer necessary and is outgrown. What causes the pain is the emotional attachment to the belief. When the new paradigm or belief is understood a sense of freedom may be present – newness and freshness.
- Cycle ending, feeling defeated however there is hope for new possibilities. Old patterns of negative thoughts are receding and no longer holding you back. It’s time for a new narrative
Shadow Side of the Ten of Swords
- Endurance, courage, standing tall, and rising again. It’s time to get out of the “death pose” and face things with a new perspective. New opportunities await you.
- The querent will make a comeback and will persevere.
- It is time to move on and don’t look back.
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 Steven Kamenar. 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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