upright:

objectivityintegritydiscipline

reversed:

manipulationcrueltyexploitation

The King of Swords represents a pinnacle of intellectual and rational superiority. He embodies the peak of logical reasoning, making decisions that are detached from emotional influence. This card signifies the mastery of the mental realm, where one’s head rules over their heart. He is a paragon of objectivity, able to assess situations with clarity and precision, untainted by personal biases.

In his upright position, the King of Swords embodies discipline, integrity, and fairness. His decisions are guided by principles of justice and truth, and he is unwavering in the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. He is a skilled strategist, able to analyze complex situations and find the most effective solutions. His intellectual integrity and commitment to reason make him a trusted authority in his domain.

However, when the King of Swords appears in the reversed position, his characteristics take a dark turn. He becomes a master of manipulation, using his intellectual prowess to deceive and control others. His obsession with winning and being right can lead him to engage in cruel and oppressive behavior, leveraging his power to exploit and dominate others. The reversal of this card indicates a tendency to prioritize personal gain over the well-being of others, valuing victory at any cost.

In both its upright and reversed forms, the King of Swords represents the intersection of intellect and power. While in its noble form, it embodies the qualities of a wise and just leader, in its reversed form, it takes on the qualities of a ruthless and cunning tyrant.