Element: Air
Sign: 3. decan of Gemini
Planet: Sun
Tree of Life: Malkuth
Light: endings, decay, transformation
Shadow: catastrophe, destruction
Lord of Ruin
The Ten of Swords is also known as the Lord of Ruin. This title is derived from the card’s strong association with the end of a journey and the inevitability of decay in the physical world. Despite its seemingly grim depiction, this card is not entirely devoid of hope.
This tarot card serves as a reminder that endings are necessary for new beginnings. It encourages us to embrace change and transformation, even when they seem daunting or painful.
Joe’s Divine Guidance - Ten of Swords in a Tarot Reading
Upright
Reversed
The Ten of Swords in the upright position signifies the end of a cycle or a significant transformation. It suggests a period of endings and decay, where things that once held importance no longer serve their purpose. This card encourages acceptance of these endings and the understanding that they are necessary for growth and new beginnings.
In its reversed form, the Ten of Swords indicates a resistance to necessary endings or a refusal to accept the reality of a situation. It serves as a warning against holding onto things that no longer serve you and encourages the release of outdated beliefs or situations.
Mystical Symbolism - Ten of Swords Thoth
Ten Swords: The ten swords arranged in the pattern of the Tree of Life symbolize the end of a journey. Each sword carries a different symbol, representing various aspects of life and the inevitability of their decay.
Scales: The scales at the top of the card represent balance and the necessity of endings for growth to occur.
Hourglass: The hourglass symbolizes the passage of time and the impermanence of all things.
Tower Cross: The tower cross signifies the end of the journey, as it is the final letter in the Hebrew alphabet.
Pronged Swords: The pronged swords represent the potential harm that can come from refusing to let go and move on.
Pentagram with Lunar Crescent: The pentagram with the lunar crescent symbolizes the physical world and the subconscious fears that can manifest into reality.
Tree of Life: Malkuth and the Ten of Swords
The Ten of Swords is linked with Malkuth on the Tree of Life, which represents the physical world and the end of the journey on the Tree of Life. This card embodies the concept of endings and the necessity of decay for new beginnings.
This card serves as a reminder to embrace the cycle of life and death, understanding that endings are necessary for transformation and growth.
Astrology Insights
The Ten of Swords in the Thoth Tarot is associated with the Sun in Gemini. The Sun represents life and vitality, while Gemini is associated with duality and change. This combination suggests a period of transformation and change, where old things must end to make way for new beginnings. Despite the seemingly grim depiction, the Ten of Swords carries a message of hope and transformation, encouraging acceptance of endings as a part of life’s cycle.