Home » Learn Thoth Tarot » Minor Arcana » Swords » Eight of Swords
Element: Air
Sign: 1. decan of Gemini
Planet: Jupiter
Tree of Life: Hod
Light: confusion, indecision, overthinking
Shadow: distraction, trivial matters, momentary confusion
Lord of Shortened Force
The Eight of Swords is also known as the Lord of Shortened Force. This title is derived from the card’s representation of a mind filled with interference and indecision. The Eight of Swords reminds us that while we may feel trapped by our thoughts, it is within our power to free ourselves. By focusing on our inner wisdom and intuition, we can cut through the noise and find clarity.
Joe’s Divine Guidance - Eight of Swords in a Tarot Reading
Upright
Reversed
When this tarot card appears upright, it signifies a period of mental confusion and indecision. You may feel trapped by your thoughts, unable to decide which path to take. However, this card serves as a reminder that the power to overcome this mental block lies within you. By focusing on your intuition and inner wisdom, you can cut through the noise and find the clarity you need to move forward.
The Eight of Swords reversed suggests that you are beginning to break free from the mental constraints. This card indicates a period of clarity and decision-making, where you are finally able to cut through the confusion and make a decision. However, it also serves as a reminder to be mindful of your thoughts and not to let them control you.
Mystical Symbolism - Eight of Swords Thoth
Two Large Swords: The two large swords in the center of the card represent the main decision or issue at hand. They symbolize the primary source of confusion or indecision.
Smaller Swords: The smaller swords crisscrossing the larger ones represent the minor thoughts or distractions that are adding to the confusion and preventing clear decision-making.
Cultural Imprints: The different types of swords, each representing a different culture, symbolize how external influences can contribute to our internal confusion and indecision.
Tree of Life: Hod and the Eight of Swords
The Eight of Swords is linked with Hod on the Tree of Life. Hod represents splendor and the power of the mind. In the context of the Eight of Swords, this card embodies the mental confusion and indecision that can arise when we overthink or allow external influences to cloud our judgment. This card serves as a reminder to trust in our inner wisdom and intuition to guide us through periods of confusion and indecision.
Astrology Insights
The Eight of Swords in the Thoth Tarot is associated with Jupiter in Gemini. Jupiter is the planet of growth and expansion, and Gemini is a sign associated with duality and communication. This combination suggests a mind that is expansive and curious, but also prone to overthinking and indecision. The Eight of Swords serves as a reminder to harness the expansive energy of Jupiter and the communicative energy of Gemini to cut through the noise and find clarity.