Page of Swords Tarot Card Meanings

Page of Swords Upright Meaning

This card is traditionally entitled The Page, but in some modern decks appears as a Princess. The traditional interpretation is about a messenger, an emissary or liaison between separate camps, charged with faithfully representing one side's communications to the other. Because of this role, we do not think of this person as a servant, but rather as a diplomat, facilitating sensitive negotiations, often under difficult conditions.

This person is acting as the eyes and ears of her patron, and so she is sometimes referred to as The Watchman. Even kings are powerless if this messenger chooses to use her access to sensitive information for her own gain, as is implied by her other name, The Spy.

She could even be working as a double agent, playing both sides against each other to serve her own agenda. Her title is really camouflage in itself, serving as protective coloration so she can move among the people unrecognized, collecting information anonymously. Her vigilance often conceals an ulterior motive. She is a watcher who must herself be watched, because she dreams of someday taking matters into her own hands, preempting the plans of her employers.

Page of Swords Reversed Meaning

When the Page of Swords is reversed, it may be that one's critical tendencies are given too much leeway. Although you may declare a need to state the truth, a primary urge may be to recount another's shortcomings.

Analyze your possible prejudice, instead of the weakness of others. Don't take a stand against another until you have cleared any feelings of resentment or a punitive motive -- or else your attitude problem might undermine the truth of your message. Your best work is done when you are most objective. An urge to be overly discriminating destroys objectivity and can lead to conflict.

Page of Swords Advice Position

When the Page of Swords (in some decks, a Princess) is in this position, the situation requires subtle change in order for it to be brought to the highest good for all concerned. In contrast to times when one can best serve the greater good by being visible and heroic, this is a time when you must keep your own counsel, cover your tracks and stealthily accomplish what would be impossible to complete without privacy.

Reduce your profile and increase your anonymity, no matter how your self-image might suffer. Although it would be gratifying to accomplish what needs to be done and be aboveboard about it, that cannot be a priority at present.

Page of Swords Love Position

With the Page of Swords (in some decks, a Princess) in this position, you are playing the part of a canny investigator who is quietly gathering intelligence, listening behind the scenes, and perceiving unfolding trends and probabilities. Some call the Page the spy or the watchman. He can also be seen as a messenger. At his best, he faithfully transmits information that has been entrusted to him.

The temptation to color the message is great, however, making it important when this card appears in this position to know your motives. Why you are getting involved so deeply? What's driving your impulse to be part of the dialogue? Is there an urge to act beyond your mandate rather than function as a clear representative of truth? Be certain to assess and know this before you assume this role.

Page of Swords Career Position

When the Page of Swords (in some decks, a Princess) is in this position, you are contending with a work situation that, to some extent, may be suspicious and untrustworthy. There may be gossip and a lack of privacy. Perhaps you are in an environment where everyone is looking out for himself and no one is quite sure who to trust. In a climate of criticism, people are armed and defensive.

What others do not tell you becomes just as important as what they do. Be aware of nonverbal clues being given out unconsciously. Work a little harder to understand the motives of others so their behavior does not confuse you. While it is wise not to believe everything you hear, chances are you can believe what you are hearing between the lines.

Page of Swords in a Yes or No Card Reading

The Page of Swords is a card of insistence and mental rigor. If you're looking for simple Yes or No guidance and receive the Page of Swords, the answer is YES. Take yourself seriously at this time and evaluate things objectively.