Nine of Swords: Overcoming Anxiety and Nightmares
Nine of Swords Tarot Card Meanings
Keywords - Upright and Reversed
Upright Keywords: Anxiety, Fear, Terror, Deep Unhappiness, Negativity, Stress, Overwhelmed, Burden, At Breaking Point, Mental Anguish, Inability to Cope or Face Life, Regret, Guilt, Remorse, Subject of Gossip, Focusing on Past, Isolation, Nightmares, Despair, Insomnia
Reversed Keywords: Recovering, Light at the End of Tunnel, Letting Go of Negativity/ Stress, Improving, Learning to Cope, Opening Up, Facing Life, Accepting Help, Extreme Guilt/ Regret/ Shame, Night Terror, Hallucinations, Total Breakdown
Description
A man sits on a bed with his face in his hands in the Nine of Swords tarot card. Nine swords are arranged in a vertical line on the wall behind him. The man’s shoulders are slumped downward as if he has just awoken from a nightmare or is sobbing into his hands. A depiction of a defeated person is carved into his bed underneath him, symbolizing the terrible sadness he feels.

Upright Meaning
General Meaning
The Nine of Swords may initially appear as a daunting card, but its message is one of hope. This Minor Arcana card suggests that you may be experiencing high levels of anxiety and fear, causing you to perceive situations as more negative than they are. However, it’s important to remember that these negative feelings are temporary and can be overcome. This card can serve as a reminder that it’s essential to take care of your mental health and seek support when needed. It’s also a sign that you may need to confront your negative thoughts and beliefs to move forward positively.
Finances and Career
Love and Relationships
In love and relationships, the Nine of Swords can represent a challenging time. This card may indicate that you or your partner are struggling with guilt or regret, leading to stress and tension within the relationship. However, it’s important to remember that these emotions are temporary and can be worked through with open communication and honesty. If you’re single, this card may suggest that it’s time to let go of the past and move forward positively. It’s a reminder that healing and learning from past mistakes can lead to a brighter future.
Health and Spirituality
In a health reading, the Nine of Swords may suggest that you’re experiencing migraines or mental health issues. However, it’s important to note that this card is a reminder to seek help and support. Don’t self-medicate with drugs or alcohol, as this can only make matters worse. Instead, reach out to a healthcare professional who can guide you on your journey towards better health. Spiritually, this card can indicate that you’re facing a difficult time, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel. It’s a reminder to stay strong and keep moving forward.
Journal Prompts (Upright)
- What recurring thoughts or fears are disturbing my peace lately?
- How does guilt or regret shape the way I view myself?
- Who or what can I turn to for comfort and clarity right now?
Affirmations (Upright)
- My fears are valid, but they do not define me.
- I am strong enough to face the darkness within.
- Every breath I take brings me closer to peace.

Reversed Meaning
The reversed Nine of Swords represents a positive shift from a period of darkness. This card indicates that you’re on the path to recovery from mental illness, depression, or stress. It’s a reminder that you’re capable of overcoming difficult situations and learning to manage your emotions. The reversed Nine of Swords can also suggest that you may be facing challenging times, but with the right support, you can overcome them. It’s a reminder to seek help and not give up hope.
However, in some cases, this card may represent a worsening of the troubles and a need to confront negative thoughts and beliefs. Regardless of the situation, the reversed Nine of Swords is a message of hope and a reminder that positive change is possible.
Journal Prompts (Reversed)
- What small victory or insight has recently brought me hope?
- How can I begin to release the shame or pain I’ve held onto?
- What support system do I need to lean into right now?
Affirmations (Reversed)
- I am healing, one step at a time.
- Light is returning to my life.
- I release my guilt and choose compassion for myself.
Keywords
The Nine of Swords tarot card interpretation, Symbolism of the Nine of Swords card in tarot, Exploring the Nine of Swords tarot card, Tarot symbolism and meanings, Minor Arcana tarot cards
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