You’ve pulled the 6 of Swords in a tarot reading, and you’re wondering what it means in terms of feelings. Maybe you’re trying to figure out how someone feels about you, or perhaps you’re exploring your own emotions. Either way, this card is a fascinating one when it comes to feelings—because it’s all about transition, healing, and moving forward.
What Does This Card Represent?
In the Rider-Waite tarot deck, the 6 of Swords shows a figure in a boat, being rowed across calm waters by another person. There are six swords standing upright in the boat, and the background suggests a journey from rough waters to smoother ones. This imagery is key to understanding the card’s meaning.
At its core, the 6 of Swords is about transition and moving on. It’s about leaving behind something difficult or painful and heading toward calmer, more peaceful waters. But it’s not just about physical movement—it’s also about emotional and mental shifts.
The 6 of Swords As Your Feelings
If the 6 of Swords represents your feelings, it’s likely that you’re in a state of transition. Here’s what that might look like:
- Relief After a Tough Time: You’ve been through something challenging—maybe a breakup, a loss, or a period of intense stress—and now you’re starting to feel like you can breathe again. The worst is behind you, and you’re ready to move forward.
- A Desire for Peace: You’re tired of the drama, the chaos, or the emotional turmoil. The 6 of Swords suggests that you’re craving calm and stability. You’re ready to let go of what’s been weighing you down and focus on healing.
- Hopefulness: Even though you’re not entirely out of the woods yet, you can see the light at the end of the tunnel. You’re feeling hopeful about the future and optimistic that things will get better.
- Emotional Detachment: In some cases, the 6 of Swords can indicate that you’re emotionally distancing yourself from a situation or person. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing—it might be a necessary step for your own well-being.
The 6 of Swords As Someone Else’s Feelings
If you’re wondering how someone else feels about you (or a situation), the 6 of Swords can offer some clues. This card often points to feelings of hopefulness, a sense of emotional distance, and a desire to move on.
- They’re Moving On: This person might be in the process of letting go of something—whether it’s a past relationship, a grudge, or a difficult situation. They’re not fully “over it” yet, but they’re on their way.
- They Want Peace: If there’s been tension or conflict, this person is likely feeling ready to put it behind them. They’re not interested in rehashing old arguments or dwelling on the past. They just want to move forward.
- They’re Feeling Hopeful: This person might be looking toward the future with optimism. They’re ready to leave the past behind and focus on what’s ahead.
- They’re Emotionally Distant: In some cases, the 6 of Swords can suggest that this person is pulling away emotionally. They might be processing their feelings or creating some distance to protect themselves.

The 6 of Swords As How Someone Sees You
If the 6 of Swords comes up in a reading about how someone sees you, it’s likely that they view you as someone who’s in a period of transition or healing. Here’s what that might look like:
- You’re Moving On: This person sees you as someone who’s leaving the past behind. Maybe you’ve gone through a tough time, and they admire your strength and resilience in moving forward. They recognize that you’re not dwelling on what’s happened—you’re focused on the future.
- You’re a Peacemaker: They might see you as someone who brings calm and stability to their life. If there’s been chaos or conflict, they appreciate your ability to rise above it and create a sense of peace.
- You’re Emotionally Grounded: This person likely sees you as someone who’s emotionally mature and balanced. Even if you’ve been through challenges, they admire how you’ve handled them with grace and composure.
- You’re a Guide: In some cases, the 6 of Swords can suggest that this person sees you as a guide or mentor. They might feel like you’re helping them navigate their own journey, showing them how to move forward and leave the past behind.
The 6 of Swords As A Person
The 6 of Swords can also symbolize a specific person in your life—someone who plays a meaningful role in your journey. This card often points to a healer or guide, someone who helps others navigate through tough times with wisdom and calm. It could also represent a person who’s currently in transition, working through their own changes and moving toward a brighter future. Or, this card might describe someone who comes across as a bit emotionally detached, not because they’re cold, but because they’re processing their feelings or focusing on their own path.
- A Healer or Guide: This person is often someone who helps others through difficult times. They might be a therapist, a supportive friend, or even a spiritual guide. They have a calming presence and know how to help people move forward.
- Someone in Transition: The 6 of Swords as a person could represent someone who’s going through their own period of change. They might be leaving a toxic relationship, moving to a new city, or starting a new chapter in their life. They’re not fully “there” yet, but they’re on their way.
- Emotionally Detached: This person might come across as a bit distant or reserved. They’re not necessarily cold—they’re just processing their own emotions and focusing on their journey. They might need some space to figure things out.
- A Peaceful Presence: This person is often someone who brings a sense of calm to those around them. They’re not into drama or conflict—they prefer to focus on solutions and moving forward.
Final Thoughts
The 6 of Swords is a card of hope, healing, and forward motion. Whether it’s representing your feelings, someone else’s, or a situation you’re in, it’s a reminder that even though the journey might be tough, smoother waters are ahead. Take this card as a nudge to keep rowing—because the best is yet to come.