The Eight of Swords is the card of feeling trapped. But the ties that bind you are weaker than they seem.
What Eight of Swords means
The Eight of Swords speaks of a mental block: you think there is no way out, but much of the prison lies in your own fears.
In a spread, it asks you to change the way you think. There is a way out — you have to look for it.
It is a card of feeling like a victim, a feeling that can be broken.
The card image
A blindfolded woman with her hands bound stands surrounded by eight swords stuck in the ground, yet there is room to walk out. The blindfold is fear; the swords are the thoughts that hold you captive; the open space is the ignored way out.
Eight of Swords in love
In love, feeling trapped in a relationship or unable to get out of a situation. Also a fear of loving.
What do they feel for me? Eight of Swords in feelings
When you ask "how do they feel about me?", the Eight of Swords shows someone who has feelings but feels trapped — by circumstances, fears or another relationship.
Eight of Swords at work
At work, feeling cornered in a job. There are alternatives you haven't seen yet.
Eight of Swords and money
In finances, the feeling that there is no way out of a tight spot. Ask for help and reorganize.
Eight of Swords reversed
Reversed, it is liberation: you take off the blindfold, see the way out and walk through it.
Combinations with other cards
Eight of Swords with The Devil: an emotional prison or dependence.
Eight of Swords with Strength: the courage to set yourself free.
Eight of Swords with the Nine of Swords: anxiety that holds you captive.
Eight of Swords in a yes-or-no reading
In Yes or No Tarot, Eight of Swords answers no. The full answer, with the why, depends on your question.
Mestre Cruz's advice
Take off the blindfold. The ties are weaker than your fear tells you. Take one step — the way out is there.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Eight of Swords mean being trapped?
Yes, feeling trapped, mostly by fear and negative thoughts.
Is there a way out with the Eight of Swords?
There is. The card shows that the prison is, for the most part, in your mind.
Is the Eight of Swords a yes or a no?
It is a no, for now.