The Image
A blindfolded woman is bound and surrounded by eight swords. Alone and imprisoned, she cannot move nor free herself from the restrictions. The water at her feet signify emotions of confusion and oppression.
Keywords
Feeling restricted, being surrounded by obstacles, fear of making a move, no way out, mental anguish.
The Meaning of the Card 8 of Swords
The appearance of 8 of Swords in a tarot spread will signify being surrounded by difficulties, which at the moment feel impossible to overcome. You have tried, you battled your way up till now, and find yourself at a dead end, feeling oppressed and enclosed by obstacles.
Sometimes it means that we are suddenly faced with external circumstances, decisions or policies that stand in the way of achieving our goals. However, it is important to remember that the Swords are the cards of thoughts. We may therefore “think” that there is no way out of the situation. And often, our own fears, inhibitions, past disappointments are the bondages that restrict us most.
If you find yourself trapped and unable to see solution to your problems, do not let you mind deceive you into thinking that the problems are insurmountable. Look around for new ways that you may have not thought about before. You can be certain that sooner or later new opportunities will arise.
8 of Swords as Advice Card
As advice, the card 8 of Swords will ask you to take a careful look at your actions. Are you imposing the restrictions on yourself? Is fear preventing you from actively changing the circumstances that limit you? Understanding your own actions may be the first step towards freedom of choice and happiness.
If the restrictions are originating not from within you but rather from the outside circumstances, 8 of Swords will ask you to accept your limitations for now. Don’t fight against your bonds, they will only get tighter. Acknowledge and accept the fact that sometimes, all you can do is wait things out. As you relax in your bondage, its power will lessen and you will gain your freedom to once again pursue your goals.