advanced tarot interpretation

The Meaning of the "Eight of Swords" Tarot Card

The Symbolism of the Tarot Card:

A female figure is bound and blindfolded, with a number of swords standing guard around her, or holding her prisoner, depending on the perspective. A fortress rises in the background, and the ground at her feet is marshy and wet.

The Meaning of the Tarot Card:

Exposure. Bondage. Oppression. Limitations are being imposed on the individual by outside forces. A temporary crisis from which there is an escape, just not an obvious one. False and malicious statements may have been made against the person involved; slander. On a deeper level, this is a card of initiation of the spirit. In Masonic tradition, candidates are hoodwinked and bound in preparation for their initiation into the order. This is a method copied by a number of mystery religions and secret societies. As such it could also signify a spiritual rebirth through hardship.