Minor Arcana

Six of Swords

Ted is seen embarking on the final stage of a demanding quest. His five faithful companions (making up, with Ted’s sword, a total of six swords), who have accompanied him thus far, remain behind on the bank, giving a farewell salute as they wish him well on his journey. The trees of autumn are shedding their leaves, symbolically ending a period of existence. The water that Ted is crossing is calm and undisturbed, indicating that the path ahead is untroubled, even though the final journey has only just begun.

The feel of ancient legend here is not accidental. There are resemblances to the tale of the sword Excalibur being returned to the Lady of the Lake on the death of King Arthur. This, like Ted’s present situation, represents the conclusion of a long saga, which needs to be brought to a satisfactory conclusion. There has been no shortage of difficulties along the way, not least the reluctance of the hero (in the Arthurian story, Sir Bedivere) to give up the sword. Perseverance has been necessary to reach this point and, although the major obstacles are now in the past, perseverance is still required in order to complete the journey.

Divination

End of a long, hard journey, literal or metaphorical. Approaching the destination or final goal. Success after trouble and anxiety. Movement to a more positive mental state. Possible new job or relationship, perhaps involving travel abroad. Obstacles overcome through your efforts: success awaits.

For experts

• Title Lord of Earned Success
• Astrology Second decan of Aquarius (10°-20° ♒)
• Tree of Life Tifaret

You can see these cards at their best in the finished deck of Ted’s Tarot. Buy it here.