Learning Tarot: Knight of Swords

Moon Phase

Waxing Crescent.
28% Illumination.

Swords

Element: Air
Associations: Intellect. Logic. Communication.

Court Card

Knight: Action. Initiative. Pursuit (of Goals?).

Intuitive Reading, Knight of Swords

Description: A valiant armored knight, sword raised to the sky, a look of determination on his face charges forward on a white horse. The horse is driven forward, but its eye looks back at the rider with an almost uncertain expression, still it charges at the knight's command. The knight's helm is topped with a bright red feather, matching both the cloak and tabard the figure wears. The tabard is adorned with a blue bird a shade darker than the adornment of the white horse which depicts yellow butterflies and red birds.

The clouds and trees blur in the background, and the horses mane trails behind it, giving the illusion of a fast-paced full gallop leading forward.

Intuitive Reading: The figure has made a decision, and it seems that there is no turning back. Urgency and swiftness drive the knight forward. The expression on the horse, however, begs the question: "Are you sure?" The horse is willing to follow its rider's command, but suggests that the action might be brash or shortsighted, as if the long term costs and consequences have not been fully considered. Despite doubts, the rider has made a clear and decisive choice that must be seized upon.

Was the Intuitive Reading Aligned with the Traditional

According to the Tarot Guidebook, Based on the tarot interpretations of Arthur Edward Waite, Modified, expanded, and edited by Phillip Young, PhD:

Meaning: "Use clear-headed and logical thinking to achieve your goals; be decisive."

Symbolism: "A warrior rides his steed into battle with clear purpose."

Reflection

I doubted myself in the initial intuitive reading. I felt the card indicated a clear choice and decisive action. The expression of the rider is determined and seizing the moment. The expression of the horse, however, seemed uncertain. I felt this meant that the rider needed to be certain about their choice and use clear thinking before charging in. This interpretation feels better suited to the reverse positioning of the card--which may mean, you're rushing into a situation without thinking.

My intuitive read blended with Young's interpretation, seems to say that a decision as been made and the rider is acting on the situation. It might also mean that the rider knows what to do and should act on the information they have.

In both readings, the subject of the reading must think through their options, make a decision, and act decisively.

Thoughts?