The airy nature of the Swords suit and the logical disposition of the King card combine in an intellectual, objective and authoritative person with sound reason and an active mind. He is a leader and a judge whom people trust. Like the Kings of the other suits, he is not to be taken lightly; his authority is unquestioned, and if it is not respected he will show his other, less tolerant side. His upright pose, with the sword held as a symbol of authority, suggests his righteousness and openness to helping; he is untainted by any scandal or rumour and his reputation is flawless. Sometimes he might be boring, but he is not here to inspire you; he is here to give you a command or advice, depending on the situation, and to punish all those who act against the law. Notice how there is no wind on this card, unlike on the other court cards of the Swords suit; obviously, here reason and the other traits of the air element are calm and focused. Air dominates but acknowledges the other elements.
On the card
The King sits facing us directly on a tall stone throne, holding an unsheathed sword upright in his right hand. The sword is tilted slightly to one side, but it is held firmly and steadily. He wears a blue tunic under a purple cloak and a crown.
The back of the throne is carved with butterflies and crescent moons, and with small winged figures, all signs of the air element and of the mind. Behind him is a pale sky with a few low clouds and a couple of birds, and in the distance a row of tall, thin trees stands perfectly straight.
Unlike the Page, Knight and Queen of Swords, where the wind bends the trees and tears at the clouds, the scene here is still. The King himself is calm and direct, looking straight out of the card. He does not charge or gesture; he simply sits and judges.
The frontal pose, the steady sword and the quiet landscape all express authority grounded in reason. This is the mind fully in command of itself, clear, fair and impartial.
Upright
Active, analytical, commanding and authoritative, fair decisions, law, order, excellent counsellor, just.
Reversed
Ego, bullying, impersonal, cruel, harsh, judgmental, uncompromising, lacking compassion, calculating.