King of Swords Grand Etteilla card meaning
King of Swords, printed as Roi d'Épée, Homme de Robe, is card 50 of 78 in the Grand Etteilla, in the Swords group. The King of Swords is the man of the robe: lawyer, scholar, expert. Reversed, an ill-intentioned man. He invites you to seek sound counsel where it matters.
What King of Swords is about
The King of Swords is card 50, opening the Swords suit in the Grand Etteilla. His title printed on the card is 'Homme de Robe', a man of the robe, meaning a lawyer, judge or other professional. The keywords are expertise, law and counsel. In Etteilla's system, this king is wise, knowledgeable and authoritative.
In everyday life
The King of Swords invites you to seek or offer expert advice. It might point to a professional in your life, like a lawyer, doctor or adviser. It's about valuing expertise and knowing when to ask for help. It's not about anyone's intentions. For anything legal, medical or financial, always speak to someone qualified. It's also about the value of measured, well-informed thinking. This king doesn't react on impulse. He considers the evidence, weighs things up and gives careful counsel. If you're facing a decision, channelling that approach, gathering facts, thinking it through, maybe getting a second opinion, can help you feel more confident in whatever you decide. It's okay to take your time.
50. King of Swords Maybe you've been trying to sort out a tricky tax question on your own. Booking a session with an accountant could save you time and stress.
50. King of Swords Or a friend keeps asking for your advice in an area you know well. Sharing your knowledge clearly and kindly is very much this king.
King of Swords in the main areas of life
In love and relationships
In love, the King of Swords is L'Homme de Robe, the man of the robe: a lawyer, judge or learned expert. In relationships, he points to calm, reasoned counsel. For example, if you and your partner are stuck on a big disagreement, a trained counsellor or a level-headed friend can help you both lay out your views clearly and fairly.
At work and in study
At work, this King points to expertise and professional advice. Say you're facing a contract question or a technical problem beyond your knowledge. Find the right expert rather than guessing. It also asks whether you are the expert others rely on, and whether you share that knowledge generously.
With money and resources
With money, the King of Swords asks you to seek qualified advice for complex matters, like pensions, tax or large investments. For example, before making a major decision, book a session with a regulated adviser. This card reflects good counsel, and it can't tell you how any legal or financial matter turns out.
King of Swords reversed: L'Homme méchant
The reversed keyword printed on the card is L'Homme méchant, "an ill-meaning man". Reversed, the expert becomes an ill-meaning man: an opponent. I read it as a nudge to protect yourself and keep records, never as proof about any particular person.
Things to try today
- Ask an expert for advice on something you've been struggling with.
- Share your own expertise with someone who needs it.
- Write down one area where you'd like to become more knowledgeable.
Where would expert advice serve me better than guessing?
