It makes sense that the figure on The Nine of Swords is in bed because it is during the night that out grieves and regrets come to mind most intensely. The quiet darkness strips away the distractions of the day, leaving us alone with our thoughts. During the darkness of the night, a person is usually filled with worries that refuse to go away. The Nine of Swords represents this unhappiness that can strike us at any time. The Nine of Swords indicates the fact that there is no specific time for something to go wrong. Grief and sorrow can strike our lives at any point of time without any prior notice.

Unlike the pain of The Three of Swords, which seems to come from without. The Nine of Swords represents the pain that we generate from within. What tortures we put ourselves through when our fears and doubts overwhelm us. Worry is probably the most common. A person asks himself if he has done enough. He even asks if everything would turn out to be alright. Such a person tries to analyze his options. The thoughts go round and round - impossible to turn off. The Nine of Swords can be associated with doubting that all will go well. It is about brooding and making yourself sick over your troubles. It is also about going over and over an issue. A person with The Nine of Swords feels anxious and tense. Such a person usually gets worked up.

Guilt is another source of pain. When we have done something that we feel is wrong or hurtful - or failed to do something we think we should have - the distress can be very real. It is worse when nothing we do relieve the bad feelings or makes them go away. Finally, there is just pure anguish. Sometimes the pain of life is so total that we all feel like doing is crying into our hands. A person with The Nine of Swords regrets some offense. He refuses to forgive himself. A person with this card usually wants to turn the clock back. He keeps on focusing on his sins. Such a person is usually too hard on himself. A person with The Nine of Swords denies that he did his best and gets overwhelmed by remorse.

Needless to say, The Nine of Swords is not the most pleasant of cards. But, it doesn’t always indicate major distress. Often it is just a sign of some element of unhappiness or trouble - a vulnerable spot in your life. This card is often a warning from your inner guide that the path you are going down may be a difficult one. If you approach The Nine of Swords in this spirit - as a caution sign - you will be able to use it constructively. Examine your situation carefully to be sure you are making the best choices. Even a small change can make all the difference. A person with this cars usually feels that he has reached his limits. He has sleepless nights ad feels depressed. Such a person forgets joy and just wants to cry.

The Nine of Swords can be closely associated with the following :

• Worry
• Guilt
• Anguish