The Tarot Knights, those bold and impulsive court characters who embody action and adventure with their energy and bravery… How faithful or unfaithful are they?

I must say, this depends a lot on whether the cards come out upright or reversed in a reading, and since their meanings are certainly more negative when reversed, we will focus on that.

The Tarot Knights and infidelity

As a general rule, all upright court cards have very positive connotations, but, What happens when these figures appear reversed? How do their attributes change, and how might that affect their loyalty and faithfulness in relationships?
Thus, we will focus on the reversed Knights of the four Tarot suits – Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles – to explore how these bold and sometimes reckless characters might give in to the temptation of infidelity.

We’ll discover how the intense and often unstable energies of these reversed Knights can manifest in ways that threaten the stability and trust in a relationship.

Not being what they seem

In general, all reversed Tarot Knights share the following trait: They are not what they seem or claim to be.
There is always some lying, deception, or manipulation with these figures, making them unreliable and untrustworthy. But they have so much charm, charisma, and a natural ability to seduce that, even knowing their lack of reliability, it’s hard to resist their tricks.

Infidelity ranking, from most to least likely

I have ranked the reversed Tarot Knights based on their greater tendency to be unfaithful. Of course, this is debatable; it’s just my personal interpretation of these cards and Tarot in general. You might rank them differently, and that would be totally valid, but as far as I’m concerned, this is the order of greatest to least likelihood of infidelity among the knights:

• 1st The Knight of Cups
• 2nd The Knight of Wands
• 3rd The Knight of Swords
• 4th The Knight of Pentacles

The Tarot Knights and infidelity

1st Place: The Knight of Cups

The Knight of Cups is often seen as the “knight in shining armor” of the Tarot, representing romance, chivalry, and charm. However, when this card appears reversed, these positive traits can turn problematic.

The reversed Knight of Cups may indicate a personality that is emotionally unstable or overly idealistic.

This figure can represent someone who falls in love easily but can fall out of love just as quickly.

This person might always be on the lookout for the “perfect person” or the ideal relationship and could be willing to leave an existing relationship if they believe they’ve found something better.

Naturally seductive, and being the Tarot Knight who understands others best, who listens like no other and is always there as support, they sometimes use this as their best method to achieve their goal of conquest.

Unfaithful by nature

Why might they be unfaithful? Well, because the reversed Knight of Cups is someone who is drawn to the romance and thrill of a new relationship almost viscerally.
This person may be prone to infidelity due to their constant search for romantic and emotional perfection. They may seek validation and love from others and might be tempted to look for these things outside their current relationship if they feel they’re not getting them at home.

The reversed Knight of Cups is nonconformist and a “lover of love.” They are passionate about the romance, the chase, feeling “butterflies,” and they fall in love with this sensation rather than with the other person. Once the initial thrill passes, they lose interest.

Additionally, the reversed Knight of Cups may represent someone who is manipulative in their relationships. This figure can use their charm and emotional intelligence to influence others and get what they want.

At worst, they may be someone who uses romance and emotion to deceive others and hide their true intentions. In other words, they may fake emotions, feelings, and love.

Situations and people leading to infidelity

Our reversed Knight of Cups might be tempted to cheat in one of these scenarios:

The unexpected seduction

At a social gathering, the reversed Knight of Cups might be unfaithful with a new acquaintance who seems to offer an exciting vision of what love could be. Their charm and ability to listen and understand others make it easy for them to connect quickly with new people. They may find the excitement and novelty of this encounter irresistible, especially if they feel their current relationship lacks these things.

Flirting at the office

In a work environment, the reversed Knight of Cups may be tempted to cheat with a colleague who seems to offer an emotional connection they don’t find at home. The monotony of daily work can lead to the beginning of a secret romance, especially if this knight feels more understood by their colleague than their current partner. In this situation, their seductive charm and manipulation skills can become an emotional escape route.

The return of an old flame

When an old love returns to their life, the reversed Knight of Cups may be tempted to rekindle that former relationship. The memories of the old romance and the idealization of it can make them feel like they have a second chance at achieving the romantic perfection they seek. In their constant pursuit of the thrill of first love, they might be tempted to reignite that past relationship.

The hidden lover

At a party or social event, the reversed Knight of Cups might be seduced by a stranger who promises luxury and excitement. The desire to live out a love story like in the movies might make them feel attracted to this wealthy and passionate person, who seems to offer everything their current relationship lacks.

An old friend, a new love

If an old friend comes back into their life offering an exciting adventure, the reversed Knight of Cups may be tempted to cheat. The friendship could turn into a secret love affair, especially if the knight feels they understand and receive more emotional support from this friend than from their current partner.

The danger of routine

In a boring, monotonous job, the reversed Knight of Cups might be tempted to cheat with someone who offers excitement and a break from the daily routine. The thrill of something new and the escape from monotony could tempt them to seek an extramarital relationship.

The charming artist

In an artistic environment, the reversed Knight of Cups might be tempted to cheat with an artist or someone from that circle who offers them a different and emotionally intense view of the world. The charm and depth of an artist could be irresistible to them, especially if they’re in a phase of their life where they’re seeking inspiration and excitement in every corner. The passion for art, its beauty, and the way it moves emotions could be the perfect setting for infidelity.

The allure of the instructor

During a personal development course or workshop, the reversed Knight of Cups might be unfaithful with an instructor who promises new perspectives and intense emotions. The desire to grow and learn could turn into a romantic attraction that tempts them to cheat.

The temptation of the forbidden

Facing a figure of authority, like a boss or supervisor, the reversed Knight of Cups might be tempted to cheat. The allure of the forbidden and the promise of an exciting and risky relationship could make them forget their current commitments.

A summer love affair

While on a summer vacation, the reversed Knight of Cups might be unfaithful with someone who offers a passionate and intense love. The excitement of a summer romance could make them forget their current relationship in search of an idealized love.

2nd Place: The Knight of Wands

The Knight of Wands upright symbolizes energy, adventure, and passion. This card evokes a personality full of life and enthusiasm, with a bold and adventurous spirit.

However, when reversed, the Knight of Wands can represent someone who is reckless, impulsive, and prone to making hasty decisions without considering the consequences.

The charming bad boy

Our Knight of Wands represents, more than anyone else, the “bad boy” we shouldn’t fall in love with, but we do anyway, because they’re an incredible seducer.
Their masculine and rugged nature, their few words, and their lover skills have an irresistible appeal.

Usually, a fling with this knight lasts as long as a summer – they are the typical card that represents those “eternal loves” that last three months. But those will be days of torrid passion and emotions running high.

The urge to cheat

The reversed Knight of Wands has a strong propensity for infidelity, as they can represent someone driven by instant desire and adventure without thinking about long-term implications.
This person may be motivated by the excitement of the moment and the desire for novelty, which could lead them to cheat simply if the opportunity arises. We could say there’s something “sporting” in stringing together one romance after another, and not infrequently, several at once.

This is because our knight has a restless nature, always seeking the next big adventure, constantly looking for excitement and change, which can make this figure quickly bored in a stable relationship and seek stimulation elsewhere.

“Me, myself, and I”

This person could justify infidelity as a way to keep life exciting and avoid monotony. Let’s also remember that there is a strong independence here, a “being themselves,” a “me first,” which drives them toward strong selfishness and disregard for others and their feelings.
The reversed Knight of Wands may also indicate someone who lacks patience and is unwilling to work on a relationship when things get tough. Instead of fighting and committing, this figure might opt for the easy way out and seek comfort or satisfaction in another relationship.

People and situations that lead to infidelity

The reversed Knight of Wands might lean toward infidelity in one of these scenarios:

The adrenaline of the unknown

When the reversed Knight of Wands meets a stranger who stands out for their magnetism and vibrant energy, they might be tempted to cheat. At a social event, the instant chemistry and mysterious allure of a stranger might be too seductive to resist. Drawn by the excitement of novelty and the desire to live new adventures, they might choose to give in to this temporary attraction without thinking of the long-term consequences.

The fire of an old flame

If an old love returns to the reversed Knight of Wands’ life, offering the excitement that seems lacking in their current life, they might fall into the temptation of rekindling that past passion. Their impulsive nature and tendency to act without considering the consequences might lead them to give in to that old flame, still burning with intensity.

Conquering the summit

At work, the reversed Knight of Wands might be tempted to cheat with a figure of authority, like a boss, who offers them a new emotional challenge. The desire for conquest and the thrill of crossing established boundaries might be too powerful to resist. Their selfishness and disregard for others might lead them to make this decision recklessly, without thinking about the repercussions.

The charm of novelty

When they meet someone who shares their love for adventure and excitement, the reversed Knight of Wands might be tempted to cheat. Whether during a trip, a course, or a social event, the allure of a new and exciting person might be irresistibly tempting for this knight.

The lure of excitement

If in the middle of a personal or emotional crisis, someone approaches the reversed Knight of Wands offering comfort and understanding, they might be tempted to find solace in this person’s arms. Their tendency to avoid difficulty and seek the easy way out might lead them to make this decision without considering the consequences.

Seduction online

In the context of social media or online dating platforms, the reversed Knight of Wands might be tempted by the ease and speed with which they can meet new and exciting people. The immediacy of these interactions and the constant flow of possibilities might fuel their desire for novelty and excitement, leading them to cheat.

Power play

In a competitive environment, like a sports team or workplace, the reversed Knight of Wands might be tempted to cheat with someone who challenges them and makes them feel alive. The thrill of competition and the desire to prove their worth might lead them to cross the line.

Under the city lights

In the nightlife, the reversed Knight of Wands might find the perfect scenario for their infidelity. The excitement of the moment, the alcohol, the music, the dancing, and the presence of attractive and willing people might create the perfect environment for their impulsiveness and desire for novelty to come to life.

An old friend, a new love

A long-standing friendship might become fertile ground for infidelity if the reversed Knight of Wands starts seeing a friend in a new, more romantic light. The familiarity combined with a renewed sense of excitement and desire might be an irresistible combination for this impulsive knight.

The shine of a crush

The reversed Knight of Wands might fall into the temptation of cheating if presented with the opportunity to be with a crush, someone they’ve always found particularly attractive. Their propensity to follow their immediate desires and seek the excitement of the moment might lead them to act on this attraction without considering the potential repercussions.

3rd Place: The Knight of Swords

The Knight of Swords represents a figure full of ambition, determination, and a strong desire to achieve goals. However, when this card is reversed, it can reveal aspects of aggression, impulsiveness, and a lack of consideration for others.

They are similar to the Knight of Wands in their selfishness but for different reasons. While the Knight of Wands is driven by physical desire, the Knight of Swords is driven by intellectual stimulation.

Just as the Knight of Cups “loves to be loved,” the Knight of Swords “loves to be interesting,” and as soon as they know someone is attracted to their personality, way of being, and ideas, they “fall in love” quickly.

They enjoy seducing from the place of having an attractive personality; they love being considered intelligent, different, and unique in their ideas, philosophies, and stances.

While the Knight of Cups loves being seen as special for their tenderness and sensitivity, and the Knight of Wands loves being physically attractive and a good lover, the Knight of Swords needs to have a unique personality, to stand out from the rest, to be above average.

What drives them to be unfaithful?

Our reversed Knight of Swords can represent someone who has a strong inclination to follow their own desires and passions, with a selfishness similar yet different to the Knight of Wands, where they often don’t consider the consequences or the feelings of others. They might be someone who is driven by the excitement and passion of the moment, which can lead to infidelity.
Additionally, this reversed figure can be so focused on their own life and goals that they may not notice or ignore how their actions affect those around them. In a relationship, this can manifest as a lack of attention and consideration for their partner, which could lead them to seek satisfaction outside the relationship.

The reversed Knight of Swords might be someone who constantly seeks excitement and challenge. Routine and stability can be seen as boring or limiting for this figure, and they may seek external adventures to fill this void of excitement and challenge.

The power of thought and words

There’s not only an element of selfishness in the reversed Knight of Swords, who might be prone to putting their needs and desires above those of their partner, but also strong manipulation.
They are someone who convinces through their intellect, always having an explanation and answer for everything, with a brilliant intelligence (characteristic of sword figures) that makes them a formidable conqueror… if you let them speak, they’ll ensnare you, and you’ll get lost in their maze of a complex and different personality.

Events and people that lead to infidelity

Considering what we know about the reversed Knight of Swords, these situations and people might provide fertile ground for infidelity:

The intellectual duel

If the reversed Knight of Swords meets someone who challenges them intellectually, someone who is on their level or even surpasses them in intelligence and mental sharpness, they might feel tempted to cheat. This intellectual challenge, this mental sparring could be incredibly attractive to them, especially if they feel they don’t have that stimulation in their current relationship.

The allure of the unknown

In a learning environment or at a conference, for example, they might meet someone who possesses knowledge or a perspective that they find new and exciting. This spark of the unknown and the possibility of learning something new might be irresistible to the reversed Knight of Swords.

The power game

At work, the reversed Knight of Swords might be tempted by someone who holds greater power or status. The desire to rise, to gain more power, or simply to feel special and important might lead them to fall into temptation with a superior or influential colleague.

The sweetness of the familiar

They might fall into temptation with a friend if they start to appreciate their intelligence and perspective in a new way. If there has always been a strong intellectual bond, but something changes to make them see this friend as something more, they could be unfaithful with them.

The fascination with the forbidden

The reversed Knight of Swords might be tempted by someone who is considered “off-limits” in their social or professional circle. This could be someone with an enigmatic reputation or who comes from a very different background. The allure of the unknown and the forbidden might be too tempting for this knight who seeks what is different and interesting.

The influence of strategy

They might be seduced in the context of a strategic situation, like a chess game or an intense political debate. Someone who can match or surpass their sharpness and strategic ability might be especially attractive to them. The tension and excitement of competition, combined with admiration for the other person’s skill, might lead the reversed Knight of Swords to cheat.

The temptation of innovation

In an environment that promotes innovation and creativity, such as a research project or a tech startup, the reversed Knight of Swords might be drawn to someone who stands out for their ingenuity and originality. This novelty and the intellectual stimulation it provides might be too tempting to resist.

The heat of competition

In a competitive situation, whether at work or in some type of contest or challenge, the reversed Knight of Swords might feel attracted to someone who equals or surpasses them in skill and cunning. The thrill of competition and the adrenaline of the challenge might lead them to infidelity.

The magnetism of the different

If they meet someone with a radically different perspective or way of thinking from their own, the reversed Knight of Swords might feel irresistibly attracted to this person. The novelty and possibility of expanding their world and understanding might be too tempting to resist.

The promise of adventure

If they are presented with the opportunity to embark on an adventure, either literally or metaphorically, with someone who shares their passion for discovery and excitement, the reversed Knight of Swords might fall into temptation. The promise of new experiences and intense excitement might be enough for them to be unfaithful.

4th Place: The Knight of Pentacles

The Knight of Pentacles, in its upright position, is known for their persistence, reliability, and practicality. They are a hard worker, detail-oriented, and have a firm focus on reality. However, when this card is reversed, it can indicate a series of negative traits that may manifest in unfaithful behavior.

I must say, this knight is in the last position of our ranking because, in general, reversed Pentacle figures tend to have the reputation of being somewhat boring, lacking spice and adrenaline, which makes infidelity not their preferred option.

An affair, being unfaithful, brings stress, and for our knight, this can sometimes be too much work. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t unfaithful in certain situations.

The reversed Knight of Pentacles can suggest someone who is stubborn, inflexible, and resistant to change. This person might be so focused on their own vision and goals that they ignore or neglect the needs and feelings of their partner. In a relationship setting, this could create an emotional disconnect that might lead to infidelity.

This Knight, when reversed, can also be overly cautious and afraid of taking risks, so much so that they might be so focused on safety and stability that they miss out on valuable and exciting opportunities in life.

In the context of infidelity, they might seek the excitement and variety that they feel is missing in their life through an affair, as a way of compensating for things.

In love with power

Unlike the other knights, the Knight of Pentacles is “in love with power.” They love the strong image they project, whether it’s through money or social status. They don’t want to be loved; they want to be admired and respected.
However, this lack of spice and tendency to stay in their comfort zone makes them much less prone to infidelity. Even with a dull, flat relationship that could easily push them toward cheating, taking risks is not their thing.

They must be extremely bored with their life, and especially feel undervalued and disrespected, to decide to pursue romantic adventures.

Sometimes, they are motivated by caprice. Knowing they have material resources, they might feel that “everyone has a price” and that they could achieve the conquest they want simply by desiring it.

Money talks

Additionally, the reversed Knight of Pentacles might indicate someone who is overly materialistic or who seeks security through material possessions. This person might be prone to evaluating the value of their relationship in material terms and might be tempted to cheat if another person can offer them more material security or social status.
But on the opposite side, they use material things as a source of conquest and seduction. That old saying, “money talks,” is totally valid here.

Our Knight of Pentacles doesn’t need physical attractiveness like the Knight of Wands to conquer; they don’t need to seduce with sensitivity like the Knight of Cups, nor have a unique personality like the Knight of Swords. They make up for all of that with money.

Their conquests will be with gifts, outings, and tangible details. They’ll seduce with their car, their clothes, and by booking the best restaurants.

Key moments for infidelity

Our reversed Knight of Pentacles could give in to the temptation of cheating in some of these scenarios and with special people:

Being dazzled at the top

The reversed Knight of Pentacles might be tempted to have an affair with someone of high rank or status. If during a professional meeting they meet an influential and attractive person, they might let themselves be seduced by this person’s charm and power, seeking a higher status than they already have.

The attraction of success

If an old friend or acquaintance achieves notable success in their career or reaches a high social status, our knight might feel attracted to them. The attraction to their success, money, and fame could be tempting factors, leading them to infidelity.

The siren’s call

If the reversed Knight of Pentacles meets someone who seems to have an exciting and adventurous lifestyle full of luxury and glamour, they might be tempted to explore this new possibility, despite their usual caution and fear of risk.

Under the spell of gold

In a situation where they meet an attractive person who shows a notable interest in their wealth and status, the reversed Knight of Pentacles might fall into the temptation of infidelity, seduced by the desire to be admired and valued for their material possessions.

The challenge of temptation

The reversed Knight of Pentacles might be unfaithful when faced with an irresistible opportunity, such as a mysterious and beautiful person who knows how to handle their charm and play with desire. This temptation might be enough to make them take the risk.

The promise of paradise

If presented with the opportunity to have an affair with someone who seems to offer everything missing in their life, such as passion, excitement, and adventure, the reversed Knight of Pentacles might fall into temptation and cheat.

The allure of the unknown

A person with exotic charm and a mysterious life might seduce the reversed Knight of Pentacles. The promise of a life filled with luxury, excitement, and novelty might be too tempting for them.

Conquered by vanity

If someone they’ve always liked, a crush, starts to show admiration for their status and wealth, the reversed Knight of Pentacles might be tempted to reciprocate these feelings and be unfaithful to their partner.

The value of the intangible

If they meet someone who values the intangible things in life, like wisdom, spirituality, or genuine love, this contrast might attract the reversed Knight of Pentacles, leading them to cheat in search of a deeper and more meaningful connection.

The illusion of a fresh start

If an old love, with whom they shared a strong material and emotional bond, re-enters their life, the reversed Knight of Pentacles might be tempted to resume that relationship, especially if they feel it could offer them a more exciting and passionate life than their current one.

Final thoughts

Infidelity is a complex and complicated territory, and interpreting the reversed Tarot Knights helps us explore how bold and impulsive personalities can fall into temptation.
We’ve seen how the reversed Knight of Wands can succumb to their constant need for excitement, the reversed Knight of Cups can get lost in their emotional fantasies, the Knight of Swords can misuse their sharp intellect to manipulate, and the reversed Knight of Pentacles can seek security and comfort outside their relationship.

However, let’s remember that Tarot is not set in stone, but rather offers us a window into possible manifestations of human behavior. Ultimately, faithfulness and integrity come from awareness and conscious choice, not from the cards that show up in a Tarot reading.

You can check out a similar article about infidelity in the case of the Tarot Pages, by clicking here.

I’d love to hear what you think about this topic of the Tarot Knights and infidelity. What’s your ranking? Do you agree with me or have your own valuable ideas about this? Let me know in the comments!