Four of Swords
Minor Arcana · Suit of Swords
Upright
- rest
- recovery
- retreat
- contemplation
- restlessness
- burnout
- stagnation
- forced rest
In the picture
The stone figure of a knight lies on a tomb with his hands together in prayer. One sword is carved along the side of the tomb and three hang on the wall above it, beside a stained-glass window.
Upright meaning
The Four of Swords is a time-out. After stress or struggle, the card calls for rest, quiet and recovery before the next effort. Pausing now is not wasted time.
Reversed meaning
Reversed, rest is refused or comes too late. Restlessness, burnout or being forced to stop because your body or mind gives out are possible. Take the break before it takes you.
About the suit of Swords
Swords are the suit of air: thoughts, words, decisions and conflict. Swords cards can be sharp, because they deal with truth, worry and the hard choices made in the head.
