Four of Swords
Affirmation
I think before taking action.
Symbolic Attributes
- Element:
- Arcana:Minor Arcana
- Suit:Swords
- Archetype:
- Numerology:4 (The Status Quo: stability, equality, persistence)
- Hebrew Alphabet:
Keywords
Description
The effigy of a knight in the attitude of prayer, at full length upon his tomb.
Light Meaning
- Thinking over your plans before putting them into action
- Pausing to meditate or clear your mind
- Taking time to understand someone or something before criticizing it
- Resting
- Occupying your thoughts with a healthy distraction
Shadow Meaning
- Failing to think things through
- Mistaking procrastination for thoughtfulness
- Adopting a point of view and refusing to reconsider your conclusions, even when presented with refuting evidence
- Allowing chaos and whimsy to dominate your thoughts
Questions to Ask Yourself
- •How long has it been since you deliberately took a time out?
- •How difficult is it for you to meditate?
- •What would happen if you simply refused to make a decision today?
Personal Meaning
Step back from the situation and rest. Some distance will give you a better perspective, and the time out will be good for your health.
Stepping back from the situation and resting was a good move. Some distance gave you a better perspective, and the time out was good for your health.
Step back from the situation and rest. Some distance will give you a better perspective, and the time out will be good for your health.
Personal Reversed Meaning
Slow down and rest. If you continue this course, you will suffer ill health, or lose your ability to cope effectively. Heed the warning and take respite.
You resisted your body's call to slow down and rest, and you may be suffering suffer ill health, or have lost your ability to cope effectively as a result.
You are resisting your body's call to slow down and rest. If you continue this course, you will suffer ill health, or lose your ability to cope effectively. Heed the warning and take respite.
Fortune Telling
- •Don't make any decision now
- •Wait, and you'll be glad you did
How to Interpret This Card in a Reading
A guide to deepening your understanding of Tarot symbolism.
Context is Key
No Tarot card exists in a vacuum. While the meanings above provide a foundation, the true significance of this card depends on where it lands in your spread. Is it in the past position, indicating a phase you are moving away from? Or is it in the outcome position, suggesting a potential future? Always consider the neighboring cards — they often tell a story that modifies or amplifies the message.
Trust Your Intuition
Traditional meanings are the starting point, but your intuition is the compass. When you look at the card imagery, what draws your eye first? A specific color, a symbol, or a facial expression might trigger a personal memory or feeling. That immediate reaction is often the most relevant message for your current situation, even if it differs from the standard definition.
Understanding Reversals
If this card appears reversed (upside down), don't fear it. Reversals often suggest an internalizing of the card's energy, a delay, or a need to revisit the lesson before moving forward. It can also indicate that the "shadow" aspects described above are currently more active, inviting you to bring them into the light for healing.
Connecting with the Element
Remember the suit this card belongs to. Wands speak to passion and action (Fire). Cups dive into emotions and relationships (Water). Swords navigate the mind and conflicts (Air). Pentacles ground us in the material world and resources (Earth). The Major Arcana represents larger life themes and soul lessons. Filtering the card's meaning through its elemental lens will give you a grounded, practical way to apply its wisdom to your life.