Four of Swords

Learn all about the Tarot card meaning of the Four of Swords

Four of Swords keywords

Four of Swords affirmations

“I embrace rest and reflection, knowing that my body and mind deserve time to heal and recharge.”
“I find clarity and peace in stillness, allowing myself the space to gather my thoughts and renew my spirit.”
“I prioritize my well-being, understanding that taking time for myself is a powerful act of self-care.”

Short description of the Four of Swords card

The Four of Swords represents rest, contemplation, and recovery. This card often appears as a reminder to take a step back from the chaos of daily life and prioritize your mental and physical health. It emphasizes the importance of rest, introspection, and finding inner peace after a period of stress or conflict. The Four of Swords encourages you to pause, meditate, and allow yourself the time you need to recharge and gain clarity before taking your next steps forward.

“Rest and be thankful.” – William Wordsworth

Upright meaning of the Four of Swords Tarot card

The Four of Swords is typically depicted as a figure lying down on a bed with his or her arms crossed over their chest. The atmosphere of the card is one of stillness and calm, with a sense of healing and restoration. The swords in the background suggest that the person in the card may be recovering from a period of turmoil, conflict or stress.

The Four of Swords can represent a need for retreat and introspection. The person in the card is taking a break from the outside world and its stresses, to focus on their own well-being. It can indicate a time of rest, reflection, and healing, after a period of emotional or mental upheaval. The swords in the background can also suggest a need to mentally detach from a situation or relationship, in order to gain clarity and perspective.

The Four of Swords can also indicate a need to prepare for upcoming challenges. The card suggests that the person in the card is gathering their strength and resources for the road ahead. It can symbolize the need to develop mental and emotional resilience, to cope with adversity. The card also suggests the importance of self-care and nurturing, to ensure that the person is mentally and emotionally prepared for whatever challenges may arise.

Reversed meaning of the Four of Swords Tarot card

When the Four of Swords is reversed in a tarot reading, it may indicate that the querent is struggling to find peace and stillness within their mind. They may feel restless, anxious, or find it difficult to relax and disconnect from the constant stimulation of their environment. They may also be avoiding introspection or self-reflection, instead choosing to stay busy to distract themselves from their inner turmoil. The reversed Four of Swords can also suggest that the querent is being called to action, but they are hesitating or holding back due to fear or uncertainty. In this position, the card may be urging the querent to take a step back from their thoughts, regroup, and then move forward with confidence.

Additionally, the reversed Four of Swords may indicate that the querent is not allowing themselves enough time to rest and recover. They may be overworking themselves, neglecting their self-care, or putting too much pressure on themselves to perform. This can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and physical or emotional health issues. The card may be a reminder for the querent to slow down, take breaks, and prioritize their well-being.