A hand emerges from a cloud holding an upright sword crowned with a wreath, above barren mountains. It is the power of the mind: clarity, truth, a breakthrough, a decision that cuts through confusion.
The sword of truth, clarity, a breakthrough of the mind.
Waite’s keywords (1911): Triumph, the excessive degree in everything, conquest; great force in love as in hatred.
Reversed
Reversed, the sword cuts the wrong way: confusion, harsh words, misused power, or a truth that is avoided.
Confusion, a truth turned into a weapon.
Waite’s keywords (1911): The same, with disastrous results; or conception, birth, increase.
In love
Upright An honest conversation clears the air; you finally see the relationship as it really is.
Reversed Hurtful words, cold logic in place of feeling, or a truth about the relationship you do not want to see.
In work
Upright A clear idea, a breakthrough, a decisive argument; your mind wins the day.
Reversed Confused plans, miscommunication, or a decision forced without enough thought.
In money
Upright A clear financial decision; you see the numbers as they are.
Reversed Muddled finances; a decision taken on wrong information.
At home and in the family
Upright Truth spoken at home clears a long tension.
Reversed Sharp words at home that wound more than they heal.
On your path
Upright Mental clarity on the path; you cut through illusion.
Reversed Your mind is clouded; seek silence before you seek answers.
Its counsel
Upright Speak the truth, clearly and without fear.
Reversed Think before you strike. Words can wound.
Correspondences
- Arcana
- Minor Arcana, suit of Swords
- Element
- Air
- Rank
- Aces: new beginnings are pressing to be born
Dreams that carry this card
Swords
Two of Swords · Three of Swords · Four of Swords · Five of Swords · Six of Swords · Seven of Swords · Eight of Swords · Nine of Swords · Ten of Swords · Page of Swords · Knight of Swords · Queen of Swords · King of Swords