What Does the Four of Swords Mean?

Four of Swords Tarot Card – Keywords

Four of Swords Tarot Card Description

A body lies at rest in the Four of Swords tarot card. This is a person held in high honor, no expense spared to entomb them in a beautiful sarcophagus carved in their likeness. The sword that they carried in life is engraved into the stone, representing their fortitude, dedication, and bravery. The knight’s effigy sleeps with their hands clasped in prayer.

Like the swords above the bed in the Nine of Swords tarot card, the three swords hanging above the coffin represent our anxieties and worries. Additionally, they signify the duties we bear throughout our lives. The stained glass window provides more insight into one of the tarot card meanings. One person kneels at the foot of another, begging for reprieve. This is an indication of the querent’s need for rest.

What Does the Upright Four of Swords Mean in a Reading?

After the upheaval and heartbreak of the Three of Swords, you need time to recuperate. Your stress or anxiety levels are far too high, and if you don’t rest now, you will crash. Land safely before the wax melts from your wings. Otherwise, you’ll be another Icarus.

The Four of Swords appears in your tarot card spread when you need to be alone or with spirit. Often, we are so focused on going, going, going that we don’t realize we are barreling toward a breaking point, both as individuals and as a society.

Find the stillness of the sun-dappled chapel. Plant yourself under a tree and meditate. When you slow down and give yourself a much needed rest, you can quiet your mind and speak to your higher self.

Fours in the Tarot represent stability, security, and strength. They are the foundation on which you build your life – or tear it to pieces. When you pull the Four of Swords in an upright position, it urges you to secure your health and happiness by letting yourself unwind. There is wisdom in knowing when to pull back.

Situationally, the Four of Swords represents funerals, hospitals, graveyards, retreats, and bedrooms. This card can also be a sign that someone will be honored posthumously or that previous good deeds will come to light.

Who is the Four of Swords as a Person?

Dictators, tyrants, and egomaniacs erect statues in their own honor, but true knights think nothing of their image, only their own strength and dedication. The Four of Swords person never sees their sculpted face, but their legacy outlasts the idols of others.

“Only bad people live to see their likeness set in stone.”

Lorde, Still Sane

Quiet, thoughtful, and tough, the Four of Swords is someone worth knowing. Some are gurus, others morticians, doulas, nurses. Loving hands carve their features into memory. They gave peace and peace they are given in turn.

What Does the Four of Swords Mean in a Love Tarot Spread?

In a love reading, the upright Four of Swords can indicate that it is time for both of you to take a break from the relationship. This doesn’t mean ending your relationship, but rather taking some time to determine if you are the right partner for each other.

Sometimes we create chaos in our relationships because serenity feels unfamiliar and uncomfortable, particularly for those in emotionally intense bondings. Ask yourself what a peaceful relationship looks like for you. Don’t be afraid of the stillness. It is an opportunity for reflection and growth.

What Does the Four of Swords Mean in a Health Tarot Reading?

Slow down and breathe. The Four of Swords says that you are burning the candle at both ends and soon there will be nothing left to light. Even if you thrive under intense pressure, it’s best to step away for a bit. Maintaining a healthy life means giving yourself time to relax and rejuvenate after the hard work you’ve put in.

Although this minor arcana card does not signify death, it can mean that hospitalization is in your future. In a mental health tarot reading, the Four of Swords can signify inpatient healthcare. Isolation is part of your healing process, but it will not last forever. The outside world will just have to wait.

Alternatively, the Four of Swords may represent a period of wellbeing after a hospital stay or sickness. The card signifies that you will be able to return home with renewed energy and vigor, and the swords hanging above represent no more fear of relapse.

What Does the Four of Swords Mean in a Financial or Career Tarot Reading?

In a financial tarot spread,  the Four of Swords indicates that you may need to restructure your budget. You might need to take a step back and evaluate what is necessary and cut out extra expenses or unnecessary debts.

The same concept applies when it comes to career decisions. The Four of Swords suggests that you should meditate on your current role and how it fits into your larger life goals. If you need to take a break from work, it is alright. You may find that the time away gives you the clarity and insight that you need to make effective decisions regarding your career.

Don’t take this card as a warning that your job isn’t worthwhile. In fact, it can indicate that you’ll soon be recognized for your services to your company.

What Does the Four of Swords Reversed Mean in a Tarot Spread?

Mercy! Your soul is crying out for reprieve. The Four of Swords reversed indicates that you may be in desperate need of a break. There’s a chance you are over-committing yourself, or refusing to take a step back when it is necessary. Stress and anxiety levels are high, and this can lead to physical or mental illness if not taken care of.

In other words, you’re spiraling. Panicked thoughts race through your brain, and you can’t seem to find relief. The good news is that the Four of Swords reversed is a reminder that you are resilient and have the strength to survive. It’s time to ask for help and receive it with grace. Support from family, friends, or a mental health professional is essential as you work towards relieving tension and creating balance in your life.

The reversed Four of Swords also implies that peaceful moments will soon return. With restful sleep and a change in routine, you will be able to start fresh again very soon. You’ve come too far to give up now! Find your center once more, if only for five minutes at a time. Releasing yourself from obligations can have powerful healing benefits.

Who is the Reversed Four of Swords as a Person?

The reversed Four of Swords person is someone who has been through a lot and is still standing. They are resilient, but they may also come across as hard-headed or stubborn at times. They can be fiercely determined to succeed, even in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, this individual may have an aversion to traditional medicine or therapy. They may need to seek out alternative means of healing, such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, or energy work. It is important for this person to remember that healing comes from within. They are the only ones who can take responsibility and make changes in their lives.

What Does the Four of Swords Reversed Mean in a Love Tarot Reading?

The Four of Swords reversed can mean that you are in denial about your feelings or refusing to take a break from the relationship. You may feel like you need to be doing something at all times, but this only leads to exhaustion and resentment.

This card is also an indicator that your or your partner’s anxieties are wearing you down. Worries overwhelm and consume your relationship. Finances, children, the state of our union – all of the worries spill over into your outer world, and your romantic attachments aren’t spared. Be patient with the anxious mind in your love life.

Overthinking is also a plight of the unattached. The Four of Swords reversed indicates you’re fearful that love will pass you by. The more time passes, the more anxious you are that you’ll never find the right person for you. When this card appears, it’s a reminder to take your time and trust that everything will eventually work out.

What Does the Reversed Four of Swords Mean in a Career or Financial Reading?

The reversed Four of Swords can indicate that you are trying too hard to make money or achieve success. You may be ignoring your needs in favor of constant hustling and grinding. It’s important to take a step back and assess everything you’ve been working on. Are you still doing what you love, or are you just going through the motions? Is it worth your time and energy to keep at it?

Take stock of how much financial pressure you are under as well. There is no need to push yourself beyond your limits if your finances are causing you stress. Instead, it’s time to take a step back and evaluate what is necessary and cut out extra expenses or unnecessary debts. Living beneath your means will ensure a more secure future.

What Does the Four of Swords Tarot Card Reversed Mean in a Health Spread?

Ignoring your needs catches up to you. The Four of Swords reversed suggests that chronic stress is damaging your mental and physical health. Pain, restless thoughts, and sleepless nights have become your routine.

The Four of Swords tarot card can mean that you’re on the brink of a mental breakdown.

Pay close attention to the supporting card in your health reading. If the Seven of Cups or reversed Moon appears beside this Swords card, take heed. The Suit of Swords rules the mind, and your mental strength is on the decline.

Lastly, the Four of Swords reversed warns that your exhaustion could be the result of a physical ailment or deficiency. Consider speaking with your doctor and asking for blood tests.

What Does The Four of Swords Tarot Card Say about Timing in a Tarot Reading?

Swords represent weeks, so the Four of Swords can indicate four weeks in a timing tarot spread. It can also represent the season of Winter or the astrological season of Libra.

Is the Four of Swords Tarot Card Meaning a Yes or a No?

The Four of Swords is a yes card. It’s telling you that it’s time to rest and recharge.

Questions For the Four of Swords Tarot Card

• What brings me peace?
• How can I quiet my mind?
• Is the payout worth the effort?
• Who is my calm in the storm?
• Do I struggle more with relaxation or motivation?

Relax Through The Tarot

Overall, the Four of Swords tarot card is a reminder that you must take care of yourself. Find stillness in meditation and moments of respite so that your strength remains intact for the road ahead. Let the swords above guard your peace and serenity until it’s time to face life’s battles once more.

Keep reading our articles to learn more about the Tarot.