Four of Swords
rest, retreat, recovery
Four swords rest neatly on the card, without crossing each other violently. After the blows of the previous cards comes a truce. This is the card of rest, of getting better and of solitude you choose. Sometimes it announces a minor illness that forces you to stop. Other times, some time at home or far from the noise. Use it to put your thoughts in order.
In love
A break in the relationship, or some time for each of you to think things over on your own. If you're single, you're not ready for something new yet, and that's okay.
Career and money
A pause, sick leave or a vacation you really need. A project that goes on hold, or a payment that's late. Don't force anything this week, things will move again.
Health
You need real rest. It can point to doctor-ordered bed rest or a recovery that's slow but steady. Sleep more and listen to your body.
Reversed
Getting back into action after a break or, the other way around, burnout from not stopping in time.
As a person
Someone solitary and reserved, or going through a rough patch and preferring to be alone. Also someone who is ill or needs looking after.
The Four of Swords in a reading
In the past
There was a period of retreat, an illness or a time when you pulled away from everything. That break helped you put yourself back together, even if you didn't see it then.
In the present
You're tired and you know it, even if you keep pushing on. This isn't the time to fight, it's the time to recover. Give yourself permission not to be available to everyone.
In the future
A pause is coming, whether you choose it or not. It might be a rest, sick leave or some time alone at home. It will do you more good than you imagine, and you'll come back stronger.
As a yes or no answer
Maybe
Maybe, but not right now. The Four of Swords asks for a pause before going on. What you're asking about needs time, and you need to get your strength back before you jump in.
Do a Spanish deck readingIn tarot, the closest card is Four of Swords, which has its own meaning.
Slow down and rest before you decide anything.
Four of Swords FAQ
What does the Four of Swords mean in the Spanish deck?
Four swords rest neatly on the card, without crossing each other violently. After the blows of the previous cards comes a truce. This is the card of rest, of getting better and of solitude you choose. Sometimes it announces a minor illness that forces you to stop. Other times, some time at home or far from the noise. Use it to put your thoughts in order.
What does the Four of Swords mean in love?
A break in the relationship, or some time for each of you to think things over on your own. If you're single, you're not ready for something new yet, and that's okay.
What does the Four of Swords mean for career and money?
A pause, sick leave or a vacation you really need. A project that goes on hold, or a payment that's late. Don't force anything this week, things will move again.
What does the Four of Swords mean reversed?
Getting back into action after a break or, the other way around, burnout from not stopping in time.
Who does the Four of Swords stand for as a person?
Someone solitary and reserved, or going through a rough patch and preferring to be alone. Also someone who is ill or needs looking after.
Is the Four of Swords a yes or no card?
Maybe. Maybe, but not right now. The Four of Swords asks for a pause before going on. What you're asking about needs time, and you need to get your strength back before you jump in.