Four of Swords: Modern RWS Tarot Card Meanings
‘The 4 of Swords’, Rider Waite Smith tarot deck.
Upright Four of Swords Meanings
Keywords
Rest, Contemplation, Retreat, Inactivity, Sanctuary, Recuperation
Generally
The Four of Swords signifies a necessary period of rest, retreat, and contemplation. Following the conflict and sorrow of the Three of Swords, this card represents a strategic pause. It is a time for quiet recuperation, meditation, and recovery. The figure in the card is not dead, but resting in a sanctuary, gathering strength for the challenges to come. This card is a reminder that after a period of intense struggle or mental exertion, it is essential to step back, be still, and allow your mind and spirit to heal.
In a Love Context
In a love reading, this card suggests a need for a pause or some space within a relationship. It doesn't necessarily mean a breakup, but rather a temporary retreat to process thoughts and emotions. It can be a period of calm after a conflict, where both partners are taking time to themselves. If you are single, the Four of Swords indicates a period of voluntary solitude, where you are taking a break from dating to focus on your own well-being and inner peace.
In a Money/Career Context
This card often points to the need for a break from work. This could manifest as a vacation, a sabbatical, or simply a period of reduced activity. A project may be put on hold, or you may need to step back from a stressful work situation to reassess your strategy. It is a card of inactivity, but this inactivity is productive, as it allows for the mental clarity needed for future success.
In a Spiritual Context
Spiritually, the Four of Swords is a strong call for meditation, spiritual retreat, and deep introspection. It is about finding a quiet sanctuary, whether internal or external, to connect with your higher self. This is a time to quiet the constant chatter of the mind and listen to the wisdom that can only be found in stillness.
In Common Spread Positions
As Advice
You need to rest. Take a break from the situation. Meditate and allow yourself time to recover. Do not make any major decisions right now.
As (Ultimate) Outcome
A period of rest and recuperation is necessary and forthcoming. The situation will enter a state of temporary stasis.
As Obstacles
Forced inactivity is preventing progress. You are feeling stuck or isolated. A fear of slowing down is causing you to avoid necessary rest.
As Hidden Energy
A deep, unacknowledged need for rest and retreat. Your subconscious is crying out for a break.
As Resources/Alliances
The ability to find peace and quiet in a chaotic world. A place of sanctuary. The restorative power of meditation and rest.
‘The Four of Swords’ Reversed
Keywords
Restlessness, Burnout, Re-entering the World, Awakening, Recovery
Generally
Reversed, the Four of Swords indicates an emergence from a period of rest, but it can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can signify a gradual awakening, recovery, and a renewed desire to engage with the world. You are feeling restored and ready to act. On the other hand, it can be a warning against restlessness and cutting your recovery short. It can also point to burnout and exhaustion from refusing to take the rest that was needed in the first place.
In a Love Context
In a love reading, this card reversed can mean a relationship is coming out of a stagnant period. Communication is restarting, and you are ready to re-engage with your partner after a break. However, it can also signify that one partner is feeling restless and pushing for action before the issues have been fully resolved, potentially leading to more conflict. It can also warn of burnout from avoiding a necessary period of calm.
In a Money/Career Context
This can signify a return to work after a vacation or a leave of absence. A project that was on hold is now moving forward. However, the reversed Four of Swords is also a major indicator of burnout. You may be pushing yourself too hard, ignoring your body's and mind's need for rest, which will ultimately lead to exhaustion and collapse.
In a Spiritual Context
Spiritually, this card reversed suggests emerging from a period of deep meditation with a new sense of energy and purpose. However, it can also indicate a restless mind that is unable to find peace in stillness. You may be struggling to meditate or feel an urgent need for spiritual answers, which is paradoxically preventing you from finding them.
In Common Spread Positions
As Advice
It is time to start moving again, but do so gently and mindfully. Do not rush your recovery. Be wary of burnout.
As (Ultimate) Outcome
The period of rest is ending. There will be a return to activity, which could be either rejuvenating or stressful depending on the context.
As Obstacles
An inability to rest is the primary hindrance. You are suffering from burnout. You are pushing yourself back into action before you are truly ready.
As Hidden Energy
A deep-seated restlessness. A secret fear of being inactive or falling behind is driving you to exhaustion.
As Resources/Alliances
The renewed energy that comes after a period of rest. The motivation to re-engage with life.
Additional Notes on The RWS ‘Four of Swords’
Waite’s Divinatory Meanings of The Four of Swords
"Vigilance, retreat, solitude, hermit's repose, exile, tomb and coffin. It is these last that have suggested the design. Reversed: Wise administration, circumspection, economy, avarice, precaution, testament." (The Pictorial Key to the Tarot, 1911)
RWS Four of Swords Symbolism
A.E. Waite’s Four of Swords depicts the effigy of a knight in prayer, lying horizontally on a tomb within a church. Three swords hang on the wall above him, representing past struggles and sorrows. A single sword lies beneath him on the tomb, symbolizing the one central issue or thought that is the focus of this contemplative rest. A stained-glass window in the background depicts a scene of a person kneeling before a larger figure, suggesting a place of sanctuary, supplication, and receiving guidance.
Meditations On The Four of Swords
Am I honouring the Divine need for rest?
What should I pray about today?
Continue Reading About The Minor Arcana
Next Card: The Five of Swords
Previous Card: The Three of Swords
