Four of Swords
The Four of Swords represents isolation and profound contemplation, showing someone who has withdrawn from worldly concerns to deeply consider an important decision. This card embodies hesitation and the tendency to overthink situations, suggesting a period of mental retreat where action is postponed in favor of endless analysis. In relationships and career matters, it indicates separation, lack of interaction, and indecisiveness that prevents meaningful progress or connection.
Keywords
Symbolism
The character is hammering a nail. The coffin, with a cross on it and 4 rays emanating from the cross, references the number 4 as structure and the theme of isolation. The character hesitates whether to drive in this nail or not, while the other 3 nails lie nearby. Only one candle out of 4 is lit—weak initiative, indecision about making this choice. Incense, as a symbol of the air element and offerings to the gods, along with flowers. The floor here is also in the form of a Mayan calendar, which we have already seen in the High Priestess and Strength cards.
Card's Message
A person maximally isolated from worldly matters, even more than a hermit. Cannot decide to take action and thereby demonstrates the suit of logic. He thinks through this situation extensively. Relationships – People do not contact or interact with each other. Indecisiveness is also present. Career – That which separates a person from everyone else: remote work, a separate office, or even resignation. Money – the card is not about money; the person does not accept it.
Visual Description
A wooden coffin-like plank dominates the scene, its lid carved with a simple cross and set with scattered large nails. At the top edge there are lit candles, flowers, and a crystal bowl suggesting a ritual or vigil. Two skeletal hands in red sleeves are shown from above; one holds a nail and the other grips a hammer, mid-strike. The background floor has carved circular patterns and the lower border of the card reads the word "SWORDS" with a small numeral 4 at the corners.
Santa Muerte tarot
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