Card 54 • swords

Five of Swords

Brief Description

The Five of Swords warns of conflict, feelings of loss, and the need to take accountability for one's role in disputes. Upright it can indicate arguments, hurt feelings, pride, or procrastination that requires organization and commitment to dispel anxiety. Reversed it often signals difficulty moving on, ongoing power struggles, and an opportunity for closure by releasing anger or bitterness. The card encourages making amends when appropriate, choosing to release resentment as its own triumph, and practicing patience through small, consistent steps toward stalled projects.

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Upright Meaning:

The Five of Swords can represent conflict, a feeling of loss or procrastination. The asker may have recently experienced an argument with a loved one, which left them feeling sad or hurt. This card is a reminder to take accountability for the ways they have contributed to the situation; to put aside their pride and attempt to make amends if the relationship is important to them.

Upright: Procrastination

This card can also show up if the asker has been procrastinating or avoiding an important project. It is a signal to get more organized and make a commitment to completing this task. Doing so will help dispel anxiety and worry.

Reversed Meaning:

The Five of Swords reversed can often show up when the asker is having trouble moving on from someone in their life, or feel they are in a never-ending power struggle. This card indicates a desire for closure, and the opportunity to finally make peace or put the situation behind them. We may decide to walk away feeling defeated or as though we lost something; but know that sometimes, making a decision to release anger or bitterness is a triumph in and of itself.

Reversed: Unfocused Energy

This card can also show up when the asker is feeling unfocused in their energy, or are not making progress on a project despite their constant efforts. The asker is encouraged to be patient with themselves and focus on taking small, consistent steps in the direction they are hoping to go toward.

Visual Description

A minimalistic pink card shows five stylized swords arranged in a radiating, crossed pattern with one vertical blade and four crossing it diagonally. Each sword has a round guard and decorative pommel motifs; delicate dotted lines and small floral emblems flank the central composition. The words 'FIVE' appear at the top and 'OF SWORDS' at the bottom in small gold lettering, and a single droplet motif hangs beneath the lower point of the central sword.

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✍️ Deck author(s): Kristine Fredheim

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