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Three of Swords Tarot Card Meanings

It might be healthier to disentangle yourself and start fresh.

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What does the Three of Swords Tarot card mean?

Learn the meaning of the Three of Swords Tarot card in under a minute!


Three of Swords Upright Meaning

Traditionally, the Three of Swords signified separation or the breakup of a significant relationship, including the tragic emotions that come along with such an event. Some cards show the horizon filled with storm clouds and flashing lightning.

The positive side of this card would be the ending of draining or frustrating associations, to become free again. One message this card brings is to cut some things loose. In spite of sentimental memories and emotional attachments, we need to let go of relationships that either cannot live up to their promise or have outlived the pleasure and support we once found in them.

Three of Swords Reversed Meaning

The Three of Swords reversed suggests that a storm is clearing, feelings are mending, communication skills are improving, accusations and paranoia are diminishing. The necessity of conflict seems to be draining away, a change that is worth being grateful for, even though some challenges may still arise from this episode.

Three of Swords Advice Position

The Three of Swords in this position advises you to strike out on your own. Become more independent. Separate yourself from people and forces you do not feel compatible with. Grow a thicker skin.

Use your creativity and imagination and seek out situations where the way you see things makes sense to those around you. Move towards those who can embrace and appreciate your talents and all you have to contribute.

Three of Swords Love Position

When the Three of Swords is in this position, elements within you are in opposition and tearing you apart. Heartbreak is classically associated with this card. It can refer to any relationship where a serious conflict would have significant emotional consequences.

The number three also represents the balance point, or hinge, between two polarized elements, so there may still be hope.This card implies a fifty-fifty chance of mending the conflict, but it does carries a sense of tragedy or impending pain. One needs to ask oneself, "Did I bring some sense of frustration and pessimism into this situation? Am I going along with a pattern that's been laid over a relationship by others involved? Or is this just a non-workable situation?"

Three of Swords Career Position

When the Three of Swords is in this position, you could be witnessing preparations for a battle among equals who see themselves as opposites. This situation may call for someone in the workplace who, using dialogue, can pull it back from the brink of disaster to a meeting of the minds.

While it is pointless for this rift to go to such an extreme, the parties involved seem determined to crash into each other in full battle gear, heedless of the mess they will make. Paranoia and accusation may prevail unless an intervention can be enacted as soon as possible. It may be necessary to procure the services of a mediator before hostilities go too far. In situations symbolized by this card, restoring peace through dialogue is a major challenge.

Three of Swords in a Yes or No Card Reading

The Three of Swords is a card of remembering old hurts. If you're looking for simple Yes or No guidance and receive the Three of Swords, the answer is NO. Protect your heart and consider how your past may factor into the present situation.