The symbolism of the Four of Swords

The symbolism of the Four of Swords appears to give us insight into the active conflict, tension, and pain from the 2 and 3 of Swords, which have now given way to contemplation and withdrawal, or a “Truce” (a moment of calm).

The Four of Swords suggests both an ending and a beginning. One phase ends, and another will begin, but for that, everything needs to pause.

The symbolism of the Four of Swords

We need a time of introspection to put an end to the previous experiences of tension and indecision and to organize our thoughts to prepare for the next cycle, where there will be more dynamic intellectual activity and challenges.
This Minor Arcana card asks us to gather strength to prepare for the upcoming activities and trials. The downside of the Four of Swords is that too much internal reflection can lead to paralyzing fears that keep us stuck.

Key associations and concepts of the card

Upright meaning:

Contemplation, recovery, asking for a truce; resting; harmony; a pact; agreement, order, reconsidering one’s stance; calm reflection, passivity, relaxation, taking a break.

Reversed meaning:

Restlessness, exhaustion, refusal or inability to make a decision; a period of illness; forced exile; banishment, lack of progress.

Kabbalistic:

The number “4” relates to the 4th position on the Tree of Life: Chesed (Mercy) and represents our opportunities for growth and the rewards for the challenges we face and overcome. Chesed is associated with the planet Jupiter ( ♃ ).
Physically, this node represents compassion. It reflects the most positive aspects of all areas, even those that may seem negative.

Numerology:

The number 4 in Tarot has a deep meaning related to waiting. Here, the number 4 brings us to a time of peace, a quieting of the mind so that maybe some other senses can speak and be heard.

Element:

Like all swords, it corresponds to the element of Air ( ???? ), associated with action that arises from thought, intellect, and logic. It is also linked to the winter season.

Astrology:

The Four of Swords is associated with the signs of:
• Gemini ( ♊ ) and its ruling planet Mercury ( ☿ ), representing playfulness, curiosity, communication; • Libra ( ♎ ), ruled by Venus ( ♀ ), representing peace, kindness, diplomacy; and • Aquarius ( ♒ ), whose ruler is Uranus ( ♅ ), representing independence, change, imagination, and freedom.

Key symbols in the card

Sword at rest

A sword lies resting beneath the knight, symbolizing that there is only one key issue (thought or matter) that dominates their life at this moment.

Hanging swords

Three additional swords hang above them, pointing downwards, which may represent a threat, but in reality, they point to the sword in the tomb, certifying that there is one central and vital issue that occupies everything.
They are also there to be used eventually. The knight has lost a battle and has laid down a sword, but there is more weaponry available for future battles.

Another possible (and complementary) interpretation is that the three swords on the wall point to the three vital Chakras: the head (thought), the throat (communication), and the chest (emotions).

This could symbolize a Masonic initiation ceremony for resurrection, as these were the three Chakras struck to kill Hiram Abiff, the Master Mason of King Solomon’s Temple.

Armor

Symbolically, armor represents protection, preparedness, and strength. The armor conveys a message of self-protection, self-preservation, both physically and spiritually.
In this particular case, it represents preparation for what life throws our way, indicating that we are worn out from the battle, and it is time for a truce.

Stained glass

Stained glass symbolizes perception and how our vision (mental, physical, and spiritual) can change depending on how we look at things and our beliefs.
It’s a sign to start being honest about your perception of the situation. The scene depicted in the stained glass suggests that we should turn inward to seek spiritual guidance and regeneration.

Child

We see a child figure in the stained glass, where children represent the promise of new beginnings. Perhaps, if we clear our vision, if we look through the pure eyes of a child, we can see that new beginning.

Sarcophagus

This symbolizes the change that must take place during the truce or rest. It does not symbolize death but rather a period of going inward, of absolute stillness, “like” a tomb. In fact, if you look closely, you’ll see that it is open and empty.

Hidden letters

The letters forming the word PAX (Peace) in the halo of the stained glass figure are often overlooked, suggesting that one of the reasons for the withdrawal this card recommends is to achieve peace.

Colors

The purple walls symbolize rest and inaction, and the yellowish ochre tones of the rest of the scene suggest that despite the inactivity, it will be a productive time towards your goals.
The colors naturally depend on the version of the deck, and these stronger colors correspond to the “Radiant” deck. In the other example card I’ve included, from the “Iluminarte” edition, grayish tones dominate to emphasize the inaction, the radical pause present in the scene.

Both decks are “Rider-Waite Tarot”, but each edition has made its own artistic interpretation of the original cards.