Four of Swords

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Four of Swords from the Rider-Waite tarot deck Swords04.jpg
Four of Swords from the Rider–Waite tarot deck

The Four of Swords is a Minor Arcana tarot card.

{Tarot cards are used throughout much of Europe to play tarot card games . [1] In English-speaking countries, where the games are largely unknown, tarot cards came to be utilized primarily for divinatory purposes. [1] [2]

Contents

Description

"The effigy of a knight in the attitude of prayer, at full length upon his tomb." - The Pictorial Key to the Tarot, by A.E. Waite

Divination usage

Vigilance, retreat, solitude, hermit's repose, exile, tomb and coffin. The single sword at the knight's side indicates a singularity of purpose and a great focus in life. Reversed: wise administration, circumspection, economy, avarice, precaution, testament. When ascending this card can mean going into a cocoon like a butterfly, opening up your third eye. Getting in touch with your purpose in life.

It is mostly associated with a peaceful, still place. It reflects withdrawal, getting away and shifting the focus inwardly so that recovery and healing can take place. [3] [4]

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References

  1. 1 2 Dummett, Michael (1980). The Game of Tarot. Gerald Duckworth and Company Ltd. ISBN   0-7156-1014-7.
  2. Huson, Paul, (2004) Mystical Origins of the Tarot: From Ancient Roots to Modern Usage, Vermont: Destiny Books, ISBN   0-89281-190-0 Mystical Origins of the Tarot Archived 2007-09-27 at the Wayback Machine
  3. Four of Swords
  4. Tarot Cards – The Four of Swords