Contemplation

The Four of Swords in the RWS Tarot depicts a carving of a man, possibly a knight on the top of a tomb. One sword carved below him and three swords hanging above him slightly to the right. The swords recall the card just prior to this card. (Three swords piercing a heart.) For me the suit of swords are among the most difficult cards in the tarot. The position of the fourth sword seems to be a signal that the fight has ended. A child and a woman are depicted by the stained glass place behind the statue, giving the scene a sense of warmth and welcoming after the retreat. The knight has his hands positioned as if he is praying.

This card signals you need a break. The worst heartbreak may be over, but whatever loss you are mourning, you need a break. Time away, solitude, introspection and regrouping are indicted when this card comes up in a reading. You are feeling the aftereffects of something that felt bad. Something took you by surprise and you need to try to get away from the stress, anxiety and worry you’ve been preoccupied with.Time out to gather your wits, to slow down and get away from the people or places that have caused suffering will allow you a chance to view what happened from a different point of view. What can you learn? How can you re-enter with a sense of purpose and peace? considering these things will help you forge a new way.