The essential meanings of this Minor Arcana card from the Rider-Waite-Smith deck.

Upright: The Five of Swords upright indicates conflict and a win-lose situation. This is the aftermath of a battle of wills or words – someone may have won, but at what cost? You might be dealing with ego clashes or a situation where one party feels humiliated. Upright, this card can be a warning that victory achieved through deceit or hostility will be hollow. It invites you to consider the consequences of "winning" if it harms relationships or integrity. Sometimes it's better to find a compromise or walk away rather than engage in no-holds-barred conflict. Reflect on your motives and those of others; perhaps a more respectful approach can prevent unnecessary loss.

Reversed: The Five of Swords reversed suggests an end to conflict or a desire to reconcile. You might be ready to bury the hatchet and move on from disagreements. It can also indicate lingering resentment or the need to apologize and make amends. Reversed, this card encourages honesty in assessing what happened – it's time to acknowledge if mistakes were made and to seek peace. If you’ve been in a toxic situation, it may also point to walking away for good. In any case, it’s about resolving the tension and focusing on future cooperation rather than past fights.

Three Possibilities

The secrets of this card for heart, mind and soul.

Love: Conflict leaves a bitter taste—this card suggests arguments, power struggles, or a love tainted by ego. Winning at the cost of another’s heart is not true victory. Ask yourself: Is this battle worth fighting, or is it time to lay down your swords?

Career: Tensions rise in the workplace. Whether it’s office politics, competitive rivalry, or a cutthroat environment, the Five of Swords warns of unnecessary conflict. Be mindful of how you handle disputes—victory at the expense of integrity is hollow.

Spirituality: The mind is at war with itself. Inner conflict, doubt, or a struggle between ego and wisdom may cloud your spiritual journey. The Five of Swords reminds you that sometimes surrender brings more peace than constant battle.