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

Upright: The Four of Swords upright represents rest, recovery, and contemplation. After the heartbreak of the Three, this card is about retreating to heal and gather your strength. It suggests taking a break from stress or conflict to recharge mentally and physically. Upright, the Four of Swords encourages meditation, quiet reflection, or even literal rest and sleep to recover from challenges. It’s telling you that it’s okay – even necessary – to pause and step back for a moment. In doing so, you’ll find clarity and renewed energy when you return to the fray.

Reversed: The Four of Swords reversed can indicate restlessness or a need to rejoin the world after a period of withdrawal. Perhaps you’ve been in recovery mode and are now ready (or forced) to get back into action. It might also suggest burnout – you haven't been giving yourself enough downtime, and exhaustion is catching up. The reversed card is a reminder to find balance: if you’ve isolated yourself, gently start engaging again, but if you’re feeling drained, don't rush forward without adequate rest. Listen to your body and mind – the goal is to recuperate fully before taking on new challenges.

Three Possibilities

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

Love: A moment of rest, a pause in the heart’s journey. This card suggests a period of retreat—perhaps taking space from a relationship to reflect, or healing after emotional turbulence. Love is not lost, but sometimes stillness is needed before moving forward.

Career: Rest is necessary before the next battle. You may have been pushing too hard at work, and now is the time to recharge before burnout. A period of retreat, reflection, or even stepping back from a stressful situation will allow you to return stronger.

Spirituality: The soul seeks quiet. This is a time for meditation, solitude, and deep inner healing. Answers will come not through action but through stillness—listen to the silence, for wisdom resides there.