Five of Swords
The Five of Swords represents ruthlessness, defeat, and the lasting impact of conflict. It often appears when personal gain leaves relationships damaged. This card reflects the energy of hollow triumphs—winning a battle but losing trust, respect, and integrity in the process. It may signify a situation where ones words or actions can only serve to create additional hurt, resentment, or isolation. The image often shows a figure standing victorious but alone, suggesting that some victories come at too high a price. This card challenges us to reflect on whether the battles we fight are truly worth the cost. Is this the hill you want to die on or is it time to lay down your sword?
It asks us to reflect on the dynamics of conflict in our lives, to examine the motivation behind our actions, and to consider the emotional impact on ourselves and others. Why are we seeking power by stripping it from someone else? Is the need to be right more important than the relationships we jeopardize in the process? Are we holding onto a grudge or letting past wounds cloud our vision? Five of Swords is a call to reconnect with compassion, reminding us that true strength lies in understanding and connection, rather than overpowering others.
5 of Swords Reversed
In its reversed position, the Five of Swords offers a moment of reckoning and potential resolution. It suggests that the intensity of past conflicts is beginning to fade, creating space for reconciliation and healing. This card encourages us to take a step back and assess the impact of our words and actions, prompting a shift from ego-driven battles to a more compassionate perspective. This is a time to release grudges, seek forgiveness, or repair damaged relationships. It’s an opportunity to rebuild bridges, foster mutual understanding, and move forward with a sense of peace.
The Five of Swords reversed represents a critical turning point, much like a ceasefire. You are being offered a choice to pursue peace or to reengage, risking an all out war. In everyday life, this might appear as a strained conversation or a tentative reconciliation, where mutual respect and understanding can mend the rift. However, if unresolved grievances are left to linger or pride takes the lead, even small disagreements could escalate into significant conflicts.
The card challenges us to decide whether to embrace humility, forgiveness, and collaboration or to fall back into patterns of blame, defensiveness, and control. The reversed Five of Swords serves as a powerful reminder that healing and harmony require effort, but the alternative—a return to hostility—can deepen the divide. The path forward is ours to shape, and this card urges us to choose wisely.
Affirmation
“I choose my battles wisely.”
5 of Swords Zodiac Sign
The zodiac sign of Aquarius is associated with the Five of Swords tarot card.
5 of Swords Love
In love, the Five of Swords suggests conflict, miscommunication, or power struggles within a relationship. It points to moments when stubbornness, pride, or ego are overshadowing genuine connection, leaving one or both partners feeling isolated or misunderstood. This card can reflect a pattern of “winning” arguments at the expense of the relationship. This card invites honest reflection and dialogue, encouraging both parties to move beyond blame and focus on understanding each other’s perspectives. While challenges are present, the Five of Swords reminds us that love rooted in empathy and respect can weather even the most difficult conversations.
5 of Swords Yes or No
In a Yes or No reading, the Five of Swords can generally be interpreted as a No.
Minor Arcana Symbolism
| Tarot Card Name | Five of Swords |
| Card Number Energy | Conflict |
| Numerological Meaning | Change, Disruption, Processing, Transformation, Conflict, Perspective, Expansion, Adversity, Challenge, Oppositional Forces, Struggle, Turning Point, New Understandings, Growing Pains, Movement, Circulation, Instability, Adaptability, Evolution, Changing the Status Quo, The Churn, The Turning of the Wheel |
| Classical Element | Air |
| Traditional Upright Meaning | Empty victory, defeat, bullying, disagreements, no-win, defeat, hostility, aggression, crime, trickery, cruelty, gloating, hollow triumph, walk away, vicious arguments, ruin, burning bridges, stress, winning at all costs, self-sabotaging behavior, abuse, lies, loss of integrity, forcefulness, antisocial, villain, mercenary, the ends justifies the means, violence, losing everything in the pursuit of winning, destruction, deception, threatening, smugness, attack, standing up for yourself, breakdown in communication, battles, revenge, regret, remorse, arguments, sacrifice, standing your ground, fighting back, underhanded behavior, change, assault, intimidation, serious conflict, stress, fighting back, assault, looking out for number one |
| Traditional Reversed Meaning | Peaceful resolution, cutting losses, reconciliation, making amends, compromise, overcoming challenges, moving on, walking away, disarming, burying the hatchet, communication, peace talks, negotiation, ceasefire, ending/increasing conflict, volatile, domination/submission, all out war, battle weary, entrenched, major sacrifice, escalating abuse, riskeverything, relentless, to the bitter end, to exact revenge, mourning unnecessary loss, escalating violence, brute force, Impetuous,trigger happy, major sacrifices, revenge, held accountable, uncovered crime, regret, remorse, humiliation, shame, sabotage, heedlessness |
| Duality | Projective |
| Jungian Personality Type | Thinking |
| Chakra | Crown, Heart, Solar Plexus |
| Astrological Correspondence | Venus in Aquarius |
| Crystals and Stones | Milky Quartz, Herkimer Diamond, White Jade, Moissanite, Abalone Shell, Moonstone, White Marble, Mother of Pearl, Iris Agate, Howlite, Selenite, Ammolite, White Quartz,Rainbow Moonstone, Pearl, White Onyx, Clear Topaz, Opal, Clear Quartz,Diamond,Ammolite,Abalone, Opal, Opalite, Tanzanite, Purple Aventurine, Super 7, Amethyst, Charoite, Star Garnet, Sugilite, Lavender Fluorite, Kunzite, Emerald,Olivine, Moldavite, Fluorite,Peridot, Aventurine, Morganite, Bloodstone, Rose Quartz, Jade, Prehnite, Malachite, Unakite, Rhodonite, Heliodor,Sulfur, Pyrite,Chrysolite |
Aquarius in Venus
This pairing encourages us to reflect on whether we’re using our intellect to build bridges or burn them, and to find ways to balance personal freedom with empathy and respect for others. Aquarius’ detachment highlights the intellectual or strategic nature of conflict, but Venus reminds us of the emotional consequences of these power struggles.
The Crown, Heart, and Solar Plexus
When the crown chakra is out of harmony, we may feel disconnected from wisdom and lose sight of our higher purpose. It can also lead to living entirely in the mind, ignoring the heart’s truths and dismissing emotional realities. Similarly, when the heart chakra is unbalanced, it can lead to emotional disconnection, leaving unresolved feelings of sorrow or resentment. The Five of Swords invites us to unite the heart’s compassion with the crown’s wisdom, creating a more balanced approach to resolving conflict. It asks: Can we seek higher understanding without sacrificing emotional integrity?
In addition to the crown and heart chakras, the Five of Swords is also deeply connected to the energy of the solar plexus, the center of personal power and will. This chakra governs our sense of self, confidence, and the way we assert ourselves in the world. The Five of Swords card illuminates how the pursuit of personal power can easily override consideration for others, leading to dominance, ego-driven actions, or strained relationships. This card challenges us to examine whether our actions reflect true strength or are rooted in fear of vulnerability. It reminds us that authentic power does not lie in overpowering others.
5 of Swords As Feelings
When the Five of Swords appears as feelings, it indicates inner conflict, resentment, or the desire to defend oneself. Emotions may feel sharp or unsettled, with a tendency to ruminate on past hurts or perceived slights. This card reflects a struggle to find peace, where defensiveness and unresolved anger create inner turmoil. However, the Five of Swords also encourages self-reflection and asks if it’s worth holding onto this tension. It invites a conscious choice to let go of what no longer serves emotional well-being.
Tarot Through the Ages
Tarot was originally invented as a card game in the mid 15th century. French occultist Jean-Baptiste Alliette, also known as “Etteilla”, was the first to assign divinatory meanings to the cards in the late 1700s. Many others have followed in his footsteps, bringing their own unique interpretation of the cards. In our exploration of the Tarot, we weave together contemporary insights with the timeless wisdom of the past. This blending of past and present perspectives offers a more holistic view, allowing us to connect with the evolving narrative and lineage of wisdom that has shaped our understanding of each card over time. Let’s dive into some of these historical interpretations…
5 of Swords Meaning
Well-dignified
A decision that affects the Querant negatively in any matter of a material nature. In spiritual questions, this card represents a course of action that has ended in apparent defeat but which will nevertheless produce a result that is ultimately positive. In any case this is a card of failure, defeat, trouble, poverty, and anxiety. The Querant is probably the subject of more or less slander.
Ill-dignified
Troubles are intensified, and are probably more definitely the result of the Querant’s own failings; particularly, in this instance, does the Five of Swords suggest loss through the Querant’s own extreme greed for wealth or material gain.
Time period
Astrologically, the Five of Swords governs the first decanate of Aquarius, under the rulership of Saturn and Uranus, from January 20th to January 29th.
Imagery
The scourge combined with the ankh is a symbol of suffering, of the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. This pain and suffering will ultimately bring understanding and are the result of the Querant’s own Karma. The suffering is not really unjust.
Keyword
Defeat
Modern Translation of The Oracle of the Tarot by Paul Foster Case (1933)
The Minor Arcana: Five of Swords
An Alternative Definition for the Five of Swords
Traditionally,Swordsare associated with theelementair. Below, we see that Thierens has decided to break with tradition by associating the suit of Swords with the element of fire. Mystic Doorway has chosen the traditional correspondence of air for the Five of Swords. Even so, we believe it is important to explore many historical definitions of the cards, allowing each individual the freedom to choose their own path within the journey of Tarot.
Card Definition
Upright: This card represents loss, dishonor, defeat, and the reversal of fortune. It reflects themes of manipulation, betrayal, or unfair victory.
Reversed: Reversed, it continues these themes but often focuses on endings, such as funerals or finality.
Theory
With influences from Mars and Saturn in the Fifth House, this card reflects difficulty and hardship, often accompanied by inner turmoil. It represents a struggle between external challenges and the heart’s innate need for hope and vitality. The card can signify moments of defeat or crisis, but also a chance for reflection and inner growth if approached with discipline.
Conclusion
The Five of Swords reflects challenges to honor, confidence, and personal stability. While it signals difficult times, it can also indicate a need for self-discipline and growth through adversity. It reminds us that not all losses are final; some provide an opportunity for renewal.
Modern Translation of the General Book of the Tarot by A.E. Thierens (1930)
5 of Swords Tarot
Upright: This card signifies loss, dishonor, or betrayal, often with themes of manipulation or power imbalance. It reflects a moment of winning at the expense of others, carrying the weight of moral ambiguity.
Reversed: Similar themes persist but deepen into isolation, grief, or finality, such as the closure of endings and farewells.
The Pictorial Key to the Tarot by A.E. Waite (1910)
Five of Swords Card Imagery
A man with an air of arrogance watches two defeated figures walk away, leaving their swords behind. He carries several blades, asserting his dominance in the aftermath of a conflict.
-Modern Translation of The Pictorial Key to the Tarot by A.E. Waite (1910)
The Lord of Defeat
Two radiant angelic hands appear on either side of the card, each holding two swords that stand nearly upright but drift apart toward the edges. A third hand emerges in the center, grasping an upright sword that seems to separate the others. The petals of a rose, which had previously been restored in the Four of Swords, are now torn apart and falling. Above the scene is the symbol of Venus, and below is the symbol of Aquarius, reflecting the astrological influences of this Decan.
Symbolism: This card signifies defeat, failure, and loss, often accompanied by feelings of anxiety, trouble, and material hardship. It reflects greed, regret over unfulfilled desires, and a sense of relentless struggle. It may also point to negative behaviors, such as malicious gossip, deceit, spite, or actions driven by envy. A person influenced by this card might act as a disruptor, unwilling to see harmony among others, and may exhibit cruelty tempered by cowardice or unreliability. Although capable of quick thinking and cleverness, moments of compassion or pity are fleeting and lack depth.
Geburah of HB:V (Defeat, loss, malice, spite, slander, evil-speaking).
Ruled by the Great Angels HB:RHa’aAL and HB:YYVHL.
Modern Translation of The Tarot of the Golden Dawn: Book “T” by MacGregor Mathers and Harriet Felkin
5 of Swords
The Meaning of The Five of Swords Card Throughout History
The Tarot deck is a beautiful synthesis of esoteric thought and archetypal imagery. The journey of the deck, shaped by the events and values of each era, has continued to evolve and take on new significance as it adapts to a larger cultural story. Often a tarot card will have a variety of names and meanings. Exploring the historical interpretations of each card will create a deeper understanding of this powerful method for divination and self-discovery.
Various Names For The Five of Swords
The Five of Swords has taken many names throughout history such as Five of Blades, Five of Daggers, Five of Knives, and Five of Spades.
| Tarot de Marseille (1650) | Five of Swords |
| Golden Dawn (1888) | The Lord of Defeat |
| Papus (1892) | Five of Swords |
| Rider-Waite (1910) | Five of Swords |
| Thoth (1943) | Five of Swords |
Significations of The Five of Swords
- Opposition to the opposition of hatred. The enemy triumphs at the moment one fancies the victory is secured.
-Tarot of The Bohemians by Papus (1892)
Five of Swords Symbolism
Upright: Mourning, Sadness, Affliction.
Reversed: Losses Trouble (same signification, whether reversed or not).
-The Tarot by S.L. MacGregor Mathers (1888)
Bring the Wisdom of the Tarot Into Your Life
We have put together a collection of some of our favorite Tarot items. The deep symbolism of the Tarot can be used to access a wellspring of inner wisdom and guidance. This method of divination is also an incredible tool for accessing your own powerful intuition.
Mystic Doorway is supported by our readers. When you purchase items through links on our site, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Support Independent Bookstores With These Tarot Selections
Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. Their mission aims to strengthen the fragile ecosystem and keep local bookstores an integral part of our culture and communities.
The Pictorial Key to the Tarot
This guide by Arthur Edward Waite, the designer of the most widely known Tarot deck and distinguished scholar of the Kabbalah, is the essential Tarot reference. The pictorial key contains a detailed description of each card in the celebrated 78-card Rider-Waite Tarot deck, along with regular and reversed meanings. Contents describe symbols and secret tradition, ancient Celtic methods of divination, and wonderful illustrations of each Tarot card. This book is the perfect complement to old-style fortune telling and also serves to make the Tarot entirely accessible to modern-day readers. The Pictorial Key to the Tarot is the classic guide to the Rider-Waite deck and to Tarot symbolism in general.
Crystal Tarot
As rich and complex as life itself, the Crystal Tarot blends the look of stained glass with art nouveau style to gracious effect. The use of patterns within patterns gives depth to the traditional pictures of the Tarot. Influenced by both the Rider-Waite and Thoth Tarot decks, this modern Tarot is an exquisite blend of the old and the new. The familiar images are all there, while the details–executed in brilliant and unusual colors–invite viewers to linger, to search, to make sure they miss nothing–an effective trait in a tool of self-examination.
Tarot of the Thousand and One Nights
Adventure, magic, poetry, and love come to life in this Tarot deck based on the classic1001 Arabian Nightsfolktales. Tarot of the Thousand and One Nights is bursting with rich imagery relating to the Arabian renaissance, the exotic allure of these fairy tales bestows timeless wisdom to those who seek it.
How will you Harness The Transformative Power of The Tarot?
We invite you to walk into a cosmic narrative in which we are all a unique element in each other’s story. Humanity has long used sacred tools for awakening the soul and illuminating our path toward enlightenment. The Tarot is simply an instrument. These cards amplify your inner wisdom and empower your highest truth.
What aspects of The Tarot can serve you as you walk through your own Mystic Doorway?
Check Out Our Pinterest Gallery for More Inspiration
What you have read is only the beginning…
Mystic Doorway is always gaining new insight into the rich symbolism of Tarot. We are looking forward to sharing with you as we continue to expand our knowledge of this divinatory tool. Check back with us soon to see what we’ve added to our Library.
