Five of Swords
YouTarot Version
Upright Meaning
The Five of Swords symbolizes conflict, competition, and the challenges that arise from confrontation. It represents moments of struggle and the complexities involved in winning, implying that victory may come at a cost, often leading to feelings of loss or regret.
Keywords:
conflict, competition, victory at a cost, tension, betrayal, loss, regret
Reversed
In reverse, the Five of Swords suggests reconciliation, making amends, and learning to let go of grudges. It also warns against excessive pride and encourages humility after conflict.
Reversed Keywords:
reconciliation, forgiveness, humility, letting go, avoiding conflict
Traditional Rider-Waite
Upright Meaning
The traditional Rider Waite Five of Swords depicts a figure holding three swords with a smug or victorious expression, while two opponents walk away defeated. This card traditionally signifies conflict, defeat, hollow victory, and the aftermath of disputes where someone may feel like a winner but at a moral or social cost.
Keywords:
conflict, defeat, hollow victory, betrayal, tension
Reversed
Reversed, the Rider Waite Five of Swords warns against lingering resentment and encourages healing, compromise, and introspection to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
Reversed Keywords:
resolution, forgiveness, reflection, compromise
Yes/No/Maybe?
YouTarot: maybe
Traditional: maybe