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Tarot Card Meanings:
Five of Swords

What is "Five of Swords" in Tarot?

The Five of Swords represents conflict, tension, and a sense of hollow victory. This card signifies arguments, betrayal, and the consequences of winning at others’ expense.

What are the key symbols in the "Five of Swords" tarot card?

  • Figure holding three swords: Symbolizes victory, but at a cost, suggesting hollow or unfulfilling success.
  • Two figures walking away: Reflects defeat, conflict, and the impact of arguments or betrayal.
  • Cloudy sky: Represents a tense atmosphere, lingering negativity, and emotional fallout.
  • Discarded swords on the ground: Indicate unresolved issues or battles that leave no true winner.

These symbols are based on the Rider-Waite Smith tarot. Symbols may differ in other decks! 

five of swords from the rider waite smith tarot
Five of Swords as depicted in the Rider-Waite Smith Tarot by A.E. White, illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith

Five of Swords Tarot Card Meaning

Five of Swords Keywords: Conflict, tension, hollow victory, betrayal, arguments, self-interest, consequences, unresolved issues.

The Five of Swords in the tarot signifies conflict and tension, often resulting from a desire to win or succeed at the expense of others. This card represents arguments or betrayal that can lead to a hollow sense of victory, where success is tainted by the harm caused to others. It highlights the impact of self-interest or aggression, emphasizing that some battles, even if won, come with lasting consequences. The Five of Swords encourages you to consider the cost of conflict, to seek resolution, and to avoid actions that may damage important relationships or leave unresolved tensions.

Five of Swords Reversed Tarot Card Meaning

Five of Swords Reversed Keywords: Reconciliation, resolution, moving on, forgiveness, end of conflict, lessons learned, healing relationships.

When the Five of Swords appears reversed in a tarot reading, it signifies an end to conflict or a desire to move past past disagreements and tension. This card suggests that reconciliation is possible, encouraging forgiveness and the healing of relationships strained by previous conflicts. It reflects the lessons learned from past arguments and the desire to avoid further hurt or negative interactions. The reversed Five of Swords urges you to let go of lingering resentment, to seek peace, and to prioritize harmony over winning or self-interest.

El Tarocchi Insight

Five of Swords is a reminder that not every battle is worth winning.

What I’ve observed across more than twenty years of tarot reading is that tarot clients who get this card are often in the middle of a conflict where winning has become the point, rather than resolving anything. The “victory” here often comes at a cost they haven’t fully accounted for yet. I find myself asking these clients: when you come out on top, will you be ready to deal with the other consequences of your actions?

Gallery: Five of Swords in Various Tarot Decks

Coming soon!