Three of Swords
The Three of Swords shows a heart pierced by three swords, with rain clouds in the background—a symbol of heartbreak, sorrow, and emotional pain. This card represents difficult truths, loss, or painful revelations that are hard to face. When the Three of Swords appears, you may be feeling sadness, disappointment, or betrayal. It’s a time for honesty with yourself and allowing space to grieve. Though it can be tough, facing your feelings helps you process and eventually heal. The card encourages you to honor your emotions and remember that brighter days will return, even if things feel heavy right now.
Three of Swords — General meaning
Upright meaning
The Three of Swords upright is about heartbreak, sadness, and the emotional storms that sometimes come with life. You might be experiencing grief from a breakup, a harsh truth, or disappointment in a situation or relationship. This card encourages you to feel your emotions fully and acknowledge the pain—ignoring it will only make it linger. While it can be difficult, honest expression of sadness leads to true healing. Support from loved ones, creative outlets, or time spent alone can help you process. Remember that even after heartbreak, hope and renewal are possible.
Reversed meaning
Reversed, the Three of Swords shows the beginning of emotional recovery, forgiveness, or letting go of sadness. You may be finding closure after a painful chapter or working to mend relationships. Sometimes, it can mean difficulty moving on, with old wounds resurfacing. The message is to be patient with your healing journey—give yourself grace, and don’t rush the process. Reaching out for support, journaling, or creative expression can help release lingering hurt. In time, you’ll rediscover hope and the strength to embrace happiness again.
Upright keywords: Heartbreak, Pain, Sadness, Loss, Truth
Reversed keywords: Healing, Forgiveness, Recovery, Closure, Letting go
Three of Swords — Love meaning
Upright meaning
In love, the Three of Swords upright points to heartache, separation, or emotional pain within a relationship. You or your partner may be dealing with betrayal, a breakup, or unresolved conflict. If single, lingering grief from past relationships may affect your willingness to trust again. The card invites you to allow your feelings to surface and to seek support where needed. Healing comes from facing the truth and letting yourself move through the pain. With time, new beginnings and a more open heart will follow.
Reversed meaning
In love, the Three of Swords reversed signals healing after heartbreak, reconciliation, or slowly rebuilding trust. You or your partner may be letting go of past pain, apologizing, or finding peace after a tough period. If single, this card suggests moving on from grief and being open to new love. Allow space for honest conversation and forgiveness—healing is a gradual process, but your heart will mend and become stronger.
Upright keywords: Separation, Grief, Betrayal, Conflict, Disappointment
Reversed keywords: Reconciliation, Moving on, Hope, Release, Trust
Three of Swords — Career meaning
Upright meaning
For career, the Three of Swords upright indicates disappointment, loss, or challenging news at work. You may be facing criticism, a setback, or the end of a project or partnership. This card encourages honesty and reflection about what went wrong, so you can learn and move forward. Don’t hesitate to seek support or take time to regroup. Remember, setbacks are part of growth, and resilience builds through overcoming adversity. Brighter opportunities will come with persistence and self-care.
Reversed meaning
For career, the Three of Swords reversed means recovery from disappointment, rebuilding confidence, or mending professional relationships. A setback or loss may be fading, and you’re regaining optimism. Sometimes, this card warns against holding onto resentment or letting old wounds affect new opportunities. Focus on learning from the past and moving forward with hope and determination.
Upright keywords: Setback, Criticism, Loss, Disappointment, Challenge
Reversed keywords: Recovery, Mending, Optimism, Growth, Opportunity
Three of Swords — Spiritual meaning
Upright meaning
Spiritually, the Three of Swords upright can mean feeling disconnected, hurt by others, or struggling with loss of faith. You may be experiencing doubt or emotional wounds that affect your spiritual path. The card suggests turning inward for healing, practicing forgiveness, or seeking wisdom from supportive communities. Remember, pain is a teacher, and every difficult experience can bring growth. Allow yourself time to heal and know that peace will return.
Reversed meaning
Spiritually, the Three of Swords reversed suggests healing emotional wounds, rediscovering faith, or reconnecting with supportive communities. You may be releasing old beliefs that caused pain, or forgiving yourself and others. Allow yourself to embrace gentle practices and self-compassion. Healing happens in small steps, and as you let go, your spiritual path will feel lighter and more inspired.
Upright keywords: Wounding, Doubt, Disconnection, Healing needed, Growth
Reversed keywords: Release, Renewal, Forgiveness, Lightness, Restoration