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Seven of Swords Tarot Card Meaning
Seven of Swords: The Strategy of Deception
Upright keywords
Betrayal, deception, getting away with something, strategy
Reversed keywords
Confession, honesty, conscience, returning stolen goods
Symbolism
A figure is seen sneaking away from an enemy camp, carrying five swords while leaving two behind. His expression is one of confidence and cunning. He is getting away with something, but his actions are not entirely successful or honest.
Seven of Swords upright meaning
The Seven of Swords is a card of deception, strategy, and acting with cunning. It can represent a situation where you or someone else is not being entirely truthful. It can signify getting away with something, but it can also be a warning of betrayal or theft. This card advises you to be strategic and discreet, but also to be aware of the consequences of your actions.
Be mindful of deception, either from you or against you. The Seven of Swords suggests a need for strategy and discretion. Not everything is as it seems, so act cautiously.
Seven of Swords reversed meaning
Reversed, this card can indicate a confession, a desire to come clean, or a secret being exposed. The deception is ending, and honesty is returning to the situation. It can also signify a failure to get away with something, where your dishonest actions are brought to light.
Confession, honesty, or a secret being revealed. A desire to come clean or the end of a period of deception.
Seven of Swords in a reading
How the card reads in each position of a past, present and future spread.
Past position
Upright: An act of deception or a sneaky tactic in the past is affecting your present situation. Something was taken or done without full disclosure.
Reversed: A past deception has been or is about to be exposed. The truth of a sneaky action is coming to light.
Present position
Upright: Be careful right now. There is deception afoot, or you may be tempted to not be fully honest yourself. A strategic, but not necessarily truthful, approach is being used.
Reversed: You are feeling the urge to confess or come clean about something. It is a time for honesty and clearing your conscience.
Future position
Upright: Be on guard for deception or betrayal in the future. Someone may try to get away with something. You may need to use strategy to protect your interests.
Reversed: A secret will be revealed in the future, ending a period of deception. The truth, however difficult, will finally come out.