It’s October! 🍁 A new season is upon us, along with all of the conflict and growth that goes along with it. Are you ready? Yes or yes? 😉
In tarot, the swords suit is always a challenging one, and the Five of Swords is no different. It’s a complex card containing several layers involving self-doubt, low self-esteem, and lack of belief in yourself. Let’s explore how conflict can lead to inner growth.
Interpretation = Conflict
Traditional meanings of the Five of Swords center around arguments, strife, conflicting ideas, winning at all costs, conquest, and/or potential defeat. Swords are double-edged and cut both ways, meaning they’re capable of cutting down an imagined enemy and/or cutting out a negative mindset twisting your way of thinking.
This card contains three figures—one hunched, one upright with his back to us, and one facing forward while holding two swords and lifting a third.
One logical interpretation is that these three argued, engaged in a confrontation, and just concluded a physical fight.
3 Stages of Inner Development
Or, the Five of Swords may metaphorically represent three different stages of inner development for one individual. For example, the figure farthest in the background with his head in his hands depicts an inner shame and despair which leaves him unable to face life. He’s closest to the water’s edge and carries no swords, which illustrates he’s experiencing strong emotions.
The middle figure is upright with his back turned, and he’s walking toward the water. He’s not ready to look at himself realistically. The red cloak thrown over his shoulder indicates that he’s beginning to come to terms with his power to see himself more clearly.
Meanwhile, the main figure stands erect with weapons at his disposal. His backward glance shows that he understands where he’s been, while his facial expression exhibits satisfaction with his current growth.
Any interpretation you choose still revolves around conflict, whether inner or outer. We gather this because the front figure has all the swords while the other two possess none, indicating they no longer have a say.
- The forward figure claims all the swords illustrate he’s holding all the power, and potentially that communication has broken down with the other two.
- The two upright swords and the one pointing down show the imbalance (read: conflict) between his conscious and unconscious motivations.
- The remaining two swords at his feet indicate that either he doesn’t have all the facts or has failed to grasp some important information.
Moving Forward
As we head into October, what are you conflicted about? It pays to start thinking about this now because next week, I’ll show you why this card has turned up and later how you can best utilize its energies to reduce conflict and make solid strides forward in whatever area of life you’re most stressed about now.
Life is challenging. But how you choose to handle your challenges determines what happens next.
I found this affirmation to be both a helpful reminder in a moment of challenge and true: My lessons move me forward… always.
BONUS: For more inspiration, check out this collection of moving-forward quotes.
Watch a quick review of the card here:
Til next time…
Ever upward!
