In-depth meaning: The whole of the Swords suit teaches that the understanding and acceptance of tragedy, conflict and hurt can help to ease grief. How? Because it can help the Subject reconcile what has taken place and why it hurts them; by acknowledging the pain and trauma and by accepting that it is past and over with, they can start to mend the damage it has caused. The Four of Swords card indicates that times have been challenging for the Subject of late and they need some down-time in order to recoup.
Taking time to consider the past and recognising the way in which events have affected the Subject can be fruitful to the healing process and this is what is required of them right now. They need to stop and reflect on what has passed and the impact it has had on them and and to start finding ways of how they can start the healing process. Pain and trauma in our lives is a necessary way to learn about what we want and what we don’t want in our lives in the future.
Notes on the image: There are four swords neatly aligned above each other – they are not crossed or pointing at each other. The clouds are slightly fluffy and calm – almost like a comfortable bed. This image represents the need to be still and calm in order to recoup and heal after pain and suffering. A time of calm after the conflict.