II
Two of Swords
Symbols in the artwork
A person with their eyes covered sits on a stone chair by the water, holding two swords. Their arms are crossed in front of their chest, and the blades are extended upwards on both sides. Behind them, there is water, rocks, and mountains, and in the sky, a crescent moon and stars are visible. The covered eyes suggest that there is something unknown or that judgment has been temporarily suspended. The two swords can be read as two different criteria that need to be considered together. This does not predict hidden betrayal, nor does it mean that one must choose between the two.
Sources and interpretation
The original deals with limited harmony, balance, friendship, and in reverse, deception and unfaithfulness. The indecision and confusion of information on this site focus on modern interpretations.
Written with reference to Rider–Waite–Smith symbolism and modern interpretations.
A. E. Waite's original text · Tina Gong / Labyrinthos modern interpretation
Upright
Tense opposition · Difficult choice · Stalemate of indecision
If making a decision is difficult, first consider what more you need to know.
Core meaning
The Two of Swords follows a modern interpretation, symbolizing a stalemate or a difficult choice between two positions. It also includes the aspect of ignoring what needs to be known or postponing judgment due to a lack of information.
The crossed arms and two swords bring to mind a desire to maintain the current balance. Instead of choosing one side immediately, you might consider scaling back a bit or changing the method. Like the blindfold, you might also need time to set aside external advice and listen to your own thoughts. Check what you truly want while also confirming the actual situation. It would be good to set a time for when you will decide again.
What to keep in mind
Needing time to think and constantly avoiding a difficult question can be different. Decide what you want to find out and when you will think about it again.
One small step today
Write down two things you find difficult to give up regarding your worries. Find out one thing you are curious about, and decide when you will make a decision again.
A question to consider
Is it because there is insufficient information, or is it because both things are precious and difficult to let go of?
A thought for today
Even while paused, you can learn about what you need, one thing at a time.
Reversed
Pressure and confusion of choice · Information overload · Revealed Truth
If you are continuing to hesitate, share what you have newly learned and what is still difficult.
Core meaning
The Two of Swords reversed symbolizes the pressure of postponed choices and the confusion from having too much information. While it can be interpreted as hidden facts being revealed, you might feel even more at a loss because neither side is satisfactory.
Conversely, you might be continuing to search for information to avoid making a decision even after researching enough. Try to separate what you need to decide yourself from what you can ask others about. If there is someone waiting for your answer, you can also consider what kind of burden the waiting places on you. Rather than making a big conclusion all at once, start with what you can do now, and then review it after gaining experience.
What to keep in mind
Do not overlook what is important due to the pressure to hurry. Conversely, reflect on whether you are continuously postponing necessary conversations until you feel certain.
One small step today
Write down what you have learned so far and the remaining questions. Decide on one small thing to do today, and also think about what you will re-examine after doing it.
A question to consider
Will learning more help with a decision, or are you avoiding a difficult choice or conversation?
A thought for today
Even if you do not know all the answers, you can start with small things and reconsider.
Tarot offers a way to reflect on yourself through its symbols. Read it as a point of reference, not a certain prediction of the future or another person's feelings.