VII
Seven of Swords
Symbols in the artwork
A figure walking while looking back carries five swords sheathed. Three swords are visible on the left side of the scene, and two are visible on the right side, making a total of seven swords, including the two left on the path. Behind are a tent and lights, and ahead are a stone path with flowers, water, and mountains. The swords being carried and the swords left behind suggest a situation where one is choosing what needs to be dealt with while still having things left to sort out. Looking back does not necessarily mean evidence of lies or betrayal. Read this image as a prompt to consider what needs to be explained or decided together.
Sources and interpretation
The original text deals with plans, attempts, and plans that may fail, while the reversed deals with advice, teachings, and misfortune. This must be distinguished from modern interpretations such as deceit, strategy, and confession.
Written with reference to Rider–Waite–Smith symbolism and modern interpretations.
A. E. Waite's original text · Tina Gong / Labyrinthos modern interpretation
Upright
Deception and secrecy · Evasive strategies · Attempts to evade responsibility
When looking for a way to solve a problem, reflect on whether you are hiding important facts or avoiding commitments.
Core meaning
The Seven of Swords follows a modern interpretation symbolizing trickery, stealthy actions, and strategies that avoid direct confrontation. Along with the aspect of seeking clever ways, it can also suggest hiding important facts or evading responsibility. One cannot judge someone's lies based on the card alone.
Like carrying five swords while leaving two behind, choosing one thing might leave the rest behind. Reducing the amount of work to make things easier is different from avoiding difficult responsibilities. Check what tasks are assigned to you and what materials you are allowed to use. Rather than using this card as a reason to suspect those around you, it would be better to use it as an opportunity to review your own methods and established agreements.
What to keep in mind
Try not to hide important information in the name of planning. Rather than doubting someone based only on the cards, look at the actual appointments and confirmed details.
One small step today
For a plan, write down what you need to prepare alone, what needs to be decided together, and what remaining responsibilities there are. Convey one piece of information that the other person needs to know.
A question to consider
Is what hasn't been said because it needs time to be prepared alone, or is it something others also need to know?
A thought for today
While finding a method that suits me, I can also talk about the impact that choice will have on others.
Reversed
The revealed truth · Conscience and confession · Ongoing deception
If there is something you haven't said, try to speak honestly about what is needed right now.
Core meaning
The Seven of Swords reversed can be read as a confession and acknowledgment of responsibility for hidden facts. Conversely, it can also mean that the deception is worsening or the existing methods are no longer working, so do not assume that the truth will necessarily come out.
Alternatively, you might be over-explaining due to worry about being suspected or feeling guilty. Try to separate the actual issues confirmed from the reactions you anticipated. Rather than looking for hidden intentions, you can examine what promises were made and how the actions deviated. While deciding what needs to be explained and what needs to be changed, it is okay to leave some things to keep to yourself.
What to keep in mind
You don't have to reveal all your private matters just because you feel the need for an explanation. Instead of judging whether it's a lie with the cards, check what is necessary regarding promises made and the actual impact.
One small step today
Choose one vague promise. Write down what you have confirmed, what you are curious about, and what needs to be adjusted now, and explain or ask only as much as is necessary.
A question to consider
Is it necessary to find out the missing information, or is your anxiety growing from merely guessing on your own?
A thought for today
It is possible to share what is necessary while also respecting each other's private time and feelings.
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.