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Element
Air
Planet
Mercury/Saturn
Zodiac
Gemini/Libra/Aquarius
Yes/No
No
VII

Seven of Swords

A figure sneaks away from a camp, carrying five swords while two remain behind. They look back over their shoulder—are they getting away with it, or about to be caught?

Upright Keywords

Deception
Strategy
Sneakiness
Cunning
Betrayal

Reversed Keywords

Confession
Conscience
Truth Revealed
Self-Deception
Accountability

Upright Meaning

Deception, strategy, sneakiness, cunning. Getting away with something—or trying to.

Reversed Meaning

Coming clean, conscience, self-deception revealed. The truth will out.

Symbolism & Imagery

  • ✦The sneaking figure shows deception in action
  • ✦Five stolen swords show what's being taken
  • ✦Two left behind show incomplete theft
  • ✦The backward glance shows guilt or fear
  • ✦The camp shows what/who is being betrayed

Interpretations by Life Area

Upright

Deception in love. Sneaky behavior in relationship. Someone not being honest. Strategic manipulation.

Reversed

Coming clean in relationship. Deception being revealed. Time to be honest about love.

Advice

Is this clever strategy or harmful deception? Check your motives. Sneaky wins rarely last.

Warning

You can't outsmart karma. What's done in secret will eventually be revealed.

Ready for Your Reading?

Now that you understand Seven of Swords, draw cards to see how this wisdom applies to your life.