Seven of Swords
Seven of Swords Tarot Card Meanings
UPRIGHT: Betrayal, deception, getting away with something, acting strategically
Upright Seven Of Swords
Traditionally, the Seven of Swords indicates theft, betrayal, deception and trickery. You may be trying to get away with something and are sneaking around behind other people’s backs, hoping to go undetected. If you are lucky, you might get away with your secret intact. But if you are unlucky, others will soon find out what you have done, causing you shame and embarrassment. Be aware that any time you use cunning or deception to gain an advantage over someone or something else, you are at risk of being found out. And even if you are not, the cover-up will require a tremendous amount of effort, and it may not be worth it.
Alternatively, you may be the victim of someone else’s betrayal. Others are not being candid with you, and you may be unaware of their lies and deception. You may trust someone who then turns out to be running their own agenda, leaving you high and dry. Look out for any sneaky behaviour and listen to your intuition when something does not feel right or seems too good to be true.
On a more positive note, the Seven of Swords points out that you need to be strategic in what you do. You know you cannot do everything at once – nor should you. Instead, you must prioritise what’s important to you and direct your focus and attention on the few tasks that will move you closer to your goals. It’s the 80-20 rule: 20% of your work will account for 80% of your results, so focus on the 20%. You may be able to accept some responsibilities or duties, but not all of them. Or you may say ‘yes’ to some projects at the expense of others.
The Seven of Swords also suggests that you may need to use shortcuts or the ‘backdoor’ to get what you want. Rather than dutifully following the process, you may need to find ways to resolve your problem quickly so you can move towards your goals. For example, if you missed out getting into your preferred course, you might write a letter to the Dean or draw on your networks to get a mid-year entry. You may need to think on your feet and act in a way that isn’t exactly all ‘above board.’
At times the Seven of Swords suggests that you may need to put yourself first to get what you want, even if it means letting others down or putting others off-side. For example, you may be asked to travel for work to attend a high-profile event, but it would mean missing your child’s birthday, so you decline the travel opportunity, even though you know it will upset your boss. Here’s the thing: you can’t be everything to everyone, and sometimes you need to put your own needs and priorities first, even if others may not agree with you or understand where you are coming from.
The Seven of Swords could also imply that you are trying to escape from a situation that is not working for you anymore rather than dealing with it head-on. You may attempt to run away from commitment, responsibility, hard work or love. You may procrastinate, letting problems slip and become worse because you do not want to deal with them. Sometimes you just have to face what has to be faced.
Upright Love Meaning:
Lies and deception, affair, sparing feelings, feeling suspicious
Lies and tricks may be abound with the 7 of Swords tarot love meaning. It may be important for you right now to remain cautious, especially if you’ve met someone new. You or someone in your romantic life can be dishonest right now, and in the worst possible cases, even unfaithful. If your instincts have been telling you that you are being lied to, you may need to confront this and have an honest discussion. If this has been you, consider the long term consequences of your actions. Even the kindest lie to spare feelings can grow into big problems should the root cause not be addressed. If you’re single, you may need to evaluate whether you’ve been too suspicious or untrusting of potential lovers, or on the other hand, been leading them on, or exaggerating who you are.
Upright Career Meaning:
Gossip, sabotage, jealousy at work, working strategically
There may be some shady characters in your workplace. Lies and deceit can take you by surprise. You may be dealing with colleagues attempting to sabotage you with gossip, badmouthing you to bosses, or attempting to take credit for your work. Be cautious about who you trust in this situation; it may come from where you least expect it. Sometimes, this card can also suggest you will need a certain degree of strategy to accomplish your projects. You may be the underdog here, and others may have more resources or established positions. A certain degree of working tactically can be an advantage for you now.
Upright Finances Meaning:
Shady business deals, fraud, theft, scams
Be careful regarding your finances right now, as there may be some sort of trickery, scam or stealing of your resources. This can come outside of you, but you may also be inviting these situations if you are trying any get rich quick schemes, or gambling away your money on other shady deals. Stay away from things that feel suspicious or too good to be true.
Reversed Seven of Swords Tarot Card Meanings
REVERSED: Imposter syndrome, self-deceit, keeping secrets
Reversed Seven Of Swords
The Seven of Swords often appears reversed when you feel like a fraud and are suffering from ‘imposter syndrome’. You may doubt yourself and your abilities. For example, if you have started a new business, you may ask yourself, 'Who am I to be doing this?' Know that this is fear talking. Get out of your head and trust that you have everything you need to make your new venture a success.
Similarly, the Seven of Swords reversed can suggest that you are deceiving yourself, trying to trick yourself into believing something even though it is out of integrity with your true self. You may attempt to fool yourself that everything is okay when it is not. Now is the time to get real with where you are and confront your situation head-on.
As a card of inner deceit, the reversed Seven of Swords represents keeping secrets hidden from others. You may be harbouring a dark secret that you hope will never be revealed. Keeping this secret may bring you stress and tension, along with deeper feelings of guilt and shame. While the thought of confessing may be horrifying, it will free you from the negative emotions you are experiencing. First forgive yourself, then confide in someone you trust. You will no doubt feel much lighter as a result.
If you are involved in an affair or extra-marital relationship, the reversed Seven of Swords shows a growing reluctance to keep up the charade. You or your partner may feel increasingly uncomfortable with this relationship and would much rather come out in the open
Reversed Love Meaning:
Lies revealed, end of playing games, dropping pretension
An end to lies and deception may be suggested by the reversed 7 of Swords tarot love meaning. Dishonesty always eventually comes to light, and this card signals that the truth is coming to surface now. If you’re the deceiver, it is in the long run more important to confess and admit to any wrongdoing. It is not easy to carry the weight of dishonesty; for it usually comes with constant anxiety of being found out. Those looking for love can be more willing to drop any pretensions or stop playing games. In the long run, this can bring you more fulfillment than having to consistently change yourself for love.
Reversed Career Meaning:
Liars exposed, consequences of actions, changing approach
Truths are coming to light now, and if others have been acting untruthfully now, their lies can be exposed. Whether you’re the victim of this deceit, or you’re the one that has been unfair, guilt and shame is likely to push the perpetrator to confession and perhaps reconciliation. As long as you make amends, and face the consequences, there is likely to be forgiveness. Alternatively, the situation at work can escalate; sometimes those who are at fault are not brought publically to justice. Keep in mind, that however disappointing, one’s character will dictate their fate in the future. Sometimes the 7 of Swords is a simple statement that the strategies and the approach you’re using at work is just not working, and you’ll have to change how you handle your projects.
Reversed Finances Meaning:
Consequences of dishonesty in finances
Have you been completely honest in your financial dealings? Now may be a good time to get your taxes paid, and in order before you get in deeper trouble. Or have you been a victim of theft, scams or fraud? The truth is coming to light now and there can be consequences for those that have not walked an honorable path.