Seven of Swords: Tarot Card Meaning

Seven of Swords tarot card, Rider-Waite-Smith deck

The Seven of Swords is about deception, strategy and acting alone. In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck a figure tiptoes away from a camp carrying five swords, leaving two stuck in the ground behind him, and glances back with a sly look. He might be cleverly avoiding trouble, or he might be a thief.

Upright meaning

Upright, the Seven of Swords suggests that something is not entirely honest. It could be someone else’s deception or your own cutting of corners. It can also describe a clever, independent strategy. Be clear about your motives, check what is being hidden and think about whether the shortcut is worth the risk of being found out.

Reversed meaning

Reversed, the truth is coming out, or you feel the need to come clean. A deception may be exposed, or you may confess something you have been hiding. Take responsibility, repair what you can and choose honesty going forward.

In love

In love, the Seven of Swords suggests secrecy, dishonesty or a partner who is not being open. Reversed, it points to the truth surfacing, a confession or a chance to rebuild trust.

In career

At work, it points to office politics, hidden agendas or taking shortcuts. Be careful. Reversed, it suggests being found out, a confession or a return to honest practice.

As a yes or no answer

As a yes or no answer, the Seven of Swords leans no, because dishonesty or a hidden problem is involved. Reversed, it is also a no, as the truth is only beginning to come out.

Advice from this card

Ask yourself honestly whether a shortcut is worth the risk of being found out. Choosing the straightforward route usually costs less in the end.

At a glance

Arcana: Minor Arcana, suit card in the suit of Swords
Element: air, linked with thought, truth and communication
Number theme: reflection, testing and perseverance
Yes or no reading: No when upright, No when reversed

Explore more cards

Continue with Six of Swords or Eight of Swords. You can also compare it with the Seven of Wands, Seven of Cups and Seven of Pentacles. Or draw your own cards for a reading.