TRUTH
JUSTICE
FORTITUDE
The Ace of Swords is a symbol of possibility in the area of intelligence, reason, justice, truth, clarity and fortitude. In readings, it shows that a seed of clear understanding has been planted in your life although you may not yet recognize it. When the seed sprouts, it can take almost any form. It might be a compelling idea, a desire for the truth, a call to justice, or a need to be honest. On the outside, it could be an offer, gift, opportunity, encounter or synchronistic event.
Sometimes this Ace stands for a challenge that will test you in some way. Life never goes smoothly for long. Sooner or later a hurdle shows up, and the Ace of Swords can tell you when one is coming. This card is also a reminder to you to face your challenge, whatever it is, with courage, honesty, and a firm resolve. In every challenge, there is opportunity.
When you see the Ace of Swords, examine your life to see how its clean, sharp energy could work for you. Think about your problem objectively. Look for situations that are unjust or confusing and resolve to set them right. Above all else, commit to being honest and ethical. This card tells you that you do have the inner resources to overcome all obstacles and find the truth of your situation. That is the promise of the Ace of Swords.
using mental force
- being objective
- thinking your way through
- finding out the facts
- analyzing the situation
- using your intellect
- applying logic and reason
having fortitude
- overcoming adversity
- facing problems
- resolving a situation
- finding the strength to overcome
- surmounting obstacles
- being undaunted by setbacks
seeking justice
- righting a wrong
- championing a cause
- doing what is right
- establishing the truth
- accepting responsibility
- wanting what is fair
proceeding with truth
- dispelling doubts
- cutting through confusion
- seeing through illusions
- having clear understanding
- being honest
- finding out what is real
An Ace-Ace pair shows that a new spirit is entering your life. It draws on the energy of the Ace of Swords: intelligence, reason, justice, truth, clarity, perseverance plus one of these:
- Ace of Wands: creativity, excitement, adventure, courage, personal power
- Ace of Cups: deep feelings, intimacy, attunement, compassion, love
- Ace of Pentacles: prosperity, abundance, trust, security, groundedness
There are no separate explanations for reversed cards. The meaning of a reversed card depends on what the card would mean if upright. A reversed card shows that a card’s energy is present but at a lower level. For some reason, the energy cannot be expressed freely, normally, or completely. It may be:
- still in its early stages
- losing force and power
- blocked or restricted
- incomplete
- inappropriate
- being denied
- only present in appearance
See Lesson 17 for more information on reversed cards.