Five of Swords as Third Party (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

The Five of Swords is the card of conflicts, arguments, disputes, fights, and stress. The card shows a man picking up three swords from the ground. Behind him, two men are walking away from their swords. A battle has been fought and lost. There is conflict and strife. Even though the fighting has stopped for the time being, the air has not been cleared. 

The Five of Swords reminds us that conflict is a part of every relationship. Wherever there are people, conflict will always exist. Conflict can even be beneficial to a relationship, as it establishes boundaries and tells us when our needs are not being met. However, it is how we respond to conflict that matters. Conflicts can explode into strife, but they can also be worked through amicably. 

Upright Five of Swords as Third Party

If you are asking about a third-party situation, and you draw the Five of Swords, it means that conflict, deception, or a power struggle is affecting the situation. One or both people may be engaging in manipulation, dishonesty, or selfish behavior to gain the upper hand. This card suggests that the relationship may be filled with arguments, resentment, or a constant battle for control rather than genuine emotional connection.

The Five of Swords as third party suggests that the connection between them is filled with tension, manipulation, or a sense of competition rather than true harmony. There may be mind games, betrayals, or a feeling that one person always has to “win” at the other’s expense. This dynamic often leads to exhaustion, where neither person truly benefits from the relationship in the long run.

If you are asking about the third party’s intentions, the Five of Swords indicates that they may be acting in their own self-interest, prioritizing winning over emotional connection. They could be focused on proving a point, getting revenge, or maintaining control rather than nurturing a real bond. This suggests that their actions may not be based on love or mutual respect, but rather a need to assert dominance.

If you are wondering if your person will leave the third party, the Five of Swords suggests that arguments, dishonesty, or mind games could lead to separation. The relationship may be unsustainable due to ongoing power struggles, leading to a painful but inevitable breakup. However, if neither person is willing to let go of their pride, the cycle of conflict may continue for some time before a final ending.

If you are wondering where you stand in this situation, the Five of Swords indicates that you may feel caught in unnecessary conflict, needing to decide if this battle is worth fighting. You may be experiencing emotional manipulation or feeling like someone is playing games with your heart. This card urges you to protect your peace and step away from situations that only bring pain and drama.

For the future of this situation, the Five of Swords suggests that the most likely outcome is emotional fallout, where someone walks away feeling defeated or betrayed. Even if one person “wins” the argument, the damage done to the connection may be irreversible. This card signals that dishonesty and conflict will eventually lead to separation, leaving behind a sense of regret or bitterness.

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Reversed Five of Swords as Third Party

If you are asking about a third-party situation, and you draw the Five of Swords reversed, it means that reconciliation, regret, or a desire to move past conflict is emerging. One or both people may be realizing that the constant fighting is not worth the emotional toll it takes. This card suggests an opportunity for closure, healing, or at least a truce after a period of discord.

The Five of Swords reversed as third party suggests that the connection between them is struggling with the consequences of past fights, dishonesty, or manipulation. They may be trying to repair the damage, but lingering resentment or unresolved issues make it difficult to move forward. This reversal indicates a possible attempt to rebuild trust, though success depends on whether both people are willing to change.

If you are asking about the third party’s intentions, the Five of Swords reversed indicates that they may feel remorseful, trying to mend things or move forward without further conflict. They could be realizing that their actions have caused harm and may be seeking forgiveness or a way to smooth things over. However, this does not always mean their behavior will truly change—it may simply be an attempt to avoid further tension.

If you are wondering if your person will leave the third party, the Five of Swords reversed suggests that they may be realizing the damage caused and considering a way out. They may not want to continue a relationship built on manipulation or power struggles and could be looking for a way to disengage. However, if they fear confrontation, they may choose to slowly distance themselves rather than make a bold exit.

If you are wondering where you stand in this situation, the Five of Swords reversed indicates that tensions may start to ease, but trust may still be an issue. Even if the conflict lessens, emotional wounds may take time to heal, and it is important to be cautious of empty apologies or unresolved resentment. This card suggests a need to evaluate whether peace is truly being restored or if past issues are simply being swept under the rug.

For the future of this situation, the Five of Swords reversed suggests that the most likely outcome is a resolution, where past arguments either lead to closure or a chance to rebuild. This could mean a final parting of ways where both people accept defeat and move on, or it could indicate a slow process of making amends. Either way, this card signals an end to open conflict, though the emotional impact of what has happened will not be easily forgotten.

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Conclusion

For relationships and feelings, the Five of Swords represents conflict. Conflict will always exist, wherever people exist. Conflict is important, because it tells us when something is not right. It’s how we deal with conflict in relationships that matters. The choice is on us, whether we want to take it as an opportunity to explode or see it as potential to grow. 

If you find yourself needing further clarity in your relationship matters that go beyond reading for yourself, Sibyl offers unlimited tarot readings on love & relationships, as a neutral and objective third party.