Three of Swords as Intentions (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

The Three of Swords is the card of heartbreak, grief, sorrow, loss, trauma, and separation. Three swords pierce a heart, while it rains in the background. The three swords represent the pain inflicted by words, actions, and intent on our emotional and physical selves. Though this may seem dreary and dire, the storm will not last forever, and the sun will come out.  

The Three of Swords reminds us that love and pain are often interconnected. Sometimes we have to experience heartbreak in order for us to learn the difficult lessons that we need to succeed in a future relationship. The Three of Swords also reminds us that the pain we experience is not forever. We can take the swords out, and we will heal. 

Upright Three of Swords as Intentions

If you are asking about someone’s intentions towards you, and you draw the Three of Swords, that means this person intends to keep you at a distance. They are sad, and they are heartbroken. They are going through a very difficult time right now. They may not be ready to talk to you about what is going on yet. It might be best to give them some space for now and let them deal with their pain on their own timeline.

The Three of Swords as intentions means that they are not interested in you as much as you are to them. They are still dealing with heavy emotions and struggling with their life decisions. This person has been hurt or betrayed by someone they care about. There’s a lot of pain, sadness, and anger inside, and they are still hung up with the past. They are not yet fully ready to confront it and it may still take time to come full circle.

For singles and those embarking on new relationships, the Three of Swords is a sign of them intending to inflict pain. This could manifest as intentional hurtful words or actions, or simply withdrawing love and support in order to cause suffering. It’s often seen as a warning sign that things may not end well. If you see this card in a reading, be mindful that the person you’re involved with may not have your best interests at heart. Proceed cautiously and don’t be afraid to end the relationship if it becomes toxic.

For existing relationships, the Three of Swords represents an intention to sever ties. It often indicates a time of heartache or emotional pain. It can suggest that there is disagreement within the relationship, and often signifies a breaking of trust.If this is the case, it’s important to remember that communication is key. Talk openly and honestly with each other about what’s going on, and be willing to listen as well as share your feelings.

If you are asking about an ex’s intentions, the Three of Swords shows that they intend to reconcile but are still feeling hurt. They are still trying to wrap their head up about what happened in your relationship. There is an indication that they do not take accountability of why you broke up. Sure reconciliation is very possible, but all things considered, all your past issues have to be addressed first and start on a clean slate.

In the context of whether or not a relationship is headed for commitment, engagement, or marriage, the Three of Swords means that this person’s intentions are meant to deceive. This could be because they’re not entirely invested in the relationship. This card suggests that there is some level of dishonesty or mistrust going on behind the scenes. Alternatively, this person is feeling insecure thus the indecision. If you’re considering getting engaged or married, it might be worth waiting until you can get a better sense of their true intentions.

Reversed Three of Swords as Intentions

If you are asking about someone’s intentions towards you, and you draw the Three of Swords reversed, that means this person intends to be more open and receptive. They have already come past their traumas. They have already turned another leaf of their life’s pages and are ready to take another chance again. They are still in the process of healing but they now have a more positive outlook of the future. With this card reversed, the hurt was already replaced with hope.

The Three of Swords reversed as intentions mean that they are looking for a way to mend things. They regret what has happened and want to make things right again. This is usually a good sign, as it means that the person is willing to face their problems and try to fix them. For someone that’s been hurt, this is an indication that they have already come to a place of forgiveness.

For singles and those embarking on new relationships, the Three of Swords reversed is a sign of them intending to move on from any old hurts or grievances. It can be a sign that they’re looking for closure and ready to start fresh. On the other hand, it could also mean that they’re not quite over their past relationship yet and are still harboring some residual anger or sadness. If this is the case, it’s important to give yourself time to heal before moving on to something new.

For existing relationships, the Three of Swords reversed represents an intention to move on and leave the past behind. It can indicate a breaking of ties with someone or something that’s been holding you back. This can be a positive thing, as it opens up new possibilities and allows you to focus on the future. However, it can also be a painful process, as you say goodbye to what’s been familiar and comfortable. In any case, this card encourages you to embrace change and new beginnings.

If you are asking about an ex’s intentions, the Three of Swords reversed shows that they intend to move past the hurt. They have accepted the fact that it’s nothing that they can control nor take back anymore. To move forward without any heavy heart, they have to learn to let go of things that keep them in the same place. There is potential for reconciliation and healing if both parties are open to it. If the discord continues, it’s likely that the relationship will eventually come to an end.

In the context of whether or not a relationship is headed for commitment, engagement, or marriage, the Three of Swords reversed means that this person’s intentions are a bit unclear. With the card reversed, any past hurts have already been addressed and unloaded. They are healing and coping greatly. However, as far as healing is concerned, time is the master. If you intend to take your relationship to another level, you have to walk them through that direction no matter what it takes.

Conclusion

For relationships and feelings, the Three of Swords represents pain and heartbreak. Though no one wants to go through pain and experience grief, it is often a necessary part of growth. Pain is here to teach us valuable lessons, so that we may be more open to receiving true, healthy love. 

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.