Three of Swords as Present (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 Present

If you are asking about the present, and you draw the Three of Swords, it means that heartache, sorrow, or betrayal may be influencing your current emotional state. This card signifies a challenging period marked by grief or emotional turmoil, suggesting that you are confronting deep-seated issues or feelings of loss. It encourages you to acknowledge these feelings as a necessary part of the healing process, emphasizing the importance of facing your pain to move forward.

The Three of Swords as the present can represent a period of emotional pain, loss, or conflict that needs to be addressed for healing. This card highlights the need for emotional clarity and the courage to confront the source of your pain, whether it stems from a recent event or a longstanding issue. It suggests that through acknowledging and working through your feelings, you can begin the journey towards recovery and eventual peace.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, the Three of Swords in the present position means there is significant emotional pain, possibly due to betrayal, separation, or misunderstanding. This card indicates a critical moment where addressing the root cause of the pain is essential for the health of the relationship. It underscores the need for open and honest communication between partners, as facing these challenges together can either pave the way for reconciliation or provide the clarity needed to part ways amicably.

If you are asking about an ex, the Three of Swords in the present position means lingering feelings of hurt and betrayal are affecting your peace of mind. This card reflects the difficulty in moving past the pain associated with the end of the relationship, suggesting that healing requires time, self-reflection, and possibly seeking support from others. It encourages you to focus on self-care and personal growth, using the experience as a stepping stone towards a stronger, more resilient self.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, the Three of Swords in the present position means a conflict or hurtful event has created a rift that needs healing. This card indicates that unresolved issues have led to emotional distress, highlighting the importance of addressing the matter directly to mend the relationship. It suggests that forgiveness and understanding are key to overcoming the hurt, allowing both parties to move forward with a renewed sense of trust and connection.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, the Three of Swords in the present position means you may be experiencing disappointment or betrayal, which is affecting your professional life. This card suggests that the impact of these negative experiences may be hindering your ability to focus and perform, emphasizing the need to address these feelings constructively. It encourages seeking resolution or closure, whether through professional avenues such as mediation or by setting new personal goals, to regain a sense of purpose and direction in your career.

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Reversed Three of Swords as Present

If you are asking about the present, and you draw the Three of Swords reversed, it means that you are beginning the healing process from heartache or betrayal and are ready to move past pain. This card signifies a crucial turning point where the intensity of your emotional wounds is diminishing, allowing for a clearer perspective and a renewed sense of hope. It encourages embracing this period of recovery with patience and self-compassion, recognizing that healing is both a journey and an opportunity for growth.

The Three of Swords reversed as the present can represent the resolution of grief, the forgiveness of past hurts, and the initial steps towards reconciliation and healing. This card highlights the importance of addressing unresolved emotions and finding peace with oneself and others. It suggests that letting go of grudges and forgiving (whether others or yourself) can liberate you from the cycle of pain, opening the door to emotional well-being and stronger, more authentic connections.

If you are asking about a romantic relationship, the Three of Swords reversed in the present position means there is a potential for mending wounds and rebuilding trust after a period of conflict or misunderstanding. This card indicates a window of opportunity for both partners to engage in open and honest communication, addressing the root causes of their issues with the intent to heal and move forward. It underscores the power of vulnerability and forgiveness in overcoming obstacles and revitalizing the relationship with renewed love and understanding.

If you are asking about an ex, the Three of Swords reversed in the present position means you are moving towards closure and letting go of lingering resentments or sadness. This card reflects a significant emotional shift, where you are no longer defined by the pain of the past relationship but are instead focused on personal healing and future happiness. It encourages you to cherish the lessons learned and to use this newfound clarity and strength to pave the way for more fulfilling connections.

If you are asking about a friend or family member, the Three of Swords reversed in the present position means efforts are being made to heal past hurts and restore harmony. This card suggests a mutual desire to resolve conflicts and strengthen the bond, emphasizing the importance of empathy, open dialogue, and a willingness to understand each other’s perspectives. It highlights that reconciliation is possible when both parties are committed to healing and valuing the relationship.

If you are asking about career and financial matters, the Three of Swords reversed in the present position means overcoming professional setbacks or personal betrayals and learning from these experiences. This card signifies a period of recovery where you are able to reflect on what happened, extract valuable insights, and apply this knowledge to avoid similar situations in the future. It encourages resilience and adaptability, reminding you that setbacks can serve as powerful catalysts for personal development and professional growth.

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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.