Three of Swords as Timing (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 Timing

If you are asking about timing and you pull the Three of Swords, it means that the event may be delayed due to heartache, emotional pain, or unresolved conflict. 

The Three of Swords represents sorrow, separation, or heartbreak, suggesting that the timing of the event is connected to healing from emotional wounds or moving past a difficult situation. 

This card indicates that the event will happen after you’ve processed grief, disappointment, or emotional pain. 

Timing may feel slow as it requires emotional recovery and understanding before progress can be made. 

The event will occur once you have come to terms with a painful truth or resolved any emotional turmoil, allowing you to move forward with clarity.

Astrologically, the Three of Swords is associated with October 3-12 and Libra season.

Seasonally, the Three of Swords is associated with autumn.

The suit of Swords is associated with a timeframe of weeks. 

Need more clarity on your relationship?

Ask unlimited questions in a safe space. Get the answers you need. Your situation is unique. Sibyl’s expert psychics are here to help!

Learn More

Reversed Three of Swords as Timing

If you are asking about timing and you pull the Three of Swords reversed, it means that the event will happen soon, as this card suggests that you are healing from past wounds and are ready to move forward. 

The Three of Swords reversed indicates that timing is aligning because you or someone involved is recovering from emotional pain or letting go of past hurts. 

This card points to a period of emotional release, forgiveness, or recovery, where you are ready to embrace new opportunities. 

Expect the event to unfold as you finish healing and feel emotionally lighter, as the reversed Three of Swords suggests the worst is behind you, and the path ahead is clearing.

Real psychics. No scams.

Need intuitive advice but wary of getting scammed? Get honest answers, with no hidden fees. No “spell removal” upsells, we promise.

Learn More

Conclusion

Timing in tarot can be a bit tricky, but with practice, it becomes easier to trust the flow of the cards. I recommend using a narrative approach, letting the story of the spread guide you, rather than relying strictly on rigid definitions. Ultimately, trust your own intuition—it will lead you to the answers you’re meant to find.

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.