“Peace is liberty in tranquility.” Marcus Tullius Cicero
Element of air power: Swords representing thoughts, the power of inner energy is calm now.
There is a quiet stillness that is present in the Four of Swords, a sense of calm peace that is contrasted so deeply with the pain in the Three of Swords. The three overhanging swords are a reminder of the suffering that the reclining figure has endured in the earlier card.
The position of the fourth sword seems to be a sign that the fight has ended. A child and a woman are depicted in the stained glass window, giving the scene a sense of warmth and welcoming after this retreat. The knight has his hands positioned as if he is praying.
After the time of chaos, anger and pain depicted in the Three of Swords, the Four of Swords indicates that it is now time to recline, now time to enjoy a moment of rest. Whether this retreat is from a choice to withdraw, or whether it is from pure exhaustion, is not clear. You are still tender from the wounds that were previously inflicted, and the battle weapons still hang above you as a grim reminder of what was lost. In order to continue and re-emerge in daily life, you must take the time now to breathe.
It is the time now to gain strength and clarity in a quiet environment away from your current circumstances. It is time to reevaluate, organize and understand yourself, your priorities. This helps to rejuvenate one’s spirit of creativity, and you come out stronger than before.
The Four of Swords also denotes that it is time to gather new strength and prepare to face a new challenges. In your past you have faced crisis after crisis, and it was wearing you out. You can face a new challenge only after getting away from everything and embracing a new awareness.
At times of Imbalance: You are feeling restless, you want to relax but your mind plays a hundred and one scenarios that prevent you from relaxing. You feel that you have too much that is depending on you. It is not healthy to continue in this way, as it could have effects on your mental and physical health. To rest, to retreat, is a means of self love sometimes, and though you may try to push ahead, that will only make it difficult for you in the long term.
Medicine: Take the time to nurture yourself to reenter life. Within us glimmers hope, and it lies quietly, waiting to reveal itself after we are healed.
Mantra: I am at peace right now with all.
