Learning Minor Arcana - Five of Swords

Five of Swords – Conflict, Betrayal, and Hollow Victory

The Five of Swords is a card that symbolises conflict, tension, and winning at a cost. It often appears when there has been a disagreement, argument, or betrayal, leaving one party feeling victorious while others suffer the consequences. This card highlights the darker side of competition—whether it’s manipulation, deceit, or selfish ambition, it reminds us that not all victories are worth the price paid.

It can also indicate ego-driven battles, where someone insists on proving they are right, even if it damages relationships. The Five of Swords asks us to reflect on whether a battle is truly worth fighting and if we are prioritising personal gain over harmony.

Imagery and Symbolism of the Five of Swords

In traditional tarot decks, the Five of Swords depicts a smug-looking figure holding three swords while two lie on the ground. Two defeated opponents walk away, their heads lowered in disappointment or shame. The cloudy sky suggests that the conflict has ended, but the atmosphere remains tense and unsettled.

The victorious figure symbolises someone who has ‘won’ but at the cost of others' suffering. The discarded swords suggest a hollow victory, where the spoils of war come with regret or lost relationships. The scene reflects the bitterness and isolation that can come from prioritising personal gain over mutual understanding.

Upright General Meaning of the Five of Swords

The Five of Swords in an upright position signals disputes, arguments, and potential deceit. This can manifest in relationships, workplaces, or personal conflicts where one person is determined to win at all costs. While you may feel victorious, you may also find that the outcome leaves you feeling isolated, guilty, or regretful.

This card encourages you to assess whether fighting for something is truly necessary or if compromise is a better path. Sometimes, letting go of a battle preserves more in the long run than forcing a victory. The Five of Swords can also warn of dishonest tactics, power struggles, or manipulative behaviour, whether from yourself or others around you.

It may also represent situations where you have been betrayed, outmanoeuvred, or taken advantage of. If this is the case, the lesson here is to learn from the experience, set better boundaries, and choose your battles wisely in the future.

Reversed General Meaning of the Five of Swords

Reversed, the Five of Swords suggests that a period of conflict is coming to an end, either through resolution or a decision to walk away. You may be realising that holding onto grudges, continuing arguments, or seeking revenge is no longer worth the emotional burden. There is a chance to make peace, either with others or within yourself.

It can also indicate guilt or regret after an argument or betrayal, where you or someone else involved feels remorse for past actions. If you were the one who acted selfishly or unfairly, now is the time to make amends.

On a more negative note, the reversed Five of Swords can sometimes suggest ongoing resentment or an inability to fully move on from past conflicts. The wounds may still be fresh, and while the battle is over, the emotional scars remain. This card asks you to focus on true resolution rather than simply suppressing your feelings.

Five of Swords in Love

In relationships, the Five of Swords can indicate arguments, tension, and power struggles. There may be a tendency for one partner to always try to “win” arguments, rather than working towards a healthy compromise. If the relationship has become a battleground of egos, it may be time to reconsider how both partners communicate and handle disagreements.

This card can also point to betrayal, dishonesty, or manipulation, whether that be infidelity, secret-keeping, or emotional mind games. If trust has been broken, an honest conversation is needed to determine whether the relationship can be repaired.

For singles, the Five of Swords may indicate attracting partners who are emotionally unavailable, manipulative, or playing mind games. It’s a reminder to set healthy boundaries and avoid people who bring unnecessary drama into your life.

Reversed Five of Swords in Love

Reversed, the Five of Swords suggests an opportunity to heal past wounds in a relationship. If there has been conflict, this may be a time when both partners are willing to communicate honestly and find common ground. However, it also warns that simply “making up” without addressing underlying issues will only lead to more problems down the road.

For singles, this reversal suggests that you may be letting go of past toxic patterns and learning to choose healthier partners. You may also be realising that some past relationships were built on dishonesty or control, and you’re now ready to move forward with more self-awareness.

Five of Swords in Career and Finances

In a career reading, the Five of Swords suggests workplace tension, competition, or unethical behaviour. You may find yourself dealing with colleagues or bosses who prioritise their own success over fairness. Office politics, backstabbing, or manipulative tactics could be at play, making the environment stressful and cutthroat.

If you are the one engaging in aggressive tactics to get ahead, this card warns that winning at the expense of others may backfire in the long run. Consider whether short-term success is worth damaging your reputation or professional relationships.

Financially, this card suggests conflicts over money, debts, or unfair dealings. It may be wise to double-check contracts, avoid risky investments, and ensure you are not being misled in financial matters.

Reversed Five of Swords in Career and Finances

Reversed, the Five of Swords indicates that workplace conflicts may be resolving. You might be choosing to step away from toxic environments or refusing to engage in office politics. If you have been involved in power struggles, now is the time to find a more cooperative and ethical approach.

Financially, this reversal suggests that money disputes may be coming to an end. Debts may be settled, agreements reached, or past mistakes corrected. However, it also warns against repeating financial patterns that have caused issues before—learn from past financial conflicts and move forward with a smarter strategy.

Five of Swords in Health

In health readings, the Five of Swords can indicate mental stress, anxiety, or headaches due to ongoing conflicts in your life. Emotional distress can take a toll on physical health, leading to tension, poor sleep, or even burnout. This card encourages you to find healthy ways to manage stress and prioritise self-care.

Reversed Five of Swords in Health

Reversed, the Five of Swords suggests that you may be recovering from a stressful period. Whether it was emotional strain, illness, or mental fatigue, you are beginning to regain balance. However, it is important to ensure that past stress does not resurface—focus on long-term health strategies, such as mindfulness, rest, and emotional healing.

Five of Swords in Spirituality

Spiritually, the Five of Swords represents internal conflict and struggles with ego. You may be facing doubts, feelings of betrayal, or an inner battle between your higher self and your ego-driven desires. This card encourages self-reflection and releasing the need to control outcomes.

Reversed Five of Swords in Spirituality

Reversed, this card suggests a spiritual breakthrough, where you are learning to let go of old resentments and conflicts. You may be finding inner peace by choosing forgiveness, both for yourself and others. Rather than fighting battles that no longer serve you, you are stepping into a more harmonious and mindful way of living.