Home > Minor Arcana > Swords > 3 of Swords

KEY WORDS
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Upright: Betrayal, sacrifice, grief, rejection, loss

Reversed: Reconciliation, forgiveness, recovery, relief

KEY SYMBOLS
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Three, swords, heart, clouds, rain

CARD MEANING
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Upright:  This card often represents something painful such as a loss or a betrayal.  While this card means heartbreak or grief, the loss or sacrifice is almost always for the good in the bigger picture.  Pain becomes a motivator to change and loss opens room for the new.  The 3 of Swords can represent painful but accurate thinking.  Look at even the most painful truths as through this pain comes growth.  This card can represent release and letting go, separation from something in which is no longer serving you.  While this release will be difficult, it is necessary.

Reversed:  If this card is pulled in a reverse position, it can mean recovery from a difficult event.  It might point to the end stage of grief where you are ready to move forward, or a literal recovery from a surgery or illness.  When reversed, the 3 of Swords may imply that a reconciliation is coming.  While the separation was painful, it is coming to an end and the relationship will heal.  On the flip side, it may be telling you that you are holding on too tightly to a past loss and keeping yourself stuck, unable to see the growth available.  Allow yourself to grieve appropriately but open your heart to healing and new relationships.

NUMEROLOGY
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The number 3 represents the trinity of mind, body, and spirit.  It points to a clarity and unity in all areas of our life.  It brings together the past, present, and future, reminding us that all is available to us right now.  It represents our creative energy and inspiration from the Universe and Divine forces.

In a positive light, the number 3 refers to self-improvement, creativity, personal insight, optimism, self-expression, and joy of life.

In a negative light, the number 3 refers to scatter-mindedness, unfocused energy, lack of direction, confusion, and self-centeredness. Save

RELATED CHAKRA
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The Heart Chakra represents love and compassion.  It governs our ability to offer love to ourselves as well as others while remaining emotionally balanced and capable of standing strong in our convictions. Tarot cards related to this chakra focus around love, devotion, connection to the divine love, and compassionate action.