Welcome to Tarot Tuesday!
Each Tuesday, I will be pulling a card from my grandmother’s tarot deck and writing about what the card could mean for the signs, broken up by element. The elements of the zodiac are Fire (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius), Earth (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn), Air (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius), and Water (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces).
I may pull a card from the major arcana, representing our inner wisdom. Or I may pull a suit card, representing outside influences. I may even pull a court card signifying a specific person in your life. This card can help you set your intention for the rest of the week, or it can provide a visualization of your current situation. Don’t forget to check your moon and rising signs as well as your sun sign.
The Four of Swords
This week I pulled the Four of Swords. In tarot, the number four usually represents caution and choice. More specifically, it represents the choice between safety and risk-taking.
Swords are the suit of communication. But the suit can also represent logic, focus, and fearfulness. When a sword card pops up in a reading, it can represent courage or the disruption of an unfair status-quo. It can also represent fears that are holding us back.
The card is depicted as a golden coffin in a crypt in my grandmother’s deck. Three swords are hanging above the coffin, and there is one golden sword emblazoned on the side of the coffin. The statue on the coffin has its hands clasped, and the wall of the crypt is adorned with a stained-glass picture of a person genuflecting in front of a figure who can be perceived as a saint.
Though the card’s image may vary from deck to deck, the meaning is often the same. This card represents the inability to enact change or to fight against injustice. But this is not the card of cowardice. This card also represents the very real circumstances that make us incapable of standing up or speaking out for what is right.
This card represents the little voice in your head that says “if I stand up for myself or for others, will someone end up getting hurt in the process? Will I even make a difference if I speak out?” The Four of Swords wants you to banish these fears from your mind, but only when you’re ready. The card of caution does not want you to make hasty choices.
What This Card Means for Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)
Fire signs are ruled by their passion and drive. The Four of Swords speaks to your tendency to make reckless decisions.
Aries, there is a huge decision that you have to make. You know the proper course of action, and people are pushing you to make the decision right now. Take your time. You know what is right for you, and you don’t have to make the decision before you are ready.
Leo, when you feel like you have little control of your life, you may try to overcompensate with your flamboyant bravado and make a hasty decision. While it is understandable that you would want to gain some control, this card wants you to take a step back and think before acting.
Sagittarius, your fight or flight response has been triggered more than usual lately. Every fiber of your being is telling you to act on it. Before you resort to arguing or running away, ask yourself if there is a third option to consider.
What This Card Means for Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)
Earth signs are ruled by their dedication and desire. The Four of Swords speaks to your devotion to your obligations.
Taurus, you have achieved a level of stability that you are only somewhat comfortable with. You have been considering leaving the somewhat stable situation for one that will not be as stable but will provide you with a level of personal satisfaction. If you are not happy in your situation, you should plan to leave. Leaving in a rush may cause anxiety and dissatisfaction.
Virgo, your obligations are tied to your emotional state. You feel like it is your duty to keep a level head despite the fact that your emotions are all over the place. You want to stay calm, cool, and collected to make others feel comfortable. This card wants you to speak up and be honest with how you are feeling.
Capricorn, when presented with the option between risk or security, you will take security almost every time. This is admirable, but this card wants you to be open to the idea of living the unexamined life. You don’t have to live it; just keep your mind open.
What This Card Means for Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)
Air signs are ruled by their compassion and independence. This card may hold more significance for you because the Swords are the suit of air. The Four of Swords speaks to your tendency to overthink certain situations.
Gemini, this card may hold an extra special significance for you and Libra because of your dual natures. When presented with two possible situations, this card wants you to pick the option that makes you feel the safest and most secure.
Libra, you and Gemini may be in similar situations. You are being presented with two sides of a situation, and you are worried that you will make the wrong decision. Your safety and emotional security should be your priority right now, so this card wants you to pick the safest option.
Aquarius, you are incredibly intellectual and have no problem discussing your thoughts and ideas with the people around you. You feel safe doing so. This card wants you to step out of your comfort zone just a bit by discussing your emotions. The people who matter won’t leave you just because you need to express yourself.
What This Card Means for Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)
Water signs are ruled by their empathy and imagination. The Four of Swords speaks to your apprehension and anxiety.
Cancer, your emotions are running high right now. An important decision is causing you to experience high levels of anxiety. This card wants you to make the responsible decision of talking to a professional about the strong emotions you are feeling.
Scorpio, your insecurities are making it seem like it is impossible to make a decision right now. This card wants to help you by advising you to choose the option that will make you feel safest.
Pisces, like Sagittarius, your fight or flight response has been triggered. However, your escapist nature is telling you to flee rather than fight. Instead of running away from everyone and everything you love, try running to a safe person or a safe place.
Tune in next week for another Tuesday Tarot Pull!
