
One of the Minor Arcana from the Suit of Swords in the Tarot, the Four of Swords in an upright position is aligned to the energies of meditation, contemplation, rest, and recuperation. In a reverse position it is aligned to self-absorbed contemplation, sheer exhaustion, stagnation, and suffering burn-out.
Overall, the Four of Swords focuses on the ideals of meditation for gaining answers and information whilst resting and recovering from different aspects of life. In spite of highlighting this meditative state, it can also indicate that burn-out and exhaustion has occurred thanks to the overwhelming aspects of life. The focus on the self during such times can be indicated by this card’s presence to the point where there is no way that one can focus on anyone else as the energies are so depleted.