Three of Swords

Three of Swords

Keywords: Grief, Sorrow, “Lord of Suffering,” “Three Sorrows”

Personality State

Emotionally burdened, sharp in judgment, and often dealing with suppressed pain or internal conflict. This person is enduring heartbreak or struggling to cope with harsh truths.

On a Deeper Level

The card represents a painful awakening—an emotional or moral rupture. It strips illusions and forces confrontation with reality. The heart must bear what the mind has resolved.

Professional Situation

Indicates tension, conflict, or unwelcome news at work. Decisions made here are often difficult and emotionally charged—cutting ties, declining offers, or enduring harsh evaluations.

Financial and Housing Condition

May suggest financial disappointment or a painful, necessary decision regarding living conditions or material stability. Disillusionment and emotional responses may cloud judgment.

Personal Relationships

This card traditionally points to heartbreak, separation, betrayal, or unrequited feelings. A difficult conversation, breakup, or emotional distance may be inevitable, even necessary.

Health Condition

Emotional distress affects physical well-being—chronic stress, anxiety, or heart-related symptoms. Often reflects a psychosomatic or grief‑induced physical imbalance.

Reversed Card Meaning

In reversal, the card points to lingering pain, delay in emotional recovery, or refusal to confront inner wounds. Healing is possible but requires acknowledgment of sorrow.

Manifestation in Combinations

  • + The Lovers: Heartbreak or painful choice in love.
  • + The Tower: Sudden revelation of betrayal or collapse of false emotional security.
  • + Eight of Cups: Walking away from unfulfilling emotional bonds.
  • + The Hermit: Solitude as a result of emotional pain or withdrawal.

Archetypal Correspondences

Title: The Severed Heart
Theme: Necessary sorrow, disillusionment, intellectual dominance over emotion

To explore how the Three of Swords interacts with all tarot archetypes, check the Learning Tarot guide. May your heart find its healing. 💔