The Swords cards all stand for trials of some kind, but The Four of Swords suggests feelings of peace and stillness. The important thing is the reason because of which this card is different. The Four of Swords is different because it represents the challenge to be quiet. Sometimes, resting and doing nothing is the ultimate challenge. Activity can be a habit that is very difficult to break. There is always so much to do and modern society beguiles us with its attractions and distractions. The result is we forget to stop and be still. The Four of Swords is all about taking a break from the regular routine. It is about giving your body time to heal. A person with The Four of Swords should avoid overexertion. He should try to find peace and be quiet. The Four of Swords can be associated with a relaxing body and soul. A person with this card should try and take life easy.

In readings, The Four of Swords is often a sign that you need to slow down and get some rest. If you are recovering from an illness, allow yourself quiet time to heal. Even if you feel completely healthy, you are risking getting sick if you do not take a break. Sometimes, The Four of Swords implies that you are or could be shifting focus from the external to the internal. When we are silent, we can more easily go within. The Knight in the picture appears to be praying or meditating deeply. Actually, he appears to be dead. For those who are addicted to activity, rest and quiet can seem like death, but that is certainly not the case. Stillness holds its own rewards, but they must be recognized and sought.

The Four of Swords also represents taking the time to think things over without hurry. It is important to step back and gain perspective. This is especially true when you are facing an ordeal or big event. You need quiet preparation time to gather your strength and center your energy. Picture an Olympic diver on the high board. She does not climb the ladder and then dash out. She stops, motionless as she readies herself for the burst of activity to come. This is the only way to bring the best to our endeavors. In other words, rest and relaxation are as important as hard work if you want to achieve success.

The Four of Swords can be associated with gaining a better perspective and listening to your inner voice. It is about taking time alone to think and standing back from the situation. A person with this card should examine his motivations and should review where he is. Such a person should consolidating inner resources and should be making sure that his base is secure. Such a person should be getting ready for the future and should tie up loose ends. The following can be associated with The Four of swords :

• Rest
• Contemplation
• Quiet preparation