Three Of Swords: Yes Or No? (+ In-Depth Explanation)


At first glance, the Three of Swords isn’t a tarot card that’s immediately interpreted as a positive card. As the (Rider-Waite) card displays 3 swords piercing through the heart, there is not really much room left for imagination. 

However as with all tarot cards, there can always be found a nuance in its meaning and provide a deeper and insightful interpretation. In this article you’ll find out whether the Three of Swords can be interpreted as a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. On top of that, we’ll also provide you with some valuable insights on how to interpret this card when it shows itself to you in reversed position or during a love related tarot reading.  

So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!

Three Of Swords: Yes Or No?

The Three of Swords generally means a ‘no’ answer to your question. When this tarot card enters your tarot reading it mainly represents a sense of loss and separation. It is best advised to not make any wild decisions at this point but instead make thoughtful steps moving forward. 

The Three of Swords often shows up during a tarot reading when someone is going through a difficult time. Most of the time this has something to do with a certain type of loss or sorrows in the more general sense.

Even though moving forward as fast as possible may feel tempting at this point, the Three of Swords shows up as a sign of encouragement to allow emotions to just be. At this moment in time, it may be better to allow yourself to rest and recharge before making any impactful decisions. 

The Three of Swords tarot card from the Light Seers Tarot Deck
The 3 of Swords tarot card from the captivating Light Seer’s Tarot Deck

Difficult times can become quite challenging but can also generate a great sense of strength once the storm is over. Important lessons can be learned during rough times and have the ability to influence future challenging situations in a positive way. In moments like this it is important to remember that without sadness and challenges we wouldn’t be able to truly love, feel and appreciate all the beauty life has to offer. 

One important thing to remember, when asking your tarot cards ‘yes or no’ type of questions, is to keep a few key aspects in mind when it comes to formulating the question you want to ask. Besides always making sure your questions are phrased from a place of positive energy, there are some other aspects you really want to check out before asking a question. Keeping these specific aspects in mind will surely help you to get the most accurate answers from your cards! You can check out this article on how to ask your tarot cards ‘yes or no’ questions for more information.

Three Of Swords Reversed: Yes Or No?

When pulled in reversed position, the Three of Swords generally represents a ‘yes’ answer to your question. The Three of Swords indicates a strong sense of healing and renewal. Even though some challenging events of the past may still linger, exciting times are ahead. 

In contrast to the Three of Swords in upright position, the Three of Swords in reverse is actually quite an optimistic tarot card to encounter during your tarot reading. It shows you likely have been going through some difficult hardships, but the hardest parts are now behind you.

The 3 of Swords in reverse encourages you to trust on your inner strength and abilities and move forwards with confidence and perseverance. Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come to the surface and treat yourself with the kindness you would a good friend or close family member. Don’t be too hard on yourself and take all the time you need. Listen to your intuition and connect to your higher self to truly feel what is right for you.

Focus on integrating positive habits and activities into your life that help you generate a sense of passion and enthusiasm. Try to not let yourself dwell on the past for too long and make sure to look towards the future and see all the possibilities that lay ahead for you. 

Three Of Swords And Love: Yes Or No?

When it comes to a love related question, the Three of Swords can best be interpreted as a ‘no’ answer for now. At this moment in time, the Three of Swords indicates that conflicts and arguments are making it difficult to move forward. Clear communication and mutual respect are required. 

If you’re single, the Three of Swords can indicate that you may not yet be ready to move on into a new relationship at this point. It encourages to focus on inner healing before giving your love and energy to someone new.

When you’re in a relationship, the Three of Swords often shows up when you’re going through a rough patch with your partner. In order to move forward in a positive manner, being willing and able to calmly communicate with each-other is essential. Even though you may not always agree with each-others point of views, a mutual sense of respect and understanding is required if you want the relationship to successfully proceed. 

The 3 of Swords tarot card explained at 33:21, video by Moonlight Guidance

In Conclusion

The Three of Swords in upright position generally means ‘no’. When this card shows up during a tarot reading it indicates loss, separation and/or challenges. It is best advised to let emotions flow and wait for the storm to pass before making any impactful decisions.

When pulled in reverse, the Three of Swords means ‘yes’. It represents healing and renewal after having experienced some challenging times. It’s a positive sign that better times lay ahead. 

When it comes to love and relationships, the Three of Swords generally means ‘no’ as an answer to a specific question. It represents a sense of conflict between partners which can best be resolved by communicating open and respectfully. When single, the Three of Swords can represent that it may be best to not jump into a new relationship at this point as events from the past are likely needing some more healing time.  

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