2 of Swords

Keywords & phrases

• A choice
• Change
• Momentary peace and quiet
• Taking time to think
• Looking within
• Impartiality
• Keeping the peace
• A time to face the truth with open eyes

First impressions

The still waters and moonlight in this card convey a sense of peace and quiet as this person sits in their dilemma.

What is happening in the card?

The character in the 2 of Swords sits upright and motionless in the light of a beautiful crescent moon that shimmers across the still waters below. Blindfolded and laden with two weighty swords, they contemplate how they will move forward from this moment without upsetting the balance.

While there is no immediate impetus to make a decision, holding this position will become increasingly uncomfortable as time goes on. One cannot remain impartial indefinitely.

Here is someone who needs to decide to make a decision.

How will they move forward? Which sword must they lay down in order to remove the blindfold?

How can we relate to this card?

We experience the energy of the 2 of Swords when we are facing a decision or dilemma and we need to take a quiet moment to consider the paths ahead. The need to balance our options carefully and thoughtfully may after a time be outweighed by a more pressing demand to make a decision.

Message & affirmations

Today, I listen to the still small voice within as I let it guide me in my intention in my thoughts, words and actions.

I trust in my decisions and my decision making and know that every choice I make is an opportunity to learn and grow.

My personal experiences of this card

Water is such a strong visual element in this card that I sometimes have to remind myself that it is of the suit of Swords and the element of Air, rather than Cups and Water.

The feeling that this card conveys to me I know so well.

It reminds me that sometimes when I struggle with a decision (and I do struggle with decisions – could be the Libra in me) I need to not overthink it but instead explore my feelings around the issue. To trust my intuition and be less in my head. And also to be less fearful about making choices.

I tend not to like to commit to stuff straight away. I hang back, wait and see, keep my options open. I procrastinate.

This has served me well at times, but at others it’s been like a form of paralysis, leaving me feeling powerless and a little pathetic. And I’m sure it can drive the people close to me to distraction… at times.

Events, situations & readings

In a career spread:
The 2 of Swords serves as a nudge, a mostly gentle reminder that a decision needs to be made. On one hand these decisions cannot be rushed, but, on the other, they can’t wait forever.

In a relationship spread:
A choice needs to be made, but first you need explore your emotions and what might be holding you back from taking the plunge. This may feel uncomfortable and destabilising, but it’s the only way to move forward – with your eyes open. Accept that this may lead to change.

People & interaction with other cards

With The Justice card and/or the Ace of Swords, the 2 of Swords indicates and major moral dilemma. Be sure to align your thoughts, words and actions with you values and beliefs.

When this card appears with the 4 of Swords, it’s a strong indication that you should take a pause to contemplate and meditate on a situation before making a move.

With spiritual, intuitive and introspective cards like The High Priestess, the Queen of Cups and The Hermit, this cards urges you to look within and call on your inner knowing. The wisdom you need to make this decision is within you. You already know the answer but now you must choose to face it.

Questions, prompts & insights

What decision might you be facing right now that may be emotionally triggering for you?

What truths about yourself and your situation do you need to face with open eyes?

Is there a choice that you must make even though you know it may disturb the peace?

Featured decks & credits
Main image from The Rider Waite Smith Tarot (RWS).

The second image of the 2 of Swords is by Still Small Voice Tarot as part of an ongoing AI art Tarot project.