The 4 of Swords in tarot holds a unique place, especially when interpreting feelings for someone.
It speaks to moments of pause, contemplation, and recovery. This nuanced card, when drawn in a reading concerning emotions towards another person, can reveal the undercurrents of one’s heart, both in its upright and reversed positions.
Lets talk about:
π 4 of Swords as Feelings for Someone: Basics
π 4 of Swords Upright Meanings
π 4 of Swords Reversed Meanings
π How Should You React To This Reading?
π How Someone Feels About You
Basics: 4 of Swords as Feelings for Someone
When the 4 of Swords appears in a tarot reading concerning feelings for someone, it fundamentally underscores the need for a pause in the emotional realm. This card is a gentle reminder that periods of rest, reflection, and solitude are essential for the heartβs healing and understanding.
It suggests taking a step back from the immediacy of romantic or personal connections to gather oneβs thoughts, heal from past hurts, and gain a clearer perspective on one’s true emotions and desires.
The essence of the 4 of Swords in this context is not about ending relationships or feelings but about nurturing them with care, patience, and introspection.
It highlights the importance of internal harmony and emotional readiness before engaging or re-engaging with someone on a deeper level. This card speaks to the silent, often overlooked work done in the quiet of oneβs own heart and mind β work that is crucial for building healthy, authentic connections.
4 of Swords Upright: A Time for Emotional Respite
Let’s run through three important areas to focus on if you encounter an upright 4 of swords in this context.
π€ Reflective Solitude
In its upright position, the 4 of Swords suggests a period of reflective solitude. It indicates a time when feelings for someone are marked by a need for introspection and space. This isn’t about distancing with negative intent but rather about seeking inner peace and clarity. The emotions here are quiet, calm, and contemplative, with a focus on healing any past wounds before moving forward.
π€ Healing and Recovery
The upright 4 of Swords as feelings towards someone symbolizes a phase of healing. If previous interactions have been turbulent or emotionally draining, this card signifies the necessity to retreat and recover. It’s a gentle reminder that true emotional connection can only flourish from a place of personal well-being and stability.
π€ Yearning for Clarity and Understanding
This card, when related to feelings for someone, might also reflect a deep yearning for clarity about the relationship’s direction. It’s a call to pause and consider where one’s emotions truly lie and how they align with one’s deeper values and desires.
4 of Swords Reversed: The Stirring of Emotions
Let’s run through three important areas to focus on if you encounter a reversed 4 of swords in this context.
π€ Awakening from Emotional Retreat
When reversed, the 4 of Swords indicates an end to the period of emotional solitude and a readiness to re-engage with the world and the person in question. This position suggests that the querent has undergone necessary introspection and healing and now feels prepared to explore their feelings more actively.
π€ Impatience and Restlessness
However, the reversal can also signify a growing impatience or restlessness with the current state of emotional pause. It may reflect an urgent desire to address unresolved feelings or to push the relationship forward without further delay.
π€ Overcoming Emotional Stagnation
The reversed 4 of Swords marks a crucial turning point where stagnation gives way to movement. It signifies emerging from a state of emotional withdrawal with a clearer understanding of oneβs feelings and how to express them healthily and constructively.

How Should You React To This Reading?
I often get asked for advice about reacting to readings, and this one is no different! As always I have to remind everyone that readings and their interpretation are highly subjective, and it’s completely okay to feel or think something different.
Still, for those asking for my take on it, here’s how I would go about reacting to a 4 of swords as feelings for someone.
β Upright Position: Take an Easy Pause
Honor the need for solitude and reflection. Use this time to heal and gain clarity about your feelings. Remember, stepping back temporarily can lead to stronger, more authentic connections in the future. There is absolutely no need for a “pause” to mean anything negative, it can truly be used to better oneself, the other, and together combined.
β Reversed Position: Moving Forward With Clarity
As you emerge from a period of introspection, approach your feelings and the relationship with newfound insight. Be mindful not to rush; instead, allow your emotions to guide you towards meaningful conversations or actions at the right time. Move forward with a clear mind after a reversed 4 of swords.
How Someone Feels About You: 4 of Swords
When the 4 of Swords surfaces regarding someone’s feelings towards you, it signifies a moment of pause and introspection on their part. This card suggests that they are currently reflecting on their emotions, possibly seeking solitude to gain clarity about their connection with you. Here’s a condensed interpretation:
π Seeking Clarity
The person is likely in a phase of contemplation, considering their feelings for you deeply. They might be taking a step back to understand their emotions better before moving the relationship forward.
π Healing and Peace
If there have been recent challenges or conflicts, the 4 of Swords points to a time of healing. They are looking for emotional recovery and peace, both within themselves and potentially in your relationship.
π Patience in Progress
Their feelings are marked by patience and a deliberate pause. This isn’t about disinterest but a careful consideration of what they truly want and how they envision the future of your connection.
Overall, the 4 of Swords reveals that the person values your relationship and is thoughtfully considering their next steps. They’re not rushing; instead, they’re ensuring their feelings and intentions are clear and genuine.
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Last Thoughts
The 4 of Swords, whether upright or reversed, offers profound insights into the realm of feelings for someone. It reminds us of the value of taking a step back, the importance of healing, and the clarity that comes from introspection.
Whether itβs a call to pause and reflect or an encouragement to reawaken and move forward, this card teaches us that understanding our emotions is a journey that requires both time and patience. By heeding its lessons, we can navigate our feelings with greater wisdom and compassion, leading to deeper, more fulfilling connections.