Two of Swords Tarot Card Meaning

Tarot, like astrology, has long been one of our favorite divination systems. Interpreting either takes practice. As you learn, we wanted to help you to quickly connect to the cards and use them in ways that are actionable and practical in every area of life. xoxo, Tali & Ophira

Co-authored by James Kerti

What does the Two of Swords tarot card mean?

If you feel stuck with what feels like an impossible choice, the Two of Swords is here to validate that you’re in a difficult spot—and to be gentle with yourself through the process. Whether you’re feeling caught in the middle of a conflict or at a crossroads between different paths, this decision is not an easy one.

This minor arcana card can also indicate that you’re in denial about the situation you asked about. Consider this your wakeup call to pay attention and not ignore red flags.

Since Swords are cards of communication, seek outside advice. Sometimes having the right sounding board can help you realize a truth that you’ve been unable to see. Experts and professional counselors can also help you draw out your answers.

While the Two of Swords doesn’t offer explicit advice on which option to choose, part of the silver lining with this card is that it implies you’ll feel relieved once you make your decision.

What is the Two of Swords zodiac sign?

The zodiac sign of the Two of Swords is Libra

Two of Swords Tarot Guide

Keywords for the Two of Swords: Difficult decisions, crossroads, impasse, avoidance, denial

Yes or No: Yes

Planet of the Two of Swords: Venus

Element of the Two of Swords: Air

What does the Two of Swords card mean in a love reading?

When the Two of Swords appears in a love reading, your current romantic life may be characterized by conflict. You may be experiencing inner turmoil (should I stay or should I go, e.g.) or embroiled in an open disagreement with your love interest or partner.

Either way, this minor arcana card points the truth that you may be avoiding: You cannot keep going on this way. If there’s something you need to express, the Two of Swords urges you to get vulnerable and share your authentic perspective. Only then will you be able to move forward, one way or another!

For single people, the Two of Swords might indicate facing a choice between different potential partners. When you’re in that (agonizing!) situation, it can be tempting to “wait it out” until the situation resolves itself. Maybe someone gets tired of waiting and moves on. But the Two of Swords tells you that equivocating will lead to more stagnation.

Only by making a clear decision will you set yourself up for romantic success—with this person or a future love. The status quo isn’t sustainable.

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What does the Two of Swords tarot card mean for career, money and finance?

The Two of Swords commonly appears in a career reading when you’re caught in a conflict at work. Colleagues may be asking you to pick a side or you feel rocked by divided loyalties. A situation like this can be stressful, especially if at least one of those people is your superior.

This minor arcana card first suggests that you gather all of the information you need before making any moves. Keep in mind that if the colleagues in question are laying out their own cases, they may not be painting the most objective picture. Are there other sources of information you can reach for?

The Two of Swords may also be a sign that you’re trying to choose between different jobs or opportunities. The above advice still fits: do what you can to collect all the facts before you make any binding decisions.

What does the Two of Swords tarot card mean for health?

In a health reading, the Two of Swords’ association with avoidance and denial comes out more. 

Have you been struggling with anxiety? This minor arcana card indicates that repressed emotions may be a source. When you hold on to emotions that you’re not allowing yourself to feel or express, they can pile up in your body and energetic system and turn into symptoms.

This card is a gentle nudge to get support for breaking any addictions—to food, toxic substances, codependent relationships. Healing is easier when you’re not doing it alone! Since Swords rule communication, this card indicates that talk therapy can be helpful with working through fears or resistance to change.

Two of Swords Tarot Card in Reverse Meaning

While the upright Two of Swords indicates a difficult choice with options that aren’t necessarily good or bad, when the card shows up in a reversed position, the possibilities to choose from tend to both feel bad.

The energy of the reversed Two of Swords is that you’re in a no-win situation; damned if you do, damned if you don’t!

This card encourages you to go inward in making your decision. Try to calm your mind and nervous system. Unfortunately, there will be “consequences” either way and you can’t avoid hurting people or a loss. But once you make the choice, you will feel liberated. Give yourself time to grieve and heal.

Unlike the upright position that advises carefully weighing all of the options, the Two of Swords in reverse advises you to listen to your intuition and make the choice that feels, if not exactly right, at least easier to live with.

Is the Two of Swords tarot card a yes or no?

Given that the Two of Swords represents feeling at an impasse, it typically doesn’t offer a clear answer in a yes or no reading. Your best bet is to do your best to collect all the facts, think things through carefully, and make sure you’re communicating with other people who are involved in the situation.

What does the Suit of Swords mean?

Swords are associated with air signs (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius), which get things moving, acting as the winds of change. Air energy is communicative, and people with air signs like to connect and share ideas.

Feature art by Diana Hlevnjak