Seven of Swords in the 5-Card Spread with the Rider Waite Tarot

Seven of Swords as second card : Challenge / Obstacle
in the Rider Waite Smith 5-Card spread

In contrast, the Seven of Swords reveals that strategy can turn into deception, or that avoiding problems makes the situation worse.

This may involve shirking responsibility, taking actions behind the scenes that ultimately backfire, or losing trust in a relationship due to concealment.

This opposite card can also show that the person is lying to themselves, that they prefer not to face the truth, or that they are using short-term tactics that compromise long-term stability.

The Seven of Swords reversed therefore invites us to examine our motivations honestly, to choose transparency and authenticity wherever possible, and not to confuse strategic caution with self-serving manipulation.

The opposition warns against the isolation that mistrust breeds and calls for a return to more aligned and sincere behaviour.

Seven of Swords as third card : Advice
in the Rider Waite Smith 5-Card spread

As advice, the Seven of Swords invites you to act with discretion, to protect your plans or your feelings, but without losing your integrity.

It may be necessary for you not to reveal everything now, to keep certain information to yourself, or to prepare your next move behind the scenes, at your own pace.

This card also recommends thinking ahead, devising intelligent strategies, and not getting drawn into unnecessary confrontations. However, it advises you to ensure that your discretion is not motivated by fear or dishonesty, but by a genuine need for protection and strategic maturity.

The Seven of Swords tells you: move forward cautiously and intelligently, but keep your heart clear. This is not the time to rush headlong into things; it is a time to tread lightly, with awareness and tact.

Seven of Swords as fourth card : Outcome
in the Rider Waite Smith 5-Card spread

In the outcome position, the Seven of Swords indicates that the current situation could result in a discreet departure, a successful manoeuvre requiring discretion, or a behind-the-scenes reorganisation that will avoid a direct confrontation.

This could be a skilful exit from a tricky situation, a discreet success, or a necessary readjustment to preserve your freedom or integrity.

However, this outcome requires vigilance: if there has been manipulation or concealment, it could also leave a feeling of incompleteness or mistrust. The consultant must therefore accept that not everything will be said, not right away, and that some truths will emerge later.

The outcome is generally positive if the strategy is aligned with strong personal ethics; it will be more complex if avoidance is based on fear or deception. In any case, a skilful transition is underway, even if everything has not yet been fully resolved.