Cosmic Tribe Tarot

FOUR OF SWORDS

Cooperating towards Harmony

When we remember that the swords we carry are symbols of our powerful ability to communicate, a truce results. We regain internal equanimity and offer our hands to the world. Where there was war there is now cooperation. In harmonious circumstances, those around us have reached a similar understanding. Mistrust based on fear is replaced by cooperation based on love. Agreement is reached, at least for now, and common purpose makes a field of triumph for all combatants. In the card a truce has been called. Four swords, once random and mercenary, have made it their common purpose to protect and expand the nascent harmony glowing at their union. The goal of harmony is full identification with the "other." It will take a mighty effort to achieve it. In the powerful center, the formerly single-minded swords weave into a complex mandala of interdependence. A truth is revealed when they come to understand that their common purpose is more powerfully creative than their individual agendas. From this newly harmonious center a ripple expands outward charging the surroundings as it passes. The clouds within the ripple are peaceful and united, while those beyond are restless and unsure. But a gold ring of cooperation unites them and protects the fragile beginnings of peace. Open-handed sword hilts precede the ripple, demonstrating the benefits of harmony to the unruly clouds. While the internal harmony that leads to common purpose is potent and creative, it is nonetheless fragile and susceptible to strife from within and without. Historically the wheel of truce eventually breaks down, sometimes catastrophically. But the option for turning truce into lasting peace is always with us. Will we choose it?

Divinatory Meaning

Should the Four Swords appear in your reading, be all you can really be and work for peace. Start within by acknowledging yourself as a collection of identities capable of harmony and conflict. This makes it easier to put yourself in someone else's place. The next time you want to punch someone, or yell at them for being a clown, try seeing the situation through their eyes. If you can't do this, and you have the opportunity, sit down with them and ask them to explain. Be open to communication and see if you can learn something. You might even be able to find some common goals to work on together. If not, you can at least gain an appreciation of their situation, in case the truce breaks and you are forced to reengage the battle.