Notes on: The Ace of Swords
(Seed of Fate and Air)
Artist’s Notes:
There are few things as mighty as a new idea or viewpoint. Indeed it shines as a beacon in the night as it looks to either become part of the collective web of thoughts out there or to break through. Each must stand or fall according to its own merit though some may be helped along by the encouragement of various beings.
About the Archetype:
The suit of swords represents thought, ideas, and plans. The Ace of Swords reveals a new way of thinking and a clear direction. It represents discernment, new insights, and new direction. In discernment, we transcend duality. No matter how clear the path our discernment shows us we still need to follow through. The aces are after all but seeds. How well we are prepared and whether we find our way to its end is up to us.
Astrological Correspondence:
Swords represent the element of air. Air both represents thought and intellect as well as communication of all kinds. It tends to be a swift-moving, aloof element. The three air signs are Gemini, which tends to be pure intellect, Libra, which represents aesthetic intellect, and Aquarius which is involved with social construction and breaking away from what has come before.
In a Reading:
In a reading, the Ace of Swords can represent both a new way of looking at things or seeing something that we were missing before. It can show a new clarity of thought or perception. It can also represent a new conflict that has arisen and a new challenge to be faced. It can represent something new that we are attempting to learn.
There may also be some kind of message or communication that is coming to us from a new source or direction.
When reversed or badly aspected, the clarity of the sword has been obscured. It may feel like the path ahead cannot be seen clearly. The Ace reversed can also represent delusional thinking where our prejudices and preconceptions are interfering with clear thought. It can also refer to someone trying to change their outlook or learning something new but hitting roadblocks.
–GAR
Fate’s Whisper:
Among the pillars, it was the Spider who held the most malice. It was he who started the cycle of war by breaking the peace the other Pillars held. Pledged to end cycles and start new one he became bound to the force we call Fate. The father of magick and language he holds the communication of reality together with his fabled web. Little is known of its power but it is reported by the other pillars that purpose only came after he made it.
Every cycle must start to ensure new ideas can come into being. Bound tightly to our greater purpose, we all are bound to Fate’s web. Though it is important we take our first step on that journey. How will you start yours?
–NF