The Ace of Swords

This is the fourth card I draw from the deck: The Ace of Swords.

"The Mythic Tarot" portrays the Ace of Swords as Athene dressed in white with a double edged sword. Athene was conceived of Zeus and Metis. But when Zeus hears the prophecy that the the child will be more powerful than the father. Zeus swallow tricks Metis into becoming a fly and swallows her whole. Zeus suffers a terrible headache, and his head is split open. Athene springs forth from the head of Zeus into the world fully grown , fully armed, and prepared for battle. Athene has inherited her mothers craft wisdom and was skilled at weaving. She is accompanied by the owl, who is the wisest of birds. The owl represents giving flight to wisdom. This is a very powerful oracle for it is Athene who resolves the curse on he House of Atreus. Athene is the goddess of Justice. Athene reminds us that we always seek a point of desperation before we seek justice.

This "one" card indicates a period of mental movement, struggle and before eventual action. The Ace of Swords represents enviable change. This is sometimes referred to as pre-contemplation. We have become aware of the desire to move but rigid adherence to old beliefs keep us stuck. This is the double edged sword that represents a period of great conflict. Simply gaining a new insight does not assert our autonomy. This card indicates the emergence of new principals and heralds a great conflict before a resolution is possible. Be prepared for debates, arguments and quarrels with your inner self and others before the emerging concept can be resolved.