Tarot Card Symbolism: The King of Cups Reversed

If you choose to read reversed (upside down) Tarot cards as having separate and distinct meanings from upright cards, then the King of Cups in its reversed position, is very much the opposite of this cards in its upright position. This King can be selfish, greedy, and very weak. He may promise much, and me might even have good intentions, but he won't fulfill all that he promises. He is unreliable in business and in romance, but this may simply be due to his current circumstances rather than his true nature.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The King of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The King of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the fourteenth card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Queen of Cups. It is the embodiment of positive, nurturing energy, but focused with active compassion.

The Symbolism of the King of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by a mature man seated upon a throne. He is wearing stately robes and wears a golden crown upon his head. In one hand he holds a scepter; in the other hand is a cup. His throne is surrounded by the ocean, with no land in sight.

The General Interpretation of the King of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies a connection to the finer things in life, such as music and art. This card refers, in an abstract sense, to the creative intelligence that maturity and wisdom can bring. It is a reminder that intelligence and creativity should be tempered by the perception of a King.

The King of Cups is also connected with the law. In this case, it refers to a fundamental respect for the law. When this card appears, it can be a warning to stay within the strict boundaries of what is legal.

The Inner Meaning of the King of Cups in Tarot

The King of Cups is the image of a warm-hearted man, though he has a much sterner side. As a court card, it may represent an actual person, a situation, or both. As a person, it may be a mature adult, either male or female, who appreciates the finer things in life.

It is important to understand that the King of Cups is not necessarily a male figure. He can also represent a female. Instead, it is the more masculine qualities that emerge. The King of Cups is a wonderful mentor and guide, but he can be easily angered. He is emotion incarnate, and so does become impatient to some extent. To the person who is actively involved in the creative arts, such as the artist or writer, the King of Cups usually represents a mentor to whom it is worth listening.

As a situation, this card can be interpreted as a time of flowing creativity. It is often a suggestion to allow that creativity to flow, to not be stymied by the opinions of others.

The King of Cups is the fourth court card of the Suit of Cups. It is the final card of the Suit of Cups, and so represents heightened, yet stable, emotions.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Queen of Cups Reversed

If you read reversed (upside down) Tarot cards as different than upright cards, then the Queen of Cups in its reversed position is not usually a good sign in a Tarot spread. This lady can be weak, self-indulgent, and lazy. She may be looking for a meal ticketor someone to take responsibility from her shoulders.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Queen of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Queen of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the thirteenth card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Knight of Cups. It is the embodiment of virtue, a pure heart, and unconditional love.

The Symbolism of the Queen of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by a beautiful woman of approximately middle age; she is a mature woman. She is dressed in flowing robes of the highest quality, and she wears a golden crown upon her head. She is seated on a throne at the edge of the sea. In her hands she holds a lidded cup, which she stares at intently.

The General Interpretation of the Queen of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies true virtue and love with no expectation of reward. It is the type of love between a mother and child, unconditional and pure. The Queen of Cups is a wholly positive card, indicating a virtuous soul and a pure heart.

This card is also a reminder that this virtue should be shared with others. All the Queen has to do is reach out and lift the lid on the cup and all that she has will become a part of everyone. It is only then that she will feel truly fulfilled.

The Inner Meaning of the Queen of Cups in Tarot

The Queen of Cups is the image of a mature and loving woman. As a court card, it may represent an actual person, a situation, or both at the same time. As a person, it may be a mature adult, either male or female, who has a purer heart than most. This person is a loyal friend who provides unconditional love.

It is important to realize that the person represented by this card is not necessarily a female. But this person will embody the more feminine qualities of nurturing and unqualified love. This is a love that cannot be lost, and will always be available from this person. All you have to do is reach out and accept it.

As a situation, the Queen of Cups can be representative of the need for the sharing of that love and virtue. Perhaps even the sharing of the good fortune that has arrived. It is a card of emotional and spiritual fulfillment.

The King of Cups follows this card. The Queen of Cups is the third court card of the Suit of Cups.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Knight of Cups Reversed

If you choose to read reversed (upside down) Tarot cards as having different meanings than upright cards in a Tarot spread, then the Knight of Cups in its reversed position is card that encourages you to relax and indulge yourself. This Knight is lazy, weak, selfish, and unreliable. He will travel or move away from you as soon as you begin to make demands upon him. He needs an easy, stress-free life.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Knight of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Knight of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the twelfth card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Page of Cups. It is the embodiment of change and new excitements, very likely of a romantic nature. In some decks, this card is called the Prince of Cups.

The Symbolism of the Knight of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by a well-appointed young knight seated upon a grey horse. He holds a cup in his outstretched hand, so that it proceeds before him. Though he travels resolutely to his destination, he has a rather dreamlike expression upon his face.

The General Interpretation of the Knight of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies change and new excitements, mostly for the better. In most cases, these changes have a romantic component. The Knight of Cups might indicate the beginning of a new romance, for example.

This card can also be interpreted to mean the arrival of new invitations, opportunities, or offers. It is a card of youth, vitality, and endless possibility.

The Inner Meaning of the Knight of Cups in Tarot

The Knight of Cups is the image of an intelligent youth. As a court card, it may represent either an actual person or a situation. Often this card is both at the same time. As a person, it may be a youth or young adult who is the bringer of ideas. He is quick-witted, intelligent, and highly imaginative.

On the other hand, he is easily bored, and searches constantly for new forms of mental and emotional stimulation. Still, he is both artistic and refined, so his boredom is often masked out of courtesy. He has high principles and standards for himself, and is well-liked by all those around him. However, he is also a bit of a dreamer, and can be easily persuaded or discouraged by the right individual.

As a situation, the Knight of Cups is a powerful indication of change, usually abrupt change. This is generally positive for those people who can accept such excitement. But for those who resist change, this card can indicate hardship and some strife as they attempt to adapt to the new situation.

The Queen of Cups follows this card. The Knight of Cups is the second court card of the Suit of Cups.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Page of Cups Reversed

Not every Tarot reader chooses to read reversed (upside down) cards in a Tarot reading as different than those cards which appear upright. You can certainly choose not to read reversed meanings. However, if you do wish to read upside down cards in a Tarot spread as reversed, then the Page of Cups in its reversed position might indicate that a sensitive youngster will present you with a problem. If you are studying, you will hit a difficult patch or you will be short of time.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Page of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Page of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the eleventh card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Ten of Cups. It is the embodiment of creativity, learning, and emotional expansion. In some decks, this card is called the Princess of Cups.

The Symbolism of the Page of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by a fine young man dressed in fine clothing. He stands on a beach, and the waters behind him are calm and inspiring. In his hand, he holds a cup; from this cup, a fish emerges. It is unclear whether this fish originally came from the ocean, or whether is it from the imagination of the page. Upon his face, the page wears a whimsical expression.

The General Interpretation of the Page of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies an artistic nature or opportunity; creativity of some kind is indicated by the Page of Cups. It could mean that you are returning to school. If this is the case, this card may suggest a major in a more creative field, such as art or creative writing.

This is also the card of emotional expansion. The Page is learning that, despite the good life he has discovered and regardless of his contentment, there is more out there. More to learn, more to see, more to do. This card encourages the act of seeking new knowledge.

The Inner Meaning of the Page of Cups in Tarot

The Page of Cups is the image of a sweet-natured child. As a court card, it may represent an actual person, a situation, or both at the same time. As a person, it may be a child who loves home and family, but may struggle with academics. Traditional schooling is difficult for this child.

Instead, he excels at the arts, whether it be music, writing, or visual art, and he is highly creative. The Page is also very spiritual, and is very likely psychic in some way. This is a card of the creative-emotional side of the brain, so this person may also be a little high-strung and often is easily agitated.

As a situation, this card implies an opportunity of some kind. Perhaps a new job, returning to school, or simply the opportunity to volunteer time or services for the benefit of all. The opportunity shown by the Page of Cups is almost always artistic in nature, however. Something creative, using both art and imagination, is most likely.

The Knight of Cups follows this card. The Page of Cups is the first court card of the Suit of Cups.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Ten of Cups Reversed

If you are one of those Tarot reader who chooses to interpret reversed (upside down) cards as having different meanings than upright Tarot cards, then the Ten of Cups in its reversed position might mean that you shouldn't allow someone else to spoil your happiness or to cause disruptions in your family. Don't allow others to take the credit for your achievements or to interfere in your life. If you prevent these difficulties from occurring, your future life should be good. But you will have to make a stand.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Ten of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Ten of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the tenth card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Nine of Cups. It is the embodiment of contentment of the heart, as well as love and friendship. It can also signify a happy home life for the individual.

The Symbolism of the Ten of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by a young couple raising their arms in wonder while contemplating ten cups arranged in a rainbow above them. They are enraptured by the view, and happy with their union, and what it has produced. Two young children, presumably their own children, play nearby. In the distance is a tiny village.

The General Interpretation of the Ten of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card suggests several different concepts. It could indicate a happy marriage, unthreatened by thoughts of quarreling or violence. While the couple may acknowledge that they have their own share of problems, they are untroubled at the moment, content with each other and their lives together. They are secure in their love for each other.

The children dancing around them and the village in the distance complete their domestic life. They have attained the perfection of human love, and are optimistic about their future. The sky is the purest blue, indicating nothing but clear skies ahead.

The Inner Meaning of the Ten of Cups in Tarot

The Ten of Cups is the image of emotional contentment and the perfection of human love and friendship. It can often mean that a marriage or partnership could be in the offering. The relationship the Ten of Cups deals with is almost always romantic in nature.

This card could also refer to the more sexual side of love. In this case, it usually indicates both a healthy and prolific sex life, as demonstrated by the two young children that the couple has produced.

The rainbow above the couple has captured their attention. It is the prime example of happiness. This is one of the most positive cards in the entire Tarot. In some interpretations, it can convey a peaceful environment and a happy home life.

The Page of Cups follows this card. The Ten of Cups is the final numbered card in the Suit of Cups.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Nine of Cups Reversed

For those who wish to read reversed (upside down) Tarot cards as having different meanings than upright cards, the Nine of Cups in its reversed position implies that you may need to make one more effort to achieve your ambitions. One final push to get what you want. This might be irritating, even frustrating, but your problems will soon be behind you if you just put in a little more effort.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Nine of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Nine of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the ninth card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Eight of Cups. It is the embodiment of satisfaction and achievement.

The Symbolism of the Nine of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by a middle-aged man who sits upon a wooden bench. He is dressed smartly, and has an expression of true satisfaction on his face. His arms are crossed in what appears to be faint smugness. Behind him are nine cups, fanned out in an arch. The background is fairly simple, but it is obvious that the man is content and satisfied as he sits upon his bench.

The General Interpretation of the Nine of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies a wish that’s finally fulfilled, and the achievement of desires that did not always seem possible. The Nine of Cups suggests that you can obtain a long-sought-after goal; your dreams may be fulfilled. However, it usually indicates that you have only obtained what you thought you wanted; perhaps there is more to desire than meets the eye.

The Inner Meaning of the Nine of Cups in Tarot

The Nine of Cups is the image of satisfaction, and the figure in this card definitely appears to be satisfied with life at that moment in time. He is also just a little smug, perhaps just a little too full of himself. At the moment, he feels he has the right to be smug, for he has achieved what once seemed impossible.

This card is indicative of enjoying a situation just as it is, and feeling that change is no longer necessary for improvement. All is well with the world, and this brings a sense of contentment. The man is pleased with his position in life and seeks no change.

This card can also indicate the sensual pleasures of life. It’s related to the feeling of being full after a hearty meal; the sense of wonder after an evening spent experiencing more sexual pursuits. The Nine of Cups does not represent gluttony or over-indulgence; it’s simply well-earned pleasure.

On the other hand, this card of the Suit of Cups can bring a warning. The Nine of Cups tells you to avoid becoming complacent or overly satisfied with what might be, for something new may always follow.

The Ten of Cups follows this card.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Eight of Cups Reversed

Reading reversed (upside down) meanings into Tarot cards is not for everyone. Many Tarot readers simply choose to turn reversed cards to their upright position. You can choose to read reversed meanings into your Tarot readings if you like. If you do, then the Eight of Cups in its reversed position might indicate that a rotton situation will come to an end and there will be fun and joy in the future. This card, when reversed, is a positive omen.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Eight of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Eight of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the eighth card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Seven of Cups. It is the embodiment changes in affection, and the gaining of a new perspective.

The Symbolism of the Eight of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by an ambiguous figure retreating into the distance; his face cannot be seen, but he carries a walking stick to aid him on his journey. He crosses a landscape of rivers and sharp, jagged rocks. This landscape can indicate trials or hardship along the way.

In the foreground are eight cups, all upright and shining, stacked in two rows. The moon looks down upon the figure with understanding as he walks away from the cups with all speed. He never glances back.

The General Interpretation of the Eight of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies changing affections and usually the breaking of ties with the past; this break is clean and immediate. Generally speaking, this is indicative of the turning away from old relationships and affections, those which have grown stale and useless, in pursuit of that which is more emotionally fulfilling.

This card, The Eight of Cups, can mean either that you are intentionally fleeing an emotional situation that is uncomfortable, or deliberately moving toward something that is more emotionally fulfilling situation. However, it usually indicates a little of both, for when you move toward something, you are inevitably moving away from something else.

The Inner Meaning of the Eight of Cups in Tarot

The Eight of Cups is the image of both disillusionment and the search for deeper meaning. The figure in this card is changing his perspective on life, having grown tired and disillusioned with the present. He sets off in search of contentment, and a deeper emotional fulfillment.

The journey he must take will be fraught with difficulty, as is indicated by the desolate landscape. He will make the voyage, however, for any end, any true fulfillment, is worth paying a price. He knows, in the end, that he will find not just contentment, but emotional depth and completion. It is this knowledge that gives him the courage to turn his back on the present and seek out the future.

The Nine of Cups follows this card.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Seven of Cups Reversed

Not all Tarot readers choose to read reversed (upside down) cards as any different than upright cards. However, if you do read reversed meanings, you should always read reversed meanings to avoid confusing yourself and your cards. For those Tarot readers who do read reversed meanings into Tarot spreads, the Seven of Cups often indicates that a time of muddle is ending and the future is beginning to look much clearer. It may also mean that the time to engage in the real world and set aside wishes and dreams.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Seven of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Seven of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the seventh card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Six of Cups. It is the embodiment wishful thinking and self-delusion.

The Symbolism of the Seven of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by a dark ambiguous figure, a conjurer, gazing up into a cloud filled with seven chalices. These chalices each have a single item rising from them. These seven items are: a snake, representing wisdom and knowledge; a shrouded figure, representing the need for illumination; a human head, representing a companion for the conjurer; a tower, representing stability and power; treasure, representing abundance and wealth; a laurel wreath, representing victory or honor, and status; and a dragon, representing supernatural forces.

These exact symbols and their meaning are less important than the fact that they exist at all. They should not exist, and are part of a dreamland.

The General Interpretation of the Seven of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies the dreamworld, self-delusion, and wishful thinking. The seven cups are upon a cloud, which can indicate that they are far from being grounded, and are in fact impractical. They are truly no more than the creations of the figure who conjures them. It is unclear as to whether they are products of an over-active imagination, or simply represent confusion.

The cloud itself is grey, quite possibly indicating chaos. It is whimsical and incorporeal, perhaps representing the more whimsical part of the imagination. In general, this card can indicate either cause of this whimsy — imagination or confusion.

The Inner Meaning of the Seven of Cups in Tarot

The Seven of Cups is the image of ideas and wishes that are not concrete. This card is one of impracticality. An example of the senselessness of this card is refusing to live in the real world, simply because it is possible to win the lottery someday. Wishing for this is fine, but counting on it is not. You still must go to work to provide for your family, just in case you do not win.

This card, the Seven of Cups, reinforces this idea. It also teaches that wishing does not make it so. The cups and what they hold are not necessarily attainable. On the other hand, it also encourages dreams and wishes. They should be nurtured so that they endure. But reality should not be abandoned while these dreams are still unrealized.

The Eight of Cups follows this card.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Six of Cups Reversed

If you, as a Tarot reader, choose to read those cards that appear reversed (upside down) as having different meanings that upright cards, then the Six of Cups in its reversed position could be interpreted to mean that this is not the time to look backwards. The past is now the past. It is time to move forward in business and in your personal life. If friends vanish, they will make way for new ones to come.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Six of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Six of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the sixth card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Five of Cups. It is the embodiment innocence and nostalgia.

The Symbolism of the Six of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by two children, a boy and a girl, enjoying themselves in a small town square. They are surrounded by six cups, each filled with greenery, and topped with a single white flower. The flowers have five petals each. The sky is clear and blue, the both children are delighting in the fresh scent of the blooms.

The General Interpretation of the Six of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies a feeling of innocence, even naivety. There is a general lack of sophistication associated with this card, but not in a negative way. Instead, this card conveys a child-like innocence, a way of looking at the world that is much simpler than is normal in today’s society.

This card recommends a return to a simpler time of thought and deed. While this may not be practical in the strictest sense, the Six of Cups should not be taken lightly. It is a card of simplification, and a suggestion that there is value in what once was.

The Inner Meaning of the Six of Cups in Tarot

The Six of Cups is the image of innocence and nostalgia. It often indicates that the time has come to reflect on the past, taking a look back to a time when thoughts were simpler and life was easier. Though it may not be possible to recapture those times, they still have value, and should be reflected upon and respected.

The flowers, white in color, represent the innocence of the two children. These children breathe deeply of the essence of the flowers, and in doing so, activate the sense of scent. Scent is most strongly connected to memory, and the idea of nostalgia. The Six of Cups can take you back in time, metaphorically speaking. It is a card designed to stimulate memories of an earlier era.

In more modern interpretations, the Six of Cups often indicates an unconditional love. The kind of love between mother and child, for instance. This love is eternal and more valuable than any other gift could ever be.

The Seven of Cups follows this card.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Five of Cups Reversed

For those Tarot readers who choose to read reversed (upside down) meanings into Tarot spreads, the Five of Cups in its reversed position could mean that a period or sadness or uphappiness passes and there will be happiness for you in the future. You will meet up with old friends and make some new ones, but true friendship takes time to blossom, so be prepared to be patient.

Tarot Card Symbolism: The Five of Cups of the Minor Arcana

The Five of Cups of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the fifth card of the Suit of Cups. It follows the Four of Cups. It is the embodiment of disappointment and sorrow concerning past events. It also tends to indicate emotional dejection on some level, sometimes very profound.

The Symbolism of the Five of Cups Tarot Card

This card is represented by a cloaked and hooded figure, dressed all in black. His head is hung in sorrow. At his feet are three spilled cups, but two are still safely intact. In the background a river rushes, impossible to cross, were it not for the stone bridge granting passage. The sky is dull and unappealing, which matches the downtrodden mood of this card.

The General Interpretation of the Five of Cups Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies a feeling of profound disappointment and sorrow. The figure in the Five of Cups is hunched over in dejection; he feels there is no way out of his predicament. The events of the past, represented by the three overturned cups, weigh heavily upon his shoulders.

This card reveals a tendency to dwell on past events. It is often a warning to let go, release the past and move forward. This is usually easier said than done, however.

The Inner Meaning of the Five of Cups in Tarot

The Five of Cups is the image of ultimate dejection, often without true cause. The cloaked figure does not, as yet, have any appreciation for the two cups which still stand. He does not necessarily see the good in the situation he finds himself in. Often, this card warns you against “crying over spilled milk.”

The hooded figure also fails to notice the bridge, beckoning in the distance. He does not see that there is a way out, a path to a better life. If he does see, he does not trust it. However, if he just chose to trust, for one moment, he could move beyond the negative, and once again embrace the positive. But he must take that step alone. It cannot be forced up on him.

The Five of Cups is a card that represents a time in life that everyone must face. A time when hope is lost, and it is easier to just give up. However, it is also a beacon of hope, embodying the phrase “the light at the end of the tunnel.”

The Six of Cups follows this card.