Four of Cups

A four of any suit is ruled by The Emperor. It is the backbone of the tarot, as there are four suits in the Minor Arcana. Also on cards in the Major Arcana, such as the Wheel of Fortune and The World, four symbols are visible. And there are four different schools of astrological signs, fire, earth, air, water. The number four in tarot has strong ties to our Moon. This card also has strong ties to the Cancer astrological sign, symbolizing a nurturing and protective nature. The Cups suit would point towards an emotional journey- a new relationship, a new friendship, a new creative project.

The Four of Cups depicts a young man sitting under a tree, being offered a chalice to drink from. He does not seem to notice, as he is deep in thought. Three cups line the bottom of the card as well, but he does not seem to notice them either. This card seems to represent the human penchant for taking things for granted. It is hard for the man sitting under the tree to see these new cups being presented because he is too preoccupied, much like we become preoccupied with struggles in our life and can overlook the opportunities right in front of us.

Upright: Meditation, contemplation, depression

The Four of Cards tarot card represents feeling stuck or stagnant in a situation. This refers not only to metaphorical obstacles holding us back, but also physical obstacles. In the upright position, this card represents missing out on opportunities. The Four of Cups tells you that there are practical solutions to the obstacles you find are blocking your path forward, if you would only look around. This may be a time for meditation. You can trust that you have the tools within you to continue moving forward, you only have to dig deep to discover the solution that’s been in front of you all along.

Reversed: Retreat, withdrawal, passion

The Four of Cups Reversed reflects a time of withdrawal. You may be spending a peculiar amount of time alone and missing out on opportunities to commune with friends and family. Take care not to become disinterested or alienate yourself permanently from the lives of those around you. The Four of Cups is a sign to take a deep look at the projects you are about to undertake or the relationships you are in the process of building to be sure they are the right fit for you. This card may also come at the end of your period of self reflection to show that it is time to emerge from your cocoon and reintegrate with your social circle once again.

**In a yes/no reading, The Four of Cups is a maybe.