Four of Cups

Card Description

The Four of Cups shows a young man sitting beneath a tree with his arms crossed, appearing lost in contemplation. Three cups stand before him on the grass, but he seems disinterested in them. From a cloud, a mysterious hand offers him a fourth cup, yet he appears unaware of this divine gift being presented to him.

The imagery captures a state of emotional withdrawal and introspection. The man has become so absorbed in his inner world - perhaps focusing on what he lacks or what has disappointed him - that he cannot see the opportunity right before his eyes.

Upright Meaning

When the Four of Cups appears upright, it suggests a period of introspection, apathy, or emotional withdrawal. You may be feeling dissatisfied with your current circumstances or taking your blessings for granted. While contemplation has its place, be careful not to miss opportunities by being too inwardly focused.

• Feeling emotionally unfulfilled or bored
• Withdrawal into self-reflection
• Missing opportunities due to inward focus
• Taking relationships or blessings for granted
• Need for meditation and soul-searching
• Re-evaluating what truly matters to you

Reversed Meaning

When reversed, the Four of Cups indicates you're emerging from a period of withdrawal. You're beginning to see clearly what you may have been missing, and you're ready to re-engage with life and seize the opportunities around you.

• Coming out of a period of apathy
• New awareness and clarity
• Accepting opportunities previously ignored
• Renewed interest in life and relationships
• Appreciating what you have
• End of self-imposed isolation

Four of Cups in Love

Upright: In relationships, this card suggests emotional disconnection or taking your partner for granted. You may be so focused on perceived lacks that you cannot appreciate the love right in front of you. If single, you might be passing over potential partners because you're too caught up in past hurts or unrealistic expectations.

Reversed: You're ready to open your heart again. Perhaps you've realized you've been too closed off or have been ignoring someone who truly cares for you. This is a positive sign of emotional re-engagement and willingness to give love a chance.

Four of Cups in Career

Upright: You may feel bored, unfulfilled, or apathetic about your work. A promising opportunity might be presenting itself, but you're too disengaged to notice or care. Take time to reflect on what you truly want from your career, but don't let good chances pass you by.

Reversed: You're emerging from a career slump and ready to take action. New motivation is returning, and you're more willing to consider opportunities you might have previously dismissed. This is a good time to say yes to new projects or roles.

Symbolism

• The Tree: Comfort zone, shade, and shelter from engaging with the world
• Crossed Arms: Closed posture, defensive stance, emotional protection
• Three Cups: What is already available, current blessings
• Fourth Cup: New opportunity, divine offering, what's being missed
• The Cloud: Spiritual realm, divine intervention, higher guidance
• Downcast Eyes: Introspection, withdrawal, not seeing clearly