Three of Cups
Suit of Cups | Celebration & Friendship
Upright: Celebration, friendship, community, joy
Element: Water
Reversed: Overindulgence, gossip, isolation
Yes/No: Yes
Card Description
The Three of Cups depicts three women dancing joyfully in a circle, raising their cups high in a toast. They wear flowing garlands and are surrounded by an abundant harvest of fruits, vegetables, and flowers at their feet. Each woman represents a different aspect of celebration - the joy of accomplishment, the warmth of friendship, and the abundance of community.
The scene evokes the feeling of a harvest festival or wedding celebration, where people come together to share in each other's happiness. The imagery speaks to the human need for connection, celebration, and the joy that comes from sharing good times with those we love.
Upright Meaning
When the Three of Cups appears upright, it's time to celebrate! This card heralds joyful gatherings, reunions with friends, and the happiness that comes from being part of a supportive community. Good news is on the way, and there's reason to rejoice.
- Celebrations, parties, and social gatherings
- Strong friendships and sisterhood/brotherhood
- Creative collaborations and group projects
- Happy reunions and reconnections
- Abundance, good fortune, and harvest
- Supporting and being supported by community
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, the Three of Cups warns of social challenges. There may be gossip, betrayal among friends, or feeling excluded from your social circle. It can also indicate overindulgence in partying or escapism through social activities.
- Gossip, rumors, or betrayal by friends
- Cancelled events or postponed celebrations
- Feeling lonely or socially isolated
- Overindulgence in alcohol or partying
- Third-party interference in relationships
- Superficial connections lacking depth
Three of Cups in Love
Upright: Romance is blooming in a social context. You may meet someone special through friends, at a party, or through group activities. For couples, this card suggests celebrating your relationship, perhaps with an engagement party, wedding, or just quality time with mutual friends who support your union.
Reversed: Be cautious of third-party interference in your relationship. This could indicate infidelity, an ex returning, or friends who don't support your relationship. There may also be too much focus on social life at the expense of intimate connection with your partner.
Three of Cups in Career
Upright: Workplace celebrations are indicated - perhaps a promotion, successful project completion, or team achievement worth celebrating. This is a great time for collaborative projects and team building. Networking events will be particularly fruitful now.
Reversed: Office politics or workplace gossip may be causing issues. There could be cliques forming or feeling excluded from your team. Be careful not to overindulge at work events, and maintain professional boundaries with colleagues.
What is the Three of Cups telling you?
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- Three Women: Friendship, sisterhood, and the power of community
- Raised Cups: Toast to happiness, shared joy, and celebration
- Circle Dance: Unity, equality, and continuous support
- Garlands: Victory, achievement, and festivity
- Harvest Fruits: Abundance, prosperity, and rewards of labor
- Flowing Robes: Freedom, movement, and emotional expression
Frequently Asked Questions
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