Four of Cups
Omen, Disenchantment
Essential Meanings
Keywords
Expectation, Disappointment, Boredom, Discouragement, Nausea, Saturation, Refusal, Dsidain, Habits, Dissatisfaction, Discontent, Distraction
Element
Water
Yes/No/Maybe
Maybe
'Life passes quickly if you don't pay attention.'
The Four of Cups represents the rejection of the obvious and the search for something deeper and meaningful. Behind the boredom and stasis hides the hope and confidence of one's heart.
The detached attitude of the character sitting under the tree in the Four of Cups card could be interpreted in several ways. One can sense a feeling of boredom, physical and intellectual laziness emanating from him. He does not seem interested in anything. The character's attitude might be disappointment leading to discouragement and distrust.
The tree expresses roots in a place and also the ability to bear fruit. The figure conveys an attitude of rejecting what is offered, considering it of little importance while hoping to achieve much more.
There is a glimpse of detachment from worldly pleasures, represented by the three cups. He waits for true love symbolised by the cup emerging from the cloud. The card recalls that desires and dreams are part of reality like things that are well known and already experienced. Many people refer to this car as the Buddha under the tree who awaits enlightenment.
Here are a few questions that you can ask yourself r put to your Querent when the Four of Cups appears in a Tarot reading.
How can you discover new opportunities?
How can you open up to see more potential?
What is in front of you that you haven't seen yet?
Why are you feeling so hurt and defensive?
I am resting; I need to conserve my energy so that I may be able to move forward.
Here are some of the card's associations for advanced Readers.
Number: 4
Sephirot: Chesed (Mercy)
Element: Water
Planet: Moon
Sign: Cancer
Esoteric Name: Lord of Blended Pleasure
Emotional stability, concreteness
Look ahead with your head up.
Wasted opportunities, negativity, habits, bad temper.
If things aren't going your way or life seems dull, it's fine to just sit it out for a while. You don't have to accept every opportunity that is offered.
Sometimes, a lack of stimuli means we cannot fully enjoy what nature bestows on us.
Symbols
Tree
Covered in green leaves, the tree represents rootedness in the earth and the bearing of fruit.
Hand
A disembodied arm appears out of a cloud, handing the man a fourth cup, which he appears to ignore.
Man
A bored and detached looking man sits under the tree observing the three cups in front of him.
Three Cups
The three cups sitting in the grass represent detachment from worldly pleasures
"An opportunity is right in front of you, but you may not see it. Distraction, disappointment, and boredom cloud your vision. Think of Buddha under the Bodhi Tree, detached from emotional energy. It's impossible to recognize every opportunity life throws your way, as life often presents a sensory overload. Yet, it's good practice to remind yourself to stay open to unexpected and out-of-the-box opportunities. Let this card's appearance be a nudge to broaden your perspective. Pleasure and possibilities await you. Will you seize them?"
The Four of Cups teaches the Reader or Querent to look wider and further afield in their life. Omens are to be found everywhere and one simply needs to begin to look for them. It is important to search out fresh opportunities and to know how to make one's own fun. Pay attention to what is offered to you.
Boredom, tiredness, uneasiness, lack of stimulation
The meanings of the Four of Cups differ based on whether it's upright or reversed.
Upright
A Time for Inner Reflection
Disinterest in what's around you. Feeling distracted, maybe even wearing blinkers and not noticing an opportunity right before you. This is a good time for meditation and repose. You might be feeling bored, disgusted, or even averse to certain situations. However, there's also a sense of harmonious pleasure hidden here.
When upright, this card signals that it's time to turn inward and explore your true feelings. You may be experiencing apathy or confusion, and if you're uncertain about your direction, now is the perfect time to contemplate what truly makes you happy. The Four of Cups can indicate a need to explore your options, especially if faced with a new situation you're unsure about. In love Tarot, it sometimes reflects mixed feelings about your relationship.
Reversed
Embrace Action and Opportunity
Waking up from a period of contentment, reaching for opportunities, forming a new relationship with the world, and setting new goals.
When reversed, this card tells you it's time to take action as things start to look up. An exciting opportunity may present itself, and you'll find a newfound motivation to take the initiative. Invitations to social events might come your way, and you'll feel more inclined to engage with others. A period of isolation is ending. In love Tarot, this card suggests a revival in your relationship, with increased commitment and a renewed willingness to work things out with your partner.
Shifting emotional perspective, allowing yourself to be self-absorbed, don't miss out on what's around you.
Don't dwell on missed opportunities. You are in danger of letting your hurt feelings blind you to new chances.
Thematic Meanings
The Four of Cups can reveal particularly relevant meanings if it is read with a focus on the subject being explored.
Personal Life
Love: There is boredom with love and sexual frustration. To improve, offer something to break the cycle.
Work: List the things about your career you want to change. Doing so, you create an opportunity before your eyes. Will you take it?
Money: You have much more money to play with than you realise. Begin keeping track of what you spend to discover extra funds.
Divination
Answer: The answer is right in front of you.
Tip: Do not wait too long for action. Action is rewarded
Timing: The foundation is strong, yet the building ceases. Rest for a while before proceeding.
Psyche and Soul
Self-Esteem: The first step to reclaiming love is to open your eyes to the possibilities surrounding you.
Meditation: I am open and aware to the opportunities surrounding me.
Spirituality: Do not overlook the physical component of spiritual practice for it is all connected.
Updated
2 February 2025 at 14:25:47