Three of Cups
Communion, Frivolity
Essential Meanings
Keywords
Keywords
Joy, Sharing, Excitement, Intoxication, Dance, Relief, Celebration, Feast, Fruits of Love, Positive Outcome, Merriment, Victory, Comfort, Healing, Birth
Element
Water
Yes/No/Maybe
Yes
'Share yourself and love by dancing in the world.'
The Three of Cups represents sharing joy with others and the way that this exuberance can transform how we see, think and feel. The thrill of spontaneity ripples through this card.
The Three of Cups is an expression if satisfaction, showing vessels raised towards the sky in a gesture of thanks and celebration. The thrill is not the loss of control in terms of drunkenness, but rather in the sense of crossing a threshold to a 'different' reality. This dance can lead to euphoria, vertigo and dizziness, but most importantly, it is a manifestation of joy.
Rejoice together in the harmony of dance, music and feelings. Happiness creates a deep bond between those who share it with others, a connection that is lasting and an end in itself, being spontaneous, free and ephemeral. This card represents the ability to be inspired by others and grasp the present moment, without worrying about anything else.
Here are a few questions that you can ask yourself or put to your Querent when the Three of Cups appears in a Trot reading:
Who is your community?
Who are your closest friends?
Do you spend enough time with those you love?
What does trust mean to you?
Do you share your abundance with others?
I bid thee welcome. Enter and be nourished from all our bounty.
Here are some of the card's associations for advanced Readers.
Number: 3
Sephirot: Binah (Understanding)
Element: Water
Planet: Mercury
Sign: Cancer
Esoteric Name: Lord of Abundance
Joy, sharing
Raise your glass, make a toast.
Gathering, party, weddings, joy.
The priestess offers up her cup of happiness for blessings received. Practise saying 'thank you' to friends and family, the earth. In prayer and rites of devotion.
At the Feast of Beltane, ribbons are interwoven around trees in propitiatory rites. Fertility, joy.
Symbols
Three Cups
Represent creativity and growth.
Young Women
The joyful dance of the three female figures symbolises friendship and youth.
Grapes
In their relation to wine, they represent wealth, sharing and celebration.
Vegetation
Signifying growth and abundance that can be shared with others.
"Joy shared with others, Friendship and celebration. The manifestation of love and warm feelings. The cups held aloft by three young women reflect the sacred triad of creativity and growth, while pumpkins and fruit imply growth. This card reminds the Reader to share what they have with others. Empowering others increases everyone's happiness, health and wealth. Surround yourself with people who lift you up."
The Three of Cups teaches the Reader or Querent that friendship is the greatest gift of all, so choose to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it Community is key and like attracts like. True friendship knows no bounds. There is music in laughter, light in love and freedom in movement.
Abundance, joy, good news, pregnancy
Meanings differ depending on whether the card is the right way up or upside-down.
Upright
A Time of Celebration and Joy
The conclusion of abundance. Perfection and a happy ending. Victory, accomplishment and relief. Hospitality to others. Great friendship and camaraderie.
This is a period of celebration and joy. The Three of Cups signifies marriages, engagements, births, family gatherings, reunions, and religious ceremonies. Expect good news and an abundance of good luck. You might hear about a job promotion, a new birth, or an engagement— anything that brings joy into your life. Additionally, you may form important business relationships through attending ceremonies such as weddings or religious services.
Reversed
A Caution Against Overindulgence
Excess in food and drink. Rejecting the help that is offered by friends. PLeasure that turns sour as a result of overindulgence.
Be cautious of overindulgence. The Three of Cups reversed suggests an excessive focus on pleasure-seeking that can lead to new troubles. Celebrations may be postponed, and you could face issues related to infertility or poor health. This period may bring sadness or dissatisfaction, and romantic relationships might encounter difficulties.
Feeling a part of a group, gaining traction, feeling deeply connected to what's around you.
Gather with friends just for the pleasure of their company. You don't need to have a special occasion to celebrate - friendship itself is cause for celebration.
Thematic Meanings
The Three of Cups card can reveal particularly relevant meanings if it is read with a focus on the subject being explored in a Tarot reading, as listed here:
Personal Life
Love: You have a good reason to celebrate, because the love that you give is returned to you.
Work: Creativity and collaboration with others is essential. A little of each of these will help you to move in positive directions.
Money: Treat others well by sharing your money with them rather than saving only for yourself.
Divination
Answer: The present moment represents the end of uncertainty and the return of happiness.
Tip: A true friendship will last forever, while love affairs may come and go over time.
Timing: You should find that a favourable intervention on your behalf takes place within the next three weeks.
Psyche and Soul
Self-Esteem: Know that you are loved by the universe and the people who inhabit it.
Meditation: In your meditation, focus on the words, 'I am love.'
Spirituality: Life can be as cyclical as relationships. If you are feeling that something is lacking in your existence, reach out to those whom you love.
Updated
2 February 2025 at 14:25:46