Four of Cups

Four of Cups description

The four of Cups shows a person who is sitting cross legged under a tree. His crossed arms tell us that he’s not open to new ideas. The tree heels him rooted and supported. It represents that he’s sturdy and heavy with time and growth. A hand is offering him a new cup to add to his collection, but he’s not reaching out to take it. Perhaps he doesn’t even see it. He doesn’t seem to be paying much attention to any of the cups at his disposal here. Some say that he is in a deep state of meditation, like Buddha under the Bodhi Tree.

Upright meaning

Upright, the Four of Cups can be a sign that you need to sit down and think about things for awhile. The cups will still be there when you open your eyes. You could be experiencing restlessness and discontent on a spiritual level. Perhaps you’re feeling anxious about being called to change paths or to fulfill your life in a different way. This leaves you stuck in the present moment. This four combines the solid nature of the number four with the unpredictability and emotion of the suit of cups.

Reversed meaning

In reverse, the Four of Cups can be a wake up call to appreciate what you have here and now. You might be looking a gift horse in the mouth. There is an offer that is yours for the taking but you question it. You are reluctant to take a risk. Look to other cards in the spread for the outcome of this risk. Stop, check in with yourself, and follow your intuition on this one. If you feel the need to hit pause, then take your time. But set some boundaries and guardrails so that you don’t end up getting yourself stuck.

Four of Cups quote

“The soul has been given its own ears to hear things the mind does not understand.” Rumi