Keywords
Upright: Loss, grief, disappointment, regret, sadness, pessimism.
Reversed: Moving on, acceptance, healing, forgiveness, finding hope.
Tarot Card Description
The Five of Cups shows a figure cloaked in black, looking down at three spilled cups, representing loss and disappointment. The figure is so focused on what has been lost that they fail to see the two full cups still standing behind them. This card symbolizes dwelling on past regrets and being unable to see the positive aspects that still remain in one's life. A bridge in the background leads to a safe dwelling, suggesting a path to recovery is available once they choose to see it.
Upright Meaning
The Five of Cups upright signifies a period of grief, loss, and disappointment. You are likely dwelling on a past mistake or a sorrowful event, and this pessimism is preventing you from seeing the positive things that still exist in your life. While it is important to acknowledge and process your grief, this card is a reminder to not get stuck in it. There are still opportunities for happiness (the two full cups) if you can shift your perspective.
Upright Love Meaning
In a love reading, this card often points to heartbreak, a breakup, or deep regret over a past relationship. You are focusing on the loss rather than the potential for new love. It is a sign that you need to go through the grieving process, but also to remember that this is not the end of your love story.
Upright Career Meaning
In a career context, the Five of Cups can indicate a significant disappointment, such as a job loss, a failed project, or a missed promotion. It is a time of professional setback, and it is important to learn from the experience without letting it define your future.
Upright Finances Meaning
Financially, this card can signify a financial loss, such as a bad investment. You may be feeling regret over a past financial decision. The card advises you to focus on what you still have and to learn from your mistakes to build a more secure future.
Upright Yes or No
The answer is **No**. You are too focused on loss and negativity for a positive outcome to manifest at this time.
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, the Five of Cups is a positive sign of healing, acceptance, and moving on. You are beginning to let go of past grief and regret. You are finally turning around to see the two full cups and are recognizing the opportunities for happiness that still exist. This is a time of forgiveness—either of others or of yourself—and embracing a more hopeful future.
Reversed Love Meaning
In love, the reversed Five of Cups indicates you are healing from a past heartbreak and are ready to open yourself up to love again. You are letting go of old baggage and are ready to move forward. It is a time of emotional recovery and renewed hope.
Reversed Career Meaning
Career-wise, this card suggests you are recovering from a professional setback. You have accepted what happened, learned from it, and are now ready to pursue new opportunities with a more positive outlook.
Reversed Finances Meaning
Financially, the reversed Five of Cups signifies recovery from a financial loss. You are accepting past mistakes and are now focused on rebuilding your financial stability. You are ready to embrace a more hopeful financial future.
Reversed Yes or No
The answer is **Yes**. You are healing and moving on from past disappointments, which opens the door for a positive outcome.