top of page
Writer's pictureLaura Downs

The Five of Cups: Upright and Reversed Meanings

Introduction

The Five of Cups represents loss, regret, and emotional disappointment. It often appears when you are dwelling on what has gone wrong or what has been lost, rather than recognizing what remains. This card highlights the need for emotional healing and perspective, urging you to accept the past while acknowledging the opportunities still available.


In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, the Five of Cups shows a cloaked figure standing before three spilled cups, with two still upright behind them. The figure's posture, gazing down at the spilled cups, symbolizes the focus on loss and grief, while the upright cups behind them represent the opportunities and support that remain unnoticed. This imagery invites us to move beyond sorrow and regret, to appreciate what is still within reach.


5 of Cups

Upright Meaning

Keywords: Loss, regret, grief, emotional setback.


When the Five of Cups appears upright, it suggests that you are grappling with feelings of loss or disappointment. Whether it’s due to a relationship, job, or personal setback, this card indicates that you are mourning something you have lost, and it may be clouding your ability to see what is still available to you. The Five of Cups encourages acknowledging your emotions but also urges you to avoid getting stuck in grief or regret.


In a love reading, the Five of Cups reflects heartbreak or emotional regret. You may be mourning the end of a relationship or feeling sorrow over mistakes or missed opportunities in your love life. For those in relationships, it can signal unresolved emotional issues or dissatisfaction. The message of this card is to grieve but also to recognize the love and support that still exist, whether from others or within yourself.


In terms of career and money, the Five of Cups suggests feelings of disappointment or missed opportunities in your professional life. You may be focusing too much on a past failure or setback, unable to see potential opportunities for recovery or growth. This card encourages you to shift your focus from what went wrong and start considering how you can rebuild or take advantage of what remains.


For a home or personal reading, the Five of Cups highlights feelings of emotional heaviness or regret in your personal life. You may be experiencing grief over a personal loss, or perhaps you’re stuck in a mindset of regret over choices you’ve made. While it’s important to process these emotions, the Five of Cups reminds you to look around and see what positive aspects are still in your life.


Reflection Questions:

  • What recent losses are you struggling to come to terms with?

  • How can you begin to shift your focus from grief to healing?

  • What opportunities or support have you been overlooking while focused on what’s been lost?


5 of Cups reversed

Reversed Meaning

Keywords: Healing, acceptance, moving forward, emotional recovery.

When the Five of Cups appears reversed, it signifies a turning point in your emotional healing process. You are beginning to let go of the past and are ready to move forward. This card suggests that you are more willing to see the silver lining in your situation and embrace the opportunities that remain. It marks a period of emotional recovery and acceptance.


In a love reading, the reversed Five of Cups signals that you are healing from past heartaches or regrets in your romantic life. If you’ve recently experienced a breakup or emotional turmoil, this card shows that you are ready to move forward, open to love once again. In a relationship, it can indicate forgiveness and the willingness to work through emotional wounds to rebuild a stronger bond.


In terms of career and money, the reversed Five of Cups suggests that you are recovering from professional setbacks or financial losses. You’re shifting your focus away from past mistakes and starting to see new opportunities for growth. This card encourages you to embrace a more positive and resilient mindset as you move forward in your career or financial endeavors.


For a home or personal reading, the reversed Five of Cups highlights emotional recovery and healing in your personal life. You are beginning to let go of any regret or sorrow that has weighed you down, now feeling more open to new experiences and possibilities. This card encourages you to focus on the present and future, rather than dwelling on past losses.


Reflection Questions:

  • What healing steps have you taken to recover from recent emotional setbacks?

  • How can you stay open to new opportunities and connections after experiencing loss?

  • What lessons have you learned from your recent challenges that can help you move forward?


Practical Application

To work with the energy of the Five of Cups, focus on acknowledging your grief and loss without allowing it to define you. Consider practices like journaling or talking to a trusted friend or therapist to help process your emotions. Gratitude exercises can also be beneficial in shifting your perspective from loss to appreciation, helping you to see what remains and what can still grow in your life.


Conclusion

The Five of Cups reminds us that while loss and disappointment are inevitable, we have the power to heal and shift our perspective toward what remains. Whether in love, career, or personal matters, this card encourages you to process your emotions but not to become trapped in grief or regret. By embracing healing and looking forward, you open yourself to new opportunities for emotional growth and fulfillment.


Unlock the Secrets of Tarot with Our Comprehensive Course!

Are you ready to deepen your understanding of tarot and enhance your reading skills? Join our transformative tarot course, designed for both beginners and experienced readers alike. With engaging video lessons, insightful written materials, and practical exercises, you'll learn to interpret each card's meanings and develop your unique intuitive style.


What You’ll Gain:

  • In-depth knowledge of the tarot deck, including the Major and Minor Arcana.

  • Techniques for effective reading, including setting intentions and creating sacred space.

  • Personalized guidance to help you build confidence in your readings and tap into your intuition.


Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on your tarot journey! Sign up today and start discovering the power of tarot in your life.


Comments


bottom of page