Four of Cups
The Four of Cups uses the image of a solitary manta ray drifting in darkness to symbolize inward focus and detachment from external offerings. It warns that becoming absorbed in one's thoughts, daydreams, or melancholy can lead to missed opportunities and an emotional or spiritual vacancy despite material success. Upright, the card points to contemplation, regret, boredom, and apathy; it signals the need to notice what is being overlooked. Reversed, it suggests letting go of regret, seizing new chances, rediscovering enthusiasm, and returning to community and reality.
Keywords
Card Name
Four of Cups
Poem
An indecisive mind drains the spirit and heart. Thinking only of the end may threaten the start.
Meaning
A single Manta Ray effortlessly drifts among the darkness of its oceanic dwelling; untethered by the other rays above it, and disinterested by the cups below it. The Four of Cups is a sign that you may be so engrossed in your inner thoughts or daydreams that you are ignoring the opportunities that lie right in front of you. It can also indicate that while you have enjoyed material success, there remains an emotional or spiritual vacancy.
Reversed Position
In its reversed position, it can represent a letting go of regret, seizing of opportunities, or returning to reality.
Upright keywords
contemplation, regret, boredom, daydreaming, missed opportunities, apathy, melancholy, impractical yearning, lonely
Reversed keywords
letting go of regret, seizing opportunities, rediscovering passions, enthusiasm, newfound motivation, readiness to rejoin community events, wanting to mingle, uplifting feelings
Visual Description
An oval underwater scene framed in dark borders shows a large black-and-white manta ray swimming centrally, accompanied by smaller rays in the background. The water is textured in teal and indigo tones with swirling patterns and shadowed marine plants. Four white goblets are arranged near the lower foreground—three in a row and one elevated slightly above them. Purple seaweeds and coral shapes occupy the lower edges of the composition.
Children of Litha tarot
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