Card 40 • cups

Five of Cups

Brief Description

A tragic legend of seduction, betrayal, and a deathly curse warns of the dangers of becoming entangled in destructive situations. The ghostly bride and her mist bind the living to the underworld, symbolizing loss, regret, and the emotional cost of ill-fated choices. The card cautions against reckless or tempting situations that may lead to sorrow and spiritual peril. If you do fall into folly, seek a way to recover and realign with what is true and life-affirming.

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Story

In the Legend of Falkenberg, the beautiful young Liba is engaged to a handsome knight named Guntram. Forced to leave town on business, Guntram promised to return to wed his beloved Liba. On the way home, he got lost and took shelter in a castle where he was seduced into a betrothal by the castle owner’s daughter. After she had slipped a ring on his finger she revealed her true form as a corpse! Guntram galloped back to his Liba hoping that their wedding would break the curse. It was not to be. At the altar, Guntram fell gasping as the ghost materialized in full bridal regalia. But before succumbing to his terrible fate, Guntram married his true love Liba, embracing her as he lay dying. The corpse’s icy stare is void of emotion. The mists of her garment attach her to the underworld and ensnare Guntram’s soul in her deathly grasp.

Divinatory meaning

Be careful not to get entangled in situations that you will regret later. If you do fall victim to folly, find a way to get back on track.

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Ghosts and Spirits tarot

✍️ Deck author(s): Lisa Hunt

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