Five of Cups
The Five of Cups depicts a figure draped in black, head bowed in grief, standing before three spilled cups while two full cups remain standing behind them. A bridge and castle are visible in the background, suggesting a path forward and potential shelter, though the figure seems too absorbed in their loss to notice these symbols of hope.
Keywords
- Loss,
- Grief,
- Regret,
- Recovery,
- Hope
General Meaning:
In its general context, the Five of Cups represents loss, disappointment, and the process of grieving. It acknowledges the natural human tendency to focus on what has been lost rather than what remains. The card appears during times of emotional setback or when dealing with disappointment, suggesting a period where pain and regret dominate our perspective. However, the two standing cups remind us that not all is lost, and the bridge in the background suggests that movement forward is possible once we're ready to shift our focus.
Love:
In matters of love, the Five of Cups often appears after romantic disappointment or heartbreak. It can represent the aftermath of a breakup, betrayal, or the feeling that a relationship hasn't met expectations. For single individuals, it might indicate dwelling on past relationship failures rather than remaining open to new possibilities. In existing relationships, it can suggest a period of disillusionment or focusing too heavily on past hurts rather than present opportunities for connection. The card reminds us that while acknowledging loss is important, healing requires eventually turning toward what remains and what lies ahead.
Career/Business:
In business contexts, the Five of Cups suggests professional disappointments or setbacks. It might appear after a failed project, missed opportunity, or career setback. The card can represent feelings of failure or regret over business decisions, lost investments, or professional relationships that didn't work out. However, it also reminds us that professional setbacks, while painful, rarely represent total failure. The standing cups suggest remaining resources or opportunities, while the bridge indicates potential new directions once the initial disappointment has been processed.
The Five of Cups embodies the complex experience of loss and the challenge of moving through grief toward healing. Unlike cards that represent either pure joy or complete despair, this card acknowledges both the reality of loss and the presence of hope. It reminds us that while focusing on our losses is a natural part of the grieving process, healing begins when we can acknowledge what remains and recognize the paths forward. Whether in love, business, or personal matters, the key message is about the importance of processing grief while remaining aware that not all is lost. The card encourages us to honor our feelings of loss while gradually opening ourselves to seeing the opportunities and blessings that still exist in our lives.