Six of Cups Tarot Card Meaning
The Six of Cups is a card deeply rooted in your past. It’s a reminder to hold close those who have been there for you during challenging times. When revealed in a spread, this card also reassures you that the fruits of your labor will soon become apparent.
- Element: Water
- Planet: Neptune
- Astrological Sign: Scorpio
- Key Dates: November 3rd – 12th
Visual Elements and Symbolism
In the Rider-Waite deck, the Six of Cups shows a young boy bending over to hand a young girl a cup of flowers. The girl is reaching out her hand to accept the flowers, all the while gazing up at the young boy with adoration. Their positive connection is apparent.
Next to the boy and girl, you’ll see four more cups lined up on the ground. The sixth and final cup rests on a tall pedestal behind the boy. Each cup represents a memory that now lies in the past. In the background, behind the couple, a charming courtyard and manor stand for security, familiarity, and comfort. These feelings are in the past, but they are still very much relevant.
Off in the distance, an older man stands looking at the manor. He is a symbol of adulthood and of the responsibility that comes with age. Notice the contrast between his mature nature and the more youthful, carefree spirit of the boy and girl in front of him.
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The Six of Cups as a Person
The Six of Cups is a person who balances others out. In a group, they are the harmonizer and often the one to bring about compromise. This is a person you can rely on when you’re in a tough spot or in search of advice. They are consistent and compassionate.
The Six of Cups can be innocent and childlike with a simple, naive view of the world. However, they are also unwaveringly kind and open.
This person also has an acute sense of style, which often shows up as an interest in fashion or decor.
The Six of Cups Upright
When the Six of Cups is revealed in an upright position, it is a reminder of joyful memories that will soon be brought forth. Maybe you’ll return to your childhood home, or perhaps you’ll reconnect with some old friends. Sometimes, these memories may even manifest as a very realistic, positive dream that allows you to relive good times.
Love and Relationships
When revealed in a love reading, the Six of Cups is considered a soulmate card. It stands for true love – the kind that feels deep, intimate, and eternal.
If you’re in a relationship, the Six of Cups shines a light on the depth of your romance. You may feel as though you’ve known this person forever, even if you’ve just met. There is a beautiful harmony between you.
If you’re single, the Six of Cups is a sign that someone from your past is about to re-enter your life. Perhaps you’ll consider them as a romantic interest. You’ll feel an instant connection because of your history.
This card also speaks to the quality of your friendships. You’re someone whose friendships are strong and enduring. You seek comfort and give comfort to your family and friends. Is there an old friend you’ve been longing to see again? This card could be a sign you’re about to reconnect.
Career
The Six of Cups always recalls the past. In terms of your career, it may be a sign that you’re about to move back into a previous position. Perhaps you’ll start working on a past project again. Or maybe you’re about to take a job with your former employer. This card urges you to go in that direction.
If you’re struggling in business, the Six of Cups can be a reminder to keep moving forward. Do not let past mistakes or shortcomings consume you; move on and try a new approach.
Money
This card suggests you’ve been missing out on something financially. You’re financially secure without it, but your position could be even better if you were to reclaim what’s missing. Did you lend money to a friend and never collect on the loan? Remember to follow up with them. This is a good time to look over your accounts and make sure everything is in order.
Health
In terms of health, the Six of Cups is a gentle but necessary warning. This card suggests that past mistakes are about to catch up with you. If you’ve had bad habits in the past, make sure they don’t flare up again. Channel your energetic inner child for the positive focus you need to reclaim a healthier lifestyle. Act soon, and you’ll be in good shape.
The Six of Cups Reversed
When revealed in the reversed position, the Six of Cups reminds you not to get too stuck in the past. Remain focused on the present and on your future success.
Love and Relationships
In a love reading, the Six of Cups reveals an attitude of avoidance. Have you been sweeping things under the rug to avoid an argument with your partner? These conflicts will soon come to the surface, so consider addressing them openly.
If you’re single, it’s time for some serious self-assessment. Think about the actions you’re taking to bring love into your life. If you have not been taking action, this card is a sign that it’s time to begin. Love won’t find you; you have to find love.
Career
If you recently began a new job, the honeymoon phase is coming to an end. The position may have seemed perfect at first, but you’re now beginning to discover some downfalls and shortcomings. Only you can decide on the best path forward. Some challenges are worth facing in the workplace, and others are best walked away from. Consider whether your current position is worth its hardships. Whatever you decide, take action with confidence.
Money
You’ve recently come to a better understanding of your own finances. Maybe you created a new budget, or perhaps you’re excited to start a new investing strategy. Take this as a positive step, but don’t forget to keep improving. If you think you may need money advice from a friend, don’t hesitate to ask. The person you’re thinking of can help.
Health
Have you been ignoring certain symptoms or health problems that are difficult to face? It’s time to be honest with yourself and address these problems. Hiding is not doing you any favors. You’ll need to make some lifestyle changes in the coming weeks. While they may not be easy to make, you can and will find the motivation to make these positive changes. Doing so will help restore your previously good health.
Your Past, Present, and Future
In the past position, the Six of Cups speaks to your upbringing. You grew up in a stable, supportive, and loving environment. This card is a reminder to relive those good memories and find joy in them. A word of caution, though: don’t lose yourself as you reminisce.
When revealed in the present position, the Six of Cups suggests you’re spending too much time in the past. Have you been reliving the best times in your life to the degree that you’re no longer enjoying the present moment? Nostalgia can be a positive thing, but take this as a reminder not to let it distract you from your current life.
In the future, this card prompts you to keep challenging yourself. Recall some dreams or goals you had as a child. Perhaps it is time to revisit some of them and seek to make them a reality. As an adult, you are capable of such. Allow your dreams to fuel your ambitions.
Important Card Combinations
When presented in combination with any other card, the Six of Cups introduces the past to the reading. Whether introducing the past frames the reading in a more negative or positive light depends on the other cards shown.
Six of Cups and Ace of Wands
This is an exciting combination to reveal. It suggests that you’re about to encounter a new opportunity with origins in your past. Perhaps an old coworker will invite you to work for their company. Or maybe an old associate has a new business opportunity to present to you.
Six of Cups and Chariot
The Chariot is the card of the underdog – someone who overcomes the odds and goes on to enjoy great success. When revealed with the Six of Cups, the Chariot speaks to your own ambitions. Put in the effort, and you’ll outshine someone who was favored to win. This can be a positive omen for career or sport.
Six of Cups and Four of Swords
This interesting combination speaks to your finances. You’ve been worrying about money, and more specifically, who you can trust with money. The need to control your money with such rigidity has made it hard for you to let love in. Let go a little; you can trust those closest to you. Sometimes, sacrificing simplicity allows you to see more beauty.
Six of Cups: Yes or No?
The Six of Cups is one of a few neutral cards. Like your own past, it presents a mixture of good and bad, positive and negative. However, since the Six of Cups is a reminder to reconcile and leave the past behind, it is generally seen as positive. In most cases, its answer is “yes.”