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Tarot Card:

King of Cups

Description, Upright & Reversed Keywords and Meaning, Exoteric & Esoteric Interpretation

Published: 11/1/2024 3:36:48 AM

Updated: 5/21/2025 6:57:59 PM

Author: Yadin Caliel

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King of Cups
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Rank 14
Roman Numeral XIV

Description of King of Cups


The King of Cups depicts a mature male figure draped in the colors of Venus and Mars, green and red, respectively. He also has light blue robes, the color of the House of Cups. He holds the scepter in his left hand and the chalice in his right hand. Behind him, a dramatic scene is playing out: Leviathan jumping out of the ocean and the left with a schooner with red sails is battling waves to the right.

The King of Cups card represents emotional maturity, compassion, and control over emotions. It is often depicted as a king seated on a throne with a cup, symbolizing his emotional stability and mastery.

Symbolism & Interperetation for King of Cups


Exoteric Symbolism of King of Cups


The King of Cups is one of the more interesting cards in the Tarot. Cups represents the element of Water, and likewise, the back of the king's throne is shaped like a sea-shell. His crown is adorned with shell-shaped jewels, and his mantle is held in place by a shell-shaped broach. The king is surrounded by water on all sides and even his robes are blue.

Esoteric Interperitation of King of Cups


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Upright


Upright Keywords for King of Cups

Emotional maturity, compassion, emotional control, wisdom, stability


Upright Meaning of King of Cups

In the upright position, The King of Cups signifies emotional maturity, compassion, and control over emotions. It represents wisdom and emotional stability. This card encourages you to lead with empathy and maintain a calm and composed demeanor.

Reversed


Reversed Keywords for King of Cups

Emotional instability, emotional suppression, manipulation


Reversed Meaning of King of Cups

In the reversed position, The King of Cups may indicate emotional instability, emotional suppression, or manipulation of emotions. It can suggest a need to address emotional issues and strive for authentic emotional expression. Be open to emotional healing and balance.


Suit: Cups
Suit Cups (Chalices, Goblets)
Keywords Emotions, Relationships, Intuition, Spirituality
Description Cups represent the element of 🜄 Water and are associated with emotions, intuition, relationships, and spirituality. They often symbolize love, compassion, empathy, and matters of the heart. Cups are linked with the realm of emotions, feelings, and connections with others.
Cardinal Direction ⬅ West
Element 🜄 Water
Time of Day 🌇 Evening
Season 🌞 Summer
Hebrew Letter hHeh, second
Zodiac Signs ♋ Cancer, ♏ Scorpio, ♓ Pisces
Duality Receptive
Polarity - Negative
Gender ♀ Feminine
Jungian Function ❤ Feeling