Tarot: The Four of Cups

This card typically represents the state of apathy, missed opportunities and the need for introspection.

The figure is being granted an opportunity, the hand holding the cup, yet he remains focussed on the three empty cups on the floor.

Apathy, although it can feel negative, and at times even distressing, can help us if we can identify what the feeling is trying to tell us. Sometimes in life we can miss what’s right in front of us by focussing on what we don’t have, or what we are already doing which is a path that no longer suits us. Instead of focussing on what we don’t have or what we already have that we dislike, it's important to broaden our perspectives and look for opportunities to create a new path for ourselves in line with our values.

The card suggests a call to gain access the inner world. When we feel connected to our true selves and inner world, the universe is full of signs and opportunities, if only we can learn to notice them!

Jungian Analysis

In depth psychology, the Four of Cups represents the disconnect between the ego, or the conscious mind, and the unconscious. In this state the ego can reject new opportunities because its trapped in a state of discontent.

The three cups in the figure's focus represent all that is already known, in the realm of consciousness, and the fourth is presented by the hand of the divine, which points to an opportunity for growth. The figure is crossing his arms to demonstrate the rejection of this opportunity. This rejection is often due to a defence mechanism that we've built to protect ourselves from the fear of the unknown. Opportunities are filled with unknowns, which can be anxiety provoking. It's not always obvious to ask yourself the question, 'what if it all goes right?'.

Existential Philosophy

This card classically represents existential dread with a real sense of ‘what’s the point’, or apathy. It’s quite common to get trapped in the mundane routine of day to day life. That which is familiar, safe and comfortable. The three cups represent the loss of a spark as the figure sits in apathy and despair while continuing to focus on them all the while missing the spark of life from the offering of the fourth cup.

Have you ever had that niggling feeling that there must be more to life?

The card’s lesson is to awaken to live a life of authenticity – take responsibility and accept the new cup!