King of Cups Tarot Card Meaning

UPRIGHT

an educated person who is kind and willing, enjoys helping others

REVERSED

a double-dealer that incites scandal, crafty, violent

Visual Description of the King of Cups:

The King of Cups sits on a stone throne perched on a floating granite slab. It seems as though he is in full control of his emotions as as he peers over the ocean, ignoring the cup in his hand. In his other hand he holds a sceptre, symbolising strength and rulership. His blue tunic and gold cape is a further symbol of his status. A fish jumping at his feet and the small fish amulet around his neck are signs of the creativity he holds. In the distance a ship can be seen. While the water is rough it keeps due course, a further sign that the King of Cups holds a steady course despite rough circumstances. He is in full control of his subconscious urges as well as his emotions.

Divinatory Meaning of the King of Cups:

Upright Meaning of the King of Cups Tarot Card:

The King of Cups can relate to the querent themselves or a person in the querent’s life. The characteristics of this person are easy to see. They are a kind person that loves to help others. They are often formally educated, but if not they have a deeper sense of understanding about the world and human emotions.

“You are one of those people that loves to help others. It is one of your strengths and you have amazing insight into the things that make people behave the way they do. As a result you can address the issue at the source and help people to overcome negative behaviours that stem from a misunderstanding of their own emotions.

In your own life you have learned that letting emotions get the better of you only leads to more difficulties. You know that life isn’t always plain sailing and you accept this. But you embrace life’s ups and downs, so you can remain on course. There is little in life that can truly phase you. As a result you are a pillar of strength in many people’s lives.”

If this meaning doesn’t resonate with the querent they will discover someone in their life that is a pillar of strength to them. This person will teach them the art of maintaining an emotional balance that will allow them to remain on course regardless of how difficult life gets. If they take the lesson well they will learn the power of staying calm, even when their emotions and drives are in turmoil.

Reversed Meaning of the King of Cups Tarot Card:

Reversed the King of Cups indicates someone who is not in control of their emotions or natural urges at all. This person is smart, but they use their mind for personal gain, inciting scandal and chaos wherever they go. As in upright, the King of Cups reversed may indicate that the querent or someone in their life has these qualities.

“People have always told you how smart you are, but for some reason you find that you have very few friends. This is because of your lack of emotional security. You tend to do things to serve you, you give in to your impulsions and urges, without stopping to think how your actions will affect others. As a result you can cause a lot of drama…

While you might not care about the scandal you cause as long as you get what you want out of a situation, this card is warning you that it’s time to change your ways. Start taking others into consideration and curbing your lust. You’ll find life is a lot more rewarding when you work hard at something than if you just seek instant gratification without a thought of the consequences of your actions.”

If this card points to the querent they should take the effect of their emotions on others into consideration a lot more and strive to find emotional and Spiritual balance.