IV – Four of Cups♥
Tree of Life Path:
Click to enlargeElement
Sephira
World
Beri'ah (World of Creation)
Decan
Keywords
Apathy, Contemplation, Reevaluation, Withdrawal
Other decks
Tarot de MarseilleFour of Cups sits in contemplation, withdrawn and preoccupied with inner reflection. Attributed to the Moon in Cancer, this card carries the title Luxury—not the luxury of material excess, but the dangerous comfort of emotional stagnation, the seductive lure of withdrawal.
The Four of Cups urges you to reflect on what you have, to reconsider your blessings, and to open your mind to new possibilities. The figure beneath the tree has become so absorbed in contemplating the three cups before them that they fail to notice the fourth cup being offered by a divine hand. Here is the paradox of emotional security: the very stability we seek can become a prison of apathy.
In Qabbalistic terms, this card corresponds to Chesed, Mercy, in Briah—the stabilizing force that can become stagnation when taken to excess. The Four of Cups teaches that fulfillment is found when you release apathy and embrace gratitude. The cup being offered may represent a new opportunity, a spiritual gift, or simply the recognition that what you seek is already present, waiting only to be perceived.

Upright
Contemplation, reevaluation, withdrawal, meditation, dissatisfaction, emotional stability, introspection.

Reversed
Awakening, acceptance, missed opportunities, apathy, emotional stagnation, renewed interest.