VI
Six of Cups
Symbols in the artwork
In a garden enclosed by a stone wall, two children are holding a cup filled with flowers together. There are six cups in total, including the four placed in the foreground and one on the pillar to the left, all blooming with bright flowers. The person passing through the back gate and the distant scenery are also visible. The gesture of offering flowers evokes the warmth of childhood memories and simple affection. This image prompts reflection on how to carry forward the warmth in memory today, rather than signaling the return of someone from the past.
Sources and interpretation
The original deals with the past and memories, while other interpretations also cover new environments. Reversed, it relates to the future and renewal. Modern interpretations have also referenced nostalgia and dwelling in the past alongside independence.
Written with reference to Rider–Waite–Smith symbolism and modern interpretations.
A. E. Waite's original text · Tina Gong / Labyrinthos modern interpretation
Upright
Memories and nostalgia · Pure goodwill · Familiar comfort
Recall fond memories, and look for small acts of kindness you can share today.
Core meaning
The Six of Cups symbolizes comfort derived from childhood and past memories, and pure goodwill. This card asks you to reflect on the influence that familiar relationships and memories have on your current heart.
The image of holding a cup filled with flowers contains the warmth of exchanging small affections. If you remember a time when someone listened to your story until the end, today you might be the one to listen to someone else's story. However, what was a kindness you received might not necessarily be what the other person needs. Ask what kind of help is needed these days. While referencing past experiences, also carry the heart of getting to know the person right in front of you.
What to keep in mind
If you only recall the good moments, it is easy to forget the difficult times. Just because it feels familiar doesn't mean it's still right for you, so examine the feelings of nostalgia alongside the actual situation.
One small step today
Recall one good memory, and then try doing something today that made you feel comfortable back then. Even listening to a favorite song is good enough.
A question to consider
What brought me happiness back then? Is there something I can do today?
A thought for today
It's okay for fond memories to lead to small joys today.
Reversed
Dwelling in the past · Moving away from the past · Independence and a New Life
Reflect on whether the ways that worked well before still suit you now.
Core meaning
The Six of Cups reversed can be read as struggling to live in the present because of the past. Conversely, it can also signify breaking away from the past to achieve independence or start a new life.
On one hand, you might feel like forgetting everything that has passed and starting anew. However, you do not need to discard everything you have learned or the help you have received just because you are choosing a different path. It is fine to keep the good experiences and only change the methods that no longer suit you. Slowly distinguish between what the 'you' of the past desired and what the 'you' of the present desires.
What to keep in mind
You don't have to feel that everything from the past was wonderful, nor do you have to feel that everything must be forgotten. You can remember what you were grateful for and change the ways that were difficult.
One small step today
Choose one long-standing habit or activity. Write down what you want to continue and what you want to change, and try to change things starting with small steps.
A question to consider
Is this choice what I truly want now, or is it what I've always done, so I'm just continuing it?
A thought for today
It's okay to keep cherished memories while choosing a path that suits the me of today.
Tarot offers a way to reflect on yourself through its symbols. Read it as a point of reference, not a certain prediction of the future or another person's feelings.