We all get stuck in sadness or loss. The Five of Cups tarot card goes deep into those feelings of regret and grief.
Let’s find hope in the despair.
Five of Cups Tarot Card
A figure in black is draped and looking at three cups on the ground. They are standing in sorrow, regret and loss. Behind them are two cups standing upright, hope and potential.
A river and a bridge in the background means time is passing and we can cross into a better emotional space. The cloudy sky above reflects the weight of the unresolved emotions.
This image is about grief, disappointment and self reflection. It’s telling us to process our pain, let go of the resentment and see what’s still in reach.
While loss is the main story, the two cups left standing are whispering to us: healing and renewal is possible.
Five of Cups Symbols and Meanings
- Spilled Cups: Loss, regret, missed opportunities.
- Upright Cups: Hope, resilience, remaining potential.
- Bridge: Emotional recovery and forward movement.
- River: Emotions and time.
General Meaning
The Five of Cups is emotional pain, highlighting feelings of loss, grief and regret. It often shows up when we’re disappointed, heartbroken or failed.
But this card has a double message. It acknowledges the weight of the negative emotions but also tells us to accept and heal. By acknowledging the pain and choosing to move forward we can reclaim our hope and resilience.
This card is telling us that while loss is inevitable, growth and renewal is always available.
Love & Relationships
In relationships the Five of Cups is heartbreak, separation or emotional disappointment. It may mean a breakup, divorce or a period of disconnection.
The card is telling us to grieve and process our emotions honestly. But also to see hope – to rebuild trust, repair bonds or find love again.
Through self reflection and healing we can learn from past relationships and move towards healthier emotional connections.
Money & Career
Financially the Five of Cups warns of losses, failed investments or career setbacks. It may mean job loss, unmet expectations or dissatisfaction in the workplace.
This card is telling us to shift our focus from what went wrong to what can still be saved. By letting go of the regret and moving forward we can see the opportunities for recovery and growth.
It’s a reminder to be careful and resilient with our finances.
Health
In health readings the Five of Cups often shows the emotional impact on our physical body. Unresolved grief, stress or anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms.
The card is telling us to address our emotional health for overall well being. Therapy, building supportive relationships and self care are the steps to healing.
Spirituality
Spiritually the Five of Cups is a journey through grief, forgiveness and renewal. It’s showing us the power of acceptance and self awareness.
The spilled cups are emotional baggage, the upright cups are spiritual hope and growth. This card is asking us to face our pain, release it and embody a new sense of purpose.
Upright Five of Cups Meaning
In the upright position the Five of Cups is emotional healing and acceptance.
Love
In love it’s heartbreak, regret and struggling to let go of past hurts. But also moving forward and finding new love or reconciliation.
Career
Upright card means professional disappointments, job loss or workplace dissatisfaction. But be resilient and focus on the future not the past.
Financial losses or challenges may be present but the Five of Cups is telling us to be careful with our finances and focus on recovery not regret.
Reversed Five of Cups Meaning
When reversed the Five of Cups is acceptance, forgiveness and emotional recovery. It’s telling us to let go of past regrets and start anew.
This card is showing us hope, resilience and emotional strength. In relationships it may mean reconciliation or being open to love again.
In career and finances it’s overcoming setbacks and approaching challenges with new determination.
Summary
The Five of Cups is a powerful reminder of the paradox of loss and hope. It’s showing us heavy emotions like grief, regret and disappointment but also healing, resilience and seeing the opportunities for renewal.
In both the upright and reversed position this card is teaching us to process our emotions, accept and move forward with strength and purpose.
