The Five of Cups

Act Five in a Tragedy

Upright

Loss, turbulence, isolation.

Reversed

Loss, but a time for hope and support.

The Five of Cups shows someone whose vibrant, full cups have spilled on the ground. This is the card of loss, turbulent inner feelings, and isolation (emotional or literal). Note the similarity of the figure to The Hermit, another card with the theme of introversion. If the Suit of Cups is the Suit of Vibes, the vibes here are sad, frantic, isolated, and overwhelming. But all is not lost; unlike The Hermit, who is on top of a snowy mountain, this guy is in plain view of home (albeit across a raging river) and still has two full cups. There are still alliances where positive Cups energy flows. There are still ways to return home or to ourselves, or to journey beyond the loss and move on.

When reversed, the Five of Cups signifies change much like the Four of Cups. But while the Four is a call to action, the Five is simply a signifier of change for the better. The loss may feel strong, even insurmountable, but now is a time where hope will return. This will be the end of your isolation. It may mean accepting loss if you have not, and seeking out what emotional support you do have in your life. Or it may mean that those things are coming to you naturally; be open to them.