(The above image is a copy of The Seven of Cups card in a standard Rider-Waite Tarot deck. The 9 symbols pointed out above are explained below.)
Card Description
The Seven of Cups is all about choices. A figure stands before an array of tempting gifts for the figure to choose from. Wisdom and discernment is required to sort the cautionary tales from the genuine treasures.
If you are looking for a deck of Tarot cards, check out our standard Rider-Waite deck here or check out one of our recent arrivals here.
For more information about The Seven of Cups card, check out A. E. Waite’s description here.
Point 1 – FIGURE
A figure stands before the cups, shrouded in a shadow. The blankness of the figure allows everyone to see themselves in the shadow. The figure is thus mysterious, yet familiar, like most of Tarot
Point 2 – CLOUDS
The clouds in this card reiterates the divine intervention of the Ace of Cups and multiplies it by seven. The clouds also reveal that the card lies within the realm of the imagination. It is a dreamlike place where our desires are laid before us
Point 3 – BLUE HEAD
While the figure is a mystery, the blue head is recognizable. It is a symbol of beauty and warns against narcissism. The blue head encourages you to see yourself in the figure, not in some artificial form of beauty.
Point 4 – CASTLE
The castle is a classical representation of home and security. While these things are naturally desired, the castle also warns against being out of touch with the common man.
Point 5 – JEWELRY
Jewelry is the classical treasure that tempts everyone. Instead of desiring wealth, look for something more substantial, more real.
Point 6 – LAUREL
The laurel in an ancient symbol of victory and authority. Kings and Olympiads use to wear them. While everyone desires for success, note the skull design on the cup. Do not win the world just to lose your soul.
Point 7 – DRAGON
The dragon might not be what it seems. To a western audience, a dragon is something to be feared. To an eastern audience, however, a dragon is considered good luck. It is unclear which type of dragon this one his. Perhaps the possibilities are too risky.
Point 8 – SNAKE
The Snake is another dragon-like figure. Historically, snakes have been seen as conniving and evil, due to the book of Genesis. In some cultures, however, snakes are seen as wise creatures, their skin shedding seen as a metaphor for enlightenment.
Point 9 – HIDDEN FIGURE
The last cup contains something shrouded from the figure, hidden beneath a cloth. While the other treasures are clearly visible, this one is a mystery. Like the figure itself, value is conveyed when one gives it value by uncovering the object.
Tarot Reading
Upright
An Upright Seven of Cups illustrates a time when there are multiple opportunities before you. These opportunities might not be as glamours as they appear to be. Some might be dead ends. Others might actively set you back from where you were before. It’s possible though that one can be incredible. Use your patience and wisdom to discern which opportunity to take and which to avoid.
Reverse
A Reverse Seven of Cups suggest choice paralysis. There are so many options that you are unsure which one to choose. This can be especially widespread in the age of the internet and the infinite scroll. Be calm and search your intuition to find the right choice that benefits you.
For more Tarot Card Meanings, check out our blog here.
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About the author: John Taylor is a content writer and freelancer through the company Upwork.com. You may view his freelancing profile here. He has a B. A. in English, with a specialty in technical writing, from Texas A&M University and a M. A. in English from the University of Glasgow. You may view his previous articles about Tarot here and his LinkedIn profile here.
