The 4 of Cups isn’t always the most welcome card in a reading, regardless of the topic, but like any card, it has many layers. Although this card often represents a feeling of apathy or dissatisfaction, it is a powerful card for contemplation and assessing yourself on a deeper level.
In many images on this card a man sits alone and looks bored, dissatisfied or depressed, sometimes with merriment happening around him or sometimes in the middle of nature.
This is a sign that you are lost in your own world and ignoring what is happening around you. As a feeling card, there is numbness to your outside world. Your focus is on your inner world.
What does the 4 of Cups mean?
In a reading the 4 of Cups can mean:
- Being introverted
- Withholding affection
- Ignoring the good things you have
- Refusing to see things from others’ point of view
- Apathy
- Being disconnected
- Lack of enthusiasm
- Having no motivation
- Meditation
- Contemplation
- Going within yourself
- Taking time to reflect
What does the 4 of cups mean in love and relationships?
In a love and relationship reading, the 4 of Cups indicates some disinterest or lack of contentment.
This card indicates that the person is feeling withdrawn at the moment. They may have little interest in the relationship, and their focus is mainly on themselves. It is likely that no amount of flattery will help them get out of their current mindset. For romantic or sexual feelings, the 4 of Cups indicates that these specific feelings are not present at the moment.
The 4 of Cups is a card that indicates how someone sees you. It may mean that they see you as someone who is withdrawn and has no interest in them or the situation. It could also mean that they see you as someone who is thinking hard or needs a time out.
As for what someone wants to happen between you and the relationship, this card says that he or she is not thinking about anything right now. Their focus is on themselves. They have no plans for anything romantic or sexual, temporary or permanent.
What does the 4 of Cups mean in a career reading?
In a career reading, this card indicates apathy. There may be a lack of enthusiasm for the work or job you are currently doing.
This disinterest can lead to problems on an emotional, physical and mental level. The 4 of Cups suggests that there is a deep lack of fulfillment.
This card also indicates that it is important to take time to reflect on your career and think about what brings you joy and motivation. If things have reached an impasse, it’s time to consider other options.
What about the 4 of Cups as an obstacle?
As an obstacle card, the 4 of Cups emphasizes that there are problems with disinterest and apathy.
This card can indicate depression or a lack of zest for life. A lack of desire to do something fun or form human relationships is common, with this card as an obstacle.
This card, as an obstacle, asks you to examine the reasons behind your feelings of dissatisfaction and explore ways to reignite your passion.
What about the 4 of Cups in reverse order?
As a reverse card, the 4 of Cups indicates that the apathy and disinterest once felt are now beginning to thaw.
The enthusiasm and interest return. This card emphasizes that a period of reflection and inner exploration has passed and that there is renewed interest.
It may take some time for the full effects of the reversed 4 of Cups will appear, but ultimately this is a card for renewal and deeper understanding.
How to make the 4 Cups work for you
Repeating these affirmations morning and evening can help you understand the energy of the energy 4 of cups on a deeper level.
If you struggle with apathy and lack of motivation, these affirmations can help turn negative energy into positive energy.
- I will find my joy in life
- I take the time to explore myself on a deeper level
- I will turn the negative into something positive
- I will find my purpose
- I can overcome these emotions
Let the 4 of Cups be your guide
Although the 4 of Cups may indicate feelings that seem negative in nature, each emotion has a special purpose to fulfill.
The 4 of Cups teaches us what we feel dissatisfied with in our lives. When we know what we are not happy with, we can begin to understand what really makes us happy.
This is the art of emotional alchemy and transformation. Sometimes our best times come from our worst times. From the perspective that every emotion has a purpose and is there to help us live our best lives, we can truly harness the power of this card.
Related article: You’ve drawn the Queen of Cups – what now?
