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Eight of cups is part of the minor arcana. The card depicts a man walking away from eight cups. The man is wearing what seems to be a thick cloak. He seemed to be going away to a potentially barren land.
The cups are arranged oddly as if another cup is missing. We can conclude that the man could either be in search of it or have given up. The man carries a staff for support as he makes his way away from the cups. The man’s back is slightly crouched along with his head looking down. He must feel a bit disappointed, or he’s watchful where he steps.
In the background, we can see the moon from up above. The moon lights his path as he passes a river and sharp mountains and rocks. The journey would be challenging because it’s nighttime, and the rocks and mountains are jagged.
Eight of Cups Upright Keywords
- Walking away
- Abandonment
- Disappointment
- Withdrawal
- Escapism
- Letting go
- Search for truth
- Leaving things behind
- Travel
- Search
- Looking deeper
- Emotional strength
- Self-discovery
- Introspection
- Weariness
Eight of Cups Reversed Keywords
- Fear
- Fear of moving on
- Monotony
- Stagnation
- Lack of self-awareness
- Avoidance
- Aimless travel
- Trying once more
- Faking
- Indecisiveness
- Staying despite the situation
- Fear of commitment
- Low self-esteem
Eight of Cups General Meaning
The man depicted in the image is walking away from the cups. The cups represent a situation that calls for abandonment. With his head down, the man is feeling disappointed or downcast. He chooses to go the opposite way and away from the cups. The situation might have turned unbearable. Therefore, he had to choose to leave. The path ahead is unknown to the man. Thus, turning around requires courage and strength to journey into the unknown or otherwise the future.
Despite the fear and uncertainty of journeying into the unknown, there is also a sense of excitement. There is a sense of thrill and eagerness to meet new people, encounter new things, and learn from them.
Walking away is not always selfish. There are times when you need to walk away knowing that the situation isn’t doing us any good. Furthermore, the case could be slowly taking a toll on us. Walking away is sometimes also courage—the ability to get out of a situation that stagnates and hurts you.
Eight of cups encourages you to ask yourself the essential questions. What do you want to do and why? Are you happy with your current situation? Do you find room for growth in your case right now? If not, then maybe it’s time for you to find something that makes you happy and nurtures you.
Eight of Cups (Upright) Meaning
Unlike Three of Cups, Eight of Cups is a card that represents transition. It can mean walking away from a situation or someone. You might be feeling exhausted and weary that you decided to walk away from the case. This situation might be bad for you. Change is necessary, especially if you’re feeling stuck. Staying at the same place is not a good decision in some cases. Especially if you do not know what to do and you’re wasting time
This card is also telling you that something might be missing in your life. This can be very specific in your emotional or spiritual lives. You might sense a hole or a gap inside you, and you are passionate about finding them. You are willing to go wherever you need to find them.
Eight of Cups can also mean you are escaping from something. You might be in the midst of a problematic situation. You sense that you need to run away. Do not fret. Maybe the position you were in was worth your runaway.
This card represents a new journey you will be embarking on. This might be a journey of finding the truth inside you and discovering the world through a whole new lens. You possess the ability of introspection. Meaning, you can objectively assess yourself and identify your emotions quickly.
Eight of Cups (Upright) in In Love and Relationship
The Eight of Cups wants you to reflect on your current relationship. You need to provide time for yourself and think about what you want.
You need to think deeply if this is the relationship you want. Perhaps something’s pulling you back, or you’re having trust issues.
Think about the potential of this relationship in the future. Try to observe if this relationship is currently making you feel safe.
On a very similar note, this card can also mean literal abandonment. Either you and your partner tend to leave the relationship. However, if you feel like the relationship is unhealthy, it might be signaling you to go. Leaving a bad relationship is beneficial not only for your emotional well-being but also for your spiritual and mental.
If you are single, the case can be much similar. You might have experiences in your past that you are afraid of repeating. You developed abandonment issues, and you’re scared of being left alone again. You might be fearful of committing that you are unknowingly shrugging potential partners away to protect yourself. It’s best to search for and observe supporting cards for this.
Eight of Cups (Upright) in Career and Finance
In general, this card is all about walking away from something. It can range from taking a vacation for work to submitting your resignation letter. You might feel like you need a break after working hard. Sometimes a vacation is what you need to unwind. Your work environment might be causing you stress, and all you need is a break to breathe. However, this is not the case all the time.
The work you’re in must be pushing you to the edge. If you feel like it’s too much for you to take, then maybe it’s time for you to let it go. If you feel like your life is too monotonous and you don’t feel fulfilled at all, you have a choice.
Walking away from something that does not benefit you exudes courage but is very hard in reality. This is why you have to weigh the pros and cons. You need an objective mind to look at your situation and make the right decision. A decision that makes you happy and relieved.
In the financial aspect, this card tells you to be careful. You must be mindful of all the financial investments you are thinking of making. This card can also warn you to be more observant and objective in your financial decisions.
For more financial choices, check Eight of Cups as feelings. Remember, your mind must also be stronger than your feelings.
Eight of Cups (Upright) in Health
In the aspect of your health, this card tells you that your eyes are set in the wrong place. You might be focusing too much on negativities that might be affecting your mental health. All parts of the body are connected at some point. Therefore straining a claim may affect all the other parts.
It’s best to try shifting your perspective and view to the positive things in your life. Or maybe, you need a vacation. Having a break can lighten up your mood and increase the good things in your body.
Eight of Cups (Upright) in Spirituality
In the aspect of spirituality, this card can signify the need to go on a self-discovery adventure. This is your time to dive deeper into your wholeness and learn a lot about yourself. With this journey, you can find yourself leaving old habits and beliefs that no longer serve you behind.
Eight of Cups (Reversed) Meaning
Similar to Page of Cups, the Eight of Cups in reverse can indicate the fear of moving on and away. This can mean stagnation and be stuck in an unproductive place. You might be deliberately staying at one home because of your fear of moving on. You might be worried about the unknown future that awaits. This card in reverse can mean that you cannot see objectively. Thus, you lack maturity and courage. This fear is taking you nowhere but further down.
This card can also be a sign of confusion. You must be confused about which path you are to take. You might not know what is right for you, and thus, you feel lost and aimless. You need to stop this cycle that’s slowly drowning you. Pick yourself up and know whether to leave a situation or not. Of course, it won’t be easy, but you can do it at your own pace. The important thing is, you are doing something about your situation.
Eight of Cups (Reversed) in Love and Relationship
The Eight of Cups, in reverse, wants you to decide. This may be the time to choose what you really want.
Perhaps you and your partner are experiencing a fallout. This fallout has been consistent several times already.
Maybe the spark and the love aren't there anymore. Maybe it's time to ask yourselves if you still want to continue this.
It’s hard to let go of something you created together. It’s hard to leave something you invested time and emotions on. However, you need to think for yourself, and whatever’s good for you in the long run.
If you are single, getting a reversed eight cups can mean you are either too clingy. This need for attention all the time might be repelling your potential partners. Or you can be too distant to commit.
Eight of Cups (Reversed) in Career and Finance
Like the other sections, this card in reverse in terms of career can mean fear of letting go. Although you have the power to change the course of your job, you choose not to. Perhaps, you are afraid of the unknown and giving up the security you have in your current career.
However, the unfulfillment you feel might grow and keep growing as you continue this path. You have the choice to stay in this seemingly unfulfilling career or find your way for growth. The fact that you hold this much power over your life tells you something. If you might ever feel unsatisfied in the future, that would probably be your fault. As you make the decisions for yourself, decide on something you won’t have regrets about.
In terms of the financial aspect, this card urges you to make bold decisions and take risks.
Eight of Cups (Reversed) in Health
This card, in reverse, can indicate that you are staying in a situation that harms your health. In the case of your health, you are encouraged to assess your health. Do things that can impact your health positively and walk away from those that cause you harm. You have the choice, and you are encouraged to make healthier choices.
Eight of Cups (Reversed) in Spirituality
In the course of your spirituality, this card in reverse can tell you that you lack self-awareness. This can also mean that you are not growing anymore. This can suggest you go on a soul searching and connect to yourself more. Take the necessary steps to discover your life path. You might feel a little lost, and reconnection to your spirit might greatly help you. This more profound knowledge will also help you let go of things that do not contribute to your spiritual growth.
Eight of Cups: YES or NO?
Eight of Cups main message is leaving. This might be going into a lousy situation or turning away from something frustrating. Because the card exudes a message that’s reminiscent of sad memories, the answer to your question will be NO. However, it may be best to assess objectively if your question is related to your job or relationship. If this particular situation does not contribute to your growth and is emotionally and mentally exhausting, the best option is to leave.
You might be interested in Six of Cups Tarot Card. Or you can also check out this The Devil Tarot Card article that I wrote.
Eight of Cups Advice
The Eight of Cups advises you to keep going. You’re now near reaching the dreams you want to achieve.
If you feel like walking away from a situation, do it. It’s okay to detach from problems and people that continue to suffocate you.
Make sure you know where you’re heading. Continue to move in the direction that you really want to take.
You’re still in the process of healing and moving on. It’s okay to take the time or be alone until you feel okay again.
Holding grudges isn’t good for you. Allow yourself to accept and move forward without fear.
Eight of Cups Reversed Advice
The Eight of Cups, in reverse, shows that it’s okay to disappear. It’s okay to walk away and distance yourself from the people you love.
This card doesn’t necessarily present negative energy. However, it wants you to reevaluate your decisions and think about what you want.
It’s okay to leave situations that you may think are already toxic. It’s okay to find yourself without the help of others.
It’s okay to manage your own healing as long as you’re comfortable because you’ll experience more beautiful things even if you’re alone.
This is also a sign of never giving up.
Eight of Cups as a Person
The Eight of Cups card as person focuses on the inner self. You may be someone who is an introvert and prefers to be constantly alone.
Mind you that being an introvert isn’t entirely a bad thing. The good thing about being an introvert is you’re happy hanging out with your own company.
You may be someone who chooses to learn more insights about the world. But of course, you wouldn’t want to express your thoughts easily.
You’re someone who finds a hard time opening up to others. Since you’re not used to receiving the help of other people.
Eight of Cups Reversed as a Person
The Eight of Cups card in reverse is someone who lacks confidence. You continue to isolate yourself from the possibilities of the world.
You’re someone who believes that you have nothing to offer for change. You think that you’re already old and useless to continue providing for others.
You’re also the type of person who doesn’t want to say NO. Instead, you continue to focus on fulfilling the wants of others over yourself.
If you keep choosing others, how will you learn to love yourself? How will you learn to take care of yourself the way you do to them?
Eight of Cups Present
In the present, you’ll experience challenges that are heavier than a rock. So you need to stay focused and think about what you really want.
Instead of relying on the needs and preferences of others, choose yourself. Make the decision that will bring you peace instead of chaos.
You’re currently entering a stage wherein things will be more difficult. If you don’t get out of your shell, it will only be harder for you to go.
If you continue to resist, you’ll end up experiencing traumatic situations. You need to be the first one to approach and leave the situation.
You might also find this article interesting: The Secret to Attracting Wealth: Traits the rare billionaires share!
Eight of Cups Past
In the past, there seemed to be a trial and error in your goals. Perhaps you attempted to achieve several goals, but they didn’t work out.
As you look back, you remember you used to work hard. You didn’t care about how it would affect you, so you continued striving.
But there are instances when something isn’t really for you. The moment you experienced it, it took a long time before acceptance came up.
Despite the failed attempts, you looked for more opportunities. You didn’t hesitate to show what you’re capable of.
So continue to explore new things for growth.
Eight of Cups Future
In the future, you need to prepare yourself. You need to anticipate and expect the worst that can happen.
You’re someone who is ready to accept new challenges. But you’re also aware that this may cost and take a lot from you.
As you enter a new chapter in your life, never lose hope. Even if life will throw rocks at you again, continue to stand still.
It’s safe to say that you can expect the worst. Maybe a heartbreak or bad news will come it's way to you.
So it’s important that you’re spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically prepared.
Eight of Cups as How Someone Feels About You
When you get the Eight of Cups, someone feels confused. This person may want to leave things and run away for a while.
Since this person is uncertain, they may consider disappearing temporarily. They want to distance themselves away from you.
The reason may not necessarily be about you. This person just wants to have some alone time with their thoughts and emotions.
But this person feels safe whenever they’re with you. Maybe they’re just preventing themselves from being fully opened.
So the main goal is to engage in honest communication with them. Talk about your thoughts and listen attentively.
Eight of Cups Outcome
The Eight of Cups card, as an outcome, shows that you’re finally letting go. Congratulations on having the guts to relinquish toxic cycles.
This is the sign that you’re now ready to leave situations and people. This is for your own good and for a healing journey.
Don’t hesitate to be open to change; embrace change. Be open to discovering new possibilities that will enhance your confidence.
It’s okay to release all the hurt and pain. It’s okay to climb to the top of a hill and shout your frustrations.
It’s okay to feel and show how vulnerable you are.
Eight of Cups Pregnancy and Fertility
The Eight of Cups is a sign related to pregnancy. You may be someone who isn’t prepared to enter the stage of parenthood.
This is because you’re too caught up in your head. You still hold grudges from what the past did to you.
This is mostly related to your traumatic experiences. You’re still not in the right headspace to provide and start a family.
You’re someone who continues to hesitate in this journey. This may be the sign that you need to take time to evaluate what you want.
You don’t need to join the trend of family planning.
Eight of Cups Energy
The Eight of Cups can have intense energy about change. This may be the sign that you’re slowly adapting yourself to transformation.
This may be the sign that you’re ready to move on. You have a strong energy that desires to improve for the better.
You’re not afraid of showing what you’re truly capable of. You now realize that it’s essential for you to be expressive.
But this can also be the time when you run away. You run away from toxic relationships and cycles that suffocate you.
You continue to prevent yourself from encountering a traumatic event again.
Eight of Cups as Action
The Eight of Cups card is a meaningful sign to take action. This doesn’t necessarily mean external action but focuses on internal action.
This has something to do with being aware and controlling your emotions. This is about being aware that you’re vulnerable at certain times.
This is about being aware that you need to be more expressive. This is about having the guts to open yourself instead of hiding inside.
True change will first start in your emotions. In order to accept reality and move on, learn how to handle things.
You can handle things without being emotionally attached.
Eight of Cups as Intention
The Eight of Cups offers you the intention of moving on. You’ll start realizing that life has better things to offer.
The card wants you to realize always to choose good intentions. You should select the good even if you’re hurt or want revenge.
In having good intentions, you’ll not inflict pain on others. You don’t want them to experience the exact situation that you did.
Having good intentions can only set you free. It has the ability to remove the burden from your chest.
But your good intentions also have limits; give your energy to the right people.
Eight of Cups as How Someone Sees You
Someone sees you as a person who is indecisive. They think that you can’t always arrive at a final decision.
So there are times when they want to help you decide. They want you to consider the choices that are good for you.
This person sees you as someone who chooses others over yourself. This is also the result of why you don’t have your choices.
This person can sense your hesitation when it comes to relationships. They see that you want to give in, but you’re still afraid of commitment.
This person sees you as someone who runs away.
Eight of Cups Time Frame
The Eight of Cups can have a specific time frame. However, it will always depend on your decisions and situations.
The Eight of Cups has a connection with Saturn in Pisces. A specific period may start on February 19 and will end on February 28.
The Eight of Cups has a connection with the water element. It has the representation of the number eight.
So expect an event to happen in 8 days, weeks, or months. A situation may want you to decide if you should stay or let go.
This time, don’t choose what others want; choose yourself now.
Eight of Cups as a Woman
The Eight of Cups as a woman is someone who has abandonment issues. If this is you, please remember that it’s not your fault.
It’s not your fault if people continue to let you down. There’s nothing wrong with choosing to have a pure heart despite the pain.
But if you don’t put boundaries for yourself, how will you get better? How will you learn to choose yourself even if people will leave?
You’re someone who is more of a receiver than a giver. You don’t mind if people can’t easily reciprocate the love you give.
This time, choose yourself.
Eight of Cups as a Man
The Eight of Cups as a man is someone who wants to succeed. This may now be the time for you to start packing your bags.
You’ll enter a new journey where you need to abandon the past. You’ve suffered so much in the hands of people who don’t deserve you.
You used to apply your masculine energy to protect and help people. But now you realize that you should reserve it for the right people.
You’re not ready to enter a new journey beneficial for growth. You’ll not hesitate to let yourself feel a comfortable change and move on.
Eight of Cups Communication
The Eight of Cups is a sign of improving proper communication. You may be someone who isn’t used to expressing your feelings.
You’re someone who doesn’t want to be open to others. This may be the cause of the traumatic experience you encountered in the past.
Maybe you’re afraid because you fear abandonment. You fear that if you open your heart again, people will still leave.
But you’ll never hesitate to be open to the right people. There will come a time when you’ll break your walls again.
But this time, the right people will make sure that they’re trustworthy.
Eight of Cups Reconciliation
The Eight of Cups is an essential card for reconciliation. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that a past person will reconcile.
If you’re in separation from this person, take time to evaluate the situation. Think about the pros and cons if you’re thinking of reconciling.
Think about the disputes that you had in the past. Perhaps your values and goals aren’t aligned with each other.
Think about the benefits of this relationship will reconcile. Think about yourself if this will bring you the peace you want.
Perhaps this past person isn’t being practical. Instead, they focus on answering philosophical questions.
Eight of Cups Physical Appearance
The Eight of Cups can have a specific physical appearance. You may be someone who has long hair and uses this to cover your face.
This is because you’re too shy to let others see the real you. You hesitate to express your true self due to intense pressure and trust issues.
Along with your long hair, you’re someone who looks mysterious. People may easily be intimidated and intrigued because of your appearance.
You can be someone who migrated from a different country. Perhaps your social status has changed, and you’re now ready for new beginnings.
Never hesitate to change.
Eight of Cups Reversed Outcome
The Eight of Cups, as an outcome, shows that you can’t let go. You’re afraid to abandon the past and look forward to another tomorrow.
You choose to be in your silent and private state. Instead of expressing to others how you feel, you remain in a small box.
You continue to stay and tolerate toxic cycles and relationships. You can’t see the reality that some people will never change for you.
If you continue to do this, it will only weaken you. It will only imprint negative thoughts in your head.
You choose to reject change and remain silent.
Eight of Cups Reversed Pregnancy
The Eight of Cups in reverse may show that you’re not ready for pregnancy. This is because you have no plans of starting a family.
If you have a plan, then you’re probably overthinking the situation. Perhaps you’re someone who doesn’t know what you really want.
You’re someone who relies on the suggestions and choices of others. In the midst of these choices, you can’t make up your mind.
You’re someone who still holds grudges from the past. So this may affect how you act and respond to relationships.
You need to work on yourself first, don’t stress yourself out.
Eight of Cups Friendship
The Eight of Cups is an important card for friendships. This could mean that you need to reevaluate your choices when it comes to friends.
There are instances when you’ll realize that you need to set limitations because some of your friends may already be below the belt.
You need to think deeply if this friendship is for the long term. Choose friends that are willing to help you succeed.
If you think that your friendship isn’t healthy anymore, it’s time to let go. It’s time to remove all your fears and have the courage to leave.
True friends will remain.
Karen Hyman
Karen is a Psychic Medium, a Professional Astrologer, a Spiritual Advisor, and a Life Coach who has been in this career for 19+ years. She specializes in numerology, tarot and oracle cards, twin flames, love & relationships, zodiac, horoscope, dreams interpretation, and astrology. She aims to provide comfort and assurance using her abilities to offer answers to those who seek professional guidance. Read More About Karen Here.
