King of cups is part of the minor arcana cards. This card depicts a king sitting on a throne. The king is wearing elegant clothing fit for a king. The garment is composed of the colors blue, yellow, and shades of red.
In his right hand, he holds a cup in an upright manner. On the other hand, he has a scepter. Both the cup and the scepter are made of fine gold. The king is wearing a necklace that resembles an amulet. The pendant is a fish that hangs on his neck.
As we can observe, he does not lay his eyes on the things he’s holding. Instead, he is looking at something far away. He sits on a throne that's amidst turbulent waters. However, this doesn’t bother him that much, as shown on his face.
In the background to his left, we can see a ship that’s floating. On the other side, the right side, a fish jumps out from the sea. The image depicts calmness even in troubled waters. The image portrays being in control no matter the calm or the disturbing waves of waters.
Table of Contents
King of Cups Upright Keywords
- Emotional balance
- Balance
- Diplomatic
- Compassionate
- Advisor
- Wise
- Counselor
- Devoted
- Creativity
- Wisdom
- Tolerant
- Reliable
- Charming
- Loyal
- Faithful
- Spiritual
- Generous
- Romantic
- Affectionate
- Calm
King of Cups Reversed Keywords
- Emotionally immature
- Gullible
- Repressed
- Cold
- Inner feelings
- Emotionally manipulative
- Overwhelmed
- Anxious
- Withdrawn
- Selfish
- Intolerant
- Unproductive
- Uncaring
- Deviance
- Unbalance
- Blocked creativity
King of Cups General Meaning
The king sits on his throne amidst troubled water that symbolizes his calm nature. He is in control, and he knows what he is doing. On his neck dangle a pendant that is carved as a fish. This amulet represents the king’s creativity, spirit, and capabilities.
The cup in his hands represents his emotions. The way he holds the cup is remarkably calm and balanced. From this, it portrays the sound balance of his emotion. His other hand has a scepter. A scepter is a symbol of authority. It represents his power and control over his subjects and his life.
He is facing straight and does not look at the surroundings or the things he holds. This mirrors his expertise. He has now mastered the art of handling his emotions and can take himself well without much effort. The turbulent sea on where his throne floats symbolize the bumpy roads in one's life. As the king sits firmly on his throne, he is ready, and he is balanced. The fish and the ship in the background symbolizes new things.
They may symbolize wisdom, intense emotions, and struggles, but whatever they are, the king’s mind is open for them. He knows he can handle and acknowledge them without getting carried away or overwhelmed.
King of Cups (Upright) Meaning
Similar to King of Swords, King of Cups is a card of mastery. This card portrays your ability over your emotions, creativity, and your unconscious. In addition, this card tells you of your achievement. Finally, you have achieved control over your feelings.
This means you can acknowledge them and accept that you feel these things. However, no matter how intense these feelings may be, they cannot get the best of you. In other words, you already mastered the battle plan and are most likely to win every time. This is because you are in charge, and you use the authority for good.
King of cups represents the balance between your emotions and intellect. You can use them both to your advantage. When you encounter difficulties in life, you are better at making the right decisions. Navigating your emotions and reactions will be easier as you have learned a lot through time.
This card also serves as a reminder and a challenge. King of cups challenges you to use what you have acquired and endure in the face of negativity. It serves as a reminder to stay objective and reasonable even in times of hardships.
This card encourages diplomacy and harmony. Your awareness and understanding will enable you to supplement the missing parts and create balance. You are sensitive, and you care about what the people around you feel. As the king, you are balanced, and you create peace and harmony even amidst chaos.
King of Cups (Upright) in In Love and Relationship
In the course of love and relationships, this card emphasizes the balance between your feelings and your reason. This card speaks of your maturity and your love for family. When issues arise, you know how to handle them and help in fixing the situation.
Similar to King of Wands, this card represents your good qualities as a partner. The card exudes love, and so you will be experiencing emotional fulfillment. If you and your partner have been in a challenging situation lately, good things are coming.
This card brings good news about the growth of your relationship. It serves as a reminder that you are not alone and you have your partner to lean on. Your partner is very supportive. He or she supports you in what you want to do and does things to help you.
If you are single, this card brings good news. A potential partner with these great qualities is on his way. He will be charming, romantic, faithful, and reliable. This is one of the best cards to pick in terms of relationships. When you find the one, you will probably know it.
King of Cups (Upright) in Career and Finance
King of cups in the aspect of your career signifies an advisor. Perhaps a senior colleague or a boss or someone that’s fatherly will be there to help you. He will guide you to a more emotionally fulfilling career. He will provide comfort and advice like a father.
You will be acknowledged, and you will have a steady relationship with your workmates. This card reminds you to keep your stuff balanced. Please pay attention to all areas in your life to not miss one of them. Pay necessary attention to your work life and don’t neglect or take it for granted.
This card also emphasizes your wisdom and creativity. You will gain appreciation because of the correct use of your knowledge. You will also excel in the field of arts and things that require you to be creative. Even on the standard work, you do every day; you would find a way to spice it up.
In the financial aspect, this card represents stability and security. On the other hand, this card also reminds you to be logical in your financial decision. This card can also mean a lack of economic drive. Remember to keep the balance in the areas related to finances too.
King of Cups (Upright) in Health
In the aspect of health, the king of cups is an overall sound card. It indicates healing and balance in the context of your health. It reminds you to treat yourself with more care each day. Be kind to yourself.
King of Cups (Upright) in Spirituality
The king of cups in terms of your spirituality speaks of heightened psychic abilities and your intuition. This card tells you that you have developed a deeper understanding and trust in your skills and intuition. King of cups also means you will be receiving spiritual messages, and you can understand them.
King of Cups (Reversed) Meaning
King of cups in reverse tells you of the great tendency to focus solely on your innermost emotions. This could lead to being overly sensitive about things and can tend to overreact. This card tells you of a possible imbalance in your life. For example, you might fail to balance your thoughts, emotions, and intellect. It can also point to using your strengths as balance and brightness to achieve your needs in manipulative ways.
King of cups in reverse may point to a person in your life. This can be someone you find calm, balanced, and controlled in his intellect and emotions. However, this person might have changed, and you are there to witness it. Perhaps he has become manipulative and emotionally controlling. The person’s behavior can be affecting you and your well-being. You may or may not be aware of his actions, but you could be taken advantage of.
If you ever find yourself feeling like you’re being controlled, it’s a given that you speak up. If this seems pretty tricky, try to think of your life. Would you want to live your life like that? Ask yourself the critical questions and make the right decisions. Be firm for what is right.
King of Cups (Reversed) in Love and Relationship
In the aspect of love and relationships, king of cups in reverse emphasizes emotional immaturity. You may be in a fading relationship as one or both of you are becoming unstable and toxic for the connection.
Perhaps one or both of you is becoming manipulative and selfish. You could be using your emotional intelligence to get the best of each other. But, on the other hand, one or both of you might have shifted to just using each other to accomplish their own selfish goals.
This card also speaks of the lack of effort into your relationship. Suppose the relationship seems to be uncontrollably toxic, and it’s causing great emotional, physical, and mental pain for you. In that case, it may be time to leave. However, if the case is more complicated than expected, it’s best to call a professional and let them help you.
If you are single, this card in reverse is not a good sign. You could end up having an affair or meeting someone manipulative and controlling. On the other hand, you can be in a relationship with someone who thrives in deception and cold. It would be for your benefit to choose wisely and be mindful of the people that come into your life.
King of Cups (Reversed) in Career and Finance
King of cups in reverse points to a figure at work that may have become pretty much like a tyrant. You may have to deal with someone cold and unstable in your career. This can be your boss or a manager. In any way, it won’t be easy. This card in reverse also tells you to look after yourself as you may be the one exhibiting these qualities. You might turn to someone as described earlier. This card can also mean that you feel dissatisfied with where you are right now.
King of cups in reverse also encourages you to reconnect with your job as the excitement may be slowly disappearing. Try to assess yourself and your actions. As much as possible, police them if you are in the wrong. Do not condone destructive behaviors as you may grow accustomed to them.
In the case of your finances, the reverse king of ups highlights difficulty. You may find yourself having trouble controlling your financial habits and impulses. Your mind must be pretty blurry, and you are unable to make sound financial decisions. The imbalance between your emotions and logical reasoning can be taking a toll on you.
King of Cups (Reversed) in Health
King of cups in reverse tells you that you may be submitting yourself to harmful coping mechanisms. For example, you might be going through challenging circumstances, and you feel exhausted and perhaps deteriorate. These intense negative feelings can be pushing you to unhealthy practices.
This card warns you of something in your life and environment that can cause your health to deteriorate. This card encourages you to make better decisions for your health. Check your lifestyle and try to eliminate things that you know are unhealthy for you.
King of Cups (Reversed) in Spirituality
King of cups in reverse is telling you that your spiritual abilities are blocked. On the contrary, you might be misusing your skills and for the wrong purposes. This card encourages you to take your time and energy in developing your abilities and spiritual connections.
King of Cups: YES or NO?
King of Cups is a card of security and balance. The card depicts being intellectual and wise in decision-making. He does not let his emotions get the best of him, and in the same way, he does not use these things in the wrong way. For these reasons, the answer to your yes or no question is YES.
If there is a king, there must also be a Queen of Cups Tarot Card. Or you might also want to check out this Page of Swords Tarot Card article that I wrote.
King of Cups Advice
The King of Cups card as advice is a good sign for you. This is a sign that all your goals and expectations are aligned.
You’re currently sure of what you want to achieve. The sun is shining brightly, and you do not see blurry clouds.
You’re now taking the direction that you wish to accept. Without hesitations, you’re prepared to take the next step in life.
You have a clear vision of your thoughts. So you should always make sure that you’re on the right track.
The King of Cups reminds you to stay positive and continue to thrive.
King of Cups Reversed Advice
The King of Cups, in reverse, shows that you’re confused. Perhaps a work environment caused you to lose control.
You’re currently not managing your headspace and emotions well. You’re not physically, mentally, and emotionally stable to handle.
Take this time to rest and reflect on your actions for a while. Think of the possible ways in which you can start controlling how you respond.
You’re currently going in the wrong and unhealthy direction. If you continue to take this, you’ll likely face the consequences.
You’re not in the right headspace to make a decision. Try to ask for someone’s advice.
King of Cups as a Person
The King of Cups as a person is someone who is mature. If you have this card, then you would most likely engage in adult situations.
You’re someone who is already evident in your goals. Perhaps you have already created the achievable goals you want to achieve in the long run.
You’re someone who is always sure of what you want. This is because you would evaluate your decisions first before taking a step.
You’re someone who can perfectly control your emotions. You have the ability to separate professionalism from personal matters.
You’re consistent in being responsible and hardworking on projects.
King of Cups Reversed as a Person
The King of Cups is someone who is emotionally unavailable. Perhaps you don’t want to express what you feel or you’re bad at expressing it.
You’re someone who is still uncertain of what you want. You continue to take different directions that will only lead you to perplexity.
You’re someone who is not capable of handling devastating situations. If an inconvenience breaks into your work environment, you’ll fall apart.
Instead of handling the situation in a mature way, you would break down. Another thing is the fact that you’re not mature enough to handle disputes.
So seek advice from someone.
King of Cups Present
In the present, you’re currently leading your way toward the top. So keep doing what you can to show off your hard work.
This is a significant opportunity to meet a prominent figure. Perhaps a role model will enter your life to teach you some essential points.
But maybe you’ve already met them now. You and this person are currently having mature and deep conversations about success.
You must continue to hear the guidance of this person because it’s always better to learn from practical experiences than hearsay.
You’re working hard to get a particular position or degree; keep going!
King of Cups Past
In the past, you experienced ups and downs. You used to be in a devastating place in your life, filled with confusion.
You used to have low self-esteem on the things you’re capable of. You used to believe that you didn’t have what it takes to survive.
You used to have difficulty dealing with your emotions. So this affected several people in your life to inflict the negativity you had.
But the past taught you how to rise up constantly. It taught you to stay persistent and believe that things will work out.
Look back and reflect on your choices.
King of Cups Future
In the future, the universe wants you to put more trust in them. Trust that everything will work and fall into place.
An important person or entity may suddenly enter your life. You may be hesitant to accept this, but rest assured that this has good intentions.
This person or entity will encourage you to thrive more. It will teach you more about life and develop a positive mindset.
In the future, you’ll do more extraordinary things. This will only increase your self-confidence and will allow you to do more.
Don’t be afraid of what’s ahead, for you’ll be safe.
King of Cups as How Someone Feels About You
Someone feels amusement or astonishment towards you. This is because you never fail to show them what you’re capable of.
Perhaps this person admires your ability to succeed. They constantly see how you pour your time and dedication into your career.
This person probably receives strong inspiration from you. They want to start being productive and stable, just like you.
This person feels like you’re out of their league. They believe you look like someone who has high standards.
But this person continues to admire you silently. This is because they have difficulty expressing their emotions.
You give them hope.
King of Cups Outcome
The King of Cups card has a vital outcome to show you. This may be in relation to your journey about implementing good leadership.
You’ll enter a new journey wherein you’re tasked to lead people. This will be a piece of cake for you, and you’re delighted to do this.
You’ll enter a stage in your life wherein you need to show your confidence. Have no fear and doubts right now because this is where you truly belong.
You’re already capable of the power you hold. So nothing will ever make you look back or lose track of your journey.
King of Cups Pregnancy and Fertility
The King of Cups can be a card for pregnancy. If you receive this card, then look forward to entering the stage of parenthood.
The universe wants to congratulate you for coming this far. With the pregnancy sign, you’ll be able to show your ability to provide stability.
This is a sign that you’ll strengthen relationships and family ties. This is a beautiful opportunity to start working on a long-term commitment.
As the King of Cups, you have the ability to be stable. You can provide the desired necessities for your future child.
So continue working hard and receive love.
King of Cups Energy
The King of Cups has immense energy to achieve his dreams. You may be someone who has strong fatherly energy.
As a result, you’re willing to show your authority to others. You believe that you’re capable of providing and leading a stable life.
This immense energy enhances you to tap into balance. You’re capable of setting your priorities and goals straight.
You also have an evident self-confidence that boosts your abilities. As a result, you can influence a large number of people.
You’re always certain of the direction you’re heading to. You probably outlined your dream life already.
King of Cups as Action
The King of Cups as an action is an essential guide. This will guide you to seek and analyze what your priorities are.
Before focusing on the action, you focus on your ideas. You make sure that your ideas will be effective in the near future.
You never stop creating and organizing ideas for yourself and others. This is because you believe it will only make you wiser.
After you prioritize your ideas, you’ll achieve them by taking action. It doesn’t matter how long the duration is; what’s important is to succeed.
When you want something, you’ll consistently achieve it.
King of Cups as Intention
The King of Cups can prioritize good intentions. But it always has something to do with achieving your goals in the long run.
You’re someone who is willing to extend your leadership skills. Your intentions rely on the ability to influence and educate people.
But rest assured that you have a good influence on people. You want them to follow your footsteps to change their perspective in life.
You’re also willing to provide efficient and immediate help to others. You believe that you’re mentally, physically, and financially stable.
You have the ability to listen and understand the concerns of others.
King of Cups as How Someone Sees You
Someone sees you as a person who is stable in all areas. This person believes that you have nothing to prove anymore.
They see you as someone who is persistent and hardworking. Even if you’re already successful, you’ll still continue to thrive.
They see you as someone who can be a good leader. You have the ability to impose good intentions and influence people.
This person would always find you stunning and intriguing. They’re curious as to how you can always manage your priorities.
You’re someone who seems like your life is already planned out.
They believe you’re successful.
King of Cups Time Frame
The King of Cups can have a specific time frame. But this will always depend on how you handle a particular situation.
A specific period may start on February 9 and will end on March 10. The King of Cups has an association with the element of fire in water.
Expect an important event to take place during summertime. This may be in relation to your views, goals, or leadership skills.
Whatever the outcome is, make sure that you’re prepared. Make sure that you’ll be able to handle the situation maturely.
After all, you got this, so continue to thrive!
King of Cups as a Woman
The King of Cups can be a representation of a woman. You may be someone who knows how to balance your thoughts and emotions.
You believe you have control over every situation you encounter. If things fall apart, you already know what to do and respond.
You’re someone who has a strong masculine figure. Perhaps you got what it takes to show a stern figure as a leader.
You’re someone who has the ability to apply empathy. You never fail to show people that you’re willing to give advice.
You’re someone who is always sure of what you really want.
King of Cups as a Man
The King of Cups is a representation of a man. You could be someone who is an older male figure in someone’s life.
You may be someone who shows that you’ll always protect others. You know you have what it takes to save people from peril.
You’re someone who would choose to make wise decisions. You would do a great job in balancing your heart and mind.
You don’t always follow what your heart says. Instead, you would analyze first what your mind thinks.
You’ll not hesitate to offer immediate help to people. You offer emotional support and advice often.
King of Cups Communication
The King of Cups is an essential card for communication. This may be the sign that you have what it takes to apply constant empathy.
As others may call it, you’re the EPITOME OF EMPATHY. You would never fail to put yourself in someone’s shoes.
You believe that we should all choose to be kind to people. Because all of us have different life situations and how we handle them.
You’re someone who chooses to offer a helping hand. You never fail to provide safe spaces for people to express themselves.
You’re someone who offers efficient solutions and concrete actions.
King of Cups Reconciliation
The King of Cups may be an essential sign of reconciliation. A past person may have the King of Cups and is willing to approach you.
This person is still confident in what they want. And they want to offer a stable and long-term relationship with you.
This person misses you deeply as time passes by. Even during the time of separation, this person remains loyal to you.
You may be someone they want to offer a higher form of commitment. They’re certain of the goals they laid out for this relationship to work again.
The decision is yours.
King of Cups Physical Appearance
The King of Cups can have a specific physical appearance. However, this will always depend on the person who received the card.
You may be someone who looks like a diplomat. You look decent and formal to the point that you have everything planned out.
You may be someone who has brownish hair that is cut short. It’s also possible that your color is blonde.
Based on your appearance, you look like a prosperous and stable person. It seems as if you’re already sure of your objectives for a company.
You’re someone who is confident in what you can provide.
King of Cups in a Love Reading
The King of Cups is an essential card in a love reading. You may be someone who prioritizes your family and friends a lot.
You’re someone who looks like a potential partner in a love interest. Your partner is always lucky to have you if you have a partner.
You engage in open conversations with your partner. You’re someone who speaks in a calm manner instead of lashing out.
You’re someone who focuses on logic and practicality in love. You know that everything works best by staying committed and consistent.
You’re willing to offer a commitment for the long term.
King of Cups Reversed Love Reading
In reverse, the King of Cups is in an unstable relationship. Again, this has something to do with how you respond and handle conflicts.
Perhaps you continue to be selfish and manipulative to your partner. This is because you believe you have high authority.
You believe your dominance is the center of the relationship. But it’s already evident that your partner feels suffocated and exhausted.
You may be someone who doesn’t handle conflicts in a mature way. Instead of dealing in a calm manner, you act impulsive and furious.
Or you’re someone whose efforts and time aren’t being properly reciprocated.
King of Cups Reversed Outcome
The King of Cups, in reverse, may show that you’re not fit to lead. You may need to practice improving your decision-making skills first.
You also need to work on your emotions. Prioritizing controlling your feelings is better than maintaining the decisions of others.
You’re someone who has quite a temper. So you need to work on that and seek advice from another person.
This may not be the right time to take a direction. This is because you’re still confused about which road you should take.
It’s essential to balance your emotions before being in a raging storm.
King of Cups Reversed Pregnancy
The King of Cups, in reverse, maybe a card for pregnancy. This is a sign that you’re not ready to face the responsibilities of a parent.
Perhaps you still need to work on your mindset and behavior. You wouldn’t want your future baby to experience difficulties keeping up with you.
You need to start improving yourself for the better. It doesn’t matter if it’s not for parenthood; just abolish your negative traits.
This is also a sign that you’re not financially ready to be a parent. So work on yourself and the priorities that you should keep in place.
King of Cups Friendship
The King of Cups is an essential card for friendships. This may be a sign that you’ll form new connections with people.
Perhaps you’ll make more friends with younger people. So please take this as a sign to be an excellent example to them.
It’s your time to shine by showing your life-changing perspectives. So make sure that you’ll inflict wisdom on these people.
Because eventually, you’ll find yourself taking the lead. This is the first step to proving you have what it takes to be a leader.
You have the power to provide a healthy environment for your friends.
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.
