King of Cups

The King of Cups card represents a person or energy if your life, ranging from authority figures to authors of books and even yourself. You can spot them by looking for the person who is eager to mentor or advise you in matters of vocational passion and long-term emotional health. They may be a spiritual leader or artist. This person, who isn’t always a man, is remarkably balanced, holding knowledge of both scientific and spiritual topics. Having spent years listening to impassioned speakers from both sides, they has an in-depth understanding of the world. Normally starting life with a knack for finding meaning in art and music, this person eventually learned to temper their emotions with rationality. The King of Cups motivates you to become more emotionally mature. If this card represents your energy, people appreciate how you listen to them patiently before giving guidance.

King of Cups Reversed

As with all reversed cards, this card signifies an unhealthy imbalance that needs healing. A reversal of the King of Cups holds the same authoritative power as upright, though in this case they’re using their power to gain pity rather than empower. Melancholy and a master of emotional manipulation, the person represented in this archetype can be a worrywart, even a alcoholic in the some of the worst cases. They’re not at all content to sit with their emotions, loading them off to other people or substances as soon as they get the chance. If you receive this card in a reading and it symbolizes your own energy, you have great potential to become a figurehead in your community through your vast knowledge of music or art, but first you must channel your energy into positive outlets.