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King of Cups tarot card

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Minor Arcana Cups

King of Cups

Element: Water
Suit: Cups (Water)

Upright Meaning

emotional maturity wisdom diplomatic counsel

The King of Cups sits on a throne amid turbulent water, yet remains calm — emotion mastered through wisdom, not suppression. He represents the mature ability to hold space for others' feelings while maintaining his own center. This is the counselor, the mediator, the one who has felt deeply enough to understand without being destabilized.

Reversed Meaning

emotional suppression coldness volatile moods

When reversed, the energy of King of Cups may become blocked or distorted. Pay attention to shadow aspects and areas requiring deeper reflection.

Keywords

Upright Meaning

  • emotional maturity
  • wisdom
  • diplomatic counsel

Reversed Meaning

  • emotional suppression
  • coldness
  • volatile moods

Visual Symbolism

King on a throne amid turbulent waters, holding a cup calmly; emotional mastery.

Classic Rider-Waite symbolism — each visual element carries deeper psychological meaning.

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King of Cups tarot card meaning — upright, reversed & love

King of Cups

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