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Queen of Cups

Queen of Hearts, Empathy and Deep Intuition

Queen of Cups Tarot card

Symbolism and Meaning

The Queen of Cups is the archetype of the ideal confidante, mother and healer of souls. She sits on a throne decorated with sea nymphs, right by the seashore, which symbolises her connection with the world of the subconscious and the emotions. Her feet do not touch the water, but rest on the stony shore, which means that despite her sensitivity she can stay in touch with reality.

Interestingly, the cup the Queen holds is closed (the only one at the court of Cups). This symbolises that her thoughts, visions and feelings come from the depths of her own soul, not from the outside world. It is mystery, intuition and a rich inner life to which only a chosen few have access. It is a vessel that keeps secrets and spiritual wisdom.

The Queen of Cups represents a person (usually a woman) who is guided by the heart and is extremely empathetic, warm and caring. She is someone who "feels" other people, can listen like no one else and often has psychic or artistic gifts. She is a mirror in which others can see their own emotions.

Interpretation of the Card

In a spread, the Queen of Cups points to the need to trust your intuition and to show compassion - to yourself or to others. She may mean the presence in your life of a helpful woman (a friend, mother or therapist), or suggest that you yourself are taking on the role of carer. It is a card of unconditional love, artistic sensitivity and emotional security.

Light (Upright)
  • Deep empathy, compassion and care
  • Intuition, psychic abilities (the "sixth sense")
  • A good mother, a devoted partner, a loyal friend
  • An artistic soul, creativity and imagination
  • Emotional stability and security
  • The ability to listen and keep secrets
  • Being guided by the heart rather than logic
Shadow (Reversed)
  • Oversensitivity, hysteria, mood swings
  • Energy vampirism, emotional dependence
  • Manipulating other people's feelings, emotional blackmail
  • The vindictiveness of a hurt woman
  • Escaping into a fantasy world, losing touch with reality
  • Self-pity, victim syndrome
  • Irrational behaviour and fears

Card Attributes

Element: Water of Water (the pure essence of feeling)
Keywords: Empathy, intuition, mystery, mother, sensitivity.
Action: Caring, feeling, creating, listening.
Astrology: Moon in Cancer - motherhood and emotional depth.
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