Nine of Cups

Upright Meaning

A well-dressed figure sits before an arc of nine golden cups, arms folded, wearing a satisfied smile. Traditionally called 'the wish card,' the Nine of Cups represents emotional fulfillment and the satisfaction of getting what you wanted. The figure's body language says it all: 'I am content.' This card appears when things are genuinely good — when what you have matches what you need. Enjoy it. Gratitude is not passive; it is a practice that deepens the experience of having enough.

Reversed Meaning

Reversed, the Nine of Cups suggests the wish was granted but the satisfaction is hollow. You got what you wanted only to discover it wasn't what you needed. The smug contentment hides a deeper hunger. This can also indicate overindulgence — too much of a good thing — or smugness that alienates others.

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