The eight of cups tarot card represents a period of contemplation, a moment of transition, and departure. You’ve probably been considering a move, or perhaps a change of career or lifestyle for some time now. This is a card of examination, and the change will come only after you have given these options consideration. A journey must be undertaken, a decision must be made, and then only may you move on and be free. The Eight of Cups tarot card appears when you feel you have lost direction, and you doubt if this is the right path to follow. This card represents a period when you are re-evaluating your life, and you wish to re-examine every choice you have made.
Characteristics of Eight of Cups Upright
Positive: new beginnings, leaving behind, letting go, finding your calling, discovering your authentic self, seeking truth, walking away from unhealthy relationships, taking a break from work.
Negative: walking away, severing all ties, running away, abandonment, unhappiness, detachment from love, being alone, finding your life purpose, loneliness, depression, being unable to choose, no clear answer, no choices, being led astray, finding purpose.
Description and Symbolism of Eight of Cups
In Numerology Eight of Cups card contains number 8, a number of transition, a place of change. Eight is also the number of infinity, eternity, and spirituality. Eight in this position represents the cycles of life. There is a cycle of birth, growth and development, maturity, and growth towards death.
Astrological planet for Eight of Cups is Neptune, a symbol of spirituality and creativity. Neptune is also associated with illusion, dreams, and imagination. If this card shows up in your reading, your creative projects and ideas will come true, but you will need to develop a better understanding of what is actually real and what is only an illusion. Neptune reminds us that nothing is permanent and that if we are to have a happy life, we will need to learn how to be more in tune with our own instincts and emotions.
The astrological element for Eight of Cups is water and astrological sign for Eight of Cups is Pisces. Pisces is the fish that is constantly swimming forward in water, never settling down on land. In Tarot, the fish symbolizes the ongoing quest for spiritual enlightenment. In Pisces, this is achieved, but it takes effort to make this happen. Pisces is the twelfth sign of the zodiac, the oldest sign, they say. Pisces is the mystic fish that is linked to the depths of the soul. Pisces is ruled by Neptune which rules fame, creativity, idealism and compassion.
This card indicates that you are highly creative and at times even idealistic. You have many talents and are not limited by what you can create. You may be an inventor, poet, painter, musician or something of this nature. You are also very good with children. You are deeply spiritual, intuitive and even psychic, but you do need to retreat now and then to go within yourself. You are highly creative and at times even idealistic. Pisces is ruled by Neptune which rules fame and intuition.
On the Eight of Cups card we can se a man walking away from eight golden cups, that stand tall in the foreground of the card and might represent the desires that our hearts might have. The man can be seen wearing a red cloak and shoes, symbolizing passion and desire to explore. The eight cups are separated by vast mountains and are out of his view, meaning that he is now free to discover his destiny and his path. The mountain range symbolizes the end of the illusion, but also obstacles he has to overcome, this is why the Eight of Cups is a card that represents searching for what is important to us. Abundance of water symbolizes emotions the man is dealing as he walks away from the cups uphill. He is holding a tall wand symbolizing wisdom, and he is looking down as if he is contemplating the path ahead and the choices available.
General Meaning of Eight of Cups
Eight of Cups card describes a situation when you need to move on from something or someone, but there is some resistance to it. This card illustrates that you need to take your hands off and walk away with something. Eight of cups card indicates you are tired of something and are searching for a change, but your desire to make this change keeps stopping you from moving. If you are struggling with indecision, you must face your decision, and then move on. This card tells you to be aware of your fears, and you must face them. This card also represents you have some fears or doubts about moving on or changing. You need to work on your relationship with your subconscious mind and overcome these fears. These fears can be related to something that happened in the past or your insecurities.
When you pull Eight of Cups card in a general Tarot reading, it indicates that you are considering leaving the comfort and security of your current environment. This could be for a variety of personal reasons. The environment that you have been in for a while would change suddenly, and everything will be so out of your comfort zone that leaving that comfort zone will feel great. Even if there are problems in the current situation, leaving it will feel relieving. But you are not moving far away from your comfort zone, you are moving within yourself.
Another meaning of the Eight of Cups is to take yourself out of the situation in which you are right now. For whatever reason, something is holding you back, and you want to get out of that. When this card comes, you realize that there are other options, and you can find other options to enjoy yourself. And that’s why you ask for help, for advice, and for the best ways to enjoy yourself. You can realize that you have other options, and you need to take them.
When Eight of Cups card appears in a positive, strength, or advantage Tarot spread position, it means that you are embarking on a journey of self-discovery and personal rediscovery. This can be in the form of journaling, spending time alone in a silent place, reading a book, or spending time with one of your closest friends or family. This time will be one of personal development where you will feel more self-aware and empowered. You will be open to sharing your views and knowledge with others because you are ready to let go of the past and embrace your personal power.
This card generally signifies a rediscovery and a journey away from the distractions, trappings, and clutter of daily life. You are looking inward and seeing what is important in your life, and what you wish to let go of. The Eight of Cups (upright) indicates that you have realized that many things in life are not worthwhile and are actually holding you back from real success, happiness, and fulfillment.
If you’ve pulled Eight of Cups card in a negative, weakness, or obstacle position in a general Tarot reading, the upright form of the card suggests change is close or in process. You might be considering leaving some parts of your life since it can be hard to stay in one place. You anticipate a lot of changes, or your current circumstances may feel so intolerable that you are considering switching your residence.
Your residence. Your work. Some of your friends. Your financial state. Your religion. There is no need to feel constrained in any of these areas or tied to your current circumstances. Rather than clinging to what you have, try to be more receptive to making decisions or leaving wherever needed. The Eight of Cups serves as a caution to make sure that any decisions you are making are rooted in your ultimate spiritual truth and that they are in your best interest, regardless of the possible consequences. The Eight of Cups tarot card advises you to leave your comfort zone if you are holding back on any endeavours or life initiatives, as it is time to let go and to be more adventurous.
Eight of Cups in the Context of Love and Relationships
In love and relationships Tarot reading Eight of Cups card is all about leaving and moving on. If you are single, you may want to move on from an unsatisfying relationship to be with someone who has more to offer. If you are in a committed relationship, you are leaving it for a new adventure, as you believe that the two of you have all that you need. This card also indicates that the relationship is not stable enough for both the partners. The lack of communication in the relationship can be a reason for this.
It means that you or your partner may be thinking of leaving the relationship. The feeling of dissatisfaction is the reason for leaving. It is good to leave a relationship that does not feel mutually beneficial and productive. The Eight of Cups also hints at a romantic relationship, but it should be kept hidden for some time to avoid unwanted attention and heartbreak. Even if you want to end the romantic relationship immediately, make sure that you both get to enjoy one last thing before the separation, such as a passionate kiss or a night out with the partner.
Eight of Cups in the Context of Career
In a Tarot career reading, Eight of Cups can predict a career transition at work. Sometimes, this card can also indicate leaving on a long journey. If you own your own business, take the time to assess whether or not the venture is worthwhile. Most times, this card can also indicate moving on when it comes to a job search. The searching will be a bit uncomfortable but worthwhile.
Eight of Cups in the Context of Finances
If you have questions about money and finances, the Eight of Cups Tarot card indicates money doesn’t come easily in these situations. When Eight of Cups shows up, you may be testing the waters to see if you have what you need. This is not a card for instant gratification. Don’t be surprised if things feel a little tight right now. But don’t be afraid to face your situation either. This is your chance to make a change.
Eight of Cups in the Context of Health
In a health reading Eight of Cups card indicates problems with your digestion system, irritable colon, ulcerative colitis, problems with endocrine system. If you are being treated for an illness, there might be symptoms of incontinence, constipation, vomiting and diarrhea. Eight of cups tarot card also signifies issues with breathing, sinuses, lungs, circulation, colon, intestines, stomach, kidneys, liver, and pancreas.
Eight of cups speaks of the need to travel to a place of healing and restoration.
Eight of Cups Card Through Spirituality and Self-Development
If you’ve pulled Eight of Cups in reading about your spirituality and self-development, it means that you are considering leaving the security of your present circumstances and embarking on a new journey. As you look to the future at what comes next, don’t be afraid to have a vision for where you would like to be and plan an action strategy to get there.
The Eight of Cups stands for wanting more than what the current situation offers you. You are considering your options and may be searching for something better. You are considering what is next in your life, not just what you may have.
You may have lost your initial enthusiasm for the things that you are currently doing. Life is so busy that you might be finding it more difficult each day to connect with your spiritual journey. You may feel that the path is closed to you and you don’t see any way forward. There is not much hope to see out of this situation. Eight of Cups suggests that you are thinking about what is next for you but your heart is not in it.
Is Eight of Cups Yes or No Card?
If you have a yes or no question, Eight of Cups card in a reading exposes a more mature answer. This tarot card reminds us that the decision isn’t black and white. Look to your intuition, what is your gut telling you? What is your higher calling? This is the wisest thing you can do.
In a yes or no Tarot reading Eight of Cups calls you to take a step back and observe. Things will fall into place the way you desire if you stop and tune in. The answer to your question is yes, but only if you can be sure of your intuition.
Eight of Cups as a Person
In a card as a person reading, Eight of Cups card is all about having regrets and the inability to avoid bad things. The seeker is feeling trapped and doesn’t see an easy way out. The Eight of Cups card reminds us to find our joy in the here and now instead of in the past and the future. If the Eight of Cups shows up reversed, it might mean that there is a blockage between the seeker and their soul and that they need to be reminded of their true purpose. On the more positive side, Eight of Cups reversed means healing and finding a new perspective.
Eight of cups as personality type is someone who fears rejection. Eight of cups is someone who needs to feel at home to feel whole and content. When Eight of cups is reversed, the person becomes emotionally unstable and feels like they don’t belong anywhere. The seeker feels like their life is meaningless and they are being forced to live through a heavy duty routine. No matter how hard they try, they always feel like they are not good enough.
If you are seeking an emotional description of Eight of Cups card as a person, the main aspect of that person is one of disillusionment, loss, and disappointment. This person is dissatisfied with his life and feels depressed about it. This card depicts the feeling when you know a wonderful thing is close to your hands, but you reject it because you know it is not the right time and that you need to reintegrate. This card gives you a sign to go within and think about your feelings and thoughts. Then you will know whether you should go and find that thing or not. The thing may not exactly be what you think it is, so you need to make a decision whether you should go and search or not and then go within. If you have faced any losses in your life, it indicates that you have found an emotional feeling of relief. The seeker has realized that life offers a lot more to him and that he needs to be more sensitive and emotional about things. You have learned the right lesson that you will not face any more setbacks, and in your life, these are helpful to you.
Eight of Cups as a Feeling
When it comes to feelings Eight of Cups reveals a strong sense of emotional maturity and understanding. For most situations the cups represent a choice of moving ahead or staying put. In this case you have all that you need, and a clear path to take. You realize you need to take responsibility for your own feelings by understanding how to make good decisions based on your own values and beliefs.
At this stage in your journey, you are not motivated by material rewards or social status. You are searching for a greater meaning and purpose, one that feels authentic and fulfills your true self. You are open to what you need to experience personally. Eight of cups tarot card denotes that you have hit a crossroads where you are faced with a choice or multiple options. There is a strong sense of emotional and spiritual conflict. You have an opportunity to re-evaluate your personal beliefs and make choices that are more in alignment with your higher self. You will feel a great sense of liberation after you take this decision and realize that life is about you, not about what other people think.
What Is Eight of Cups Card as a Positive Card, Strength, and Advantage?
Eight of Cups can also appear as a positive Tarot card and advantage in a reading when feeling uncertain about the future, especially about making a big decision in your life. On the one hand, you are fearful of making a choice you believe will have lasting implications, while, on the other hand, you feel too restricted to make your own decisions. Eight of Cups encourages you to think about what you truly desire rather than what your mind is telling you. This will help you to make the right decision.
When Eight of cups appears in a Tarot reading, it is usually because you have been questioning some aspect of your life. For example, you may be considering leaving your job or your current living situation. You may feel as though you have tried everything you can to feel fulfilled and that there is no other way to go. This is completely normal. But, when faced with something that seems so unchangeable, where you have come to the conclusion that there is no other choice but to accept a ‘less than desirable situation’, this card shows up.
Eight of Cups as an Obstacle
When you’ve pulled Eight of Cups card in a negative position that describes weakness or obstacle in a Tarot reading. You don’t seem to have anywhere to go. It might be as a result of your own inner work or self-sabotaging actions. If so, you could be in a dilemma regarding where you are and where you should go. Consider the Eight of Cups’ meaning when pulled in a favourable position, which indicates that you have left behind whatever was previously holding you back and are on a path of discovery. Now is an excellent time to start fresh.
Eight of Cups is one of the minor arcana cards that represents new beginnings and journeys of discovery. Like the other cups’ cards, it can represent new life changes, the appearance of a new friend, the beginning of a new romance, or moving to a completely different area to live.
It might also mean that you might be embarking on a trip in the near future, or you might be planning one. Travelling and exploring different sights, sounds, and experiences can be a really wonderful experience.
Eight of Cups Card as a Future Outcome
Eight of Cups card in a future outcome Tarot spread position tells you that you have been through much turmoil in your life lately. The Eight of Cups indicates that you have left situations behind that have caused you a lot of pain and have been trying your best to forget because you may feel like you shouldn’t remember the past. You need to start accepting the past, and if you are ready to leave it behind and start a new one, you are advised to do this. You are at a stage of your life where you do not have to worry about the past and have a new beginning to look forward to.
Eight of cups signifies that you have left situations behind that have caused you a lot of pain and have been trying your best to forget because you may feel like you shouldn’t remember the past. You should accept the past and start a new one because you are in a good position to do so. Because you don’t have to worry about the past anymore, you have a new beginning to look forward to.
Drawing Eight of Cups in the future position also suggests your inability or unwillingness to commit to a specific plan, strategy, or decision. Are you walking backward, or is this a delaying tactic to avoid making a decision? Your situation now is ripe for a resolution. Take a moment to honestly consider where you are headed and what you will need to do to be successful. Now is a great time to take action. Be ready to give up on things that no longer serve you, so you can focus all of your energy on the things that you will benefit from.
Drawing Eight of cups tarot card indicates the need for more independence. It appears to be asking you to give up dependand positions or commitments such as your job, home, and family. You need to focus your time and energy on finding your true self and your purpose in life. The Eight of Cups encourages you to quit the rat race and take a step back to think about what really matters to you and what gives your life meaning. The Eight of Cups invites you to contemplate your values and whether you are living your life in alignment with your highest ideals and goals.
Eight of Cups Card as a Prediction of When an Event Will Occur
If your question is when will some event happen, Eight of Cups card in the reading signals that your wish or desire will come true after all the efforts you have made. It means that you have already started the path to achieving your goal. So the time is not the issue; the thing that you lack is. You are still at a point where you have a lot of dreams and desires, but you are not yet ready to leave your comfort zone and realize these desires. That time is coming soon. You have to make up your mind and go for your goal. All you need to do is stop procrastinating. You need to take at least one step forward, and then another to make progress. Make a plan according to a timeline. It would help a lot.
Drawing Eight of Cups when asking Tarot when will a certain event take place, reveals that it won’t happen soon. According to this Minor Arcana card, one has to take time out and allow oneself to take the necessary steps in order to achieve their goals. The Eight of Cups urges you to let go of any distractions and enjoy the time since it is going to be a learning experience for you.
The Eight of Cups indicates wandering at a place that is secluded. It suggests that you are thinking strategically about what kind of decisions you need to make in your life. You are considering the pros and cons of your decision and are willing to take advice from an unbiased source. This tarot card from the Suit of Pentacles shows you that you are still in the brainstorming stage and have not yet come to a conclusion.
The eight cups in your hand are a sign that you still need more time to think more about your choices and to come up with a sound option. The Eight of Cups is here to tell you that there are many options available to you.