Three of Cups

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Three of Cups is a Minor Arcana tarot card, the third card on the suit of Cups.

Tarot cards are used throughout much of Europe to play Tarot card games^[1].

In English-speaking countries, where the games are largely unknown, Tarot cards came to be utilized primarily for divinatory purposes^[1][2].

[edit] Game Usage

[edit] Divination Usage

This card often carries the meaning of joyful social contact, although it may be considered to be rather superficial, unlike the two of the same suit which is considered more personal. There's agreement, general harmony, frivolity, and sometimes it is associated with birth^[3][4], especially if it comes up with other birth-related cards such as The Empress.

There are three cards in the tarot that focus on the group - each from a different point of view. For the Hierophant, it's the formal approach. For the Three of Pentacles it's teamwork, and for the Three of Cups, it's emotions. What does it feel like to join with others? What is friendship and community? These are the questions answered by the Three of Cups.

On this card, we see three women dancing together in a circle. Their arms reach out to each other to connect their feelings (Cups). In many settings, women create and nurture the social glue that bonds people together. These dancing women are a symbol of coming together in love. (Of course, these feelings do not only relate to woman.)

In readings, the Three of Cups can signify a friend or the feelings associated with friendship. This card can represent community - the network of support created when we interact with others. It can be any group in which the members feel a bond. When you see the Three of Cups, examine your attachments to the groups in your life from an emotional point of view. Consider reaching out to give or receive help. This card stands for all forms of support, including formal aid such as counseling and other social services.

The women on the Three of Cups also express joy and high spirits. Such feelings are not limited to groups, but can be especially strong there. Celebrations spontaneously arise when people feel connected, loved and secure. The Three of Cups can stand for a mood or experience that makes you feel like dancing and singing.^[5]

[edit] References

1. ^ ^{a b} Dummett, Michael (1980). The Game of Tarot. Gerald Duckworth and Company Ltd.. ISBN 0-7156-1014-7. 
2. ^ Huson, Paul, (2004) Mystical Origins of the Tarot: From Ancient Roots to Modern Usage, Vermont: Destiny Books, ISBN 0-89281-190-0 Mystical Origins of the Tarot
3. ^ Sharman Burke, "Understanding The Tarot: A Personal Teaching Guide", page 66. St. Martin's Press, 1998. ISBN 0312179138
4. ^ Paranormality.com
5. ^ Copyright © 1995-2005 by Joan Bunning