3 Card Tarot Reading

The Eight of Cups Tarot Card Meaning

The Eight of Cups can be a very hard card to have in a reading.

From the looks of the card itself, you can get the feeling of loss. On the Rider Waite deck, a man walks through stagnated water and is leaving the cups behind him. The card symbolism represents that you are moving on by your own accord. The sand around you right now is stagnant like that which the person in the card walks through. This is not healthy emotions in your life and you need to do what is best for you. Often, especially because this is a cups card, it is exceptionally difficult to go through this card because at one time the pools that were around you were wondrous, creative, and positive energies that have now died down.

It is interesting to note that while the blue representing spirituality or emotional issues is still present, the colors are darker. The issue in your life is not an easy one at this time. The card usually comes up during a time of loss and often this is revolving around a relationship of some kind. There is darkness to the card that in turn will usually represent aspects of your life right now. This card represents less of holding on to the past as it is a fear of moving forward. This is something that you need not fight as really, where else are you going to go? Now is the time to seek the higher road for your own health and sanity. It is obvious when this card comes up that you have tried your best and you have taken the steps to make the right choices for you. In the end you cannot change the past and you must accept what is in the present. Our lives are not stagnant things and while the energy around you may be turning sour, it is up to you to save yourself from that around which is unhealthy or holding you back.

The Eight of Cups vibrates the same goals and lessons of the Hermit card. It is sort of like the beginning of the Hermit’s journey where he heads to solitude to seek out wisdom and understanding. With the Eight of Cups, there is a spiritual sense to the card and the search you could be heading on is one of wisdom, but not wisdom alone. The path you are heading from, even though it did not end well – you will gain knowledge from this strife and grief. Little help is that now while you are still feeling the effects emotionally but with the card coming up now it also appears that you are doing what is best for yourself (or that you will). That can be a lot and later when you look back on this time you will know that you did all that you could.

The Eight of Cups in Love

Since the Eight of Cups is in the cups suit, it is often referring to relationships. In this case, unlike many other cup cards, it isn’t all good. In fact, it’s a pretty negative card for a relationship reading of any kind being that it shows a lack of positive energy in your current relationship if you are with someone. That doesn’t mean that nothing can be saved, but typically it will reflect a very bad place. The stagnation of the card shows that there is no real way to rekindle the fire of the relationship or that the well is poisoned. What has happened in the relationship is something that usually won’t be bounced back from. There are cases when the relationship can be salvaged but it usually indicates a need to start from scratch or that there will be a break up and then time will pass before any hope can be had for the future.

In the case that you are looking for love the card refers to a place for you now that is not one that is truly ready to be in a relationship. You appear to still be moving and healing from a past relationship and you have a bit more work before you are in the right place to start something new. The Eight of Cups in health means it is now is a time to focus on your healing. Not always but usually, the Eight of Cups will come up when there is a known health issue that is especially trying such as a cold that has turned into pneumonia, mental illnesses taking a turn for the worse, or any other health that continues to wane. There can be a sense of increased worry or anxiety over health which will continue to exacerbate the problem. It is important right now to break routines and buck the system. That doesn’t mean to stop following doctor’s orders, but rather… you need to be more compliant and find the desire to get better.

Often with this card there will be a sense of dwelling on the negative which is unhealthy in itself. Work on finding out all you can about what is going on with you as education is the best defense. Take time to focus on the positive in your life and the reasons that you want to be healthy. If you are feeling that you don’t trust those around you, get a second opinion. Do what you can to get in a better place mentally about your health so that you can be in a better place for healing physically.

The Eight of Cups can also refer to negative mental states and increased depression or psychiatric breaks. Since the card comes up often in very trying times in a person’s life, it can also be a difficult time emotionally. The card offers the advice that what you are going through right now is not permanent. Remember that you are not alone in this journey and if you choose to open up there are likely people around that can help and support you at this time.

The Eight of Cups in Work and Wealth

Financial losses and job losses often accompany this card, not because of bad work or poor financial judgment, but because of economy, poor business practices overall, or mismanaging money on a large scale (like in the case that your IRA or 401K made a bad choice with YOUR money). Now is a good time to take a look at your work and finances and get the facts. Know what is going on around you and be prepared for any negative changes that could end up affecting you negatively. Be smart with your finances and keep tabs on what others are doing with your money if they have access. Also, for the person looking for work, be mindful to look at all available career options that you can. Usually job issues – whether losing a job or seeking a job – are most effected by issues of layoffs and economy with this card and it can be a tough time in finding solid footing in work issues.

Reversed Eight of Cups in a reading

The Eight of Cups in reversed is almost a positive card. It does still represent loss, but the loss that is felt is not as deep. While you may find that you are walking away from something in your life, the darkness is not present and the view is bright. It is likely a move for the better on your path and one that you can feel good about. Even if you are feeling sad about moving on, know that the progression you are making now is for the best.

Upright Eight of Cups Meanings in Keywords

• Waking away
• Think about options
• Breaking up with a lover
• Emotional problems
• Abandonment

Reversed Eight of Cups Meanings in Keywords

• Trying once more
• Driving through situations
• Animalification
• Overwhelmed 

The King of Pentacles Tarot Card Meaning

You have traveled the entire Suit of the Pentacles and have reached the place of pure mastery.

The King of Pentacles not only represents all that is abundant, but he controls the very idea of this part of life. He can create money and opportunity out of thin air; he needn’t convince himself or others that he is abundant. The universe knows of his power and bends to his will. He is a jolly man, funny, and welcoming. He is one who believes that everyone should be happy and abundant all of the time. When you have received the King of Pentacles in your reading you have a resourceful and dependable spirit. You are watchful with good instincts and you are a good leader. You tend to be ruled by the drive for stability and comfort, and this card is representative of a father and a provider kind of energy.

The image of the King of Pentacles as depicted by the Rider Waite deck shows the King holding a powerful scepter in one hand and in the other he holds his mighty pentacle, both symbolizing his Kingly powers. His robe has grapes emblazoned upon it as well as vines and he is surrounded by flowers, all of which are symbolic of his complete and utter oneness with the Earth and all Earthly energies.

You will have great success when the King of Pentacles blesses your reading because you have become a master of prosperity because you are determined to get far in your life. You have an undeniable desire to protect what is financially necessary. You are a friendly soul who is friendly as well as affectionate and can be of great help to others. Currently you are satisfied with your life and with your great achievements, you are able to slow down and relax as well as enjoy the fruits of your labor.

The King of Pentacles in Love

At this time in your life you are ready for love. You have spent a great amount of time perfecting the art of becoming secure emotionally as well as financially. You have what you need in life to be happy, but now you want to master the next element: that of long term relations with someone else. You no longer have the tolerance for the drama that a younger kind of love would offer, what you want is to be with someone more seasoned, who understands what life is really about. You want to be with someone who is able to love the great and simple pleasures of life. Lucky for you, the King of Pentacles is blessing the transit which you find yourself in. You will be successful in your endeavors. Have faith.

The King of Pentacles in Health

The King of Pentacles is a card of health and security; you are not going to need to be worried about bad health. If you have a concern that something is going wrong in your body, you will find at this time that it is a lot less stressful then you would originally think. If you are feeling an excess of disruption in your life then you will find the King of Pentacles will help you find the stability that you need to push through it. Look for messages from the Universe on dance classes you could take, or certain exercises you could do to re-strengthen your body.

The King of Pentacles in Work and Wealth

You are smart in financial matters because you have an eye for what is and isn’t working in the industry. The security of family is of the utmost importance, and now is a good time to be practical as well as generous. This King is a chief of industry, a banker. Usually this card is used to represent a stable married man or even a mathematician who is an amazing investor. Steady in temperament and not quick to anger.

Reversed King of Pentacles in a reading

When the King of Swords has appeared in your reading in the reversed position you must pay attention to the way that you feel when you reach a goal which eventually resulted in failure. There can be a lack of fulfillment or doubt. You feel that there is a psychic danger possible in your future, and you are worried about someone getting in the way of your success. Externally you appear to be successful and wealthy, but inside you are feeling afraid and frustrated. Keep your health in mind; make sure you are taking care of your immune system. Do not get stuck in a cycle of behaving like a hypochondriac. You have the full potential with the King of Pentacles to be as healthy and as abundant as you wish.

Upright

• Man over the age of 40
• Dark hair and eyes
• Finding happiness
• Seeing failures as winds
• Natural business person
• Great sense of humor
• Creating masterpieces
• Finding happiness
• Seeing failures as wins
• Natural businessman
• Natural businesswoman
• Great sense of humor
• Creating masterpieces
• Sharing success
• Sharing Wealth
• Being positive
• Being thankful
• Honest soul
• Naïve for love
• Well-informed
• Educated
• Emotional
• No self-expression

Reversed

• Feeling abused
• Underappreciated
• Noticing cowards
• Noticing abusive people
• Questioning intentions
• Feeling drained
• Feeling exhausted
• Changing old habits
• Applying changes
• Practicing Patience
• Practicing calmness

The Eight of Pentacles gives you a taste of success but reminds you that you can’t have what you want overnight.

There is a goal in sight for you right now and you are on the right path – learning new tricks, creating healthy environments around you, and otherwise doing what you can to succeed. The Eight of Pentacles is a reminder not to give up and to continue on the path that you are on now.

When this card comes up in a reading it usually will accompany a daunting time in one’s life where life seems mechanical or monotonous. Consider daily tasks in which you are bored from doing the same repetitive motions. You may feel like you are caught in a rat race or that you are trying with your all but you are not getting anywhere. Often before we can advance onto higher lessons in life we have to continue taking baby steps. You may feel that you are ready for more or that you should be doing more in your life… however if you feel this way then you are probably discounting the actions you take and their importance. Right now is an important time in your life and you are on the cusp of something greater. It is important to not quit just yet and allow your actions to complete their cycle.

The man on the Eight of Pentacles card is working diligently at creating new coins out of wood and then placing them onto a tree. The background sky is white and is indicative of purity and spirituality. Often it is assumed that he is an apprentice of some sort of trade and that the coins and the wood are symbolisms of his future prosperity. Like the apprentice, you are learning skills for your life so that you can ultimately get what you want. You need to learn to take pride in your small accomplishments. Avoid downplaying your own efforts.

The card can also be a sign that you need to lighten up on someone around you. Rather than focusing on you as the apprentice, the Eight of Pentacles be showing you as the master in a relationship in your life, where you have the skills to succeed but someone around you is not quite up to par with you. In work and love both this card can indicate problems that can be easily resolved with patience and communication. The overall message of the Eight of Pentacles is that hard work and determination will allow you to succeed. Whatever your role is regarding this card, communication, building a foundation, and consistency is key to the questions that you have of life right now.

The Eight of Pentacles in Love

When dealing with other people in relationships petty arguments and bickering is bound to happen. The Eight of Pentacles comes up when there are small complaints in the relationship or insecurities about a partner. If either of these situations are you then the Eight of Pentacles is reminding you that we are not all perfect. We must all start somewhere in order to grow on your path and it is likely that you are with your partner at this time for a reason. You more than likely have some information or experiences that will prove beneficial to your partner.

Right now is a good time to think of ways in which you can offer yourself as an example, rather than a standard. Think of the ways in which you express to your partner and how the two of you work together. You may find that you are being looked to for guidance and that you are being too harsh in your own judgments. When looking for love, the Eight of Pentacles has a different meaning entirely. In this case traditionally the card turns around and places you back as the apprentice and advises to take small steps forward right now. Focus first on ways that you are ready for love and cultivate those. Be aware that you likely still have old emotions or hang ups from a previous relationship that need to be resolved so that you do not repeat past mistakes.

The Eight of Pentacles in Health

The Eight of Pentacles is a card that represents a work in progress. The card can be somewhat concerning in health because it usually will symbolize that you have been working hard for your health goal and yet you are not seeing the desired responses. Whatever your health concern is, right now you need to take a step back and look at the process you are taking. Consider what ways you are doing counter-productive actions and which efforts are simply not enough. Do not allow yourself to become overwhelmed with the larger picture at hand. Take one step at a time and do not lose sight of your goal.

It can be a good time to ask someone else for assistance that has dealt with similar health issues before or seek the motivation of others. Because of the earthy energy of the card and the suit of pentacles in general, you may find that you are getting overwhelmed from your efforts. Try not to beat yourself up. Realizing that you are doing what you can and that questioning the reasons of your actions or making excuses are not going to get you anywhere.

The Eight of Pentacles in Work and Wealth

The Eight of Pentacles usually indicates a beginning in one way or another regarding both work and finance. Even if you are the boss of a company and know your industry like the back of your hand, there are still things that you need to learn. Allow yourself the opportunity to increase your knowledge base at this time and work on exercises that are going to grow you expertise. Now is not a good time to be making HUGE changes in your life of finance or career, rather you want to focus on the smaller changes that you can make as well as to jump on opportunities to network, learn, and grow.

The Eight of Pentacles is also a thinking card. Your focus is important right now. You may notice that you have bitten off more than you can chew in a work project or are feeling discouraged about a lack of progress in finances. Remember that even mistakes are opportunities to grow. Take what you can out of even the worst of situations and apply it to future opportunities. The loss will work out in the end and may even prove to be for the best. 

In work the eight of Pentacles implies that you are working but are not paid what you should be. Reversed this card indicates that the work is efficient. As he has already completed five of the pentacles which are above him it can indicate that work is not finished. Like the seven of pentacles which is all about patience, the eight can suggest that on the 8th pentacle you can publicly show your strength. This card can indicate you are producing some results but it will take time. Additionally, that you are completely dedicated and also learning at the same time. In some tarot books, this card is seen in work as being responsible but above all, it implies that you can accomplish things well but you need to understand that things are needed in detail. If you are looking for work, been to a job interview then this is a positive card, it can imply that you are committed to new tasks and generally you have so much on your plate. The key is to focus on yourself right now. In business, the eight of Pentacles implies that there is mastery but it will take work to become the master. This card also indicates cash and career developments. The 8 is a great card for business and it shows that you will a “master” and you will make enough money in life. 

Reversed Eight of Pentacles in a reading

The Eight of Pentacles reversed shows a lack of motivation, determination, and vision. It can be a detrimental card in a reading because when you are not focused on the task at hand then careless mistakes can be made. Make sure you are doing all you can to make informed decisions and to not jump to conclusions. When reversed the Eight of Pentacles tells you to stop, look, and listen before making another leap physically or spiritually.

Upright Eight of Pentacles Meanings in Keywords

• Working hard in life
• Producing good results
• Extra careful at work
• Working diligently
• Appreciation
• Development
• Employment
• Appreciation
• Development
• Employment
• Authority
• Patience
• Bad results
• Small success

Reversed Eight of Pentacles Meanings in Keywords

• Late success
• Acknowledgment
• Breakthrough
• Recovery
• Material stability
• Resignation
• Organization
• New beginning