Introduction
Off we went, in the realm of the Eight of Cups, to do our own thing, turning our backs on worldly concerns. We followed a difficult path and after going through some pain, lessons and, ultimately reaching an understanding, we find ourselves in this place of wonderment. Many see the Nine of Cups as the ‘wish card’; the fulfillment of our desires. It is much more than that.
Cups are the suit of emotions and Nines are a particularly magical number. Although a balanced life requires that we use all our mental faculties, emotions act as our inner guidance. Nine is the number of completion; the stage before we begin to transition through the spiral back to number one again. This is the point where we can turn back and look at the progress we’ve made and the lessons we’ve learned—emotionally-speaking, of course.
Imagery
A happy-looking fellow sits on a plain wooden bench with his arms folded, before a tall, curved table that holds nine golden chalices. The man is wearing a comfortable blue and white striped gown and a cheerful red hat, which symbolizes optimism and courage. He wears a satisfied expression. The table is draped in a deep blue cloth. The floor and background are yellow.
General Meanings
When the Nine of Cups appears in your reading, be happy. This is a lovely card that signifies that you have reached emotional contentment. It follows that if you are emotionally content, then you are probably happy with all other aspects of your life. You can manifest just what you have been hoping for: a stable love life, wealth and good health. However, you also know, at this wise age, that none of these material goodies are the key to happiness. In fact, it is the other way around. When you feel happy, good things must come to you.
Note that the man in the image is sitting on a rather plain, hard bench. This is to remind you to stay in touch with reality. You may have made it, but you are only ever a step away from losing it all. The real treasure resides in your heart, not your bank account.
Understand that when this card appears, it tells you that this is not the pinnacle of your life, merely a landing stage. You are on a platform that provides the jumping-off point for the next step. Desire is a good thing, depending on your priorities. You may be in a position to be able to help others – if so, then do it.
The reversed Nine of Cups leaves you feeling that something is lacking. Things are pretty good, but you are unfulfilled. You need to find the missing piece. In all likelihood, this is connected with how you feel about yourself. Investigate how you might improve your relationship with you. This card might also suggest that you are over-indulging—spending too much money, eating too much or imbibing too much alcohol.
Interpretations in Various Areas of Life
Work
Work is swinging along nicely. You have made good progress—your talents have been acknowledged, and people come to you for advice. You are possibly in a mentor role, and your opinion is highly valued. Your status and salary reflect the level of your accomplishment.
You get the job you wanted and feel great satisfaction that finally you are where you wanted to be.
Love
You fall in love with your long-time partner all over again. The relationship deepens and becomes more emotionally satisfying than ever. You have the opportunity to build even higher on those strong foundations.
You meet someone you connect with on an emotional level. This could be the love of your life, or it could be the beginnings of a truly rewarding friendship.
Finances
If you are happy, your money is happy. You are feeling a lot of relief as money seems to be coming from all directions. Splurge a little, if you want to. There’s no better time to treat yourself.
Investments are yielding excellent returns. Now is a good time to spread your interests. Look for similar opportunities, but perhaps in a different sector or geographical location.
Health
Your health is good. Any temporary issues are past. Chronic conditions are easing. You might want to avoid overdoing the celebrations, particularly if food and alcohol are involved. Dancing is always good.
Spirituality
The Nine of Cups tells you to appreciate everything. Appreciation is a form of love. It is a pure emotion; you can’t be feeling unhappy when you appreciate someone, someplace, or something. That’s it.
