Introduction
There we were in the Nine of Cups thinking life couldn’t get any better, and now here’s the Ten of Cups to tell us that, yes, it can. This card is all about peace, love, family, friendship, partnerships, fulfillment, contentment and pure joy.
Tens indicate that we are just ready to enter the next life phase, but that doesn’t mean you have to relinquish this delightful set of circumstances in this red hot moment—you can take as long as you like to enjoy where you are at right now and build on it for your future growth.
Imagery
A couple stands with their backs to the viewer. The man has his arm around the woman’s waist, so it’s likely that these two are married or in a long-term relationship. Two children play happily off to the right. The couple holds their free arms up towards a rainbow of golden chalices. In the distance, a small stream springs out of the hillside. On the top of the hill is the same cottage that appears in the Two of Cups.
General Meanings
While the scene depicts a happy family life, this card doesn’t have to relate to family. It can mean that you have reached a point in your life where you feel deep contentment. It could be connected to your job, your friends, or just happiness in general. It is unlikely that this can be maintained—after all you could not appreciate these good moments without experiencing some of the bad ones too. There is a danger that you see this stage as all there is, that you do not have to try any more, after all, you have ‘made it’.
It is very likely that you will feel compelled to reach higher and farther. It is human nature to want variety and diversity. Otherwise, life becomes boring and stagnant. You can use this Ten of Cups stage to build upon; to bring new elements into your life. From here, you will almost certainly discover a new challenge in another realm. For example, now you could have some lessons to learn in the art of interacting with others (Swords), or you might decide to embark on a huge project (Pentacles), or you might want a new venture or indeed a new adventure (Wands). You may even be flung back to experience some more lessons from this emotional realm (Cups).
The reversed Ten of Cups could mean that you are in the process of destabilizing a long-term relationship, career or other supposedly happy situation. This could be because you are not so fulfilled as you thought you were going to be. You can choose to continue as you are, make an effort to change things from within, or leave it all behind. Your decision.
Interpretations in Various Areas of Life
Work
Your work completely engages you, so much so that it feels as though you are living your true purpose. You feel as though you and your coworkers are part of a big happy family, all working for one cause. You love the challenges, and you look forward to seeing what unfolds during the day. You don’t mind getting up in the mornings because you love your job so much.
If you are looking for work, investigate your family connections. Feel enthusiastic because it will come across in your applications and interviews. Make like an upside-down rainbow and smile a lot. Your perfect job is on its way.
Love
Your love enters the most rewarding phase so far. You feel a deep connection to your spouse or partner. Everything you love is right here in your home. Take a moment to look at the Two of Cups—that initial attraction now looks a little forced and stage-y doesn’t it? You have come a long way since then, so enjoy the wonderful times that the Ten of Cups promises.
If the Ten of Cups comes up in a reading when you are looking for romantic love, then know that it is on its way. Don’t fret or keep looking for your perfect partner. Instead revel in your family connections, enjoy meeting up with your relatives and build deeper relationships within your family circle—your new love may emerge from just outside of that circle. A friend of your cousin, your brother’s best friend’s sister, or your auntie’s new decorator. Who knows?
Finances
Money matters aren’t too troubling at present. You are enjoying life so much that you barely notice how easy things are in the financial department. Everything you do seems to work just as it should, including the flow of money.
Should you be budgeting, then the Ten of Cups tells you to expect money and money will come. Let go of your money worries. Treat yourself and your family to a vacation or some lovely days out.
Health
You feel great. You are enjoying life tremendously and are getting plenty of the good stuff—food, sunshine and fresh air. You decide to take up a new activity just for the fun of it – the fact that it keeps you active and fit is a side benefit.
Spirituality
You are connected to your higher self. You have never felt this good before. Your mantra is, “Everything is easy for me.” And it is. You are blessed.
