
This post is intended to be a mini Nine of Cups Tarot Guide. It is important to mention that the longer you work with the cards the more you will discover how they speak to you. For example, the Nine of Cups does have a theme and traditional meaning but I recommend leaving “space” for the card to speak to you. Over time, you may discover that the card represents unique insights or themes for you personally.
Suit of Cups Summary

Numerology of the #9 – Themes
- The Number 9 is completion but NOT finality in the cyclical sense, process of transformation, compassion and kindness for the greater good.
- Positive energetics of the Number 9 – through life experiences come transformation and inner wisdom, leading by example, respect for others and a willingness to help.
- Negative energetics of the Number 9 – resentment, sacrificing the self for others too much, experiencing suffering and struggle.
Nine of Cups Tarot – Upright Meaning
- Represents the Moon, Mutable / Pisces energy
- The 9 of Cups is often referred to as the “wish card”. This card is about wish fulfillment in some way. Big wins and material success are coming.
- This card also represents happiness but with a warning. Love what you have but don’t overdo it. Feelings of comfort and contentment could cross into too much of a good thing. Don’t give up and be grateful for all things.
- Emotional happiness in all forms however the accompanying lesson is that sometimes getting lost in happiness can be dangerous. Be careful that that being lost in the ecstasy may prevent someone from seeing clearly
- Good things happen when you prepare and lay the groundwork. Dreams come true but there may be unknown impacts.
- This card can also represent the querent’s desire for more material comfort, success and luxury.
Shadow Side of the Nine of Cups
- The 9 of Cups reversed can mean that what the querent wants or desires will not be realized. The wish will NOT be fulfilled. The surrounding cards will show why this is the case.
- This card reversed can also suggest that the querent is currently indulging in material pleasures but this will likely be temporary. The lesson is not to throw away everything that has been gain in the material plane over greed and vanity.
- Questions to consider – Do you know the “why” behind what you want? Are you clear on what you desire and why you desire it?
Where to Find the Tarot Decks In Pinterest Pins Linked to this Post
- The Dark Wood Tarot by Sasha Graham
- Tarot Familiars by Lo Scarabeo
- Oraculum Leviathan: Draconian Tarot Deck & Grimoire by Asenath Mason and Bill Duvendack
- Tarot Apokalypsis Deck by Kim Huggins and Eric C. Dunne
- Tarot of Pagan Cats by Lo Scarabeo
- Light Seer’s Tarot Deck by Chris-Anne
- Tarot of the Ages by Mario Garizio
Artist Attribution
- Featured image Photo by Cristian Escobar on Unsplash
References
- My own experience
- The Dark Wood Tarot by Sasha Graham
- Holistic Tarot: An Integrative Approach to Using Tarot for Personal Growth by Benebell Wenn
Disclaimer
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