In part three, we discussed abundance in terms of harmonious connections within ourselves as well as others with the Three of Cups. But when we transition over to this week’s decan to the Four of Cups, there’s a stark difference between its energy now compared to the card prior. What happened? Well, let’s take a look.
Terminology:
Decan: A 10-degree section of an astrological chart
Domicile: Place in the zodiac where the planet is ‘home’
Detriment: Opposing sign to the ruler (domicile); uncomfortable energy
Exaltation: where a planet functions at its strongest
Fall: opposing sign to the exaltation; weakest positioning
Femininity: passive, receptive, still energy
Masculinity: active, action-oriented energy
This is the Tarot deck I’ve used for many years.
What We See
What we see here is a man sitting with his arms and legs crossed under a tree in contemplation. Three cups sit in the front and one is being presented to him, but he pays them no mind.
When I look at the three cups in the front, I imagine those three coming from each of the three cards prior (Ace of Cups, Two of Cups, and Three of Cups). So one could look at them as each cup containing the lessons we’ve learned from the previous cards now standing upright in front of him.
But there’s a bit of a disconnect, here. Maybe he’s no longer being fulfilled by what those cups represent, so by not acknowledging the fourth cup (whether he’s aware of it or not), come off like he’s no longer interested in receiving more of what’s being presented to him.
As a response he sits under the tree and goes inward, a place of grounding and support. With his arms and legs crossed, it appears he’s no longer receptive. His face seems placid like he’s contemplating over the direction his life is going. Positioning himself under that tree is a wise move, whether he’s aware or not.
The Tree
Since Tarot is heavily influenced by the Kabbalah and Kemeticism, the Tree of Life comes to mind here.
I also think of Bohdi Tree, where Buddha was believed to have sat in meditation for 7 weeks until he obtained truth and enlightenment.
But these aren’t the only traditions where trees hold great significance. Hinduism, Islam, Celtic traditions, African traditions, and more all revered the tree as sacred. Trees have deep root systems and sophisticated network (with the help of fungi) that allow them to communicate with one another. So, when we look at the Four of Cups, the man becomes still, like the tree, in hopes of attaining understanding.
Moon in Cancer
The decan for the Four of Cups is governed by the Moon in Cancer, its own domicile. On the surface, you’d think the cheer and abundance from the card prior would carry over but we’ve already seen that to not be the case.
When the Moon is in Cancer it’s a time to go inward for some good ol’ self care, just like this week’s card conveys to us. This placement feels fulfilled when it nurtures itself and everyone/everything that feels like home to them.
But when those things are threatened, it’s time to go on the defense. The same way a crab will when it doesn’t have a place to hide.
What we’re learning here is that when the container is threatened or without form for too long, our posture changes from being openly outward and active to withdrawal.
Final Thoughts
If this card ever comes up for you in a reading, it’s time to switch up the posture and go within. Sometimes we become too dependent on this sense of security and comfort that it also becomes a place of restriction. It’s a beautiful thing to have support systems in place that allow you space to be fully yourself. But even crabs outgrow their own shells. Maybe this is where you are in this point of your journey, and your Spirits are asking you to stretch yourself a bit here.
Especially with this being the last decan of Cancer before we transition over to Leo season, this card is the perfect reminder that growth requires movement. Know you’ll always have a home with your Spirits, and within yourself. Hope this helps.
With love,
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