While the Nine of Cups signifies success that could easily be transient, here we see a scene of pure bliss and joy that could well be permanent. There are no material possessions here, just happiness shared with other people. We can see again (as in the Seven of Cups) that the chalices are in the air, obviously not supported by anything material: there is no material basis for this happiness, only emotions. On the card we see a family under a rainbow, and the rainbow is a strong indication of emotional fulfilment. There is a warning not to waste this time of joy and not to allow the energy to stagnate, a lesson that was learnt with the Eight of Cups. This card is the final lesson of the Cups suit.
On the card
A man and a woman stand side by side with their arms around each other, each raising a free arm towards the sky in a gesture of joy and thanksgiving. Above them a rainbow arcs across the sky, and ten cups shine along its curve. Beside the couple, two children dance hand in hand. Before them stretches a peaceful green landscape with trees, a stream and a small house on a hill.
The adults are not looking at each other but upwards, at the rainbow, sharing the same wonder. The children, meanwhile, are completely absorbed in their game and do not even notice the sky; for them happiness is simply the ordinary state of things. The rainbow is an old sign of promise and blessing, a bridge between heaven and earth that appears after rain, so it carries the feeling of peace that comes after difficulties have passed. The house in the distance is modest, not a palace, which suggests that this fulfilment rests on love, home and belonging rather than on wealth. It is the emotional journey of the Cups brought to its happy completion.
Upright
Lasting success, stable family life, well-being, true friendship, esteem, honour, peace, love, abundance, comfort.
Reversed
Breaking of routine, stagnation, unhappiness, dysfunctional family life, loss of friendship, ulterior motives.