The Two of Cups: Two figures, a male and a female. The female wears long white robes with a blue mantle, reminiscent of the High Priestess, with a laurel wreath on her head. The male wears a tunic, leggings, and boots, colored and reminiscent of the fool, and is crowned with a floral wreath. They each hold out a golden vessel to the other, from which a caduceus – a symbol of healing – rises. The male is also extending a hand to the female. Overlooking all is a red lion’s head sprouting wings. In the distant background we see the red roof of a house that is surrounded by trees and perched on a gentle slope.
Two of Cups

Together, we form a necessary paradox; not a senseless contradiction.

Criss Jami

Overview and Common Meanings of the Two of Cups

The Mutual love and respect between two people create magic when the two of cups show up.  The two of cups is about the connection found in those true partnerships, whether they be deep and romantic, life-long friendships, or even business.

Common Meanings

This is a true meeting of the minds of two people who enhance, inspire, and bring out the best in each other.  Not only are these people supportive of one another, but there is also a great deal of mutual respect, which all the best true partnerships have.  These are those connections in life that are precious and rare.  Celebrate and revel in these special relationships. 

The Many Faces of The Two of Cups

The shadow side – or reversal of the Two of Cups can indicate relationship stress, that things are not all as they seem.  Sometimes in an established relationship, this is a sign of life interrupting your relationship and putting the love and passion on the back burner for now while more immediate concerns are being addressed.  Can sometimes indicate that you are no longer a good fit in your current relationship and that it has run its course.  The shadow side of the Two of Cups is also a call to work on self-love, for you will never be fully able to love another without first loving yourself. This can be a sign of emotional blocks, being closed off and unable to receive love, past trauma impacting present, and separation.

Description of the Two of Cups

Standing in front of a backdrop of blue sky that covers 4/5ths of the card, are two figures.  The female wears long white robes with a blue mantle, reminiscent of the High Priestess, with a laurel wreath on her head. The male wears a tunic, leggings, and boots, colored and reminiscent of the fool, and is crowned with a floral wreath.  They each hold out a golden vessel to the other, from which a caduceus – a symbol of healing – rises.  The male is also extending a hand to the female.  Overlooking all is a red lion’s head sprouting wings.  In the distant background we see the red roof of a house that is surrounded by trees and perched on a gentle slope. 

Themes of The Two of Cups

  • Love
  • Desire
  • Companionship
  • Partnerships
  • Empathy
  • Alliance
  • Harmony
  • Sexual relations
  • Consecration by nature

The Number 2

The number two is feminine and, as such, presents duality: representing both grace and power; Yin/Yang, Male/female, Light/Dark, Action/Meditation, as well as significant relationships and partnerships. This number is representative of the dichotomy of true wisdom. 

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

  • Caduceus – ancient emblem of commerce, barter, and healing
  • Cups – emotions
  • Garlands – Laurel or olive, and flowers – together signify success and love
  • Home – harmony in domestic situations
  • Man – in colors reminiscent of the fool indicating new beginnings and leaps of faith
  • Woman in white and blue robes – blue for truth, white for purity and connection to subconscious
  • Winged lion head – passionate, fiery, sexual energy

Herbs for The Two of Cups

  • Cinnamon – love, power, and positivism; the strength of love
  • Lavender – love, devotion, purity – the innocent state of the soul
  • Orange Blossom – The Orange Tree symbolizes Innocence, Purity, Fertility, and Lasting Love. 
  • saffron – encourage sexuality and boost fruitfulness
  • Spearmint, love, healing, and insight

Questions that the Two of Cups asks us

  • If you were to have a heartfelt conversation with someone who you like, admire, and respect, what would it tell you about yourself?
  • Are you giving and receiving the appropriate energy and effort in the relationships in your life that are important?

That is the Two of Cups, harbinger of deep partnerships.  Wishing you a week in which you drop into these experiences how ever they show up for you in your life and take a moment to feel gratitude for them.  Thank you for reading, and as always, please reach out with questions, comments, or to schedule a reading.  Please join me next week for the Three of Cups!

Blessings;

Tara