Six of Cups Tarot Card Meaning
The Six of Cups is the card of memories and innocence. It brings back the warmth of childhood, old friends and simple kindness — and sometimes the return of someone from the past.
- Upright
- nostalgia · memories · innocence · kindness · reunion
- Reversed
- living in the past · idealising the past · moving forward · letting go · naivety
| Arcana | Minor Arcana, suit of Cups |
|---|---|
| Number | 6 |
| Correspondences | Element: Water. Astrology: Sun in Scorpio. Number: 6. |
| Yes or no | Yes (upright), maybe (reversed) |
Symbolism of the card
In a sunny courtyard of an old town, a boy offers a cup filled with white flowers to a smaller girl. Around them stand six cups, each holding flowers. Behind them are old houses, and an adult guard walks away in the background.
The children are innocence and the simple joy of giving. The flowers in the cups are feelings kept fresh from long ago. The old buildings and the guard walking away show a protected, familiar world from the past. The scene feels safe and sweet — a memory more than a present moment.
Upright meaning
Upright, the Six of Cups brings warm memories and gentle feelings. You may meet an old friend, return to a place from your childhood, receive a gift or simply feel nostalgic. Kindness given and received plays a big role.
The card invites you to reconnect with your inner child: play, simplicity, sincere joy. Use the past as a source of warmth and strength, not as a place to hide.
Reversed meaning
Reversed, the Six of Cups warns of being stuck in the past — idealising how things were, refusing to accept change, or longing for a relationship that is over. It can also show that you are finally ready to let go and move forward.
Honour your memories, but live in the present. The best is not only behind you.
Love and relationships
Upright
In love the Six of Cups brings tenderness, sweetness and sometimes the return of a former partner or a childhood friend. For couples it means warm, playful moments and shared memories.
Reversed
Reversed, the card warns against comparing your partner with the past or holding on to an old love. It is time to look forward.
Six of Cups as feelings
As feelings, the Six of Cups shows tenderness, warmth and nostalgia. This person feels comfortable and safe with you, perhaps reminded of good times.
Work and money
Upright
At work the Six of Cups favours working with children, teaching, family business or returning to an old project or employer. Financially, help or a gift may come from family.
Reversed
Reversed, the card warns against clinging to old methods. Adapt to new conditions.
Health and wellbeing
The Six of Cups speaks of comfort, rest and emotional warmth. Reversed, it may mean old patterns that no longer serve you. Consult a doctor about any health concern.
Yes or no
Yes (upright) · Maybe (reversed)
Upright, the Six of Cups answers yes, especially if the question concerns something or someone from the past. Reversed, the answer is maybe — first stop looking back.
Six of Cups as advice
Draw warmth from good memories and be kind like a child. But live in the present and let the past be a source, not a prison.
As the card of the day
A day of warm memories, old friends and small kindnesses. Get in touch with someone you miss.
Combinations with other cards
-
Six of Cups + Judgement
The Six of Cups with Judgement: the return of someone from the past.
-
Six of Cups + Five of Cups
The Six of Cups with the Five of Cups: nostalgia and regret for what is gone.
-
Six of Cups + Ten of Cups
The Six of Cups with the Ten of Cups: family happiness and childhood joy.
-
Six of Cups + Page of Cups
The Six of Cups with the Page of Cups: innocence, tenderness and sweet news.
Questions about the card
Does the Six of Cups mean an ex will come back?
It can point to the return of someone from the past, especially next to Judgement.
What does the Six of Cups mean in love?
Tenderness, sweetness, shared memories and sometimes an old love returning.
What does the reversed Six of Cups mean?
Being stuck in the past — or finally letting go and moving forward.