By Katrina Rasbold
In Pamela Colman Smith’s iconic rendering of the Two of Cups for the Rider–Waite–Smith Tarot, we are presented with a deeply evocative image of emotional connection, mutual respect, and the merging of energies. This card, often associated with romance, unity, and partnership, carries both esoteric and emotional symbolism that reaches beyond the surface image of two lovers meeting. Let’s explore the depths of this card’s symbols, its upright and reversed meanings, and its place within the larger Tarot system.
Visual Description and Key Symbols
At the center of the card are a man and a woman facing each other, each holding a cup, extending it toward the other as if in a ceremonial exchange. Above their heads floats a caduceus—a winged staff with two serpents entwined—topped by a lion’s head or mask with wings, forming a striking and mythologically rich image.
1. The Couple
The two figures represent mutual attraction and balanced partnership. They mirror each other in posture and gesture, symbolizing equality and shared emotional energy. Though the card is often read romantically, the figures can just as easily represent friends, collaborators, or any form of deeply resonant relationship.
2. The Cups
The cups they hold are the heart of the suit—emotional vessels symbolizing feelings, receptivity, intuition, and the subconscious. Their offering to each other reflects a sacred exchange of trust and vulnerability. This exchange is the emotional and spiritual root of meaningful relationships.
3. The Caduceus
The caduceus is a complex symbol. Traditionally associated with Hermes and often seen as a sign of commerce, communication, and negotiation, it also holds esoteric significance. In alchemy and spiritual healing traditions, it symbolizes the balance and rising of kundalini energy (the dual serpents) along the spine, often associated with higher consciousness and transformation. In this card, it may suggest the spiritual union that arises when two become one, or the healing potential of love and connection.
4. The Lion Head with Wings
Above the caduceus floats a lion’s head with eagle-like wings—an unusual symbol that may point toward the astrological sign Leo (passion, strength, heart), and the integration of courage and spiritual ascension. It could also be linked to the alchemical symbol of the Red Lion—representing the merging of opposites into the Philosopher’s Stone. In the context of the Two of Cups, this heralds the divine blessing of this union and the transformation that can occur through deep emotional merging.
5. Background and Color
The background is peaceful, with rolling green hills and a serene blue sky—indicating harmony and natural growth. The colors used in the card evoke emotional openness (blue), vitality (red/yellow), and the calm assurance of a relationship founded on mutual understanding.
Numerology of the Number 2
The number 2 in the Tarot represents duality, partnership, and cooperation. It is the number of balance, reflection, and sensitivity. In the Cups suit, which governs emotions, intuition, and the heart, the Two points toward a moment of emotional alignment or attraction. It is the movement from the self (Ace) to the “other,” emphasizing harmony, empathy, and relational development.
Upright Interpretation
When the Two of Cups appears upright in a reading, it generally signifies:
- Mutual attraction or romantic connection
- Forming a bond, partnership, or emotional alliance
- Reconciliation, healing rifts
- Deep emotional or spiritual harmony
- Commitment or the beginning of a meaningful relationship
It can also point to agreements, contracts, or business partnerships that are emotionally rewarding or aligned with one’s values.
Key Themes in Upright Position
- Love and Romance: A blossoming relationship or deepening connection.
- Reconciliation: Making peace after conflict, finding mutual understanding.
- Unity: The successful blending of opposites or differences.
- Spiritual/Emotional Healing: Coming together to grow or heal.
Reversed Interpretation
When the Two of Cups is reversed, its energy becomes blocked or distorted. It may suggest:
- Disharmony or imbalance in a relationship
- Miscommunication or unmet emotional needs
- Breakup or temporary separation
- Unrequited love or disconnection
- A need to self-reflect before uniting with others
It can also indicate an over-dependence on a partner, codependency, or fear of vulnerability.
Key Themes in Reversed Position
- Emotional Disconnection: Trouble finding common ground or emotional resonance.
- Imbalance: One party giving more than the other.
- Unrealized Potential: A relationship that could grow but is currently struggling.
- Self-Love Needed: Before joining with another, healing the self is essential.
Relation to Other Cards
- The Lovers (Major Arcana VI): The Two of Cups is often considered a “minor” reflection of The Lovers card. Both explore themes of love and choice, but the Lovers expands to include moral or spiritual decisions, while the Two of Cups focuses on the emotional or relational aspect.
- Ace of Cups: The emotional potential in the Ace flows into mutuality in the Two.
- Ten of Cups: The Ten is the full realization of the emotional harmony initiated by the Two.
Advice When the Two of Cups Appears
- Seek harmony in relationships. Look for ways to meet others halfway and foster emotional balance.
- Express your feelings honestly. Open-hearted communication can lead to healing or deepening bonds.
- Celebrate partnership. Whether romantic, platonic, or professional, this is a time to appreciate the power of collaboration and mutual care.
- Be open to love. A new relationship may be emerging—or an existing one ready to be renewed.
Final Thoughts
Pamela Colman Smith’s Two of Cups is a beautifully nuanced card, symbolizing far more than romantic love. It is a visual poem about emotional balance, sacred union, and the meeting of souls. Whether in friendships, romantic relationships, or creative partnerships, the Two of Cups invites us to engage with others from a place of sincerity, respect, and shared emotional truth. Its message is simple yet profound: love—when given and received freely—has the power to transform.
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Katrina Rasbold is a professional Witch, published author, priestess, and editor of Green Egg Magazine. She and her husband, Eric, are the creators of the CUSP spiritual path and owners of Crossroads Occult. You can reach her through www.katrinarasbold.com.