Exploring Tarot: 9 of Vessels (Cups)

A card of Jupiter in Pisces, the traditional Rider-Waite version of the 9 of Cups depicts happiness, contentment, fulfillment, and a feeling of emotional satisfaction. It illustrates a jolly fellow in a red hat sitting on a wooden bench with a curved wall with a blue drape behind him. On the top of the wall sits nine cups that appear to be empty. His arms are crossed, he has a smile on his face, and he appears pleased with his expression of abundance.

However, the 9 of Vessels from the Wildwood Tarot illustrates something different. Instead of a man displaying his emotional contentment as a reward for his success, the shaman in the 9 of Vessels, titled Generosity, seems to exude emotional satisfaction energetically, filling each cup around him as an offering of love and blessing to all who draw near. His eyes are closed and his face points to higher consciousness as he understands the quiet soul connection he shares with others. The card’s title, Generosity, suggests the gift of kindness that’s expressed to all.

When the 9 of Vessels appears in a reading, you’re to meditate on the gift of generosity, and how its give-and-take nature helps to strengthen the fabric of our earthly existence.