Division of the Cup

The cup is divided into three sections for prophesying: The rim symbolizes the present, the sides represent the near future, and the bottom of the cup signifies the far future. Depending on the question, these zones can be used to gauge timing (how soon a situation is likely to occur), connection (the physical or symbolic distance between two individuals), or intensity (leaves on the rim, for instance, could suggest a life-changing event).

The handle of the teacup serves an important function: It is the energy conduit that connects the physical and abstract realms. It also symbolizes the querent and should be positioned due south to signify the querent's current environment. Tea leaves near the handle suggest events relating to the querent's immediate surroundings, whereas leaves directly across the handle (due north) symbolize external issues and outside influences.

Common Symbols and their Meanings

Note: Vala's most used symbols are in posts below. 

If you want to learn how to read the leaves correctly, you will need a lot of practice, knowledge, and imagination. The ability to see the shapes, letters, or patterns to read the fortune from a cup plays an important role in this method. The common symbols include letters, animals, lines, and shapes like:

• acorn meaning wealth
• heart meaning good luck, joy, romance, and friendship
• house meaning changes, success
• line meaning journey; a long straight line meaning long journey, while a wavy line means delayed journey
• mountain meaning hindrance[8], if there are more than one, but one means the opposite - success
• question mark meaning the outcome of the situation is uncertain
• snake meaning enmity or falsehood
• spade meaning disappointment, failure