what do you think the cup&ring symbols on certain standing stones signify?

Answer 1

Most standing stones in the British Isles predate both Christianity and the Tarot.

I believe they represent neolithic man's effort to explain the cyclical nature of his universe. Linearity came later.

Answer 2

A Cup indicates a transcendence into a realm of higher consciousness.
Is the cup half-full or half-empty?
Do you see life from an optimistic or pessimistic point of view.

A ring indicates your loyalty to your ideals, responsibilities, and beliefs.

Do you mean a rock "as solid as a rock", you may be contemplating some changes in your life that will lay the groundwork for a more solid foundation. On the other hand rocks may also symbolize stubbornness, disharmony and unhappiness.

Or Stones symbolizes strength, unity, and unyielding beliefs. Consider the common phrase "etched in stone" which suggest permanence and unchanging attitudes. Some stones also carry sacred and magical meanings. Alternatively, stones may relate to issues of moral judgement and/or guilt.

Rough stones, represents your quest in recognizing and developing your self-identity. Part of this quest is to become aware of your unconscious and suppressed thoughts.

Stones have spiritual significance. Consider the Black Stone of Mecca which is believed by Muslims to allow for direct communication with God. For the Irish, the Blarney Stone is seen as a gift of eloquence.

I hope I have helped you with some insight sounds like you had an interesting meditation

Love & Blessings
Milly

Answer 3

Rings or circles in primitive cultures represent 2 things. The 1st being a portal or entrance to another realm. i.e;
the well or spring
the mouth of a cave
the entrance to the womb
the shape of a planet (heavenly body)

The 2ND meaning is a union, on a higher level(spiritual), it is within the space of the ring or circle that this takes place. The ring later becomes an emblem of this act, whether it be an oath, a spiritual union or a marriage.

Cups are a receptacle or body which can contain the fluids of this world, which are evocative of the emotions and the soul.

So the cup is the object (body) which holds the liquid of life(soul), the ring is the link between this world and a higher plane(spirit).

The ring or circle is considered masculine, the area within is the feminine.

Answer 4

Cups and Rings (disks) are represented on Tarot cards. The Cup represents water or in this case the Water of Life. The rings or disks usually represent Air which represents aspects like higher spirituality and balance.

Together they can mean The Mother aspect or Mother Earth providing a bountiful harvest. It would depend where the stones were, how they were arranged etc.

Answer 5

Not sure if I understand your question.

Holy Grail In Christian legend, the cup or chalice which Jesus used at the Last Supper, later used to catch his blood. It was made from the stone which fell from Lucifer's crown as he plunged to earth.

As Lucifer brought the mental principle to mankind, the stone can be seen as egoic consciousness. In medieval times, the grail associated with unusual powers, especially the regeneration of life and Christian purity.