Four of Pentacles -

Tarot Card Meaning

Part of a full-series guide of all 78 Tarot Cards. See the full guide here.

Written by Made Musings

FOUR OF PENTACLES

At a glance:

As depicted, the man's inability to move symbolizes how excessive attachment to possessions can lead to stagnation and prevent personal growth.

Upright Keywords:
Materialism, Saving money/resources, hoarding

Reversed Keywords:
overspending, greed, bad finances

Numerology:
4 - stability, structure, and practicality

Four of Pentacles: Upright Meaning

The Four of Pentacles tarot card depicts a man who clings tightly to a pentacle, protecting it with his arms, while another pentacle is balanced precariously on his head. Two more pentacles are positioned under his feet, anchoring him firmly in place. This image conveys a strong sense of material attachment and caution. While this card can indicate financial stability and the accumulation of wealth, it also serves as a warning against the perils of materialism and an overemphasis on money. The man's inability to move symbolizes how excessive attachment to possessions can lead to stagnation and prevent personal growth.

Numerology and Suit Meaning:

  • In numerology, the number 4 represents stability, structure, and practicality. This number is often linked to the pillars of organization, discipline, and a strong foundation. Just as a sturdy table needs four legs to stand firm. This numerological influence emphasizes the importance of establishing a secure and orderly environment in all aspects of life.

  • The suit of Pentacles governs the material and physical world. It has dealings with wealth, career, business, and health. This can also lead to emotional impacts on self-esteem and status.

  • Elementally, pentacles correspond with Earth. It is the physical foundation that we stand on. Much like how we till the land to grow crops and flowers, our hard work leads to material gain. At the same time, we must care for and protect our garden like how we do the same for our bodies.

Love/Relationships

The Four of Pentacles love meaning suggests that issues of possessiveness or jealousy may be affecting the partnership. One or both partners might be holding on too tightly, causing a sense of restriction and lack of trust. This card advises addressing these feelings openly to avoid suffocating the relationship. Consider whether the relationship is being nurtured in a healthy way or if it's time to reevaluate its dynamics.

Money/Career

The Four of Pentacles in a career context highlights the struggle between financial security and job satisfaction. You may find yourself in a job you dislike solely for the sake of the high salary, or you might be hoarding ideas and responsibilities out of fear of losing control. This card prompts you to examine whether your current path aligns with your long-term goals and well-being. Assess if the financial rewards of your job are worth the personal cost. If not, explore other opportunities that align better with your passions and values. Share responsibilities and collaborate with colleagues to foster a more balanced and productive work environment.

Alternatively, this could symbolize a period of financial prudence and caution. It suggests that you are currently focused on saving money and building a stable financial foundation. Avoid unnecessary expenditures and to prioritize your long-term financial security. By being mindful of your spending habits and resisting the temptation to splurge on non-essential items, you can ensure a more secure and prosperous future.

Spiritual/Self

The Four of Pentacles prompts reflection on the true value of material wealth and the importance of generosity. While it's natural to seek stability and security, an excessive focus on accumulating wealth can lead to a life of rigidity. Is it time to let go of unnecessary possessions and give back to your community? When the Four of Pentacles appears, it is often a reminder that fixating on materialism can prevent us from fully engaging with other important aspects of our lives. This can affect our levels of empathy, kindness, and generosity, all which can help influence the level of joy we experience in life. Ask yourself: How can I better balance out the flow of giving/receiving and also still trust in the abundance of the universe?

“While it’s natural to seek stability and security, an excessive focus on accumulating wealth can lead to a life of rigidity.”

Astrology

The suit of Pentacles in tarot is deeply connected to the element of Earth, representing the physical realm and material aspects of life. This association aligns with the zodiac earth signs of Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, reflecting their grounded nature and practical approach to life. These earth signs embody stability, sensuality, practicality, and attention to detail. Their characteristics also mirror the Pentacles' emphasis on hard work, responsibility, and achieving goals. Together, these earth signs and the Pentacles suit remind us of the importance of grounding ourselves in reality, nurturing our physical well-being, and building a solid foundation for success and prosperity.

Note: It's important to recognize that not everyone incorporates astrology into their Tarot readings. The extent to which astrological references are used can vary greatly among readers. Each reader has a unique approach; some may draw heavily on astrological archetypes, while others might not use them at all. This information is meant to offer an additional perspective that could be helpful in your interpretations by highlighting parallels between Tarot and Astrology.

Although some argue that astrology wasn't originally part of Tarot, more modern interpretations like the Rider Waite Smith and Thoth decks may have integrated astrological concepts to align with their modern time mystical beliefs. Many contemporary decks made in this current decade also feature astrological references. Ultimately, every individual develops their own unique relationship with both Tarot and Astrology.

Reversed Meaning

When reversed, the Four of Pentacles indicates potential issues with financial management, such as excessive spending or greed. It suggests that a re-evaluation of your financial habits and priorities is necessary. 

This reversal also suggests that you may be entering a period of time where saving money is necessary. While accumulating savings is usually a responsible way for managing your overall wealth, be sure you don’t become so engrossed in saving that you neglect other important parts of your life.

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CARD SUMMARY

While this card can indicate savings and accumulation of wealth, it also serves as a warning against the perils of materialism.

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