If ever there was a “bummer” card in the tarot - this would be it. Anyone who works with tarot can probably relate to the deeply unsatisfying feeling that comes with drawing this one. I know I often describe cards in our “Challenging” series by the physical gestures or vocal expressions I make upon pulling them - but seriously, this is eye rolls and “ughs” every single time.

You’d think it would be difficult to write a full piece about this card because it’s just so damn uninspiring! The main character sits under a tree - seemingly over it, bored and full of indifference. Their arms and legs are crossed, indicating they are likely rejecting or ignoring the offering in front of them. Woe is them!

I don’t know anyone who goes into a tarot reading hoping to turn over the 5 of Pentacles. It’s one of the most miserable cards in tarot and rarely does it find itself a good spin. Of course, readers will often point out the light emanating from the window as a source of hope or something of a safe haven. But, when you’re confronted with the prospect of whatever’s happening in the 5, this barely lifts the tone.

So then, what else might we be able to glean from this sorry (on the surface) scene? We’ll get to that, but first, let’s get clear on everything that’s terrible about this card.