The Minor Arcana represents the lesser influences in one’s life, commonly what we would refer to as the day-to-day happenings. The Pentacles represent the element Earth and therefore, speak of matters relating to resources, materiality, finances, security, career etc. These are our physical and practical manifestations.
Some of the attributions applied are personal references. I have included in an effort to expand the meanings of the cards as well as to provide ideas for ritual/magickal workings.
Pentacles represent the element Earth and the direction North. They rule over practical and tangible matters such as resources, finances, the body and our property.
Major Arcana • Pentacles • Swords • Wands • Cups
ACE OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Seeds, Beginnings, Venture, Opportunity, Potential.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 70
The Pentacle being offered in this card may be viewed as either a gift or a seed. Perhaps something is being provided on the material plane - a job, financial opportunity, resource etc. On the other hand, maybe the seeker themselves is planting a seed they hope to take shape. Whatever the case, The Ace of Pentacles is a positive omen that potential for fruitfulness is available - just ask yourself, what is it I hope takes shape and is it worth the cultivation?
Divinatory Possibilities: A new opportunity especially one where financial gain may be possible, a gift being given, the beginning of a positive venture.
Consider also: The bushel of Pentacles growing in the 7 of Pentacles - how might this imagery relate?
2 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Juggling, Limbo, Decisions, Priorities, Adaptability, Rhythm.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 32
A figure juggles two pentacles in the shape of an infinity symbol while waves roll in the background. This is symbolic of the graceful managing of priorities, especially those on the Earthly plane. Depending on the juggler’s disposition or other circumstances, the Pentacles may be more difficult to maintain. In this way, the 2 of Pentacles isn’t so much about multi-tasking as it is understanding the importance of one item over the other and acting appropriately. If this intuitive rhythm can be achieved, then the balancing of tasks may be maintained. If it cannot, then it is also possible that an important decision needs to be made to recalibrate the load.
Divinatory Possibilities: Competition priorities, needing to juggle different aspects of life, learning to balance multiple things at once.
Consider also: The ways in which balance is represented in this key i.e. the juggler’s legs, the motion of the Pentacles, the number 2, the water waves.
3 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Teamwork, Collaboration, Creativity, Artistry.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 19
3 is a symbol of union between 2 forces and in this way, the 3 of Pentacles represents the culmination of joint effort on the physical plane. Here we have 3 figures coming together to observe the craftmanship of the Pentacles above. They are displayed in an embellished way, poised above our viewers. There is importance here placed on creativity, artistry, and the way in which teamwork assists in these processes. Matters of teamwork and group dynamics may be a focal point. Consider how collaboration may help or hinder your progress and where individual vision may be elevated or diminished by outside input.
Divinatory Possibilities: Working in teams, group dynamics, an upcoming presentation, receiving recognition for your work.
Consider also: The symbolic/spiritual significance of a triangle, the triple goddess and the pyramids.
4 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Frugalness, Guard, Control, Scarcity, Saving.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 3
The 4 of Pentacles speaks to balance, but in a different way. Here two themes play out - the one of wise conservatism and the other of fearful scarcity. The balance, of course, can be found in the middle. If the 4 of Pentacles shows up, it may be an indication that risk should be carefully considered, especially where it relates to financial or material concerns. One should not take huge moves without careful consideration, but one should also not hoard due to fear of losing what they have already acquired. Examine where your inclinations are coming from. Are you acting out of thoughtful consideration, or fear? The answer to your next move can be found somewhere in this discovery.
Divinatory Possibilities: Needing to budget, being mindful of what one is spending, examining ideas around scarcity, exploring what generosity means.
Consider also: The body language of the figure clutching the coins. Observe also the difference in this posturing to that of the Ace, 7 and 9 of Pentacles.
Read more: In-Depth With the 4 of Pentacles
5 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Isolation, struggle, poverty, loss, fear.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 20
The weather, darkness, and condition of the figures in this key give some indication as to the nature of its meaning. The 5 of Pentacles may be a sign of tougher times, but the nature and cycles of life, assure that even in the most challenging circumstances, we can find a light at the end of the tunnel (evidenced by the light coming through the stained glass window). Our wounded walkers barely notice this safe haven though, more fixed and focused on the terrain below. The 5 of Pentacles is a reminder to look up every now and then, especially when the physical outlook is less than ideal. There may be help in unlikely places and all sorts of signs of hope to be found. Mind practical matters, but also expect good things to come.
Divinatory Possibilities: A period of struggle, feeling down and out, feeling lost or disconnected, searching for better times.
Consider also: This is the only Pentacle card that features snow. What might that mean in the context of its message? Stained glass appears twice, both here and the 4 of Swords. How might those care be connected?
Read More: Challenging The 5 Of Pentacles: Lost of Nearly Found?
6 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Charity, Balance, Reciprocity, Generosity.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 38
6’s are similar to 2’s in that they speak to a balance of sorts in the realm of harmony. In this key, we see matters of charity, generosity and reciprocity taking place. It is important to note though that true fairness doesn’t necessarily mean an absolute equal give and take. We can only give what is in our means, and we cannot expect any more of others either. When we give more than we can, we take of ourselves and reverse our position. In the same way, when we take more than we require, we run the risk of damaging the equilibrium of our relationships. The giver in this card also holds a set of scales to indicate a connection to Justice and the themes represented in that key.
Divinatory Possibilities: Receiving from another, giving to another, finding balance, needing to budget and mind finances, involvement in charity, seeking a loan.
Consider also: The perspective of this card. When reading for yourself or another, is the seeker the one giving or the one receiving?
7 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Patience, Growth, Investment, Planning, Assessment.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 59
If we consider that the Ace of Pentacles represents a seed being offered, perhaps the 7 of Pentacles speaks to the flourishing of what was planted. Observe the body language of our gardener: watchful, waiting and still. They are not tending to their harvest, but rather observing its growth. This may be an indication that action is not required, but that patience is the key. On the other hand, if you’re feeling anxious or uninspired by what you are seeing flourish, this may be an indication that it’s time to dig up what you started and begin anew. Your feelings/thoughts around this harvest are what is important. What is sprouting here may be more related to long-term results than short term gain. Are you motivated to continue to nourish it to fruition?
Divinatory Possibilities: Impatience over a project or venture, a slow growth, needing to tend and nurture something being developed.
Consider also: The staff the gardener leans on and what this may indicate, especially as it relates to the suit of Wands and the fire element.
Read more: Taking Stock Of Your Harvest With The 7 Of Pentacles
8 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Effort, Repetition, Monotony, Skill, Production.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 63
“All work and no play” vs “If you do what you love you’ll never work a day in your life”. Our worker here may look tattered and spent, but if we consider this act to be one of love and not hard labour, how can we take this idea and apply it to the message of this card? The 8 of Pentacles assures that effort and repetition may be required at this point in the journey, but our own attitude about this will be the difference between joy and monotony. Are you working to live or living to work? Even if the work is “hard”, if you’re moving toward a finished product that uplifts and inspires, the labour will surely be worth it. Consider where your effort is being placed and what you’re creating - is it worth it or is it for naught?
Divinatory Possibilities: Hard and consistent work required, a laborious activity ahead, learning a new trade/skill or craft.
Consider also: The connection between the 7 of Pentacles and the 8 of Pentacles and the popular saying - “you reap what you sow”.
9 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Independence, Luxury, Abundance, Solitude, Pleasure.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 44
I’ve also felt a rather court-like energy from this card. It’s expression is that of a Queen who stands confidently in the midst of their Kingdom. The 9 of Pentacles speaks to abundance, which may look like material gains or may represent inner riches. Either way, the owner of these goods is independent in nature and may symbolize someone who has come into their form of luxury through self-sufficient means. This is a positive omen that there is much to be grateful for and/or much on the way.
Divinatory Possibilities: A feeling of abundance, independent wealth and security, coming into one’s own, being in charge of one’s own life.
Consider also: The relationship between the 9 of Pentacles and The Empress.
10 OF PENTACLES
Keywords: Success, Reward, Security, Wealth, Community, Stability, Accumulation.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 34
Whether the matter is related to business, a particular venture or even self-development, the 10 of Pentacles indicates positive growth, abundance and security. While the Ace represents potential, and the 7 gives indication of development, the 10 assures that what has been grown has reached maturation and has done so with a firm foundation.
Divinatory Possibilities: Financial success, good fortune, a positive outcome in matters of business/resources/finances.
Consider also: The shape of the Pentacles as the Tree of Life and what this may indicate in relation to the card’s message.
Read more: Cards in Combination: Tower, 8 of Swords, 10 of Pentacles
Court cards may represent ourselves or the people in our lives. They may also symbolize various attributes that are important for us to understand/assimilate or take account of. Court cards do not inherently represent any particular gender or age range. Throughout the trajectory of our lives, we will at many times be Queens, Pages, Knight or Kings. We should be flexible in how we approach their attributes because they represent our personality (transient ways of being), not our core essence.
PAGE OF PENTACLES
Illuminated Attributes: Motivated, Studious, Resourceful.
Shadow Attributes: Unsure, Stuck, Procrastinating, Unmotivated.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 41
Element: Earth/Earth
Myers Briggs: INTP
The Page may represent a novice in their field, a youth (or youth at heart) or someone who is resourceful and motivated to get the job done. They may not have a world of experience behind them, or every tool that is required, but what they do have is the will and desire to learn, which is sometimes even more valuable.
Read more: In-Depth With the Page of Pentacles
KNIGHT OF PENTACLES
Illuminated Attributes: Responsible, Steady, Reliable, Dedicated.
Shadow Attributes: Lazy, Unreliable, Undisciplined.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 68
Element: Earth/Fire
Myers Briggs: ISTJ
The Knight of Pentacles sits steady on a stationary horse, in contrast to their other knight companions. This indicates some degree of control over their vehicle. This Knight is focused on the physical plane, often viewed as responsible, reliable, practical and resourceful. They are more likely to start with a map of their journey than jump in without a plan. This Knight, even though travelling on horse, may abide by the phrase “slow and steady wins the race”.
QUEEN OF PENTACLES
Illuminated Attributes: Practical, Nurturing, Warm, Generous.
Shadow Attributes: Hoarding, Dependent, Unbalanced, Unforgiving.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 67
Element: Earth/Water
Myers Briggs: ISFJ
The Queen of Pentacles, like the 9 of Pentacles, emanates a rather Empress-like energy. She sits outside in a lush kingdom of vegetation while a spritely rabbit hops by, another symbol of fertility and abundance. The Queen of Pentacles governs the material realm; creating, nurturing and comforting all that inhabits it. She is the generous hostess, the nurturing mother and the tending leader.
KING OF PENTACLES
Illuminated Attributes: Leader, Disciplined, Wealthy, Sturdy, Secure.
Shadow Attributes:
Stubborn, Prudish, Greedy, Obsessed.
Tao Te Ching: Verse 48
Element: Earth/Air
Myers Briggs: ESTJ
The King of Pentacles is a master of the Earth element and is often someone who takes pride in their accomplishments and success. They have command over their resources and know how to create a strong and stable foundation for more to grow. They are excellent in the practical aspects of business, demonstrating a disciplined nature that persists to get the job done.
Major Arcana • Pentacles • Swords • Wands • Cups