Four of Pentacles
Holding on tightly.
Holding on to what you have. Security is good; watch for clinging.
- security
- saving
- control
Element: Earth
What the card shows
A crowned figure sits clutching one coin to the chest, with another on the head and two under the feet. A city stands behind.
Four is the number of foundation and, here, rigidity. Every coin is guarded so that nothing can be lost, and nothing can be used. The city behind shows the world he is cut off from.
▲Upright
Security that tips into clinging, with money, things or control.
What am I holding onto out of fear?
▼Reversed
Loosening your grip, or spending without thought.
What would I do if I felt safe?
Four of Pentacles in a reading
In love
Possessiveness or guardedness.
Reversed: Loosening your grip, or spending without thought.
At work
Protecting resources; being too cautious.
Its shadow side: greed, fear of loss, control.
As one of the Pentacles
Work, money and the body. The suit's element is Earth. It shows where in daily life the reading plays out.
Related cards
The other fours, and The Emperor, Major Arcana card 4: the same stage of a story in other parts of life.
The Emperor
Four of Wands
Four of Cups
Four of SwordsRead it with other cards
Questions about Four of Pentacles
What does Four of Pentacles mean in tarot?
Security that tips into clinging, with money, things or control. Keywords: security, saving, control.
What does Four of Pentacles mean reversed?
Loosening your grip, or spending without thought. Releasing: generosity. Excess: hoarding. Blocked: scarcity fear.
What does Four of Pentacles mean in love?
Possessiveness or guardedness.
What does Four of Pentacles mean for work?
Protecting resources; being too cautious.
What question does Four of Pentacles ask?
Upright: What am I holding onto out of fear? Reversed: What would I do if I felt safe?
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