Four of Pentacles Tarot Card Meaning
Upright Keywords
- Stability
- Security
- Comfort Zone
Reversed Keywords
- Reluctance to Change
- Stagnation
- Inflexibility
The Four of Pentacles indicates that you have what you need, but it can lead to stagnation. This card suggests holding on too tightly to resources, leading to reluctance to leave your comfort zone. Reversed, it can indicate letting go of the need for control or a sudden shift in stability.
Four of Pentacles Imagery and Symbolism
The Four of Pentacles in the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck represents themes of control, security, and attachment to material possessions. Pamela Colman Smith’s artwork shows a figure clutching a pentacle tightly to their chest while balancing two beneath their feet and holding another atop their head. This rigid grip on material wealth suggests a deep fear of loss, a reluctance to share, and an unwillingness to move forward. The cityscape in the background hints at the broader world beyond the figure’s immediate concerns, yet they remain seated, unwilling to step beyond their self-imposed boundaries.
Smith’s illustration captures the tension between financial stability and stagnation. While the figure has achieved material security, their posture suggests isolation and resistance to change. The placement of the pentacles is significant—the one on the head represents an overemphasis on material concerns, possibly at the expense of spiritual or emotional well-being. The pentacles beneath the feet indicate an unwillingness to move, reinforcing the idea of being stuck or trapped by wealth and status.
Across different tarot decks, the Four of Pentacles consistently represents financial caution, possessiveness, and fear of loss. Some versions highlight the protective aspect of this card, where financial stability is necessary for security. Others emphasise its restrictive nature, where hoarding resources leads to stagnation. This card serves as a reminder that while stability is important, clinging too tightly to wealth or control can prevent growth, connection, and new opportunities.
Four of Pentacles Tarot Card Meaning Upright
Stability
The Four of Pentacles symbolises stability, highlighting that you have achieved a secure and stable position in your life. This card suggests that you have built a solid foundation, providing you with a sense of security and peace of mind. It encourages you to appreciate and maintain this stability, recognising the hard work that has brought you to this point. The Four of Pentacles reminds you that stability is essential for long-term success. Their energy supports you in preserving and protecting what you have achieved.
Security
Security is at the heart of the Four of Pentacles’ message. This card signifies the importance of feeling safe and secure, both materially and emotionally. It suggests that you have created a secure environment for yourself, where your needs are met, and you feel protected. The Four of Pentacles encourages you to continue valuing and prioritising security, ensuring that you have a strong and reliable support system. Their energy helps you to maintain a sense of security, allowing you to thrive and grow.
Comfort Zone
The Four of Pentacles also highlights the concept of the comfort zone. This card suggests that you may be holding on tightly to what is familiar and comfortable, possibly out of fear of change. It’s a reminder that while it’s important to appreciate your current stability, it’s also crucial to remain open to growth and new experiences. The Four of Pentacles encourages you to reflect on whether your comfort zone is limiting your potential. Their energy supports you in finding a balance between appreciating your current state and being open to new opportunities.
Four of Pentacles Upright in Love and Relationships Readings
In a love and relationships reading, the Four of Pentacles symbolises a desire for stability and security in a relationship. This card suggests that you or your partner may be holding tightly to each other or to specific expectations, seeking reassurance. The Four of Pentacles in love readings encourages a balance between security and openness, reminding you not to let possessiveness or fear of loss hinder the natural flow of connection. Its energy supports you in building a stable foundation without becoming overly attached to control or certainty.
Four of Pentacles Upright in Self-Care and Empowerment Readings
In self-care readings, the Four of Pentacles represents the need for grounding and creating a sense of stability in your life. This card suggests that focusing on self-discipline, financial management, or personal boundaries can enhance your well-being. The Four of Pentacles in self-care encourages you to cultivate a strong foundation for your mental and physical health. Its energy supports you in holding onto what nurtures you, reminding you to protect your resources without becoming overly restrictive.
Four of Pentacles Upright in Career and Creativity Readings
In career and creativity readings, the Four of Pentacles symbolises financial security, caution, and stability, often indicating that you are focused on building or protecting your resources. This card suggests that careful planning and conservative decisions may benefit you at this time. The Four of Pentacles in career readings encourages a mindful approach to finances and assets, helping you to create a secure foundation. Its energy supports you in safeguarding your progress, ensuring that you have a solid base from which to grow your career or projects.
Four of Pentacles Upright in Life Changes and Shadow Work Readings
In shadow work, the Four of Pentacles symbolises examining your relationship with control, security, and material attachments. This card suggests that focusing too heavily on stability may limit personal growth and emotional freedom. The Four of Pentacles in shadow work encourages you to explore why you may cling to certain beliefs or possessions, helping you understand their influence on your life. Its energy supports you in confronting fears around scarcity or change, allowing for greater acceptance and inner peace.
Four of Pentacles Tarot Card Meaning Reversed
Reluctance to Change
When the Four of Pentacles appears reversed, it can indicate a reluctance to change. This card suggests that you may be resistant to new opportunities or afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s a call to examine why you are holding back and to find ways to embrace change with more confidence. The reversed Four of Pentacles encourages you to let go of your fears and to be open to the possibilities that change can bring. Their energy helps you to overcome resistance and to welcome new experiences with an open heart.
Stagnation
Reversed, the Four of Pentacles can signify stagnation and a lack of progress. This card suggests that you may be feeling stuck, unable to move forward or to make necessary changes. It’s a reminder to reassess your situation and to identify what is holding you back. The reversed Four of Pentacles urges you to take proactive steps to break free from stagnation and to initiate the changes needed for growth. Their energy supports you in finding the motivation and courage to move out of stagnation and into a more dynamic and fulfilling phase of life.
Inflexibility
The reversed Four of Pentacles highlights the theme of inflexibility, indicating that a rigid mindset may be preventing you from adapting to new circumstances. This card suggests that clinging too tightly to old ways of thinking or behaving can lead to missed opportunities and frustration. It’s a call to cultivate flexibility and to be open to new approaches and solutions. The reversed Four of Pentacles encourages you to let go of your need for control and to embrace a more adaptable and open-minded attitude. Their energy helps you to find balance and to navigate changes with greater ease and grace.
Struggling with the themes of Four of Pentacles? A tarot reading with me can offer perspective.
Four of Pentacles Reversed in Love and Relationships Readings
In a reversed love reading, the Four of Pentacles may indicate issues with trust or a reluctance to open up fully in a relationship. This card suggests that fear of vulnerability or past hurt may be causing you to keep your guard up. The reversed Four of Pentacles in love readings encourages you to examine these fears and to let go of restrictive beliefs. Its energy supports you in embracing openness, helping you to allow trust and vulnerability to bring deeper intimacy into your relationship.
If Four of Pentacles feels relevant to your love life, a tarot reading with me could bring clarity.
Four of Pentacles Reversed in Self-Care and Empowerment Readings
Reversed, the Four of Pentacles in self-care readings may indicate that you are holding onto beliefs or habits that no longer serve you. This card suggests that clinging to outdated routines or rigid boundaries could be limiting your growth. The reversed Four of Pentacles encourages you to examine where you can let go, allowing for greater freedom and flexibility in your self-care practices. Its energy supports you in releasing control, inviting a more balanced and open approach to personal empowerment.
Four of Pentacles Reversed in Career and Creativity Readings
Reversed in career readings, the Four of Pentacles may indicate that fear of loss or a reluctance to invest in yourself is limiting your potential. This card suggests that holding back due to insecurity may be preventing progress or innovation. The reversed Four of Pentacles in career readings encourages you to assess where you can take calculated risks, supporting personal and financial growth. Its energy helps you in releasing restrictive habits, allowing you to explore new opportunities without excessive fear of loss.
Four of Pentacles Reversed in Life Changes and Shadow Work Readings
Reversed in shadow work, the Four of Pentacles may indicate a readiness to release attachments or restrictive beliefs that have held you back. This card suggests that loosening your grip on control can open the door to new experiences and perspectives. The reversed Four of Pentacles encourages you to examine areas where you can let go, fostering emotional and spiritual growth. Its energy supports you in embracing freedom and flexibility, helping you create a life that is rich with openness and possibility.
Four of Pentacles: Stability and Foundation
Fours in tarot signify stability, structure, and a solid foundation. They represent the establishment of security and the need to build a firm base for future endeavours. Fours encourage you to focus on creating stability in your life, whether it’s through emotional security (Cups), material wealth (Pentacles), mental clarity (Swords), or creative grounding (Wands).
Four of Pentacles: Material Success and Practicality
Pentacles focus on the tangible aspects of life, like work, finances, and material stability. This suit is about earning, spending, and investing, emphasising strategic planning and financial prudence. Pentacles guide you towards a secure and stable future, highlighting the importance of practicality and resourcefulness.
Four of Pentacles in the Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana encompasses the everyday moments, emotions, and actions that shape our lives. This 56-card section is divided into four suits—Pentacles, Cups, Wands, and Swords—each representing different energies and aspects of life. Unlike the Major Arcana, which focuses on grand spiritual journeys, the Minor Arcana offers a more grounded perspective, dealing with the practicalities of daily existence.
Through these suits, you explore personal growth, relationships, and material success. The Minor Arcana provides a framework for navigating life’s complexities, offering insights into the ups and downs we all face. As you journey through this section, remember to connect with the themes in a way that resonates with your unique path.
Four of Pentacles and the Element of Earth
Four of Pentacles resonates with the element of Earth, embodying stability, practicality, and the physical realm. Earth calls for groundedness, representing the strength found in patience, dedication, and growth over time. This element reminds us of our roots, our foundations, and the value of nurturing what we wish to cultivate. Earth invites a connection to nature, security, and the tangible aspects of life, encouraging resilience and an appreciation for the present.
Four of Pentacles Journalling Prompts
What beliefs or possessions am I holding onto, and how are they impacting my life?
Where could I benefit from releasing control, allowing for more balance and freedom?
How can I create a stable foundation in my life without becoming overly attached to security?
Frequently Asked Questions about Four of Pentacles
What does Four of Pentacles mean in a tarot reading?
Four of Pentacles represents security, stability, and the importance of balancing saving and generosity. It often appears when you’re seeking to protect what you’ve worked for, but warns against becoming overly attached or fearful of change. This card reminds you to find balance between holding on and letting go, creating space for growth. In readings, the Four of Pentacles suggests the need to evaluate your relationship with resources and security, ensuring it aligns with your values.
Is Four of Pentacles a yes or no card?
Four of Pentacles is usually a no, symbolising control, security, and resistance to change. In tarot for burnout or healing from burnout, it highlights the need to release fear and embrace transformation. This card is relevant in decision-making tarot or navigating change, encouraging clarity for choices and finding balance. In life path readings, the Four of Pentacles offers insight into managing resources and priorities.
What is the role of the Four of Pentacles in the tarot deck?
Four of Pentacles symbolises stability, security, and control, offering insights for career guidance or managing burnout with tarot. It supports clarity for choices and decision-making tarot, helping you create a sense of balance and security. The Four of Pentacles fosters personal empowerment, aligning with transformation with tarot and self-empowerment readings. This card encourages you to embrace stability while remaining open to growth and change.
What does the Four of Pentacles symbolise?
The Four of Pentacles symbolises security and control. In the imagery on the Rider-Waite-Smith version of the card, the figure clutches the pentacle tightly, reflecting fear of loss. The pentacle on their head blocks spiritual awareness, while those beneath their feet suggest stagnation due to attachment to material wealth.
What does Four of Pentacles suggest about navigating life’s challenges?
Four of Pentacles suggests that navigating life’s challenges requires holding on to what is important, while also learning to let go of what no longer serves you. Whether facing burnout or financial stress, the Four encourages you to focus on what brings you security, while also releasing any fears or attachments. This card aligns with tarot for overcoming creative block and career direction, helping you make decisions about where to invest your time, energy, and resources. The Four of Pentacles calls you to evaluate your priorities and take a careful approach to your financial and emotional well-being.
Is Four of Pentacles a positive or negative card?
Four of Pentacles is typically a neutral card, representing stability but also holding on too tightly to what you have. It can indicate a fear of change, which may hinder progress in career guidance or life path readings. In burnout recovery, the Four of Pentacles suggests the need to release old attachments that no longer serve you. It invites you to find balance between stability and growth.
How does Four of Pentacles align with themes of career?
Four of Pentacles speaks to stability, control, and the need to manage your resources wisely. In terms of career, it emphasizes the importance of security and building a solid foundation. For those looking to progress professionally or make important career decisions, services like tarot for career choices or career guidance can provide clarity and direction. This card reminds you to assess your financial and career situation carefully to ensure long-term success.
What are some other names for Four of Pentacles?
Other names for Four of Pentacles include Four of Coins and The Lord of Earthly Power in the Thoth Tarot, emphasising control over material resources. It’s sometimes called Four of Earth in elemental decks, which aligns with a focus on grounded stability. The interpretation varies from accumulation to excessive attachment to possessions.
What other tarot cards often appear with Four of Pentacles?
Four of Pentacles aligns with The Devil, exploring themes of attachment and material security. The Emperor reinforces stability and control, while Justice highlights fairness in resource management. The Hanged One adds perspective on letting go. The Wheel of Fortune contrasts with its focus on change.
How can Four of Pentacles guide me in managing resources wisely?
Four of Pentacles guides you in managing resources wisely by encouraging mindful stewardship. It reminds you to assess where you may need to loosen control or set boundaries. This card is perfect for financial planning, saving, or navigating scarcity. By working with the Four of Pentacles, you can cultivate security without rigidity. Its energy fosters balance and mindful prosperity.
