The Four of Pentacles echoes stability, possibly gained through a position of power or leadership.
Consider the illustration, a crowned man, feet upon pentacles, holding a pentacle to his chest. He clasps the pentacle, not wanting to let it go.
It appears as though this man has based his life around attaining and holding onto material possessions. Clearly, his endeavours have been rewarded up to this point.
At a glance
The Four of Pentacles is a card of insecurity, greed, and unwillingness to let go. It represents the fear of losing what one has, and suggests that the querent is holding on to their possessions, resources, or ideas too tightly. This card often appears when the querent is feeling uncertain or threatened, and is unwilling to take risks or try new things.
In a reading, the Four of Pentacles suggests that the querent may be holding themselves back by refusing to let go of the past or embrace change. It encourages the querent to let go of their fears and insecurities, and to open themselves up to new possibilities. This card also indicates that the querent may need to learn to trust others and share their resources in order to create abundance and prosperity.
The Four of Pentacles is associated with the element of earth, which is associated with stability, security, and material possessions. It is a reminder that material success requires balance and the willingness to take calculated risks. This card can also indicate that the querent is feeling resistant to change and is holding on to the past.
Overall, the Four of Pentacles suggests that the querent is facing a period of insecurity and fear, but that they have the power to overcome these feelings and create a sense of abundance and prosperity in their lives.
Card meanings
Past
The Four of Pentacles in the past position can represent a sensible mindset, or a more mature way of thinking which has pushed you through life.
You may be exceptionally good at handling money, and many things which would scare or intimidate people just don’t seem to affect you. It might be like some things in life are just no big deal. The Four of Pentacles represents material possessiveness, so think about how this may have played out in your history.
Did you ever hold onto something for too long? They say that desire causes misery and pain, and it can be liberating to be free of our responsibilities, however you should approach this with the right mindset.
Present
The Four of Pentacles regarding the present echoes the possessiveness of the card. Are you holding onto something now which you should have let go of a long time ago? Are you saving money for no particular goal?
Saving money is hard to do for starters, especially if you don’t feel you earn enough, but saving without a goal feels a little aimless. You should always aim to have a purpose in your life, especially for your finances.
Spend some time to think about what you are living and working for. Is it a holiday, a car, a house, something for a hobby, a piece of art? Set at least one goal for your money if you have nothing.
We work hard to earn money, but ‘having more money’ slowly stops becoming the goal when you have enough of it. Money, and all material objects are transient. They won’t last forever. Look to see how you can use your money to enhance your life and the lives of those you care for.
Future
The Four of Pentacles is not the most positive card in the future position, but it isn’t completely negative either. It does suggest a level of security that we all hope for; nobody wants to think they may soon be out of a job or not have enough money to pay their rent, mortgage or bills.
If you keep working hard, you’ll likely be able to live comfortably.
The negative aspects of this card come through when you examine how this is possible, and your life when you reach this stage. You may save a lot, but when you have enough, you are still saving.
There is a happy medium to get to; remember that money is a tool you can use to enhance your life, and you cant take it with you when you die. Look to spice things up, treat yourself a little more frequently and add some change into your routine.
Work, careers and education
The Four of Pentacles in regards to work and career is a good sign; as it suggests that you will attain a level of responsibility and power, though look for the danger signs. Are you working for a passion, or are you working because it pays well?
A well paying job isn’t necessarily better than a worse paying job which you enjoy more. This is up to you to decide. Sometimes we can’t rest on our passions; we have to take a job which pays more. There should be no haste; you can always work on your passions in your own time.
Love and Relationships
The Four of Pentacles can represent that you’re clinging onto something which is affecting your relationships. This could be an old memory, an old relationship, or even your current one. How are things going?
Are you really in a happy, balanced and committed relationship right now? Are you happy? If you’re single, seriously spend some time thinking about what is holding you back from having a relationship.
Wealth
The Four of Pentacles is a good sign for wealth; if you are focused on attaining and keeping it. You should just continue what you are doing for now, but consider the other meanings for this card; are you saving for the right reasons?
Be sure you aren’t neglecting parts of your life simply so you can see your bank balance increase. Lastly, be modest with your money, especially if you have more than others you know. Nobody really likes to discuss money if they are without it.
Health and well-being
When you see the Four of Pentacles show for health, consider your physical and mental health equally. Now is a time to tackle the bad habit you’ve wanted to get rid of. Beating an addiction is difficult, so do not overwhelm yourself.
Focus on one thing at a time, one step at a time. Consider detaching yourself from materialism; buy fewer, higher quality items. Buy items with meaning, not frivolous products you throw away every day.
Other associations
Element: Earth
As a Yes or No question: Yes
Keywords
Possession, stability, savings, investments, maturity