If you have ever heard the story of King Midas, then you know the dangers of allowing one’s desire for the material world to take over. The Four of Pentacles brings a similar message, one that highlights the dark issues we as humans have with materialism and control.
The Four of Pentacles in the Tarot deck signifies a drive for control and an overemphasis on material possessions. While hinting at the need for financial security, it warns against obsessive materialism, greedy tendencies, and resistance to change.
Although this card can sometimes signify the need for financial security, it often accompanies a sense of ungratefulness and a need to possess much more than needed.
FOUR OF PENTACLES Keywords
Before we dive deeper into the upright and reversed Four of Pentacles card meaning, its connection to love, work, and life, and most card combinations, below is a quick overview of the words that are represented by this Pentacles card.
| Upright | A need for control, greed, materialism, blocking change |
| Reversed | Release of the past, giving up control, generosity, acceptance |
| Yes or No | Yes |
| Numerology | 4 |
| Element | Earth |
| Planet | Saturn |
| Astrological Sign | Capricorn |
What Does the Four of Pentacles Mean in Tarot?
The Four of Pentacles symbolizes a strong desire for security and stability, particularly in financial and material aspects. It often represents an individual’s inclination towards control and possessiveness over their resources, reflecting a fear of loss or change.
This card warns against the pitfalls of excessive materialism and greed, suggesting that an overemphasis on material wealth can lead to isolation and an inability to adapt.
It can indicate a person who is so focused on accumulating wealth or maintaining financial control that they miss out on valuable life experiences. This card serves as a reminder that while financial stability is important, clinging too tightly to material possessions can prevent personal growth, meaningful connections, and a balanced, fulfilling life.
The Four of Pentacles Tarot Card Description
To fully understand the Four of Pentacles Tarot card meaning, we will first take a look at the illustration, its colors, and symbolism.
If the Four of Pentacles had a theme song, it would definitely be For the Love of Money by the O’Jays. If you are not familiar with this 1970s soul classic, the lyrics below sum it up:
Money money money money, money
Some people got to have it, some people really need it
It is easy to see that the man depicted in the Four of Pentacles is definitely one of those people. As he sits on a chair that oozes royalty..or does he? Some people believe that the man is not a king at all.
Others think that his lack of a throne and real crown symbolizes all he has given up for his pursuit of money. Either way, it is easy to see that materialism abounds.
In the Four of Pentacles, the wealthy man balances a golden coin on top of his crown, preventing his connection with the divine.
His two arms hold money like the gentleman depicted in the Two of Pentacles. However, the coin he clings to is not in his palm. Symbolizing his fear of losing control, his arms are wrapped tightly around his financial nest.
Nevertheless, the man’s obsession with his money does not end there, as both feet are firmly planted on flattened coins.
Sitting high above a vast city and not able to go anywhere, this man of immense power seems isolated and alone, focused only on the financial aspects of life. Perhaps he has lost it all because of his quest.
The black shawl that envelops him like a cloud represents the control that money has over his existence. Even so, the smug look on his face seems to be one of pride and satisfaction.
The man gracing the Four of Pentacles appears happy with his finance-focused existence, even though he has sacrificed so much.
Upright Four of Pentacles Tarot Card Meaning
As with all Tarot cards, the meaning of the Four of Pentacles is not set in stone. The power of the Tarot lies in being able to deliver a universal message to your personal situation.
This is especially true with the Four of Pentacles, as some view the upright position as a warning to save while others see it as a chastisement against greed.
Open your mind and heart as you read the interpretations below, and you will intuitively know which is the case for you.
Upright Four of Pentacles Love and Relationships Meaning
The way our wealthy friend keeps his body connected to his money also signifies something else: a need for control. When it comes to love Tarot reading, the Four of Pentacles represents one party (possibly you or your partner) who is plagued by feelings of jealousy or insecurity.
It is important to remember that holding on to something too tightly doesn’t keep it with you; it suffocates it. If you are holding on to a toxic relationship of any kind, an unrequited love, past hurt, or negative emotions, the Four of Pentacles urges you to let go.
If your partner or family member is the one doing the controlling, you should take a real look at your situation. Tough choices need to be made.
However, by accepting things as they are, you will receive real power and strength that could never come from a negative space.
Upright Four of Pentacles Money and Career Meaning
The number four symbolizes security and the need for stability. Financial security is something that the majority of people seek, but with anything, there is a way to take it too far.
In a financial Tarot spread, the Four of Pentacles suggests material success but cautions against being too materialistic.
If your quest for success has caused you to isolate yourself from family and friends, do the means really justify the ends?
You can have security without having to be finance-focused all of the time. Consider working toward a balanced life where one aspect isn’t more important than another.
Upright Four of Pentacles Health and Spirituality Meaning
If you are physically sick or suffering emotionally, the Four of Pentacles in a health Tarot spread represents the real need to break physical and mental chains.
If you are holding on to any worries, fears, or negative emotions, your body is keeping the score. Talking to a friend, counselor, or even energy healing can serve as a solution if you feel that you are struggling in these areas.
FOUR OF PENTACLES REVERSED
In this paragraph, we will talk a bit more about what it means if you’ve pulled the Four of Pentacles tarot card in the reversed position.
What goes up must come down. This is a universal law. The Four of Pentacles reversed represents what can happen if you choose to let it all go.
Being flipped upside down signals that, unlike those with the upright version of this card, you are ready for total acceptance of your reality. Now is the time to embrace it.
Release toxic people and old resentments, and prepare to start fresh. If you want your finances, career, relationship, or physical/spiritual health to progress, move forward on a new path. Clinging on to what was will only bring misery and isolation.
Instead, think about what is important for you, specifically when it comes to money and wealth. The Four of Pentacles reversed is ushering in change. Will you fight the current or move with it?
Lastly, the Four of Pentacles reversed can signify financial insecurity and instability. Have you lost something valuable, or did you perhaps suffer financial losses through risky investments?
If so, this card tells you that you need to start getting a proper hold of your actual financial resources.
Reversed Four of Pentacles Love Meaning
Think of the reversed Four of Pentacles as your love life’s spring cleaning! It’s time to throw open the windows of your heart and let the fresh air in. This card reversed suggests a welcome shift from control to openness in relationships.
You or your partner might be ready to drop the heavy armor of jealousy and embrace vulnerability. It’s like finally deciding to unclench your fist and watch your relationship blossom in your open palms.
If you’ve been clutching onto past hurts or unrequited love, the universe is giving you a cosmic nudge to let go and make room for new love stories. This card whispers, “Relax, trust, and let love flow!”
Reversed Four of Pentacles Career and Money Meaning
In the realm of coins and careers, the reversed Four of Pentacles is like realizing you’ve been playing Monopoly too seriously. Time to ease up on the financial grip! This card hints at loosening up a bit with your finances, maybe being more generous or less rigid in your budgeting.
It’s the financial world telling you, “Hey, it’s okay to splurge on that latte once in a while!”
In your career, it might signal moving away from a too-safe, unfulfilling job and taking a risk on something that ignites your passion. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between financial stability and enjoying the fruits of your labor.
Reversed Four of Pentacles Health Meaning
Health-wise, the reversed Four of Pentacles is like finally deciding to unsubscribe from the ‘Worry of the Day’ newsletter. It’s about releasing stress and understanding that holding onto worries is like carrying a backpack full of bricks – unnecessary and exhausting.
This card encourages you to embrace healing, whether it’s through yoga, meditation, or just laughing more. Spiritually, it’s an invitation to explore new beliefs and ideas. Maybe it’s time to swap some of that heavy mental armor for a featherlight cloak of curiosity and openness.
Important Four of Pentacles Card Combinations
Rapid changes, control issues, blockages, and arguments about money. Combined with other cards, the Four of Pentacles is also about a need for control, blocking change, and security. Below, you can find the most important card combinations of the Four of Pentacles.
Four of Pentacles and the Fool
Although taking risks often leads to reward, the Fool and the Four of Pentacles together encourage you to scale back a bit. Avoid being foolish with money or too spontaneous.
Making impulse buys at this time will lead to deep feelings of regret. So, put off any big purchases until a later date.
Four of Pentacles and the Wheel of Fortune
An earthquake is happening! Well, maybe not a physical one, but a metaphoric one for sure. This card combo with the Wheel of Fortune Tarot card comes with rapid change and lots of movement.
So, don’t be alarmed if lots of things begin to happen at once. Just hang on and enjoy the ride.
Four of Pentacles and the Chariot, Emperor, or the Hanged Man
If this number four is paired with either the Emperor, the Chariot, or the Hanged Man, you have some real control issues going on in your life. The first two suggest that you are craving control, structure, and order.
Although these things are needed in some cases, trying to maintain power over everything can cause the exact opposite of what we want: chaos.
The Hanged Man suggests letting go. Although doing so isn’t always easy, it will lead to peace of mind.
Four of Pentacles and the Tower
Get ready for a fight. The Four of Pentacles and the Tower predict a showdown over money. Maybe this battle will be with your spouse.
Perhaps it will be with your family members concerning Great Uncle Ed’s will. Regardless, you’ll need to stand firm and hold your composure.
Four of Pentacles and Two of Swords
If you feel like things are at a stalemate, you are right. When paired, the Four of Pentacles and the Two of Swords represent a blockage of some kind.
This might be a breakdown of communication, a plan that has gone awry at work, or even a chakra issue that needs to be fixed. Look for the source of the problem, and then you’ll be able to formulate a plan better.
FAQs
What Does Four of Pentacles Mean as Feelings?
The Four of Pentacles, when it comes to feelings, often indicates a sense of holding on tightly to one’s emotions. It can represent a fear of opening up or sharing deeply held sentiments, leading to a protective and somewhat guarded emotional stance.
This card may suggest a reluctance to let go of past feelings or a defensive attitude in emotional matters, emphasizing a need for security and control in how one feels and expresses emotions.
What Is the Advantage of Four of Pentacles?
This card can be a reminder of the benefits of being disciplined and cautious with finances, ensuring a solid foundation for economic well-being. It also suggests the value of establishing control over one’s material and financial life, fostering a sense of security and preparedness.
What Is Four of Pentacles as an Action?
As an action, the Four of Pentacles suggests a conservative approach, emphasizing the preservation and protection of resources. It might indicate actions like saving money, avoiding unnecessary expenses, or holding onto assets tightly.
This card can also imply being cautious in decision-making, especially in financial or material matters, and preferring safety and security over risk-taking.
Loosen Up With the Four of Pentacles
That’s all for the Four of Pentacles’ meaning. If this card turned up in your reading, it may symbolize your need for security and stability. Or maybe it tells you that it’s time to set some money aside.
Either way, I’m really curious if the meaning resonated with you and would love to hear from you! So please take a minute to leave a comment below.
Wille says
Thank you so much???? Did you find your answer about the Hierophant and the four of pentacles in a finance reading?