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Tarot Card Meanings:
Four of Pentacles

What is "Four of Pentacles" in Tarot?

The Four of Pentacles (sometimes known as Four of Coins) in the tarot represents stability, control, and a strong desire to hold onto possessions and resources. This card signifies a focus on material security and the potential for possessiveness or fear of loss.

What are the key symbols in the "Four of Pentacles" tarot card?

  • Figure holding pentacles tightly: Symbolizes a strong desire to hold onto possessions and control resources.
  • Pentacles at the figure’s feet, in hands, and on crown: Represents the importance placed on material security and wealth.
  • Crown and city in the background: Indicates a sense of achievement and status, but also isolation from the community.
  • Seated position: Suggests stability and a firm grip on one’s assets.

These symbols are based on the Rider-Waite Smith tarot. Symbols may differ in other decks! 

four of pentacles from the rider waite smith tarot
Four of Pentacles as depicted in the Rider-Waite Smith Tarot by A.E. White, illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith

Four of Pentacles Tarot Card Meaning

Four of Pentacles Keywords: Stability, control, possessiveness, material security, fear of loss, conservation, holding on tightly, financial management.

The Four of Pentacles in the tarot signifies a strong emphasis on stability and control, particularly in the realm of material security and financial management. This card highlights a desire to hold onto possessions and resources tightly, often stemming from a fear of loss or uncertainty. It reflects a conservative approach to finances and a need to maintain control over one’s assets. However, the Four of Pentacles also warns against becoming overly possessive or rigid, as this can lead to isolation and hinder personal growth. It encourages finding a balance between maintaining security and being open to new opportunities and experiences.

Four of Pentacles Reversed Tarot Card Meaning

Four of Pentacles Reversed Keywords: Financial instability, greed, letting go, generosity, openness, release of control, risk-taking, change.

When the Four of Pentacles appears reversed in a tarot reading, it signifies a release of tight control and a shift away from possessiveness and greed. This card suggests financial instability or the need to re-evaluate how resources are managed. It encourages generosity and openness, indicating a willingness to let go of material attachments and embrace change. The reversed Four of Pentacles also highlights the importance of taking risks and moving away from rigid security, promoting a more flexible and adaptable approach to wealth and resources. This card invites you to find balance by being open to new possibilities and sharing your abundance.

El Tarocchi Insight

Four of Pentacles is a sign that fear is driving your financial decisions.

A pattern I’ve noticed across more than twenty years of tarot reading is that clients who pull this card are often holding on TOO tightly to what they have, locking themselves in a closed mindset of lack rather than opening up to opportunities for abundance. There’s a difference between being financially prudent and being financially paralyzed by fear of loss, and when I see this card, it’s usually the latter. I find myself asking clients: Are you truly being cautious, or are you letting your anxious thoughts stifle growth?

Gallery: Four of Pentacles in Various Tarot Decks

Coming soon!