IV of Pentacles

Conservation

invites stagnation

You’ve accumulated much wealth through successful endeavors and now you wish to protect it.

The IV of Pentacles is symbolic of material security. In the Hermetic Tarot it is known as the ‘Lord of Earthy Power.’ A figure stands tall, having grown more arms to carry their vast material wealth. They hold two of the pentacles protectively against their body and two up by their head which inadvertently block out their connection to the spirit. They are content with their burden, but unable to act or move forward if they continue to hold on. A castle wall barricades them from the outside world.

This card is ruled by the Sun and oversees the third decan of Capricorn.

In a reading this card may suggest that you are making good financial decisions and are on the right track to material security. However, it’s important to know when to stop being overly conservative and spend the wealth you’ve gained to enrich your life or help other people. You may be falsely equating your self-worth to your net value or material possessions. You may be feeling confident and comfortable in yourself and your social rank. Stability and comfort are well and good, but don’t be so afraid to lose what you have that you don’t take any risks. If you are struggling with money, now would be the time to reevaluate your spending. Start saving and spend wisely until you feel more secure.

The reversed could mean that your spending habits need work. You should start saving instead of spending everything you earn, but money doesn’t bring lasting happiness. Your love of the material may have evolved into greed. You may be placing too much value on material wealth, which is not always as important as other things in life. You may be realizing that your life is lacking as a result of those skewed priorities. You could also be feeling protective of yourself (as pentacles/earth represent not only our material world but also our selves) and seeking some control over your life.