VIII of Pentacles

Always

growing

When life feels unfulfilling, the best thing to do is take a step back, gain some perspective, and try something new. With hard work and diligence your circumstances can change.

The VIII of Pentacles is symbolic of material renewal and change as a result of action and will. In the Hermetic Tarot it is known as the “Lord of Prudence.” A figure stands at an easel painting a landscape. They are focused on the task at hand and working diligently. The blank canvas to the side suggests that they know their first attempt may not be perfect, and they are willing to practice and hone their skills until they become a master. The pentacles in the field represent the old way of life they cast aside. Even further in the distance is the home they left behind to pursue this new undertaking and will only return to once it is complete.

This card is ruled by the sun and oversees the first decan of Virgo.

In a reading, this card may reveal that you are working hard to make some positive changes in your life. You may have recently taken up learning something new or decided to improve upon a skill you’ve already developed. Either way you are dedicating a lot of time and energy to mastering it. This card encourages you to keep going because you are on the right track. The word prudence refers to self discipline, skill, and good judgement. If you aren’t currently working towards anything, ask yourself, what areas of your life can you fine tune to make yourself happier? In what ways can you be better? In life, there is never a time to stop learning and growing.

The reversed may reveal that you are that you are working on bettering your inner self. You are trying to manage your thoughts and actions to become the best version of you. It may also point to an unhealthy hyper-focus or perfectionism that’s giving you a skewed perception of reality. Perfection is an illusion and an impossible goal. Let it go and learn to adapt. If you are working on a project that isn’t going anywhere or giving you the sense of accomplishment you desire, this card is an invitation to take a step back to reevaluate your focus and your goals.