Tarot Card Symbolism: The Five of Pentacles of the Minor Arcana

The Five of Pentacles of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the fifth card of the Suit of Pentacles. It follows the Four of Pentacles. It is the embodiment of a difficult situation and material troubles.

The Symbolism of the Five of Pentacles Tarot Card

This card is represented by two figures who have obviously fallen on hard times. One appears to be an older woman, wrapped in rags and barefoot. The second is a man on crutches with a bell around his neck. They both are trudging through the snow.

In the background is a stained glass window, maybe to a church, temple, or chapel. The exact location is unclear. In this window, five golden pentacles can be seen.

The General Interpretation of the Five of Pentacles Card

When appearing in a spread, this card implies a grim or hard situation, one that is difficult to escape. The individual may feel trapped by indecision, or might simply feel as if they are ‘left out in the cold’ by others. Despite these feelings, the individual must remain determined if he wishes to find a way out.

This card is an indicator of definite material troubles. It could be as severe as destitution, as suggested by the picture. It could also be less severe, but just as troubling, such as the loss of a job or a reduction in pay. This is a situation where one must rely on oneself to get out of the present situation.

The Inner Meaning of the Five of Pentacles is Tarot

The Five of Pentacles is the image of material troubles and difficult situations. However, the stained glass window indicates charities and hope. This hope, while elusive, is definitely worth fighting for, even if the present situation does seem hopeless at the moment.

This card also suggests that someone might be in need of aid. The individual who draws this card will likely be drawn to someone or something, slowly but surely. The bell around the man’s neck suggests that this call will be insistent, and almost impossible to ignore. Indeed, it should not be ignored, for as difficult as the present situation may be, there are those who are in truly dire need.

On another level, this is also a card of love or friendship, despite difficult times. In this case, it often indicates that one must stay a true friend to those experiencing hardship.

The Six of Pentacles follows this card.