Symbolism
A man sits on a stool holding a pentacle tightly against his chest. Another sits on his head, and he has one under each foot. Behind him lies a city. He has security, but he cannot move freely. The card shows the price of holding on too tightly.
Four of Pentacles upright
The Four of Pentacles shows a need for security and control. It is wise to protect what you have, but clinging too tightly can close you off from new opportunities and people.
Four of Pentacles reversed
Reversed, the Four of Pentacles suggests you are learning to let go, or that fear of loss has made you anxious. Find a healthy balance between saving and living.
Reversed keywords: letting go, generosity, fear of loss.
Four of Pentacles in love and relationships
Possessiveness or fear of losing someone. Trust is stronger than control.
Four of Pentacles in love: feelings, reversed, yes or no →
Four of Pentacles at work and in your career
A stable position, but perhaps resistance to change.
Four of Pentacles and money
Saving and caution. Just don't let fear stop you from investing in yourself.
Is Four of Pentacles a yes or no card?
Upright, the Four of Pentacles is a maybe: it depends on whether you can let go of some control. Reversed it leans toward no.
Four of Pentacles in a spread
In the past position it points to where this began: holding on tightly to security, sometimes too tightly. That earlier chapter still colors the situation now.
In the present position it names the energy around you right now: security, control, holding on.
In the future position it shows where things are heading if nothing changes, and what you can do about it: hold what matters with an open hand, not a clenched fist.
The card’s advice
Hold what matters with an open hand, not a clenched fist.
Pentacles: Earth: money, work and the body.
Frequently asked questions
What does Four of Pentacles mean in tarot?
The Four of Pentacles shows a need for security and control. It is wise to protect what you have, but clinging too tightly can close you off from new opportunities and people.
Is Four of Pentacles a yes or no card?
Upright, the Four of Pentacles is a maybe: it depends on whether you can let go of some control. Reversed it leans toward no.
What does Four of Pentacles reversed mean?
Reversed, the Four of Pentacles suggests you are learning to let go, or that fear of loss has made you anxious. Find a healthy balance between saving and living.
What does Four of Pentacles mean in love?
Possessiveness or fear of losing someone. Trust is stronger than control.