The suit of Pentacles symbolizes the element Earth, and correlates to Diamonds in a playing card deck. All cards within this suit represent an aspect of elemental Earth that exists inside of us or is present in our lives. Depending on the tarot deck, this suit may also be called Coins or Disks. By any of these names, this suit represents the physical realm.
To better appreciate this suit, consider the properties of the Earth herself, particularly soil. It is solid, manifested reality that we can hold in our hands. It provides the very foundation for life in this dimension we call reality. Compared to the other suits, Pentacles indicates characteristics that are the most perceivable and measurable. Our physical bodies are of the Earth, and so are associated with this suit. Money is too, because (fairly or unfairly) it is the symbol of our worth in this physical world.
Within the psyche, Pentacles is the realistic, down-to-Earth part of our nature. It’s not about hopes, dreams, and feelings. Rather, Earth is about results. Show me the money; get it done! Earthy personalities are practical, sensible, and reliable. They’re likely to have a good work-ethic, be astute in business matters, and be praised for their ability to complete the jobs they commit to.
- Elemental Earth is analogous to the solid state of matter.
- The Pentacles suit can be summarized as “I Do”.
- The Earth Zodiac signs are Capricorn, Taurus, and Virgo.
(Note: All images Rider Waite Smith tarot deck, available in many versions from US Games)