The Four of Pentacles

In astrology, the sky is divided into 12 sections of 30 degrees each, and each of these sections is a zodiacal sign.  Each of these signs can be divided into three sections of 10 degrees each and each of these sections is a decan. 

The Four of Pentacles is a decanic minor, meaning it is a minor arcana card between the numbers 2 and 10.  The minor arcana cards ranging from 2 to 10 are assigned to one of the 36 decans. 

·      The Four of Pentacles is assigned to Capricorn at 20 to 29 degrees.  

·      Capricorn is a cardinal earth sign. 

·      Capricorn qualities are prudent, ambitious, wry, reserved, hard-working, disciplined, and tactical. 

·      Cardinal signs initiate new actions. 

·      The value of the number four represents structure. 

·      The pentacles represent the element of earth which symbolizes the dealings of earthly and material realms such as nature, money, work, routine, activities, and stable relationships.

Traditionally, this card is known as “The Miser.” At first glance, it may appear that the individual is protecting himself from the energy of the outside world using the pentacles to cover his crown, throat, heart, and feet.  However, the man is unable to protect his back from the energy of the city that resides in the background. 

Today, the first day of the Gregorian year, this card invites me to consider how I am structuring or making sense of the material world.  The question arises, “In the year to come, how do I want to position myself to my work?”  As I ponder this, perhaps The Four of Pentacles is a reminder to consider how I conserve my energy in relationship to my work life in an effort to find balance, as there is often a temptation to over give or over do.