Five of Pentacles Tarot Card Meaning

Five pentacles are arranged in a square with an additional one at the top, forming a pentagram that signifies the elevation of material things and connection with the spiritual realm.

The scene is of a blizzard, with a snowy landscape and snowflakes filling the sky, raging in the dim night. The resplendent five pentacles hang high on the church's window, inside of which is a peaceful and sheltered world.

However, in the harsh reality, there are two people suffering from hunger and cold, who must face this tangible hardship—hungry and cold, moving forward against the biting wind and with injuries.

These two destitute individuals pass by the bright window scene, yet they look in the opposite direction, not drawn to the light and warmth, nor do they have the intention to stop. The combination of the two scenes is like different worlds being separated, creating a stark contrast.

The man on the left of the image has his left foot wrapped and is walking wearily with a crutch. On the right is a woman, huddled under a red cloth. Both are dressed in tattered clothes, walking with tired steps. They may be a couple, accompanying each other through whatever harsh environment they face, supporting one another, adding some warmth, but without the leisure to cuddle and linger.

Since the scene is a dark night with a blizzard, the church's architecture and outer walls are not clear, yet this bright and splendid window is distinctly and clearly presented, a typical vertical chain window used in churches. The church's door is not open, nor is it shown, indicating a closed and resting church.

Church Window

The church window, usually adorned with five pentacles, represents the spiritual sustenance that is always available to us, but often overlooked, especially during times of hardship. This serves to contrast the earthly suffering that the figures experience with the potential for spiritual comfort.

Two Figures

These figures, often seen as poor or leper-like, symbolize the marginalized, oppressed, or neglected aspects of ourselves or our lives. Their physical condition suggests the physical or material difficulties one may be facing.

Snowy Path

The snowy, barren landscape symbolizes isolation, hard times, and the feeling that one is left out in the cold. It portrays a challenging situation where resources are scarce and the environment is unfriendly.

Crutches and Ragged Clothes

The crutches and ragged clothes that the figures wear represent the emotional or physical supports that one might rely upon but which may not be adequate. They symbolize frailty and a sense of being handicapped in face of life’s challenges.

Bare Feet

The bare feet of the figures suggest a spiritual grounding, reminding us that despite adversities, the potential for spiritual insight remains. It signifies a journey that is both literal and metaphorical, and the struggles that accompany it.