Five of Pentacles
The Five of Pentacles is the card of hardship. It shows a difficult stretch — financial, physical or emotional — often made worse by feeling left out in the cold. But help may be closer than it seems.
What's on the card
Two figures trudge through the snow past a lit stained-glass church window decorated with five pentacles. One is on crutches, the other wrapped in a thin shawl, barefoot. Neither looks up at the warm light above them. The window suggests that shelter and help are nearby, if only they would notice.
Five of Pentacles Upright
Upright, the Five of Pentacles points to hardship: money trouble, job loss, health worries or feeling isolated and unsupported. It can be a hard card to see.
Its message, though, is that you don't have to face it alone. Look for help — from friends, family, community or professional services — and don't let pride stop you from accepting it.
Five of Pentacles Reversed
Reversed, the Five of Pentacles often shows recovery after a difficult time. Things are improving, support is arriving, or you're finding your way back to stability.
It can also point to lingering worry even after the worst has passed.
Five of Pentacles in Love & Relationships
In love, the Five of Pentacles may point to a couple going through hard times, or feeling left out and alone. Reversed, you're coming through difficulties together.
Five of Pentacles in Career & Work
At work, it may reflect job insecurity, unemployment or feeling undervalued. Reversed, a new opportunity or improvement is on the way.
Five of Pentacles and Money
Financially, this is the card of money trouble and loss. Seek advice and help. Reversed, recovery is beginning.
Advice
Look up — help may be closer than you think.
Five of Pentacles — Yes or No?
The Five of Pentacles usually means no, or not yet. Reversed, things are looking up.
The other Fives
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Five of Pentacles mean?
Hardship, financial difficulty, isolation and feeling left out.
What does the Five of Pentacles mean in love?
Going through hard times together, or feeling alone.
What does the Five of Pentacles reversed mean?
Recovery, support arriving and the end of a hard time.
| Group | Cards | Traditional Theme |
|---|---|---|
| Major Arcana | 22 | Life’s big turning points and archetypal themes |
| Wands | 14 | Traditionally linked to fire — ambition, energy, creativity |
| Cups | 14 | Traditionally linked to water — emotion, relationships, intuition |
| Swords | 14 | Traditionally linked to air — thought, conflict, communication |
| Pentacles | 14 | Traditionally linked to earth — money, work, the material world |