The Five of Pentacles is the card of hardship. Money, support or health are lacking — but help is closer than it seems.
What Five of Pentacles means
The Five of Pentacles speaks of tough times: financial, emotional or feeling left out. It is a difficult phase.
In a spread, it also shows that help is available. Often, all you have to do is ask.
It is a passing card: it speaks of a winter, not a lifetime.
The card image
Two poor figures walk through the snow, one on crutches, passing beneath a lit church window. The snow is the hardship; the lit window is the help that is right there beside them.
Five of Pentacles in love
In love, feeling alone or rejected, or a relationship going through hard times together. It can also point to a couple united in adversity.
What do they feel for me? Five of Pentacles in feelings
For “How do they feel about me?”, the Five of Pentacles shows someone going through a hard time. They may like you, but feel they have nothing to offer right now.
Five of Pentacles at work
At work, unemployment, cutbacks or insecurity. Look for support and don’t give up.
Five of Pentacles and money
In finances, real hardship. Ask for help, renegotiate, cut out what isn’t essential. This will pass.
Five of Pentacles reversed
Reversed, it means recovery: the crisis begins to ease, and help or a solution arrives.
Combinations with other cards
Five of Pentacles with the Six of Pentacles: help on its way.
Five of Pentacles with The Star: hope after hard times.
Five of Pentacles with the Ten of Swords: the rock bottom of a crisis.
Five of Pentacles in a yes-or-no reading
In Yes or No Tarot, Five of Pentacles answers no. The full answer, with the why, depends on your question.
Mestre Cruz's advice
Ask for help. There is no shame in it at all. The light in the window is right there beside you.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Five of Pentacles mean poverty?
It speaks of hardship, financial or emotional, usually temporary.
Is the Five of Pentacles bad in love?
It points to loneliness or difficulties, but it can also show a couple united in adversity.
Is the Five of Pentacles a yes or a no?
It’s a no, for now.