Eight is the numeral of expertise and achievement. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that both of these terms signify the Eight of Pentacles.
It is intriguing to observe that in the Pentacles Suit, the Seven of Pentacles card is often connected with the notion of compensation, while the numeral eight is conventionally associated with diligent labor.
In some sense, it may appear that these two should be reversed. Nevertheless, a concealed symbol was discovered in the Seven of Pentacles that many fail to notice, which happens to be mountains in the background.
This signifies that the conclusion of one achievement is merely the commencement of another aspiration. The Eight of Pentacles reinforces this deduction and conveys another message: average performance impedes progress and commitment is not only advantageous but mandatory even after receiving compensation.
Eight of Pentacles Tarot Card: Crucial Terminology
Before diving deeper into the meanings of the Eight of Pentacles in both upright and reversed positions, we have compiled a compilation of crucial terms that encapsulate the essence of this card from the Minor Arcana.
| Upright | Ambition, industriousness, expertise, crafts and skills, fastidiousness |
| Reversed | Lack of excellence, workaholic, mediocrity, dead-end paths |
| Yes or No | Yes |
| Numerology | 8 |
| Element | Earth |
| Planet | Mercury |
| Astrological Sign | Virgo |
Eight of Pentacles Tarot Card Explanation
Here is the depiction of the Eight of Pentacles Tarot card that will aid in comprehending its meaning and symbolism more effectively.
If the man portrayed in the Eight of Pentacles were married, his spouse would likely feel quite lonely. Both the positive and negative aspects of ambition and perfectionism are presented in a single image.
- Illustration: This card portrays a young laborer etching a pentacle onto one of eight coins spread out in front of and behind him.
- Pentacles: The arrangement of pentacles in the card symbolizes the continuum of the future, present, and past. The pentacles placed on the pole represent our past endeavors, showcased for acknowledgment. The one held by the figure represents the present, while the one resting on the ground signifies the future.
Fully engrossed in the current task, it is evident that the young artisan is both skilled and devoted.
Eight of Pentacles Tarot Card Upright Interpretation
The Eight of Pentacles represents an ongoing project that is soon to be a finished masterpiece.
There are many similarities between this card and the Three of Pentacles, which portrays an apprentice working on the structure of a cathedral. However, in this case, we are dealing with an experienced worker who is clearly hardworking and successful.
The card signifies a period of commitment, diligent effort, concentration, and ambition. Just like the worker, you are striving to improve your skills and achieve a higher level of expertise.
It indicates that you are aware that this will require intense focus and dedication, but you are prepared to invest the time and pay attention to the specifics.
You understand that mastery in these skills cannot be achieved overnight, but you are ready for the journey ahead and willing to persist.
Financial and Career Meaning
While money is often necessary to achieve our goals, it does not give meaning to our lives. If you have received this card in a financial or career reading, it suggests the need for a sense of purpose.
Is the work you are currently engaged in meaningful? If not, you must find a path that allows you to truly enjoy what you do. This may involve attending trade school, changing careers, or starting your own business.
The specific choice does not matter as long as you approach it with dedication and effort. Anything you wholeheartedly invest your time and energy into will yield substantial financial rewards.
However, relying on luck or get-rich-quick schemes is not advisable. When you do receive money, ensure that you invest it wisely. Most importantly, have confidence in yourself! Your belief in your abilities will work hand in hand with your skills and lead to financial success.
Love and Relationships Meaning
Is your or your partner’s workload affecting your relationship? When it comes to your love life, the Eight of Pentacles urges you to find a balance between your work and your romantic life.
Being ambitious and focused on your career is commendable, but it is the personal connections with loved ones that truly give life meaning. Make an effort to spend quality time with your spouse, even when work demands a lot of your attention.
If you are single and looking for a partner, make sure that your commitment to work or other responsibilities is not hindering your ability to find or maintain a relationship.
Health and Spirituality Meaning
The Eight of Pentacles often represents progress made in physical recovery or emotional healing, signifying a job well done.
If you have been putting effort into becoming stronger or growing spiritually, continue on your path. However, if you are currently dealing with a health issue, be careful not to see yourself as helpless or a victim of circumstances.
While you may not be able to control the outcome, you have control over your effort and your perspective. Simply shifting your attitude to a positive one can make a significant difference.
Reversed Eight of Pentacles Tarot Card Meaning
Let’s delve into the meaning of pulling the Eight of Pentacles tarot card in the reversed position.
Anyone who studies the Tarot will inform you that there truly is no ‘excellent’ or ‘awful’ card. What arises as a positive in one person’s reading can be a terrible addition to someone else’s.
In general, the Eight of Pentacles reversed suggests that you’re completely focused on one area of your life and showing carelessness, idleness, or laziness in others. It reminds you that focusing too much on one area can make you neglect other important parts of your life.
Also, the Eight of Pentacles reversed refers to the significance of making informed decisions and learning to balance things out. It reminds you that having too many responsibilities can lead to overwhelming emotions and careless mistakes.
You just need to keep in mind that anything in excess has the potential to become a hindrance and not a help.
Money and Career Meaning
In a career Tarot reading, the reversed Eight of Pentacles brings a warning and highlights potential challenges in your professional life. It signifies a repetitive or unfulfilling job, a lack of ambition or commitment, and being on a stagnant career path.
This card suggests that things may not be going well at work, and it could be a sign of unsuccessful job applications or lacking the necessary qualifications for advancement.
The reversed Eight of Pentacles also indicates idleness and laziness. If you’re in business, it serves as a reminder not to compromise on quality or rush through your work. For students, this card urges you to put in the necessary effort to avoid failing exams.
Additionally, it also teaches you to be cautious of going to the opposite extreme and becoming a workaholic or taking on more than you can handle. It’s essential to strike a balance between work and personal life.
In terms of finances, the reversed Eight of Pentacles suggests overspending, financial insecurity, potential debt, and susceptibility to scams. It advises you to be responsible with your money, make wise investments, and avoid being overly materialistic.
While it’s important to be prudent with your finances, avoid becoming overly stingy or selfish. Find a balance between financial responsibility and generosity towards those in need or whom you trust.
In short, the reversed Eight of Pentacles serves as a reminder to maintain a mindful and balanced approach to your career and financial matters.
Love and Relationships Meaning
The reversed Eight of Pentacles Tarot love meaning suggests that your relationship may be lacking effort, commitment, or experiencing laziness. It warns against allowing workaholic tendencies to negatively impact your relationship.
Boredom and complacency may be creeping in, requiring you to make efforts to appreciate and invest in your partner.
If you’re single and the Eight of Pentacles appears in a love reading, it indicates a lack of confidence or effort in meeting new people. It shows that you might be feeling bored and uninspired due to neglecting your romantic side and focusing too much on work.
To find someone special, it’s important to prioritize the romantic aspects of your life and actively engage in social opportunities.
Remember, in love and relationships, what you give is what you receive. Putting in the effort, showing commitment, and nurturing your romantic connections are crucial for resolving issues and experiencing fulfillment.
Health and Spirituality Meaning
When the reversed Eight of Pentacles appears in the health Tarot reading, you should consider it a warning sign. It suggests that you may be overly obsessed with your body, engaging in harmful behaviors like extreme dieting or excessive bodybuilding.
It might also indicate that you’re neglecting your health completely, through inadequate nourishment, absence of physical activity, or substance misuse. This card demands finding a harmonious approach to support your long-term wellness.
In the field of spirituality, the reversed Eight of Pentacles shows a disregard for your inner insight and suppression of your spiritual aspect.
It encourages you to shift away from materialistic or self-centered tendencies and redirect your focus towards your spiritual well-being. Reconnecting with your spiritual essence is crucial for reinstating equilibrium in your life.
Eight of Pentacles: Affirmative or Negative
The Eight of Pentacles is a positive card, particularly when connected to a question regarding learning or improvement of any kind.
Are you questioning if your financial or work situations will improve? Are you anxious about enhancing a relationship? Things will undoubtedly improve – if you’re willing to exert a little effort.
Eight of Pentacles and Astrology
This card is associated with the planet Mercury, ruler of the Zodiac sign Virgo. Virgo is recognized as a conscientious individual who enjoys being of service to others.
This sign also isn’t afraid to venture out independently in search of knowledge. The Eight of Pentacles is ambitious and desires to expand their understanding and wisdom, just like Virgo.
Eight of Pentacles Important Card Combinations
The Eight of Pentacles represents ambition, diligence, mastery, and hard work. This interpretation can slightly change when combined with other cards. Below you can discover the most significant card combinations involving the Eight of Pentacles.
Eight of Pentacles and the Magician
Abracadabra, concentrate. Despite the fact that most magicians try to divert your attention with sleight-of-hand tricks, the sorcerer in the Magician Tarot card urges you to heighten your focus.
Though this is similar to the overall message of the Eight of Pentacles, this card combination implies that attentiveness is more crucial than ever.
What distractions could be hindering your completion of crucial tasks? Eliminate those, and nothing can stand in your way.
Eight of Pentacles and the Hierophant or the Hermit
The Suit of Pentacles is associated with career and finances. The Eight of Pentacles is usually a card focused on work, but not when paired with the Hierophant Tarot card.
Instead of fixating on the end goal, the combination of the Hierophant and the Eight of Pentacles suggests prioritizing education and spiritual practice.
Perhaps you desire to attend a specific school, learn a particular skill, or enhance your understanding of a specific subject. If it’s the Hermit card you received in the combination, focus on acquiring a self-taught skill through books or videos. The timing is aligning for you to do so.
Eight of Pentacles and the Hanged Man
Are you a creator at heart? Whatever you design or produce in the upcoming future has a very favourable chance of succeeding. The Hanged Man card implies taking your time on your creation and being meticulous as well. The investigation will benefit you as well as a strong plan.
Eight of Pentacles and the Two of Pentacles
Remember, all labour and no play make for an exhausting life. The combination of the Two of Pentacles and Eight of Pentacles illuminates the significance of allocating time to invest in things that you adore outside of your job.
Having enjoyable pastimes to dedicate time to can make life much more pleasurable.
Bowling, learning to apply cosmetics, swimming, painting, and DIY home projects are just a few options. There are plenteous listings available online that you can explore if you’re unsure where to start.
The Eight of Pentacles: Closing Thoughts
That’s all for the meaning of the Eight of Pentacles tarot card! Can’t get enough? Learn how to interpret Tarot in this Tarot Beginners Guide or delve further into the other major arcana cards here.
If you have drawn the Eight of Pentacles tarot card in your spread, did the interpretation resonate with your current life situation?
