(The above image is a copy of The Eight of Pentacles card in a standard Rider-Waite Tarot deck. The 3 symbols pointed out above are explained below.)
Card Description
While other cards in the pentacle suit illustrated material possessions given or admired. the Eight of Pentacles illustrates material possessions crafted by yourself. This is the card of hobbies and art. The card encourages you to pursue your passion project and to respect the craft of others.
If you are looking for a deck of Tarot cards, check out our standard Rider-Waite deck here or check out one of our recent arrivals here.
For more information about The Eight of Pentacles card, check out A. E. Waite’s description here.
Point 1 – FIGURE
The figure in the card is the only figure in the suit that actually works on the pentacle. Like a combination of the architect and monks in the Three of Pentacles, the figure in this card symbolizes the craftsman. Rather than being given material things, he creates them and uses them for his benefit.
Point 2 – FIGURE’S RED AND BLUE TUNIC
This figure is wearing a blue and red tunic. Some scholars see this as a combination of water and fire, resulting in the suit element of earth. Other scholars believe the colors represent the passion and zeal that the craftsman has for his art.
Point 3 – PENTACLES
The arrangement of the pentacles in the card represents the past, present, and future. The pentacles on the pole represents our past work, displayed to be admired. The pentacle that the figure is working on represents the present, the project that you are currently working on. The pentacle on the ground represents the future, the project that you will work on one day.
Tarot Reading
Upright
An Upright Eight of Pentacles encourages you to pursue a hobby you are passionate about. Maybe you want to write a book or take a painting class. This card supports your interests and illustrates the spiritual maturity that comes with mastering a craft. An Upright Eight of Pentacles suggests the necessity of passion projects along with professional ones.
Reverse
While an Upright Eight of Pentacles suggests you are working on an external hobby, a Reverse Eight of Pentacles suggests that you are working on self-improvement. The card encourages you to take a break from your professional life and to look inward for a peace of mind. Perhaps you should meditate or go to the spa. Do whatever you must in order to reach internal bliss.
For more Tarot Card Meanings, check out our blog here.
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About the author: John Taylor is a content writer and freelancer through the company Upwork.com. You may view his freelancing profile here. He has a B. A. in English, with a specialty in technical writing, from Texas A&M University and a M. A. in English from the University of Glasgow. You may view his previous articles about Tarot here and his LinkedIn profile here.
