Tarot has been a part of Barbara Moore's personal and professional lives for nearly twenty years. Right from the start, tarot intrigued her with its marvelous blending of mythology, psychology, art, history, mystery, and magic. She has studied under...
The idea of gathering power often has negative connotations. We associate it with ideas of being "power hungry," seeking power to control others, or gaining power through the exploitation of others. But to read this card in that way reflects possibly erroneous assumptions and personal judgments. This card is about gathering power, for whatever reason and through whatever means. Unlike the Two of Pentacles, where energy flowed, in the Four of Pentacles, the energy is not flowing. It is being held in reserve for future use. This power can be realized through many ways, such as money, control over resources, a secure or safe living environment, or acquiring the ability to earn a living. Whether the means and the end yield a happy situation remains to be seen
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In the Universal Waite card, the man's entire focus is on gathering or holding on to his power. It is on his mind, as shown by the pentacle on his head. It is in his heart, as shown by the pentacle in his arms. It is his foundation, as shown by the pentacles under his feet. His being outside the town with his power represents that these resources are at present outside of the flow of goods.
Core meaning: Gathering power.
The Legacy card is a close-up of the man and his coins, representing his power. He has it all in hand and held close, giving a feeling of hoarding or selfishness, although really we don't know what his plans are. His expression is enigmatic and can be read as cautiously pleased, frightened, or obsessively protective.
The Shadowscapes card takes the idea of hoarding and selfishness and runs with it. The dragon is a symbol for greed and obsessive love of treasure. He also represents the sort of paranoia that thinks everyone is out to take what is his. This card, unlike the others, overtly highlights the negative side of power.
