Six of Pentacles

Symbolism

The Six of Pentacles shows a well-dressed merchant holding a set of scales in his left hand and, with his right, dropping coins to one of two people kneeling before him. Six pentacles float around the scene. In the 1909 art, the scales show that giving isn't only charity: it's balance, and everyone receives in measure.

In general

The Six of Pentacles is the card of generosity. It shows up when there's a fair exchange: giving and receiving help, sharing resources, paying and getting paid, supporting and being supported. It's about charity, reciprocity, gratitude and financial balance. It can show you helping someone, or being helped. Reversed, it shows imbalance: debt, help with strings attached, or one person who only gives or only takes.

Yes or no

The Six of Pentacles gives with scales in hand: yes, generously. Giving and receiving are in balance. Reversed, the answer is maybe: the scales tip to one side, and it depends on the exchange becoming fair for both sides.

In love

In a love reading, the Six of Pentacles points to a relationship with balanced give-and-take: mutual care, generosity and respect.

If you're in a relationship, it speaks of giving and receiving in equal measure. If you're single, it shows you're ready to offer and receive affection.

Reversed, it points to unequal relationships, one person giving more, or affection with conditions.

As feelings

As feelings, the Six of Pentacles means generous affection: this person wants to take care of you and be taken care of too. Reversed, the feelings come with expectations.

At work

At work, the Six of Pentacles often points to a raise, a bonus, sponsorship, mentorship or help from someone influential. Reversed, it warns against unequal working relationships.

With money

With money, the Six of Pentacles points to money coming in, loans repaid, donations or financial help. Reversed, watch out for debt and for lending without any guarantee.

In family and friendship

In family and friendship, the Six of Pentacles brings mutual support and generosity. Reversed, it shows an imbalance, with someone always giving or always asking.

On the personal path

On a personal level, the Six of Pentacles asks you to practice generosity, including the generosity of accepting help. Reversed, it invites you to look at where the exchange has become uneven.

Advice

As advice, the Six of Pentacles says: give and receive fairly.

In the Celtic Cross positions

• The Present: an exchange, some help or a sharing of resources is in play.
• The Challenge: the obstacle is an imbalance between giving and receiving.
• The Crown: you want reciprocity and stability.
• The Foundation: underneath the question is a relationship with money that needs balance.
• The Recent Past: help that was given or received changed the situation.
• The Near Future: support, a payment or a chance to help someone is coming.
• Yourself: you're generous.
• Your Environment: there are people around you who are willing to help.
• Hopes and Fears: you want support, and you're afraid of depending on others.
• The Outcome: this points to a fair, balanced exchange.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Six of Pentacles a good card?

Yes. It's about generosity, help and balance.

What does the Six of Pentacles reversed mean?

Reversed, it points to debt, imbalance, help with strings attached or unequal relationships.

Is the Six of Pentacles a yes or no card?

Upright, it's a yes. Reversed, it's a maybe.

See also the Five of Pentacles, which comes before it, the Seven of Pentacles, the next step, and Justice, another card of the scales.