Giving and Receiving
What you give, you receive. What you hoard, you lose.
The Six of Pentacles embodies both generosity and scarcity; between reaching out a hand and knowing when to accept one.
But giving is not always selfless, and receiving is not always easy. Power exists in both. Some transactions come with strings attached, and one’s “generosity” can often mask control.
This card asks: Are you the giver, or the one in need? And do you truly understand the weight of either role?
What is the Six of Pentacles?
The Six of Pentacles represents the flow of resources, and the power that plays in giving and receiving.
Thus is the cyclical nature of wealth—material, emotional, or spiritual.
This card also reminds us that abundance is meant to be shared, not hoarded.
Symbolism
- The Scales – Justice, balance, fairness—ensuring all receive what they are due.
- The Wealthy Figure – A position of power; the ability to give, but also the choice to withhold.
- The Beggars – Those in need, representing vulnerability but also humility in receiving.
- The Flowing Coins – The constant exchange of wealth, energy, and fortune.
Element: Earth
Rooted in the Earth element, this card speaks to tangible wealth, security, and the material world.
Abundance is not just about possession—it is about movement, about circulation. Stagnation breeds loss, but generosity creates flow.
Associated Astrology: Moon in Taurus
The Moon in Taurus craves security but also values comfort and generosity. This placement represents emotional and material stability, as well as the need to feel safe before giving freely.
Numerology: 6
In numerology, six is the number of harmony, balance, and responsibility. It represents the give-and-take of relationships, the reciprocity that keeps the world turning.
“No one has ever become poor by giving.”
— Anne Frank
Upright Meanings
The Six of Pentacles reminds us that generosity and support flow in cycles. Sometimes we give, sometimes we receive—but both are necessary.
General Meaning
A time of giving and receiving. Are you offering help, or are you the one in need? Either way, embrace the exchange.
Love
A relationship built on mutual support. Giving and receiving love should be balanced—are you being fair in your partnerships?
Career
Help from a mentor, financial support, or charity. Sharing knowledge and resources leads to greater success.
Finances
A time of financial generosity or assistance. Money flows. Give wisely, and receive with gratitude.
Health
Support in times of need. Healing often comes through the care of others—are you open to receiving it?
Reversed Meanings
When reversed, the Six of Pentacles warns of imbalance—strings attached, one-sided giving, or power struggles in generosity.
General Meaning
Unequal exchanges, debts, or manipulative charity. Is generosity being used as leverage?
Love
One partner giving more than the other. Love should be shared, not used as currency.
Career
Unequal pay, favoritism, or lack of recognition. Be mindful of exploitation—are you undervaluing yourself?
Finances
Financial inequality, unpaid debts, or hidden conditions. Not all help comes freely. Read the fine print.
Health
Neglecting self-care or overextending for others. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
What Does the Six of Pentacles Teach Us?
Generosity is a cycle. Today’s giver may be tomorrow’s receiver. But every act of giving creates an unspoken dynamic. Power shifts hands, debts are formed, and intentions matter.
Be conscious of when you partake in another one of life’s transactions – big or small.
When you give, is it with an open palm with no strings attached? When you take, is it with a clear mind unclouded by greed or desperation?
