The INDIAN TAROTS – Ten of Pentacles

The card illustrates and old man and his family behind ten pentacles in the shape of the cabalistic ‘Tree of Life’. The old man has reached material fulfilment in his life and thus gained enlightenment. Instead of hoarding his possessions, he shares his abundance with his family.

The ten pentacles are arranged to match the 10 stages of the cabalistic Tree of Life. This furthers the connection that tarot has with mystical traditions in theistic religions. A reiteration of the Five of Pentacles, the arrangement here shows the harmonious connection material things can have with the divine.

The old man is the husband of the woman in the Nine of Pentacles later in years. While the woman in that card celebrated her own work, the man in this card uses his work to celebrate others. Wise in year, the man blesses his children and grandchildren with his abundance. The family if three is probably related to the old man. They are enjoying the abundance as the old man’s blessing. However, they are looking at each other, not at the old man, which might mean they are not aware of his blessings.

Two dogs stand at the feet of the old man. On the surface, this shows a harmony between man and the animal kingdom, similar to the Nine of Pentacles. If we take things a little deeper, dogs have a lot of significance in Sanatan culture. Dogs guard the pathway to heaven in Hindu belief. According to mythology, the keepers of the underworld, the Yamadutas, take the form of dogs. So, dogs assist in transitioning the soul to the afterlife. When the Pandavs were committing Mahaprasthan, Yama dev accompanied them as form of a dog. Lord Kaal Bhairav also has dog as his companion. The good relationship between the old man and the dog signifies that the old man is spiritually enlightened and not afraid of afterlife.

Many things in the Ten of Pentacles illustrate a harmony of opposites, man and animal, nature and civilization, material and spiritual. This harmony can be represented in the bridge connecting the hills behind in background. Grapes traditionally represent a celebration of life and a maturity of spirit. As per Hinduism, grapes symbolise prosperity, abundance, luck, vitality and joy; it is also a major fruit offered to many deities including Lord Vishnu as bhog-prasad. The fruit illustrates the road to enlightenment as a sweet journey.

Upright meaning

The upright Ten of Pentacles represents wealth, abundance, and family. It suggests that you’re experiencing financial success and that you’re surrounded by loving family and friends. The card encourages you to appreciate the blessings in your life and to share your wealth and abundance with others.

Reverse meaning

The reversed Ten of Pentacles can indicate financial loss, discord within the family, or a lack of stability. It suggests that you may be experiencing financial or emotional turmoil, or that your relationships with family members are strained. The card encourages you to seek support and to work towards creating a stable and loving environment for yourself and those around you.