The Fool & 5 of Pentacles
The Fool & 5 of Pentacles
Analysis:
Each scene contains snow. It's a fairly interesting detail as there are only a few cards in the deck where we see snow.
Each image features a prominent light source. In The Fool, there is the sun. In the 5 of Pentacles, there is the illuminated stained glass window.
There are flowers in each card. The Fool carries a single white rose while in the 5 of Pentacles, there are 2 red flowers in the window.
All three figures are wearing flowy, loose fitting clothes.
The 5 of Pentacles is linked to the first decan of Taurus, and the eagle depicted on The Fool’s pouch is the Kerubic emblem of Scorpio, which is its opposite sign.
The Wheel on The Fool’s dress, and the Pentagram seen in the coins, both symbolize Spirit and its dominion over the elements.
Sticks are used in each image as an aid in travel. The Fool carries his pouch on a stick while one of the travelers in the 5 uses crutches for support.
Speaking of travel, both cards allude to journeys. The Fool appears to be at the beginning of their trek, full of hope and possibility, with no fear of what may be on the horizon. In the 5 of Pentacles, we see two weary travelers at a point of struggle in their voyage. Furthermore, both cards contain a pair of companions - The Fool and the dog, and the two people in the 5.
What do YOU see???
Possible Interpretation:
These cards depict two very different states of being. But, at the same time, what appears on the surface might be a matter of perspective. Superficially, The Fool comes off as light hearted, excited and full of wonder. But, does this point to them being enlightened or ignorant? On the other hand, we assume the travelers in the 5 of Pentacles have most definitely steered off course. But, are they really nearing their demise, or have they completed the trials on the path to enlightenment and are in fact a stone's throw from salvation? It's difficult to see what's really happening in either of these cards. It's kind of like an illusion or optical trick. The wheel spins one way until we blink, and then suddenly it's going the other. All of these states (ignorance vs wisdom, impoverished vs. enlightened) may be difficult to discern by appearances or perceptions alone. We have to look deeper. These cards ask us to look at our current state and then, look again. The journey ahead is more about experience than material gain. There will be ups and downs, but that’s okay because those things are equally important in getting you to where you’re going.