Three of Pentacles Keywords: Recognition, Validation, Achievement, Skill

Three of Pentacles Tarot Card Description

Three pentacles have been carved into the archway of what seems to be the church of a monastery or friary. The master craftsman stands on a bench and is discussing his work with a monk/friar, and a noblewoman. The noblewoman is holding the plans of the structure and is probably the wealthy benefactor of the monastery/friary. The relaxed posture of the craftsman reveals his pride in a job well done. The monk/friar and the noblewoman are obviously impressed, listening attentively, and showing great interest in what he has to say.

What the Three of Pentacles Means in a Tarot Reading

This is a card of validation and recognition for a job well done. The Three of Pentacles tells you that if you put in the work, develop your skills, and persevere with grit and resilience even when you want to give up, you will be rewarded in the end. Your efforts will be valued and appreciated. You’ll be acknowledged as an expert in your field and people will seek you out.

If you’ve been working long and hard in the background and feel that your efforts are going unnoticed, the appearance of this card is a sign that your reward is coming. People are beginning to notice. Your peers and superiors, and perhaps even strangers will praise your skill and talents. You’re surpassing the skills and abilities of those around you.

Quite often this card appears in spreads for craftspeople and artists, where talent and skill are easily recognized and appreciated. What isn’t easy to see is the hours, months, and years of work that go into developing these talents and skills. Remember that when you see this card. No matter what your area of work, you’ll need to put in the hard yards and dedication to develop the skills and knowledge required to make you a ‘master craftsman’.

Your status will be elevated as a result of your hard work. You’ll be recognized as an expert. People will trust your judgement and come to you for advice.

Many readers emphasize the themes of teamwork and collaboration for the Three of Pentacles. These meanings are certainly a possibility, however, I read this card more as emphasizing the fact that your own efforts and work output will bring you the admiration, praise, and support of people – both colleagues and strangers. They might not be working with you in a team, but your work will have an effect on them nonetheless.

Three of Pentacles Love and Relationships Tarot Meanings

It’s possible, when the Three of Pentacles appears in a love reading, that you’ll meet someone in your workplace, or related to your work in some way. Keep this in mind and be open to possibilities at work.

Some readers make the point that this card is very much rooted in the material world and practical matters, and that it may indicate a very materialistic and rather unemotional relationship with your partner. This is a possibility, but I think it’s far more likely that your relationship will be securely grounded and that it’ll bring you a sense of meaningful purpose and security. You’re realistic about your material needs and you’re willing to work hard to build a secure and comfortable lifestyle with your partner.

Three of Pentacles Career Tarot Meanings

The Three of Pentacles is a great card to see in a spread about work and your career. All the meanings outlined above apply here. After working long and hard, you’re going to be recognized as an expert at what you do. Your work will be admired and sought after.

If you haven’t already reached this stage, then the appearance of this card is counselling that the hard work and effort you put in now will pay off later. Success won’t be handed to you on a silver platter, but if you dedicate time and effort to what you do, then you’ll be assured of success and acclaim.

You’ll gain the respect and admiration of others in your field. Ultimately, you’ll advise and guide others. You’ll be a master craftsman.