The Six of Pentacles (Coins) has now turned up three times in ten days, so it has my attention.
Because of Pixie’s imagery for this card in Waite’s deck, depicting a wealthy man with scales in his hand meting out alms to two paupers, I’ve long associated it with both generosity and injustice, and always with financial matters. I believe that my Pip Card Cheat Sheet has it as “haves and have nots.”
Seeing the card this morning brought to mind this phrase from Matthew’s Gospel: “the measure that you measure will be measured unto you.”
At first, I took this as a simple affirmation to share. I have enough (shelter, food, clothing) so I should be sharing more of with others in need, and trusting God to provide.
But as I read the full scripture passage, I realized that I may have been too constricted in my thoughts.
Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
– Matthew 7: 1-2
The Lord continues to expound on the topic of judging, encouraging us to examine ourselves first before looking to correct anyone else.
So I think that the message of the card, for me, at this time, is about the need for introspection, humility and generosity of spirit. It is from that humility and generosity that our outward good works should spring.