The horse on the card is slow, with a heavy step and an enduring nature. This is the essence of this card. The Knight of Pentacles is a reliable and responsible person who is very slow to start something new, but once he starts, he does not stop until it is over and done. He is not intuitive or original. His methods are long tested and proven, and he is dexterous enough to follow the procedure to the letter. The experience of this card might be boring, but its rewards are stable material gains.
On the card
A knight in full armour sits on a heavy black horse that stands perfectly still. He holds a single pentacle in his gloved hand and looks at it steadily. On his helmet and on the horse's bridle are sprigs of green leaves, small signs of growth and nature.
Unlike the other three Knights of the Minor Arcana, whose horses charge or step forward, this horse does not move at all. All four of its legs are planted firmly on the ground. The knight himself is calm and patient, not hurrying anywhere.
Behind him spreads a landscape of ploughed fields, neatly prepared and waiting to be sown or harvested. The sky above is a warm yellow.
The stillness of the scene is its message. This is the knight of patience, method and reliability. He thinks before he moves and does not rush into anything. The ploughed fields show that his concern is practical, steady work and the slow but sure process of making things grow. The card describes diligence, routine and responsibility: progress that may be slow, but that is solid and lasting.
Upright
Accomplishment through patience and procedure, responsibility, methodical, hard-working, persistence.
Reversed
Avaricious, idle, stagnant, inertia, taking pride in the accomplishments of other people.