The Two of Pentacles is a master juggler. This is the ultimate in balance. Someone once told me a story of a juggler who would juggle things at a local market. People from the crowd would throw things into the mix, and the guy could just keep going. He was the ultimate in turning adversity into opportunity. When the Two of Pentacles comes up, this is a time when we’re all about balance, even at a time when it seems like balancing so much should be impossible.
The ships in the background indicate there’s a lot going on subconsciously – while this master juggler seems to have it under control, emotionally there’s a lot running through his mind. The figure is conflicted with two different interests weighing on his mind. The infinity sign is a reminder that what goes around comes back around. All our actions will give rise to their effects in the future. It’s also an indication that the figure can handle ‘infinite’ problems. While the ships are in treacherous waters, they are navigating those waters easily. The big red hat represents the many thoughts the figure can hold in his mind.
Upright meaning: The Two of Pentacles is all about the challenge we face constantly between balancing work and life, friends and family, and all our opposing interests. The card is a reminder to be nimble. The mix will never be perfect, but if we can flex where we’re needed we can be like the juggler, in perfect harmony despite the treacherous sea in the distance. The card is also a reminder that managing the day to day is just as important as managing our bigger goals. When the Two of Pentacles shows up, it’s a time to go with the flow.
Reversed: When the Two of Pentacles appears in the reversed position, it’s an indication that something is out of balance. Generally the card appears when things in our mundane, day-to-day life have been ignored. For example, paying bills, doing laundry, grocery shopping. When we ignore these responsibilities, it’s overwhelming, but by getting these boring tasks over with, we will feel a sense of peace and stability return to our mind. The card calls on us to get organized. Make a budget, make a to-do list, and get after it.
A Fool's Journey Through Tarot 