The Tarot Pips (numbered cards) show the action that is going on in our lives on a daily basis. Where the Major Arcana is of the Spiritual realm, the Minor Arcana are of the Physical realm. Each pip carries two types of energy – the energy of their number, and the energy of their suit.

Esoterically, the number four represents stability, grounding and solid matter. In the Tarot, the number four is associated with the four elements, the four seasons, the four worlds, and the four directions. It speaks of the setting of boundaries, of order and structure.

The number four is connected with the Emperor, Death, and the four’s in each of the suits. The Emperor sits on his throne, master of his universe. He rules with logic and reason – the foundation of his world. His throne is the “seat of reason”. Death is all about letting go of that which is no longer serving us. In doing so, we open up space to bring something new in.

The Four of Wands expresses foundation in the world of creativity. What has been imagined has been manifested into the physical world. There is a sense of completion here, along with a sense of celebration. This card is associated with the home, and is known as the marriage card. There is a sense of harmony and balance here.

The Four of Cups expresses foundation in the world of emotions. This is a tricky card, because if we become too absorbed in our emotions, we can tend to not acknowledge those around us, and the love and support that they are offering.

The Four of Swords expresses foundation in the mental realm. Here we are looking at the need for a time out to recuperate after a particularly stressful time.

The Four of Pentacles expresses foundation in the physical realm. This is where we see our physical and material security manifested. There is an inability here to want to let go of anything. This can be due to greed, or to simply miserly tendencies. There is also a sense of loneliness attached to this card.

Fours in a reading reference things manifesting in your life. They can also indicate a need for introspection, or a need for change.