Knight of Pentacles

Artist: Bella Lee

I'd like to start with a quote from the St. Kate’s Land Acknowledgment page, “We seek to understand the troubled acquisition of this land by unjust U.S. Government practices including the stealing of these lands and the forced removal from the birthplace of the Dakȟóta people without any compensation to the American Indian communities. We acknowledge the past, current, and future impacts of this history on our relationship with our American Indian sisters and brothers.” The Knight of Pentacles represents patience, responsibility, and a deep connection to the land, which aligns beautifully with St. Kate’s land acknowledgment. This card values self-discipline and long-term stability over quick gains, emphasizing the need for accountability and mindful action. Inspired by Rachel Pollack, the Knight of Pentacles respects nature’s cycles and works in harmony with the earth, not as a dominator but as a steward. This mindset reflects the commitment in our land acknowledgment—to honor the Dakota people and acknowledge the land’s history with humility and respect. The card’s cautious and patient energy mirrors the importance of deeply understanding past injustices and building a future rooted in ongoing education, community, and support. In my design, the figure symbolizes past, present, and future: skeleton legs rooted in history, human elements grounded in the present, and flowing hair representing movement and growth. The pentacle held close to the heart reflects the reverence and responsibility the Knight embodies. This card encourages us to value the land beyond material possessions, committing to a sacred connection that inspires responsibility and enduring action. It’s a reminder of how we can move forward while honoring and learning from the past.