Ankh Spread

 

 

Difficulty: Kind of tough

The Ankh Spread is for questions about the causes behind trends. It is similar to the Celtic Cross and Secret of the High Priestess spreads, but it covers the reasons behind the circumstances in question differently, perhaps giving a better explanation of why things are the way they are.

The loop of the upper section of the ankh reveals the spiritual background and causes of the situation, while the stem of the base focuses on prospects for the outcome.

The first two tarot cards represent the two parent causes of the situation. They will either complement each other or show two opposing sides of a conflict, depending on how they relate. These are the significator cards of the Ankh spread.

3. This tarot card shines light upon the early causes of the trend in question.

4. Pinpoints the causes that triggered the current situation.

5. Reveals the spiritual perspective of the subject at hand.

6. This card examines the reasons why this course of action had to unfold, as a means to this end.

At this point, it is good to pause to soak in the meaning of the first six cards before moving forward to the last three cards. The last three reveal prospects for the future.

7. The Next Step gives clues about the immediate future.

8. Surprising Experiences encountered en route to the result.

9. This represents the result.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Ankh Reading

	Higher Perceptions V – The Pope (Le Pape)
Early Causes XVIII – The Moon (La Lune)		Triggering Causes 0 – The Fool (Le Mat)
	Necessary Conclusions XV – The Devil (Le Diable)
Significator #1 I – The Magician (Le Bateleur)		Significator #2 XXI – The World (Le Monde)
	Next Step VIII – Justice
	Surprising Experiences XVII – The Star (L'Étoile)
	Outcome XVI – The Tower (La Maison Dieu)

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

I – The Magician (Le Bateleur)

The Magician represents skill, potential, and the power to shape reality. As the first step in the Major Arcana, he symbolises the individual's awareness of their tools and the initiation of personal mastery.

Symbolism: The table before him holds simple tools—a cup, a coin, a blade, and a wand—representing the raw elements of life and their mastery. His wide-brimmed hat, resembling the lemniscate, speaks of infinite potential and dynamic creativity. The uneven terrain below mirrors his capacity to balance uncertainty with control.

In Relationships: A time to take initiative or charm your way into new connections. The Magician highlights personal magnetism but warns against manipulation.

In Work: A signal to harness your skills and capitalise on emerging opportunities. Confidence and action are key.

Spiritually: The Magician is the bridge between spirit and matter, teaching you to use divine gifts responsibly.

When ill-dignified: Deception, arrogance, or scattered energy. It warns against using talents for selfish or destructive ends.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

XXI – The World (Le Monde)

The World is the culmination of the journey, representing fulfilment, harmony, and unity. It signifies the integration of all aspects of life and the successful completion of a cycle, opening the way to new beginnings.

Symbolism: A central figure dances within a laurel wreath, symbolising victory and wholeness. The four corners often depict symbolic creatures (the lion, ox, eagle, and man), representing the elements, the fixed signs of the zodiac, or the four faces of a cherubim. The wreath signifies completion and eternity.

In Relationships: A harmonious, complete relationship or fulfilment of long-term goals in love. It reflects unity and shared purpose.

In Work: The successful culmination of a project or phase. Recognition and achievement mark this time of completion.

Spiritually: Le Monde invites the seeker to embrace the interconnectedness of all things, celebrating unity with the divine and readiness for new journeys.

When ill-dignified: Incompletion, stagnation, or feeling unfulfilled despite external success. It warns against losing sight of the bigger picture or resisting closure.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

XVIII – The Moon (La Lune)

The Moon symbolises intuition, mystery, and the subconscious. It reflects the realm of dreams, illusions, and emotions, inviting you to explore the depths of your psyche and confront hidden truths.

Symbolism: The Moon casts its dim light over a mysterious scene: a dog and a wolf howl beneath its glow, representing the duality of tame and wild instincts. A crayfish emerges from the water, symbolising the hidden depths of the subconscious rising to the surface. The two towers suggest boundaries between reality and the unknown.

In Relationships: Emotional complexity, hidden dynamics, or the need to trust your intuition. Beware of illusions or misunderstandings.

In Work: A period of uncertainty or unclear direction. It encourages careful reflection and trusting inner instincts over external noise.

Spiritually: The Moon calls for introspection and exploration of the shadow self through dreams, intuition, and subconscious symbols.

When ill-dignified: Confusion, deception, or fear of the unknown. It warns against being lost in illusions or succumbing to anxiety.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

0 – The Fool (Le Mat)

The Fool represents the untamed spirit and unshackled freedom of the soul. He wanders without boundaries, embodying movement, exploration, and detachment from worldly concerns. This card invites us to embrace change and unpredictability with courage and spontaneity.

Symbolism: The dog biting at the Fool's leg symbolises the tension between freedom and earthly constraints. His staff and bundle represent the burdens and wisdom accumulated on life's journey, carried with both carelessness and purpose. The colourful jester's attire signifies his eccentricity and adaptability, while his forward gaze reflects an openness to the unknown.

In Relationships: A new, unpredictable connection or the need for more spontaneity in existing relationships. Beware of recklessness.

In Work: Embarking on a risky or unconventional path, where intuition takes precedence over plans.

Spiritually: The Fool embodies the soul's leap into the vast unknown, trusting the divine order of chaos.

When ill-dignified: Naivety, poor judgement, or a lack of grounding. It warns of becoming aimless or distracted by superficial pursuits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

V – The Pope (Le Pape)

The Hierophant bridges the earthly and the divine, symbolising tradition, spiritual guidance, and the transmission of sacred knowledge. He represents the connection between the seeker and a higher truth through structure and ritual.

Symbolism: The Hierophant sits between two pillars, a gesture of blessing extended towards two kneeling figures below him. His triple cross sceptre represents spiritual authority, while the two fingers pointing to his heart suggest access to divine mysteries. His serene expression reflects wisdom tempered with compassion.

In Relationships: A relationship built on shared values. It can also signify guidance or mentorship within a partnership.

In Work: Success through adherence to structure, tradition, or established methods. Seek advice from a mentor or institution.

Spiritually: The Hierophant invites the seeker to explore established spiritual paths, finding wisdom in teachings passed down through generations.

When ill-dignified: Dogmatism, resistance to change, or blind adherence to tradition. It warns against sacrificing individuality for conformity.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

XV – The Devil (Le Diable)

The Devil represents temptation, materialism, and the power of the shadow self. While it warns of unhealthy attachments, it also offers an opportunity to confront and integrate the darker aspects of human nature.

Symbolism: A horned figure dominates the scene, with two smaller chained figures below, symbolising bondage to desires or fears. The loose chains suggest that this bondage is self-imposed and can be escaped. The card's imagery reflects both the allure and consequences of indulgence.

In Relationships: Obsessive or co-dependent relationships. It may indicate intense passion or unhealthy dynamics.

In Work: Temptation to take shortcuts or pursue goals at the expense of ethics. A need to reassess priorities.

Spiritually: The Devil challenges you to confront your shadow self and transform fears into liberation.

When ill-dignified: Escapism, addiction, or manipulative behaviours. It warns of being trapped in destructive patterns.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

VIII – Justice

Justice signifies truth, balance, and the law of cause and effect. She represents the impartial hand of the universe, delivering outcomes that align with one's actions and intentions.

Symbolism: Seated on a throne, Justice holds scales in one hand and a sword in the other. The scales symbolise balance and fairness, while the sword represents the clarity and decisiveness required to enact justice. Her direct gaze emphasises accountability and integrity.

In Relationships: Honest communication and equitable partnerships. It calls for evaluating the fairness and balance within relationships.

In Work: Decisions made with integrity will lead to just rewards. It is a time to act ethically and weigh all options carefully.

Spiritually: Justice reflects the law of karma and encourages alignment with higher principles to achieve spiritual clarity.

When ill-dignified: Corruption, dishonesty, or imbalance. It warns against biased decisions or failure to take responsibility for your actions.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

XVII – The Star (L'Étoile)

The Star is a card of hope, inspiration, and renewal. It symbolises divine guidance and the gentle flow of healing energy after hardship.

Symbolism: A nude figure kneels beside a stream, pouring water onto the land and back into the source, representing the cyclical nature of renewal and the flow of inspiration. Above her, stars shine brightly, offering hope and illumination.

In Relationships: Healing and harmony. It suggests vulnerability and openness to connection.

In Work: Inspiration and the emergence of new opportunities. A time for trust in your creative vision.

Spiritually: The Star invites you to align with your higher purpose, finding peace in the guidance of the cosmos.

When ill-dignified: Doubt, loss of faith, or feeling disconnected from inspiration. It warns against losing hope during challenging times.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

XVI – The Tower (La Maison Dieu)

The Tower signifies sudden upheaval, revelation, and the destruction of false structures. It is a powerful reminder that chaos and doom often precede transformation and growth.

Symbolism: A tower struck by lightning blows its top as figures fall to the ground. The lightning represents divine intervention, while the tumbling balls and figures symbolise the collapse of illusions and false foundations. The falling crown signifies the downfall of pride. Despite its dramatic imagery, the card hints at liberation and renewal.

In Relationships: A dramatic change, often revealing truths that must be addressed.

In Work: Sudden challenges or shifts that dismantle old systems. It's a chance to rebuild on a stronger foundation.

Spiritually: The Tower urges the seeker to let go of illusions and embrace the profound truth revealed in moments of crisis.

When ill-dignified: Resistance to change, denial, or clinging to crumbling structures. It warns against ignoring the signs of impending transformation.