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 III – The Empress (L'Impératrice)
Early Causes V – The Pope (Le Pape)		Triggering Causes XVIII – The Moon (La Lune)
	Necessary Conclusions VIII – Justice
Significator #1 XIII – Death (La Mort)		Significator #2 0 – The Fool (Le Mat)
	Next Step II – The Priestess (La Papesse)
	Surprising Experiences XVIIII – The Sun (Le Soleil)
	Outcome VII – The Chariot

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

XIII – Death (La Mort)

Death signifies transformation, endings, and renewal. While often feared, this card speaks to the cyclical nature of life and the necessity of clearing away the old to make way for the new.

Symbolism: A skeletal figure wields a scythe, cutting through the remnants of the past—hands, heads, and plants alike. The barren ground reflects the stripping away of what no longer serves, while the sprouting flowers hint at rebirth and growth emerging from decay.

In Relationships: The end of a relationship or a transformative phase within one. It signals profound changes, often for the better.

In Work: A major shift, such as the end of a job or the restructuring of goals. It's a call to embrace new opportunities.

Spiritually: Death teaches the power of release and the necessity of embracing life's cycles to achieve transformation.

When ill-dignified: Fear of change, stagnation, or clinging to the past. It warns against resisting the natural process of renewal.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering 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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

III – The Empress (L'Impératrice)

This card signifies the creative force in its most abundant and fertile form. It represents growth, nurturing, and the life-giving power of nature.

Symbolism: Her sceptre symbolises authority rooted in creativity and love, while the shield bearing an eagle emphasises vision and protection. The Empress's seated posture on her throne exudes a sensual yet controlled energy, symbolising the harmony between fertility and structure. Her crown and flowing robes represent her connection to divine beauty and earthly abundance.

In Relationships: The blossoming of love or a nurturing, supportive relationship. It is a call to cultivate affection with care and patience.

In Work: A time of prolific creativity and the manifestation of projects. Trust your ability to bring ideas to fruition.

Spiritually: The Empress guides you to honour your divine creative potential, celebrating the interplay between spirit and matter.

When ill-dignified: Overindulgence, stagnation, or excessive control. It warns against smothering growth or being consumed by material concerns.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

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.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

II – The Priestess (La Papesse)

The High Priestess is the keeper of wisdom and the custodian of sacred knowledge. She represents introspection, patience, and the search for truths hidden beneath the surface.

Symbolism: Seated and serene, the High Priestess holds an open book, symbolising esoteric teachings and mysteries revealed through disciplined study. Her veil represents the boundary between the seen and unseen, while the calm symmetry of her setting reflects inner equilibrium and balance.

In Relationships: Emotional depth and the unfolding of hidden dynamics. This card encourages trust in intuition over appearances.

In Work: A time for reflection and strategy rather than direct action. The answers lie in careful analysis.

Spiritually: The High Priestess invites the seeker to embrace silence and meditation, revealing the wisdom that resides within.

When ill-dignified: Stagnation, secrecy, or confusion. It warns against ignoring inner guidance or withholding necessary truths.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

XVIIII – The Sun (Le Soleil)

The Sun represents joy, success, and clarity. It is the card of illumination and vitality, promising growth, harmony, and the fulfilment of goals through clarity and connection.

Symbolism: Two children stand joyfully under the radiant Sun, surrounded by a protective wall. The Sun itself symbolises divine energy and enlightenment, while the figures reflect innocence, unity, and shared happiness. The vibrant rays evoke abundance and the thriving life force.

In Relationships: Mutual happiness, harmony, and a joyful connection. Relationships flourish under the light of clarity and love.

In Work: Success and recognition achieved through positivity and effort. It suggests a time of clarity and accomplishment.

Spiritually: The Sun calls for embracing the light within and aligning with your true purpose, radiating joy and love outward.

When ill-dignified: Arrogance, burnout, or overexposure. It warns against taking blessings for granted or letting ego overshadow gratitude.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

VII – The Chariot

The Chariot represents triumph through willpower and discipline. It is the card of focused determination, suggesting the mastery of opposing forces to achieve a unified goal.

Symbolism: The charioteer stands tall, guiding two horses of contrasting colours, symbolising duality and control. The canopy above him evokes divine protection, while the wheels in motion reflect progress and momentum. His expression is resolute, embodying control amidst dynamic movement.

In Relationships: Moving forward together, overcoming challenges, or achieving harmony despite differences.

In Work: Success through focus, persistence, and strategic action. Victory is attainable through balance and self-control.

Spiritually: The Chariot teaches the alignment of inner and outer forces, calling for the integration of spirit and will to advance.

When ill-dignified: Lack of direction, recklessness, or internal conflict. It warns against being pulled in opposing directions without clarity of purpose.