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 XXI – The World (Le Monde)
Early Causes VIIII – The Hermit (L'Hermite)		Triggering Causes I – The Magician (Le Bateleur)
	Necessary Conclusions X – The Wheel of Fortune (La Roue de Fortune)
Significator #1 VIII – Justice		Significator #2 XI – Strength (La Force)
	Next Step XVI – The Tower (La Maison Dieu)
	Surprising Experiences VII – The Chariot
	Outcome XV – The Devil (Le Diable)

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

XI – Strength (La Force)

Strength symbolises the mastery of inner strength, courage, and the harmonisation of primal instincts with spiritual awareness. It teaches that true power lies in patience and understanding rather than brute force.

Symbolism: A figure calmly opens the jaws of a lion, symbolising the mental strength required to tame one's baser instincts. The figure's composed expression reflects confidence and inner control. The lion embodies raw energy and passion, while the gentle interaction suggests a balance between wildness and refinement.

In Relationships: Emotional resilience and understanding strengthen relationships. It may indicate a need for patience and compassion in matters of the heart.

In Work: Triumph through determination and calm perseverance. Success comes from maintaining focus and self-discipline.

Spiritually: Strength reflects the integration of instinct and higher consciousness, inviting you to connect with your inner power.

When ill-dignified: Impulsiveness, weakness, or unchecked aggression. It warns against letting fear or uncontrolled passions take the lead.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

VIIII – The Hermit (L'Hermite)

The Hermit represents solitude, introspection, and the pursuit of inner wisdom. He invites the seeker to retreat from distractions and focus on the guiding light within.

Symbolism: An old man walks with a staff, holding a lantern that illuminates his path. The lantern symbolises the light of wisdom gained through introspection and experience. His posture suggests humility and patience, while his cloak emphasises withdrawal from the external world.

In Relationships: A period of self-reflection or a need for solitude to gain clarity on emotional matters.

In Work: A time for careful planning and introspection. Wisdom lies in patient deliberation rather than immediate action.

Spiritually: The Hermit invites the seeker to turn inward, embracing solitude as a space for spiritual awakening and self-discovery.

When ill-dignified: Isolation, fear of introspection, or excessive withdrawal. It warns against cutting oneself off from others or resisting inner truth.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

X – The Wheel of Fortune (La Roue de Fortune)

The Wheel of Fortune symbolises the ever-turning cycles of life, fate, and destiny. It teaches the importance of adaptability and trust in the rhythms of change.

Symbolism: The wheel is adorned with figures ascending and descending, representing the rise and fall of fortunes. Its circular motion evokes the cyclical nature of existence, while divine forces implied by the card's design suggest that some aspects of life are beyond human control.

In Relationships: Changes in relationship dynamics or the appearance of new opportunities. Trust in the flow of events.

In Work: A shift in circumstances, often bringing unexpected opportunities. Stay flexible and open to change.

Spiritually: The Wheel of Fortune reflects the interconnectedness of life's cycles, encouraging surrender to the divine plan.

When ill-dignified: Resistance to change or clinging to outdated patterns. It warns of losing perspective during times of transition.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

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.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

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.