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 Deuce of Cups
Early Causes XVI – The Tower (La Maison Dieu)		Triggering Causes VIII – Justice
	Necessary Conclusions XII – The Hanged Man (Le Pendu)
Significator #1 XVII – The Star (L'Étoile)		Significator #2 Nine of Batons
	Next Step VII – The Chariot
	Surprising Experiences Nine of Coins
	Outcome Deuce of Batons

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

Nine of Batons

The Nine of Batons represents resilience, endurance, and the ability to protect what has been achieved. It reflects the final push before completion.

Symbolism: Nine batons intertwine in a dense arrangement, without foliage due to the weight of the structure. The card suggests strength under pressure and determination in adversity.

In Relationships: Protecting your emotional boundaries or working through challenges.

In Work: Hard work and vigilance are necessary to see a project through to completion.

Spiritually: The card reminds you of your inner strength and the importance of perseverance on the spiritual path.

When ill-dignified: Burnout, defensiveness, or a reluctance to seek help. It warns against isolating yourself in times of struggle.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

Deuce of Cups

The Deuce of Cups symbolises emotional unity, balance, and harmonious partnerships. It represents the coming together of energies in love, friendship, or collaboration.

Symbolism: Two elegant cups stand symmetrically, connected by a shared floral motif, symbolising the bond between two entities. The balanced design reflects harmony and mutual respect.

In Relationships: A romantic bond deepens, or a new partnership begins with mutual understanding and affection.

In Work: Collaboration and teamwork thrive, fuelled by shared values and trust.

Spiritually: The card reflects the union of dualities within oneself, urging the seeker to embrace inner harmony.

When ill-dignified: Disconnection, imbalance, or strained partnerships. It warns against selfishness or a lack of reciprocity in relationships.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

XII – The Hanged Man (Le Pendu)

The Hanged Man represents surrender, perspective, and the wisdom gained through sacrifice. It signifies the pause required for deeper insight and the willingness to let go of attachments to achieve spiritual growth.

Symbolism: A figure hangs upside down from a grafted tree, forming an almost serene cross-like posture. The inversion suggests seeing the world from a different perspective, while the living tree structure reflects the connection to spiritual growth. His tranquil expression emphasises acceptance and enlightenment through suspension.

In Relationships: A need for patience, reflection, or a fresh perspective on a relationship. It can also suggest letting go of control.

In Work: A time to pause, reassess, and allow things to unfold. Solutions may come from viewing challenges differently.

Spiritually: The Hanged Man invites the seeker to embrace surrender as a path to awakening and profound understanding.

When ill-dignified: Stubbornness, resistance to change, or avoiding necessary sacrifices. It warns against remaining stuck in unproductive situations.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

Nine of Coins

The Nine of Coins signifies independence, self-sufficiency, and the enjoyment of material and personal success. It reflects the rewards of hard work and discipline.

Symbolism: Nine coins are arranged in a flourishing design, surrounded by decorative elements that evoke luxury and abundance. The card's richness emphasises comfort and personal fulfilment.

In Relationships: A stable and independent relationship or a time of personal fulfilment before pursuing a partnership.

In Work: Success achieved through your own efforts. It highlights financial stability and personal satisfaction.

Spiritually: The card reflects the contentment of being in harmony with your inner and outer worlds.

When ill-dignified: Overindulgence, isolation, or neglecting connections in favour of material pursuits. It warns against taking success for granted.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

Deuce of Batons

The Deuce of Batons represents planning and the initial stages of action. It symbolises the tension between potential paths and the courage required to step forward.

Symbolism: Two batons intersect, adorned with foliage that hints at growth and duality. The symmetry of the design reflects stability but also implies the need for decision-making.

In Relationships: A partnership at a crossroads, where mutual goals must be clarified.

In Work: Strategic planning and weighing options for growth. It's a call to act decisively.

Spiritually: The card signifies a moment of reflection, urging you to align choices with your higher purpose.

When ill-dignified: Indecision, hesitation, or lack of direction. It warns against delaying action because of fear of failure.