Secret of the High Priestess Spread

 

 

Difficulty: Average

This spread makes a nice alternative to the Celtic Cross, which covers basically the same ground. It is useful when a question doesn't quite call for the Ankh spread. This tarot spread is helpful for looking into a current trend. The High Priestess may or may not present a mysterious secret to be analysed after the rest of the spread.

1. & 2. Main impulses representing the topic at hand. They may compliment or oppose one another.

3. This is the current influence at this time.

5. The Waning Moon is the influence that is moving into the past.

4. The Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon, or the approaching influence. This is the immediate future.

7. The Light is what is clearly recognized, consciously.

6. The Dark indicates what is there but not fully perceived, though noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.

8. The Next Step is the near future, where this journey leads.

9. The final tarot card, only if it happens to be of the Major Arcana, reveals the Secret of the High Priestess. This is a special message that should be given added weight.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Secret of the High Priestess Reading

The Waxing Moon VI – The Lovers (L'Amoureux)	The Full Moon Knight of Cups		The Waning Moon 0 – The Fool (Le Mat)
	Significator #1 VII – The Chariot	Significator #2 Three of Batons
The Dark Nine of Coins	The Secret of the High Priestess Knight of Swords		The Light X – The Wheel of Fortune (La Roue de Fortune)
	The Next Step Seven of Cups

 

 

 

Significator #1 

 

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.

 

 

Significator #2 

 

Three of Batons

The Three of Batons signifies expansion and the realisation of early progress. It is a card of growth through exploration and the courage to venture into new realms.

Symbolism: Three batons interlace harmoniously, with flourishing leaves that reflect growth. The triangular crossing suggests stability in motion, as progress unfolds from a solid foundation.

In Relationships: Relationships flourish through shared aspirations and mutual support. It may indicate exploring new horizons together.

In Work: Initial successes lead to broader opportunities. This card encourages continued effort and long-term vision.

Spiritually: A reminder to expand your perspective and trust the journey towards greater understanding.

When ill-dignified: Frustration or delays in progress. It warns against complacency or overconfidence.

 

 

The Waning Moon is the influence that you are putting behind you, as it moves into the past. 

 

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.

 

 

 

The Full Moon is the current influence at this time. 

 

Knight of Cups

The Knight of Cups represents the pursuit of emotional and creative fulfilment, guided by intuition and romantic ideals. He encourages action aligned with your heart while remaining mindful of over idealism or escapism.

Symbolism: The Knight rides a steady horse, presenting a cup as if offering his heart or inspiration. His calm and focused expression reflects his dedication to his emotional or creative quest, while the horse's motion suggests steady progress.

In Relationships: This card signifies romance, devotion, or deepening emotional bonds. It encourages pursuing love with sincerity and charm but warns against being overly idealistic.

In Work: The Knight highlights the importance of pursuing work that resonates emotionally or creatively. It may suggest bringing artistry and passion to your efforts.

Spiritually: The Knight urges you to follow your heart's guidance and align your actions with your inner emotional truths.

When ill-dignified: Emotional inconsistency, escapism, or being too passive. It cautions against pursuing unrealistic ideals without grounding them in reality.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon; the approaching influence. 

 

VI – The Lovers (L'Amoureux)

The Lovers signifies choice, connection, and the interplay between opposing forces. It represents the power of free will in aligning with one's deepest values and desires.

Symbolism: A central figure stands between two others, often interpreted as a choice between duty and desire or contrasting influences. Above, Cupid aims an arrow, symbolising divine inspiration or the fateful pull of love. The figures' expressions suggest conflict and harmony, reflecting the complexity of relationships.

In Relationships: Profound connections, romantic choices, or a pivotal decision within a partnership. It highlights emotional and spiritual harmony.

In Work: A crossroads where important decisions must align with personal values. Collaboration or partnerships may play a key role.

Spiritually: The Lovers calls for integrating dualities—earthly and divine, passion and reason—on the path to wholeness.

When ill-dignified: Indecision, temptation, or imbalance. It warns of superficial attractions or ignoring inner truth in key decisions.

 

 

The Light is what is clearly recognized. 

 

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 Dark shows what is there but not fully perceived, though it has been noticed on a deeper level of consciousness. 

 

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 Next Step is the near future, where this journey will take you. 

 

Seven of Cups

The Seven of Cups represents imagination, choice, and the allure of possibilities. It warns of illusion and the importance of discernment when faced with multiple options.

Symbolism: Seven cups form an intricate pattern, their arrangement suggesting complexity and the uncertainty of choices. The floral embellishments evoke imagination and the pull of dreams, both promising and deceptive.

In Relationships: Idealisation of a partner or confusion about what you desire.

In Work: Opportunities arise, but careful evaluation is needed to separate genuine prospects from illusions.

Spiritually: The card reflects the richness of the inner world but calls for grounding and clarity in spiritual pursuits.

When ill-dignified: Overwhelm, fantasy, or escapism. It warns against being paralysed by options or losing touch with reality.

 

 

 

The Secret of the High Priestess - if, and only if, this card a Major Arcana, it reveals the Secret of the High Priestess. This is a special spiritual message that you should pay extra special attention to. If it is not a trump, the Priestess has revealed no secret. 

 

Knight of Swords

The Knight of Swords embodies swift action, ambition, and the pursuit of truth or goals with boldness. He urges decisive movement but cautions against decisions that lack foresight.

Symbolism: The Knight charges forward on his rearing horse, holding a raised sword that signifies clarity of purpose. The wind-swept imagery reflects urgency, courage, and a readiness to overcome obstacles.

In Relationships: This card may signal a fast-moving relationship or the need to address conflicts decisively. It highlights a dynamic connection that requires clear communication and focus.

In Work: The Knight suggests pursuing opportunities with determination and energy. It encourages bold decision-making but warns against rushing without proper preparation.

Spiritually: The Knight reflects the seeker's determination to uncover deeper truths or gain clarity. It symbolises a quest for knowledge and higher understanding.

When ill-dignified: Recklessness, overconfidence, or aggression. It warns against acting without a plan or alienating others through rash decisions.