The Love Triangle Spread
Difficulty: Complicated
Casually referred to as the Love Triangle, this spread can be used to determine the dynamics of the relationship between three people, regardless of whether romance is involved. This spread is arranged in the form of a hexagram, consisting of several large and small triangles. This tarot spread may seem somewhat complicated, but it is not entirely that difficult.
The first step is to interpret the card for each individual position in the spread. Generally, one might ask about a relationship they are involved in, but this does not have to be the case. Ordinarily, the reader's representative card is #1, their main person of interest is #2, and the other person would be #3.
The second step fills in the downward triangle and involves further examination of the individuals through their views of the other people. Each person has two more cards showing the way they see and relate to the other members of the triangle. For example, Card #6 indicates how Person #3 relates to Person #1, while Card #9 stands for Person #1's attitude toward Person #3.
The next step completes the upward triangle and the hexagram, focusing on cards #10–13. It also completes the many smaller triangles and hints at the potential for each relationship. The final card, #13 can be considered the significator of the reading, which suggests the overall potential for this three-way relationship.
Your Love Triangle Reading
| P#3 | 3to2 | 2+3 |
2to3 | P#2 | ||
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3to1 |  |
Overall |  |
2to1 |  |
| 1+3 |  |
1to3 |  |
1to2 |  |
1+2 |
 |
 |
P#1 |  |
 |
||
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1: Person #1
The Five of Cups symbolises loss, regret, and the emotional challenges of letting go. It speaks of the need to acknowledge grief but also to recognise the potential for healing.
Symbolism: Five cups form a crossing arrangement, with floral motifs hinting at the possibility of renewal amidst sorrow. The imbalance reflects the disruption caused by loss or disappointment.
In Relationships: Heartbreak or unresolved emotional wounds. It suggests healing and moving forward after a period of sadness.
In Work: A setback or failure that offers lessons for future growth. Focus on what remains rather than what has been lost.
Spiritually: The card reflects the transformative power of grief and the opportunity for spiritual renewal through acceptance.
When ill-dignified: Dwelling on loss, refusing to heal, or missing opportunities for renewal. It warns against letting regret dominate your outlook.
2: Person #2
The Seven of Swords symbolises strategy, cunning, and the challenges of navigating complex situations. It reflects the need for careful planning but warns of dishonesty or shortcuts.
Symbolism: Seven swords form a slightly chaotic arrangement, reflecting the complexity of the situation. One blade is framed by six. The decorative elements hint at the potential for creative solutions amid disorder.
In Relationships: Secrecy or hidden motives. Open communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings.
In Work: Strategic thinking is required, but ensure your actions align with your ethical standards.
Spiritually: The card challenges you to face your truths rather than evading responsibility.
When ill-dignified: Deception, betrayal, or self-sabotage. It warns against dishonesty with oneself or others.
3: Person #3
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.
4: Person #1's view of #2
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.
5: Person #2's view of #3
The Queen of Swords represents wisdom, clarity, and the ability to make balanced decisions through intellect and discernment. She encourages a blend of compassion and reason when approaching challenges.
Symbolism: Seated with poise on her throne, the Queen holds her sword upright, a symbol of her unwavering commitment to truth and fairness. Her serene expression and elevated position suggest clarity of thought and emotional maturity.
In Relationships: This card reflects fairness, honesty, and emotional clarity. It highlights the importance of setting boundaries and maintaining open, respectful dialogue.
In Work: The Queen advises making thoughtful, well-informed decisions. She represents the ability to lead with integrity and insight, even in challenging situations.
Spiritually: The Queen symbolises the wisdom gained from life's trials and the mastery of using intellect to navigate emotional and spiritual truths.
When ill-dignified: Coldness, rigidity, or harsh judgements. It warns against being detached or being a jerk in your interactions.
6: Person #3's view of #1
The Queen of Coins embodies nurturing, abundance, and mastery of the material realm. She represents the integration of practicality and care, creating a space for growth and prosperity.
Symbolism: The Queen sits on a throne, holding a coin delicately but firmly in her fingertips, symbolising her control over material resources. Her flowing robes suggest comfort and grace, while her throne and sceptre reflect her nurturing and abundant energy.
In Relationships: A caring and supportive partner who creates a stable and nurturing environment. It encourages generosity and patience in relationships.
In Work: A time of financial stability and resourcefulness. Success comes through practical wisdom and thoughtful management.
Spiritually: The Queen invites the seeker to honour the sacred in everyday life, recognising the spiritual in material prosperity.
When ill-dignified: Overindulgence, materialism, or possessiveness. It warns against neglecting emotional or spiritual needs in pursuit of wealth.
7: Person #2's view of #1
The Eight of Coins represents diligence, skill development, and the pursuit of mastery. It signifies focused effort and the rewards of hard work.
Symbolism: Eight coins are arranged in a methodical, balanced design, reflecting order and craftsmanship. The symmetrical details emphasise the value of precision and dedication.
In Relationships: Effort and care are required to build or maintain a strong connection. This card highlights the value of commitment.
In Work: A time for honing your skills or perfecting a craft. Focus and dedication lead to mastery and long-term success.
Spiritually: The card reflects disciplined practice in spiritual pursuits, encouraging consistent effort for growth.
When ill-dignified: Laziness, poor craftsmanship, or frustration with slow progress. It warns against neglecting effort or pursuing shortcuts.
8: Person #3's view of #2
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.
9: Person #1's view of #3
The Three of Cups signifies celebration, joy, and the strength of community. It highlights the beauty of shared experiences and collective support.
Symbolism: Three cups are arranged in a triangular formation, adorned with floral embellishments. The triangular structure represents unity and the joy of collaboration, while the flourishing details reflect abundance and festivity.
In Relationships: A period of happiness and shared experiences. It may also signify joyful gatherings.
In Work: Success celebrated with colleagues or recognition of collaborative achievements.
Spiritually: The card encourages gratitude and participation in rituals or practices that foster collective growth and harmony.
When ill-dignified: Overindulgence, superficial connections, or neglecting personal boundaries. It warns against prioritising social validation over genuine connection.
10: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #2
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.
11: Overall relationship between persons #2 and #3
The Seven of Coins signifies patience, evaluation, and long-term planning. It reflects the need to assess progress and make adjustments for future growth.
Symbolism: Seven coins are arranged in an uneven pattern, with budding leaves suggesting slow but steady growth. The design emphasises reflection and the rewards of cultivation.
In Relationships: A relationship enters a reflective phase, where mutual effort and commitment are assessed.
In Work: Progress may feel slow, but perseverance and thoughtful adjustments will yield results.
Spiritually: The card urges the seeker to remain patient and trust the process of spiritual growth.
When ill-dignified: Impatience, dissatisfaction, or poor planning. It warns against abandoning efforts prematurely or ignoring the need for evaluation.
12: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #3
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.
13: Overall 3-way Relationship
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.