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Ankh Spread

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

Early Causes Higher Perceptions

0 – The Fool
Triggering Causes


XVII – The Star, Reversed
Necessary Conclusions

II – The High Priestess
Significator #1

XX – Judgement
Significator #2


VI – The Lovers, Reversed
Next Step

XII – The Hanged Man, Reversed
 

XIII – Death, Reversed
 
  Surprising Experiences

VII – The Chariot, Reversed
 
  Outcome

I – The Magician
 

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

VI – The Lovers, Reversed

The Lovers represents union, love, choices, and harmony. It embodies the themes of connection within oneself and with others. The Lovers card is depicted with a couple standing together with an angel overseeing them, symbolising divine blessing and the importance of alignment with higher ideals. This card reflects the powerful and transformative nature of love, not just in romantic relationships, but in many partnerships, including those that involve shared values, goals, and emotional bonds.

Reversed, the Lovers can indicate disharmony, a struggle with making decisions, or a lack of alignment in relationships. It may suggest that you are facing conflicts in love or cannot make a clear choice regarding a romantic or professional relationship. This card reversed warns against making decisions from a place of confusion, fear, or external pressure, urging you to take the time to align your heart and mind before making important choices. It can also signify a lack of balance or authenticity in a relationship, where one or both partners may not be fully committed or honest with each other.

In Relationships: The Lovers card speaks to the power of emotional connections and the importance of choosing love and commitment with intention. It signifies the potential for a significant and harmonious relationship, one grounded in mutual respect, attraction, and shared values. This card invites you to make decisions in love with clarity and authenticity, suggesting that love, when chosen wisely, can lead to fulfilment and growth. The Lovers can also signify a turning point in a relationship, where you must make an important choice.

In Work: The Lovers suggests the importance of aligning professional choices with personal values and passions. It may indicate a partnership or collaboration that will lead to success, or the need to make a decision that will impact your professional path. This card encourages you to consider how your work aligns with your deeper goals and choose a path that resonates with your authentic self. The Lovers also emphasises the importance of balancing work and personal life, fostering relationships that support professional success without sacrificing personal happiness.

Spiritually: The Lovers card signifies the unity of opposites, the balance of masculine and feminine energies, and the pursuit of higher harmony. It invites you to seek alignment within yourself, uniting your conscious and unconscious desires, and connect with the divine through love, compassion, and authenticity. The Lovers can also represent the spiritual journey of making choices that reflect your true calling, encouraging you to act in accordance with your higher self and divine purpose. It reminds us that spiritual growth comes from living in harmony with your values.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

XII – The Hanged Man, ReversedThe Hanged Man represents surrender, suspension, perspective, and letting go. This card embodies pausing to reflect and seeing life from a different angle. A figure hanging upside down by one foot signifies a period of stillness or suspension, where forward movement is halted and a new way of thinking must emerge. The figure's serene expression and the halo around his head suggest that this pause is not one of suffering, but an intentional and transformative moment of introspection. The Hanged Man teaches that sometimes we must detach from our usual way of living or thinking to experience growth, release, and enlightenment.

Reversed, the Hanged Man can indicate resistance to change, an inability to release control, or a feeling of being stuck in an unproductive or stagnant situation. It suggests you may be avoiding necessary reflection or failing to shift your perspective, leading to frustration or a sense of being trapped. This card reversed warns against staying in one place for too long, refusing to adapt, or becoming too attached to old ideas. The Hanged Man reversed encourages you to embrace the discomfort of change, trust in the process of transformation, and allow yourself to let go of outdated or limiting beliefs. It suggests that the key to progress lies in surrendering to the flow of life and viewing things from a fresh perspective.

In Relationships: The Hanged Man suggests a time of reflection and reconsideration. It may indicate a need to pause and view the partnership from a different angle, possibly encouraging you to look beyond surface issues and explore deeper emotional truths. This card often points to a period of waiting or suspension, where things may feel stagnant or on hold, but where growth still occurs. The Hanged Man invites you to release expectations or rigid beliefs about love and instead be open to new perspectives and understandings. It also encourages self-sacrifice for the sake of the relationship, though with caution, ensuring the sacrifices made are not one-sided.

In Work: The Hanged Man points to a time of pause, reflection, or a shift in perspective regarding professional goals. It may suggest that you are in a phase where movement or progress is temporarily halted, and the key to success lies in rethinking your approach or strategy. This card advises patience and a willingness to let go of previous expectations or rigid plans to allow for new ideas and approaches to emerge. The Hanged Man can also indicate sacrifice or selflessness in your work, perhaps taking on a project or task that feels limiting or uncomfortable for the sake of a greater purpose or long-term gain. It teaches that growth often comes through patience and seeing things from a new angle.

Spiritually: The Hanged Man represents a necessary pause in one's spiritual journey, where the seeker is invited to let go of ego, attachments, and the need for control in order to achieve enlightenment. This card encourages you to release old beliefs, perspectives, and patterns to embrace a higher consciousness. The Hanged Man speaks to the process of surrender, where spiritual growth is achieved by stepping away from the material world and allowing oneself to be guided by faith, intuition, and trust in the universe. It is a reminder that some of the most profound spiritual growth occurs during times of stillness, waiting, or letting go.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

XVII – The Star, Reversed

The Star represents hope, inspiration, healing, and spiritual guidance. This card embodies the light that shines through darkness, offering peace and renewal after turmoil. A serene figure pouring water into a pool and onto the earth represents the flow of divine energy that nurtures both the soul and the world around us. This card suggests a time of spiritual clarity, where you are guided towards inner peace, hope, and faith in the future. The bright stars above symbolise the presence of higher wisdom, while the figure's calm demeanour indicates a connection to the self and the universe.

Reversed, the Star can indicate feelings of hopelessness, disillusionment, or a lack of faith. It may suggest you are disconnected from your inner light, struggling to find hope or inspiration after a period of hardship. The reversed Star may also point to a lack of healing or difficulty moving on from old wounds. This card encourages you to reconnect with your inner sense of purpose and trust in the process of life. The reversed Star suggests you may need to nurture your spiritual well-being, work on self-healing, and open yourself to the possibility of renewal and hope, even when it seems difficult.

In Relationships: The Star signifies healing and renewal or the hope of a new and positive beginning. It suggests that you or your relationship may be in a phase of recovery, where old wounds are being healed, and the relationship is growing into something more harmonious. The Star encourages optimism, suggesting that you trust in the potential for future growth and love. It may also indicate a time for healing after a breakup or a difficult emotional period, reminding you that new love, hope, and happiness are on the horizon. This card promotes spiritual alignment and connection in relationships, guiding you to love yourself first before sharing that love with another.

In Work: The Star signifies renewal, hope, and inspiration in your professional life. It suggests new opportunities are emerging or you are reconnecting with your true purpose or passion in your work. This card encourages creativity, innovation, and the pursuit of dreams, indicating that you are on the right path towards fulfilling your professional goals. The Star brings clarity and guidance, suggesting to trust your intuition and vision for the future. It can also represent a time of recovery or rebuilding after setbacks or challenges, reassuring you that you have the potential to succeed if you stay true to your values.

Spiritually: The Star represents divine guidance, healing, and connection to the higher self. This card invites you to open your heart to spiritual insight and trust that you are being guided by the universe. The Star suggests a period of spiritual renewal, where you may experience peace, clarity, and alignment with your spiritual path. It encourages you to have faith in your spiritual journey, even if the road ahead seems unclear. The Star is a reminder that the universe is always guiding and supporting you, and that spiritual growth comes with a sense of trust, hope, and connection to the divine.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

II – The High Priestess

The High Priestess represents intuition, wisdom, and the subconscious mind. This card embodies the mysteries of the unseen and the inner knowledge that transcends logic and reason. She sits between two pillars, one black and one white, symbolising balance and duality. Behind her is a veil decorated with pomegranates, which suggests hidden knowledge and the gateway to deeper understanding. Her serene expression invites you to connect with the voice within.

The High Priestess is a guardian of wisdom and the keeper of secrets. She represents the connection to the unconscious and the flow of intuition, encouraging you to trust what you feel beyond the surface. The moon at her feet signifies the cyclical nature of life and the importance of cycles, rhythms, and the feminine aspects of existence, such as receptivity, intuition, and introspection. The High Priestess reminds us that not all knowledge can be accessed through logic alone; sometimes, the answers lie in silent reflection.

In Relationships: The High Priestess calls for listening to one's inner wisdom in matters of the heart. It suggests you may need to trust your intuition or inner voice, rather than relying only on external circumstances. This card can indicate a deep connection or a relationship in a period of mystery or uncertainty. It encourages introspection and observation, rather than impulsive action, to navigate the emotional and intuitive aspects of love.

In Work: The High Priestess encourages you to trust your inner wisdom when making career decisions. It may signal a time when knowledge and insight, rather than outward action, are necessary to move forward. This card suggests that sometimes the best way to approach career growth is through reflection, careful observation, and connecting with your deeper instincts. The High Priestess may also indicate hidden opportunities or knowledge available, but not yet revealed. Patience and trust in your intuition will be key in navigating the path forward.

Spiritually: The High Priestess represents spiritual growth and the pursuit of higher knowledge. She invites you to embrace the deeper mysteries of life—to seek enlightenment through inner reflection, meditation, and connection with the subconscious. She symbolises the unfolding of wisdom from a connection to the divine and the unseen realms. The High Priestess encourages a journey of introspection, intuition, and spiritual depth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

0 – The Fool

The Fool represents the beginning of an inner and outer journey, a leap of faith into the unknown where infinite possibilities lie. This card embodies potential and purity. It represents the spirit of new beginnings before experience has shaped the self. The Fool carries a light knapsack, signifying that experiences or material attachments do not burden him. His innocence and openness suggest a state of trust in the universe and a readiness to take risks, unafraid of the unknown.

The Fool stands at the edge of a precipice, symbolising the readiness to step into the unknown. This is a moment of incredible freedom, where the Fool is not concerned with failure or the consequences of his actions, for his journey itself is the goal. The dog at his feet represents loyalty and instinct, encouraging him to follow his intuition without fear. The Fool represents the beginning of all things, the spark of creation itself.

In Relationships: The Fool invites openness, spontaneity, and fresh starts. This card suggests embarking on new romantic experiences without the weight of baggage. It encourages you to approach love with an open heart, ready to explore new connections and uncharted territory. The Fool signifies trust, freedom, and the joy of new beginnings, free from inhibitions.

In Work: The Fool signals a new chapter in one's professional life. It may indicate the start of an exciting journey or project, urging you to embrace change and take a risk for growth and fulfilment. This card encourages stepping out of your comfort zone, trusting that the journey will bring valuable experiences and opportunities despite an uncertain future. The Fool advises boldness and enthusiasm in pursuing career goals, suggesting that success may come from breaking away from conventional paths.

Spiritually: The Fool represents the call to venture beyond the ego, to explore new realms of consciousness and self-awareness. This card invites you to embrace the spiritual journey with innocence and trust, letting go of preconceived notions or rigid beliefs. The Fool encourages surrender to the flow of the universe, letting go of control, and embracing the unknown with faith. It is a reminder that the spiritual path is not about certainty, but the willingness to explore and discover.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

XX – Judgement

Judgement represents self-reflection, transformation, and the call to a higher purpose. The twentieth card of the Major Arcana signifies a time of awakening, a moment of reckoning where you are invited to confront your actions, decisions, and beliefs. An angel blowing a trumpet with people rising from their graves to meet their divine call symbolises the opportunity for a fresh start or renewal through self-assessment and spiritual awakening. This card encourages you to reflect on your life, learn from mistakes, and answer the call to grow into a higher version of yourself.

Judgement invites you to release guilt, regret, and fear of judgement and embrace the transformative power of forgiveness and self-awareness. It represents a breakthrough moment when you recognise your potential for growth, rebirth, and a renewed sense of purpose. This card signals the end of a cycle, calling you to step into a new chapter with a clear conscience, ready to embrace your true calling.

In Relationships: Judgement indicates a period of self-reflection, where both partners may need to take stock of their actions and experiences. It encourages healing and growth, suggesting that the relationship may undergo a transformative process through open communication, forgiveness, or a fresh perspective. Judgement invites you to release emotional baggage, forgive yourself and your partner, and move forward with greater understanding. This card can also signify a new beginning or a renewed sense of purpose within a relationship, where both partners answer the call to create a deeper, more fulfilling bond. For those who are single, Judgement may indicate a time of inner awakening that leads to the readiness for a new, transformative relationship.

In Work: Judgement represents a moment of self-assessment, where you may feel called to evaluate your professional life and consider whether you are on the right path. This card suggests a time of transformation, when you can release old habits, attitudes, or ways of working that no longer serve you. It may also indicate a turning point where a decision or action comes to fruition, bringing about an important opportunity or revelation. Judgement calls you to embrace your potential and step into a new phase of your career, free from limiting beliefs or fears. This card may also suggest the need for a radical change in your work life, encouraging you to pursue a career path aligned with your soul's purpose.

Spiritually: Judgement represents a call to awaken to a higher level of consciousness and self-awareness. It signifies a time when you are being invited to reflect on your spiritual journey, reconcile with the past, and embrace the opportunity for rebirth and transformation. This card encourages you to shed old beliefs, let go of guilt or judgement, and move forward with a clear sense of purpose and alignment with your soul's true calling. Judgement is a reminder that spiritual growth often involves moments of reckoning, where one confronts their actions and choices to develop into a more enlightened being. It signals that you are ready to embrace your higher self and live a life that reflects your spiritual path.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

XIII – Death, Reversed

Death represents transformation, endings, and rebirth. It is a symbolic death, signifying the end of one phase of life and the beginning of another. A skeletal figure on horseback with a scythe reminds us that change is inevitable and letting go of the old makes room for the new. It signifies the natural cycle of life, where death is a transition, not an end. This card calls for releasing what no longer serves, allowing you to shed old habits or beliefs holding you back from growth.

Reversed, Death can indicate resistance to change, an unwillingness to let go, or a fear of the inevitable transformations that life presents. It suggests you may be holding on to outdated beliefs, relationships, or situations that no longer serve you, preventing growth and hindering progress. The reversed Death card warns that delaying the inevitable or resisting change can cause stagnation, and the refusal to transform will eventually lead to greater discomfort. It encourages you to embrace endings to make room for new beginnings, reminding you that transformation is essential for personal growth.

In Relationships: Death signifies the end of a phase, which could be a breakup, a transformation in how two people relate, or letting go of old patterns that no longer work. This card indicates that the relationship may be going through a period of change, and it encourages you to embrace that change rather than resist it. Death invites rebirth—whether the opportunity to renew the relationship by letting go of baggage or the possibility of closing the chapter to make space for new, healthier connections. This card reminds us that endings, though painful, are necessary for growth and new beginnings.

In Work: Death signifies a major transformation, signalling the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It may indicate the closing of a professional project, a career change, or a shift in goals or direction. While this may initially feel unsettling, Death suggests this change is an opportunity for growth through an alternative career path, a different role, or a fresh approach to work. This card encourages you to release old ways of working or thinking that no longer serve you and embrace the unknown with an open mind. Death signals that sometimes it's necessary to let go of the old to make space for new opportunities and success.

Spiritually: Death represents the ultimate transformation, the shedding of old identities, and the continual evolution of the soul. This card speaks to the process of spiritual rebirth, where you may be called to let go of outdated beliefs or practices that no longer resonate with your higher self. It encourages you to embrace the process of spiritual evolution, where each phase of life offers the opportunity to transform and grow in new ways. Death invites the seeker to release the attachments that bind them to the material world and focus on inner growth, understanding that spiritual evolution is a continual process of shedding and renewal.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

VII – The Chariot, Reversed

The Chariot represents determination, willpower, victory, and control. It embodies the energy of triumph over obstacles, achievement through effort, and the mastery of one's emotions and environment. A strong figure drives a chariot, guided by inner strength and unwavering resolve. The charioteer holds the reins, symbolising the control and discipline needed to direct the forces of will, both within and without. Two sphinxes pull the chariot, looking in opposite directions, representing the balancing of opposing forces that must be harmonised to achieve success.

Reversed, the Chariot can indicate a lack of direction, a loss of control, or an inability to move forward confidently. It may suggest that you are struggling with inner conflict, emotional imbalance, or external challenges that prevent progress. This card reversed warns against being too forceful in trying to achieve goals, as this could lead to setbacks or failure. It also suggests you may need to regain your focus, re-establish your confidence, and find a clearer path forward. The Chariot reversed calls for self-reflection and re-alignment of goals to regain control and momentum.

In Relationships: The Chariot signifies a time of forward movement and decisive action. It suggests you are ready to take control of your romantic life and move past obstacles or doubts. This card can indicate overcoming challenges, gaining clarity about your desires, or taking the lead in matters of the heart. The Chariot encourages you to stay determined and confident, pursuing love with focus and a clear sense of direction. It may also signal a period of growth in a relationship where both partners are moving forward together with shared goals and mutual understanding.

In Work: The Chariot is a powerful card, representing the determination and drive needed to achieve professional goals. It signifies a time to harness your inner strength and take decisive action towards your ambitions. This card encourages you to stay focused on your objectives, overcoming any obstacles or challenges that may arise. The Chariot reminds you that success will be achieved through perseverance, self-discipline, and maintaining control over external distractions. It can also indicate a journey of personal and professional growth, where you can push past your limits to achieve greatness.

Spiritually: The Chariot represents the mastery of one's inner forces and the ability to direct energy towards personal transformation. This card encourages you to use your willpower and focus to overcome spiritual challenges and obstacles, remaining determined on your path of growth and enlightenment. The Chariot invites you to embrace your power, channelling it towards spiritual advancement. It also speaks to the importance of balance and self-control, urging you to stay grounded and focused as you move forward on your spiritual journey.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

I – The Magician

The Magician represents the power of manifestation. The first card of the Major Arcana embodies the energy of focused will, where potential is brought into reality through skill, action, and intention. Standing with one arm raised towards the heavens and the other pointing towards the earth, the Magician connects the spiritual and material realms. He bridges the divine and the earthly to bring about change. His tools—the wand, cup, sword, and pentacle—symbolise mastery over the four elements: Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. He channels power through these instruments.

The Magician is the embodiment of self-confidence and resourcefulness. Understanding his abilities and the world around him, he can turn visions into reality. The table in front of him, filled with tools, represents everything he needs to succeed being within reach. His presence signifies the awakening of latent abilities and the realisation that the power to shape one's destiny lies within. This card speaks to the power of focused energy, skill, and determination to manifest your desires.

In Relationships: The Magician suggests the power of intention and communication. It indicates that you can create a fulfilling romantic connection by being clear about your desires and aligning your actions with those intentions. It may also indicate the arrival of someone with powerful charisma or the need to harness your charm and creative energy to foster love. The Magician encourages conscious creation in matters of the heart, a reminder that you are the architect of your romantic life.

In Work: The Magician is a card of opportunity and self-empowerment in the professional realm. It signals that you possess the skills necessary to make your career aspirations a reality. This card encourages taking bold, deliberate action towards career goals and making the most of resources. The Magician suggests that the path to success is one where focus and determination play a vital role, and you have the power to manifest prosperity and recognition.

Spiritually: The Magician represents the mastery of one's inner power and the ability to direct energy with purpose. This card speaks to the harnessing of personal energy for growth, enlightenment, and transformation. It calls you to recognise your power, align your will with your spiritual goals, and work towards awakening your full potential. The Magician reminds us that the divine is not separate from us but exists within. It urges you to use your talents and awareness for higher spiritual development.