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Secret of the High Priestess Spread

Secret of the High Priestess

 

 

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

IX – The Hermit
The Full Moon

V – The Hierophant
The Waning Moon

X – The Wheel of Fortune, Reversed
  Significator #1

XIII – Death
Significator #2

VII – The Chariot
 
The Dark

XII – The Hanged Man, Reversed
The Secret of the High Priestess

XIV – Temperance, Reversed
The Light

XI – Justice
  The Next Step

III – The Empress
 

 

 

 

Significator #1 

 

XIII – Death

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.

Death may appear when you face a period of significant change or the need to release attachments. It encourages you to embrace these transitions with trust and understanding, knowing that they are part of the cycles of life. The end of something can be an opportunity for renewal, as old patterns give way to new possibilities. Death is not to be feared but embraced as a natural part of the journey of life.

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.

 

 

Significator #2 

 

VII – The Chariot

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.

The Chariot is a card of action and victory, signalling that through persistence, focus, and determination, you have the power to overcome challenges and achieve your goals. This card emphasises the importance of controlling your emotions, desires, and external circumstances to move forward confidently. The Chariot reminds us that success often comes from hard work, resilience, and the ability to stay focused on the desired outcome when the path is difficult.

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

 

X – The Wheel of Fortune, ReversedThe Wheel of Fortune represents cycles, fate, destiny, and change. The tenth card of the Major Arcana embodies the ever-turning wheel of life, where circumstances shift unpredictably, and the forces of fortune and destiny influence our lives. The Wheel features symbols such as the four fixed zodiac signs and the Sphinx, representing the ongoing movement of time and the interplay between fate and free will. The card speaks to the cyclical nature of existence, where moments of fortune and misfortune rise and fall, reminding us that no situation lasts forever.

Reversed, the Wheel of Fortune can indicate a feeling of being stuck or out of sync with the natural flow of life. It may suggest that you are resisting change or struggling against the forces of fate, leading to stagnation or misfortune. This card reversed warns against attempting to force things to happen or trying to control the uncontrollable, reminding you that life moves in cycles and resisting the natural flow can lead to frustration. It also indicates you may experience a downturn or setback, but that this is likely temporary. The Wheel reversed encourages letting go of resistance, accepting the cycles, and trusting that change will come in due time.

In Relationships: The Wheel of Fortune signifies that changes are coming, often unexpectedly. It may indicate a turning point in a romantic relationship, where new dynamics or events will shift the course of the connection. This card suggests you should be open to the ebb and flow of emotions, as relationships go through cycles of growth, transformation, and occasional turmoil. The Wheel reminds us that love is not static, and that fate or timing may play a crucial role in romantic endeavours. It encourages flexibility and acceptance, knowing that changes, while sometimes difficult, bring opportunities for renewal and growth.

In Work: The Wheel of Fortune suggests change is imminent, whether it's a shift in job, career path, or professional circumstances. This card can indicate that your efforts are about to bear fruit or external forces, such as a new opportunity or unexpected event, will alter the course of your professional journey. The Wheel of Fortune encourages you to stay adaptable, as fortune may favour you or present challenges that require a shift in perspective. It also signifies that luck or timing will be a factor, and you should be ready to seize opportunities that arise.

Spiritually: The Wheel of Fortune speaks to the interconnectedness of all things and the cyclical nature of life. It reminds you that everything is in constant motion, and that spiritual growth often comes through periods of both abundance and hardship. This card encourages you to trust in the divine timing of your journey, knowing that each phase, whether of challenge or ease, has a lesson to offer. The Wheel of Fortune also invites you to recognise that fate plays a role in your spiritual path and be open to the mysteries of the universe, even when things are beyond your control.

 

 

 

The Full Moon is the current influence at this time. 

 

V – The Hierophant

The Hierophant represents tradition, spiritual guidance, conformity, and the pursuit of higher knowledge. It embodies the connection between the material and the spiritual worlds, serving as a bridge between earthly concerns and divine wisdom. The Hierophant, a spiritual leader sits between two pillars, symbolising the balance between different belief systems or realms of existence. He holds a sceptre and makes a gesture of blessing, representing his role as a guide to spiritual enlightenment and as an authority on sacred teachings.

The Hierophant is the embodiment of structured wisdom, offering spiritual teachings that have been passed down through generations. This card suggests you may need to seek counsel or mentorship from a wise figure or should adhere to established traditions and practices to find clarity and direction. The Hierophant reminds us that spiritual growth and enlightenment are often found through established systems, whether through religion, philosophy, martial arts, or other forms of structured knowledge.

In Relationships: The Hierophant speaks to the importance of tradition, commitment, and spiritual alignment. It may indicate that you seek a relationship grounded in shared values, moral beliefs, or spiritual practices. This card may also suggest the need to commit to a relationship in a formal or traditional manner, such as marriage, or to honour the teachings that come from longstanding cultural or familial expectations. The Hierophant reminds us that relationships can thrive with mutual respect, understanding, and adherence to shared principles.

In Work: The Hierophant suggests you may need to follow a structured path or seek guidance from an established authority in your field. It may mean that success can be achieved through conformity to established norms, practices, and systems. This card encourages you to pursue your professional goals with discipline and a respect for tradition, while also considering mentorship or further education to deepen your knowledge. The Hierophant may also point to a career in teaching, counselling, or religious or spiritual fields, where the transfer of knowledge is central.

Spiritually: The Hierophant represents the pursuit of spiritual knowledge through structured systems, such as religion, philosophy, or spiritual teachings. This card invites you to seek wisdom from established sources through sacred texts, a religious leader, or a disciplined spiritual practice. The Hierophant suggests the path to enlightenment can be found by following tradition, honouring teachings, and connecting to a community of like-minded individuals. It also emphasises the importance of faith, devotion, and moral integrity on the spiritual path.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

IX – The Hermit

The Hermit represents solitude, introspection, wisdom, and guidance. It embodies the search for inner truth and deeper understanding through reflection and self-examination. An older figure carrying a lantern and a staff walks alone, symbolising the solitary journey towards enlightenment. The lantern represents the light of wisdom, illuminating the path ahead, while the staff signifies support and the strength gained through life experience. This card suggests a retreat from the external world to seek answers within and find clarity through introspection.

The Hermit invites you to step back from distractions, slow down, and embrace moments of solitude. It encourages personal growth through reflection, spiritual seeking, and the pursuit of knowledge that can only be found within. The Hermit is a guide, showing that wisdom comes not from external sources, but from within one's heart and mind, developed through self-discovery and careful contemplation.

In Relationships: The Hermit signifies a period of introspection, where you may need to take time for yourself before moving forward in a relationship. It suggests a need to step back and reflect on what you seek in love, away from external influences or distractions. This card encourages you to connect with your inner desires and values, understanding yourself better before committing to a romantic relationship. The Hermit also reminds us that love must start from within, and that personal growth and self-awareness are key to building healthy, fulfilling partnerships.

In Work: The Hermit suggests a time of reflection, seeking deeper meaning or purpose in one's professional life. It may indicate the need to step away from daily work life to gain clarity on one's true calling or long-term goals. This card encourages you to trust your intuition and wisdom when making career decisions and not rush into new opportunities until you have reflected on what will bring you true fulfilment. The Hermit can also point to a career in teaching, counselling, or research, where the act of guiding others or seeking knowledge is central to success.

Spiritually: The Hermit represents the pursuit of inner wisdom and enlightenment. This card invites you to withdraw from the noise of the world and focus on your inner spiritual journey. The Hermit encourages you to trust your intuition, meditate, and seek answers through spiritual practices such as prayer or self-reflection. It emphasises the importance of self-discovery and the belief that enlightenment comes from within. The Hermit also suggests that guidance from a spiritual mentor or teacher may be helpful, but the ultimate truth must be found in solitude.

 

 

The Light is what is clearly recognized. 

 

XI – Justice

Justice represents fairness, truth, accountability, and the law of cause and effect. It embodies the principle of balance, emphasising the need for integrity, fairness, and impartiality. A figure holding a sword in one hand and scales in the other serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, and that truth will always prevail. The sword symbolises clarity, reason, and decision-making, while the scales represent equilibrium, weighing all sides of a situation before making a judgement. This card reminds us that justice is not just about external laws, but about personal responsibility and moral alignment with the truth.

The Justice card indicates you may be faced with a decision that requires fairness, objectivity, and a commitment to what is right. It encourages you to consider all the facts, assess situations without bias, and make decisions based on truth and integrity. Justice also speaks to the consequences of your actions, emphasising that what is sown will be reaped, and suggesting that fairness and ethical behaviour will bring about positive outcomes, while dishonesty or imbalance may lead to negative consequences.

In Relationships: Justice speaks to the need for honesty, fairness, and mutual respect. It may indicate a time for evaluating the dynamics of a relationship, ensuring that both partners treat each other with integrity and fairness. This card encourages you to approach romantic situations with clear communication and seek balance, where both partners' needs are considered and respected. If you are dealing with relationship issues, Justice may suggest the need to take responsibility for your actions or make amends. It can also indicate that the truth will determine the outcome of a romantic situation.

In Work: Justice signals a need for fairness in professional matters, including decision-making, disputes, and negotiations. It encourages you to act with integrity in the workplace, ensuring your actions align with ethical standards and legal requirements. This card may also suggest that you are facing a situation where justice will play a role, such as a legal matter or a need to resolve an issue that requires an impartial viewpoint. Justice reminds you that success will come from fair actions and by making decisions in alignment with your values. It also suggests karmic debts in the professional sphere may be settled, either through rewards for integrity or consequences for dishonesty.

Spiritually: Justice represents the principle of cosmic law, the balance between light and dark, and the understanding that everything is connected through universal laws. This card encourages you to reflect on your actions and beliefs, ensuring they are in alignment with higher truth. Justice invites the seeker to embrace personal accountability, recognising that spiritual growth comes from living a life balanced and true to one's values. It is a reminder that truth and fairness are universal principles that guide the spiritual path and that every action has a karmic effect. In the spiritual realm, Justice asks you to seek equilibrium, balance, and the deeper truth that lies beneath surface appearances.

 

 

 

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

 

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.

 

 

 

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

 

III – The Empress

The Empress represents fertility, abundance, nurturing, and creativity. This card embodies the power of creation in all its forms, whether the birth of new ideas, projects, or actual life. The Empress sits upon a throne adorned with symbols of nature, such as a crown of stars and a field of grain, indicating her connection to the natural world. She exudes warmth and compassion, representing the qualities of motherhood, care, and emotional support. She is a symbol of nurturing energy, encouraging growth and the flourishing of all that is tended to with love and patience.

Her flowing robes and the abundance of the natural world around her signify that the Empress brings prosperity and well-being. She holds a sceptre, symbolising her dominion over the material world, and sits amidst lush greenery, suggesting that fertility and growth are hers to command. The Empress represents the creative force that can transform ideas into tangible forms. She reminds us of the importance of self-care, nurturing others, and the healing power of love and empathy.

In Relationships: The Empress signifies a time of nurturing and care. It suggests that love will flourish when both partners express their emotions and support each other's growth. This card can indicate a deep, loving connection, or emotional abundance in one's romantic life. It may also point to the potential for starting a family, deepening commitment, or creating new foundations in relationships. The Empress reminds you to embrace love with an open heart and a spirit of generosity.

In Work: The Empress signals a time of creativity and growth in one's professional life. It suggests that hard work and nurturing will lead to fruitful results. This card can also indicate a period of abundance, where new opportunities will manifest. The Empress encourages you to care for your projects with patience and love, as this will lead to lasting success. She may also point to the importance of self-care and work-life balance to sustain long-term achievement.

Spiritually: The Empress represents the divine feminine energy and the spiritual aspects of nurturing, creativity, and abundance. It invites you to embrace your creative potential and nurture your inner growth. This card calls for a heart open to the blessings of the universe. The Empress also encourages connection with nature for spiritual nourishment. She embodies the nurturing force of the universe, reminding us that creation begins with love and care.

 

 

 

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. 

 

XIV – Temperance, Reversed

Temperance represents balance, harmony, moderation, and healing. This card embodies the principle of integrating opposites and finding equilibrium within oneself and in the world. An angel or ethereal figure pours water from one cup to another, the imagery of Temperance suggests the blending of two elements to create something harmonious. The flowing water symbolises the steady flow of energy, while the angel's wings and serene expression point to a divine guidance in achieving harmony. This card teaches the importance of moderation, patience, and self-control in all areas of life.

Reversed, temperance can indicate imbalance, excess, or a lack of harmony in your life. It suggests you may be overindulging in certain areas, whether in emotions, behaviours, or actions, leading to stress, burnout, or disharmony. This card reversed warns against extreme reactions, impulsiveness, or trying to force situations to align with your desires. It can also indicate a failure to find middle ground in relationships or work, leading to conflict or dissatisfaction. Temperance reversed encourages you to reassess your approach, seek a more balanced and measured path, and take the time to heal areas of your life that feel out of alignment.

In Relationships: Temperance suggests that balance and harmony are key in your relationship. It may indicate the need for moderation in how emotions, time, and energy are shared between partners. This card encourages you to avoid extremes—whether in expectations, communication, or attachment—and instead find a balanced approach that fosters mutual respect, understanding, and patience. Temperance speaks to a steady connection, where both partners support each other's growth while maintaining their individuality. It can also indicate healing in relationships, whether overcoming challenges or finding a new sense of balance and understanding between two people.

In Work: Temperance signifies a time for finding balance in one's professional life. This card encourages you to manage your workload, relationships, and responsibilities with grace and moderation, avoiding burnout and stress. It may suggest the need for collaboration or the blending of unique skills or talents to achieve success. Temperance reminds you that steady, thoughtful progress, rather than hasty or extreme actions, is the key to long-term success. This card can also point to a need for healing in the workplace, whether it's resolving conflicts or restoring calm to a stressful environment.

Spiritually: Temperance represents the pursuit of inner balance and integration. This card invites you to align your physical, emotional, and spiritual selves into a harmonious whole, finding peace through moderation, patience, and acceptance. It encourages you to seek spiritual growth through balance rather than extreme practices or rigid beliefs. Temperance suggests that spiritual enlightenment can be achieved when the seeker is in harmony with both the inner self and the external world. It is a reminder that the path to spiritual fulfilment is about maintaining balance and being open to divine guidance.