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  Ten of Pentacles |
Triggering Causes |
 King of Cups, Reversed |
Necessary Conclusions |  Three of Wands |
| Significator #1 |  Two of Cups |
Significator #2 |
 Five of Swords, Reversed |
Next Step |  Knight of Cups |
 XVIII – The Moon |
||
Surprising Experiences  IX – The Hermit, Reversed |
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Outcome  King of Pentacles |
Significator #1
Five of Swords, Reversed
The Five of Swords represents conflict, tension, and the aftermath of a battle. This card signals a situation where there has been a confrontation or a struggle, often marked by feelings of defeat, betrayal, or dishonour. It suggests you may have won a battle, but at a significant cost—whether through personal loss, the harm caused to others, or the erosion of a relationship. The swords in this card symbolise mental conflict, and the image portrays a figure walking away from a skirmish with the spoils, while others are left behind, symbolising the fallout of conflict. The Five of Swords asks you to reflect on the costs of your actions and whether victory was worth the consequences.
Reversed, the Five of Swords can indicate the resolution of conflict, the release of tension, or a realisation of the futility of a battle. The reversal suggests you may be letting go of grudges or no longer fighting for something not worth fighting for. It may also signify an end to a period of mental or emotional turmoil, where you learn to forgive yourself or others and move on from old conflicts. On the flip side, the reversed Five of Swords can also indicate being caught up in petty conflicts or toxic competition, refusing to let go of grudges or continuing to fight meaningless battles. It urges you to reconsider your approach to disputes and choose peace over winning.
In Relationships: The Five of Swords signifies a time of conflict, misunderstanding, or hurtful behaviour. This card may point to arguments, power struggles, or betrayals that have damaged trust between partners. It could also suggest a situation where one partner may be playing games or using manipulation to gain control, leading to feelings of emotional defeat or emotional exhaustion. The Five of Swords asks you to reflect on the dynamics of the relationship and whether the conflict is worth the damage it is causing. It encourages open, honest communication and the need for both parties to let go of pride, ego, and the desire to win at all costs. This card may also suggest that you need to walk away from a toxic relationship, as continuing the battle may only lead to further harm.
In Work: The Five of Swords suggests workplace conflict, competition, or rivalry. This card may indicate a tense environment, and individuals may be fighting for power or recognition. The Five of Swords warns against winning at the expense of others, highlighting the importance of integrity and the consequences of actions that cause harm to colleagues or the work environment. It could also signify being forced to walk away from a situation, job, or project after experiencing defeat, humiliation, or dishonesty. The card advises you to reconsider your approach to career challenges and avoid engaging in unnecessary battles that may damage your reputation or well-being.
Spiritually: The Five of Swords represents inner conflict, self-doubt, or the aftermath of a spiritual battle. This card may indicate that you are struggling with feelings of defeat or disillusionment, perhaps because of a spiritual crisis, a moral dilemma, or a conflict between beliefs or values. The Five of Swords encourages you to examine your inner tension's sources and address unresolved feelings of guilt, shame, or spiritual discord. It is a reminder that holding onto grudges, negative emotions, or a need to be 'right' can impede spiritual growth. This card may also suggest letting go of your pride and ego to find peace, seeking spiritual healing or resolution.
Significator #2
Knight of Cups
The Knight of Cups represents emotional pursuit, romance, and following one's heart with passion and conviction. This card embodies a figure determined to chase after their dreams, desires, and ideals, often in the realm of love, creativity, or spiritual growth. The Knight of Cups signifies a time when you are feeling inspired, motivated, and driven by your emotions or a sense of purpose. This knight rides a horse while holding a chalice, symbolising a quest for emotional fulfilment, passion, and emotional connection.
The Knight of Cups encourages you to be guided by your heart and intuition, urging you to take action on your dreams, even if those dreams are rooted in love or artistic pursuits. It is a card of movement, suggesting that you may be on the brink of embarking on an emotional adventure, whether that involves a new relationship, creative project, or spiritual journey. The Knight of Cups is not afraid to be vulnerable or to follow what feels right, allowing his emotions to lead him. However, it also calls for balancing emotional pursuits with practicality, as the Knight may at times be swept away by idealistic fantasies.
In Relationships: The Knight of Cups represents a romantic and idealistic approach. This card suggests you may be on the cusp of experiencing a romantic encounter or a period where emotions are passionate and transformative. The Knight of Cups brings the energy of a romantic adventurer, someone willing to do whatever it takes to express their love, woo a partner, or follow the call of the heart. For those already in relationships, this card may indicate a renewal of passion, a deepening emotional connection, or heightened romance. The Knight of Cups urges you to be open to the emotional flow, allow love to guide you, and take inspired action in love without hesitation.
In Work: The Knight of Cups suggests you may be pursuing a path that aligns with your passions, creativity, or emotional fulfilment. This card represents the pursuit of work that feels meaningful or emotionally rewarding, rather than simply chasing external rewards or recognition. The Knight of Cups may indicate a project or job involving creative expression, emotional intelligence, or helping others, suggesting that you are guided by a calling. This card encourages you to take inspired action in your career, follow your intuition, and stay true to your dreams, even if the path is unconventional.
Spiritually: The Knight of Cups signifies a time of emotional and spiritual exploration, where you are called to trust your intuition. This card suggests you may be on a quest for deeper meaning, inspired by a spiritual ideal. The Knight of Cups invites you to embrace your emotions as a gateway to spiritual growth, encouraging you to follow your heart and intuition. This card can also represent the need for creative or artistic expression as a form of spiritual practice, where you connect with your higher self through imagination, art, or music.
Early Causes
King of Cups, Reversed
The King of Cups represents emotional mastery, compassion, and wisdom. As a ruler of the suit of cups, this king embodies the perfect balance between emotion and intellect, demonstrating how to navigate the realm of feelings with maturity, understanding, and composure. He is a figure of emotional authority, someone who has learned how to handle intense emotions without being overwhelmed. The King of Cups is empathetic and caring, but he knows when to show restraint and when to express his feelings, always maintaining control over his emotional responses.
Reversed, the King of Cups can indicate emotional imbalance, manipulation, or a lack of emotional clarity. The reversal suggests you may be struggling to manage your emotions, possibly suppressing them. It may also indicate a tendency to use emotional intelligence in manipulative ways or to avoid confronting emotional issues. The King of Cups reversed invites you to reassess your emotional health and relationships, encouraging you to cultivate more honest emotional expression. It also signals the need to work on self-discipline in handling emotions, ensuring that feelings are expressed constructively.
In Relationships: The King of Cups represents a strong emotional connection based on mutual respect, understanding, and balance. This card suggests you may experience a relationship where emotional maturity and stability play a central role. The King of Cups is supportive, compassionate, and capable of offering guidance and comfort in times of need while maintaining emotional composure. This card indicates a period of emotional harmony, where both partners communicate openly, understand each other's needs, and offer unconditional love and support. The King of Cups encourages you to express your feelings with integrity and approach love with a calm, steady heart.
In Work: The King of Cups suggests you are or will soon be in a position of leadership, where your emotional intelligence, wisdom, and empathy will be highly valued. This card indicates you may be called upon to guide others, offering support, mentorship, or emotional guidance in your professional environment. The King of Cups represents a leader skilled in their field who can manage relationships, build trust, and create a harmonious atmosphere. This card also emphasises the importance of maintaining emotional balance in the workplace, ensuring you do not allow stress, pressure, or conflict to affect your emotional state. The King of Cups advises you to rely on your emotional intelligence to succeed, leading with compassion, patience, and wisdom.
Spiritually: The King of Cups represents emotional and spiritual maturity, along with a strong connection to the higher self. This card suggests you may have reached a stage in your spiritual journey where you can approach your path with understanding, balance, and inner calm. The King of Cups encourages you to trust your emotional wisdom and intuition, knowing that your feelings can serve as a guide towards spiritual fulfilment. This card also suggests the need for emotional healing for you or those you serve, encouraging a compassionate, healing approach to others on their spiritual journey. The King of Cups teaches that spiritual growth is not just about intellectual understanding but also mastering the emotional realm with love, empathy, and wisdom.
Triggering Causes
Three of Wands
The Three of Wands represents expansion, progress, and the fruition of efforts. It signifies the point where initial planning and efforts begin to show tangible results. Depicted as a figure standing on a cliff, looking out over the horizon, the Three of Wands symbolises the anticipation of what is to come and the realisation that the groundwork has been laid for success. The figure is waiting for ships to return, signalling that the efforts made are now on their way to manifesting. This card speaks to the moment of watching your investments, actions, or plans come to fruition and awaiting the rewards of your previous work.
The Three of Wands encourages you to be patient and optimistic as you await the return on your efforts. It signifies that things are moving along, even if the manifestation of your goals is not yet realised. This card is about seeing the bigger picture and understanding that success may be on the horizon. It suggests your hard work is paying off, and you should maintain a broad vision of the future, without losing focus or getting discouraged by short-term delays.
In Relationships: The Three of Wands indicates the relationship is progressing, and there's anticipation of the future. This card suggests you and your partner have laid a solid foundation, and now is the time to look ahead to the next phase. There may be plans for travel, a long-distance relationship, or even a period of growth within the connection. The Three of Wands encourages patience as both individuals continue to invest in the relationship, knowing the efforts made will eventually pay off. For those who are single, the Three of Wands suggests you are open to new possibilities in love and are looking ahead to future romantic opportunities, whether that involves waiting for the right person to come into your life or considering potential future relationships that align with your vision.
In Work: The Three of Wands signals that your hard work and planning are beginning to pay off. It indicates that the foundation for success has been established, and now you are in a phase of expansion and progress. This card suggests new opportunities are on the horizon, whether through new projects, partnerships, or ventures. It encourages you to look beyond immediate concerns and focus on long-term growth. The Three of Wands advises you to maintain a broad perspective and stay open to new opportunities. There may be a need to take risks or step outside of your comfort zone to realise the potential of the situation. This card indicates that things are on the right track, and with patience, you will see the rewards of your efforts.
Spiritually: The Three of Wands represents a time of growth, expansion, and spiritual exploration. It indicates that you are on the right path and that your spiritual journey is progressing. This card encourages you to look beyond your current understanding and be open to new teachings, practices, or experiences that will further your spiritual development. The Three of Wands suggests you have already achieved a certain level of spiritual awareness, and now you are ready to take the next steps on your journey. It encourages you to keep your vision wide, embracing the idea that spiritual growth is a continuous process, full of new horizons to discover.
Higher Perceptions
Ten of Pentacles
The Ten of Pentacles represents long-term stability, legacy, and the culmination of wealth and success. This card embodies the energy of abundance, security, and the establishment of a solid foundation for future generations. A family gathers around a flourishing home, with multiple generations enjoying the fruits of accumulated wealth; the Ten of Pentacles speaks to the culmination of hard work and the creation of a lasting legacy. It signifies the achievement of material and financial success, along with the satisfaction that comes from securing the well-being of both oneself and loved ones.
This card suggests you are on the path to achieving significant financial security, stability, or success that will benefit not only you but also your family, community, or even future generations. The Ten of Pentacles emphasises the importance of family ties, heritage, and the wealth of contributing to a broader legacy. It is a reminder that wealth is not just about material abundance, but about the connections and bonds built over time and the lasting impact one can leave on the world. This card invites you to take pride in the stability and legacy you are creating and embrace the sense of accomplishment that comes from reaching this stage of prosperity.
In Relationships: The Ten of Pentacles represents long-term commitment, family, and the creation of a solid foundation for future generations. This card signifies stability, harmony, and the potential for building a lasting future together. It suggests the relationship is secure and rooted in shared values, and it may even indicate that you and your partner are building something tangible—whether that's a family, a home, or a shared life purpose. For those seeking love, the Ten of Pentacles can indicate the potential for a stable and lasting partnership that will stand the test of time and offer the security and commitment desired. The card also suggests that love, when nurtured over time, can provide fulfilment and lasting abundance.
In Work: The Ten of Pentacles indicates the achievement of a high level of success, financial abundance, and career stability. It suggests your efforts have not only brought financial security but have also created a legacy. The card may indicate the completion of a major project, the establishment of a thriving business, or the successful culmination of a long-term career. It also speaks to the importance of building a career that aligns with your values, creating wealth not only for oneself but for others as well. The Ten of Pentacles encourages you to focus on long-term goals and consider how your current efforts contribute to building a legacy that will endure.
Spiritually: The Ten of Pentacles represents creating a legacy through spiritual growth, family, or community. It can indicate a fulfilment from nurturing relationships, contributing to unity, and creating a lasting impact on others. This card suggests your journey is not only about personal growth but also about how you use your wisdom, resources, and experiences to benefit the greater good. The Ten of Pentacles encourages you to think about the long-term effects of your spiritual practices, teachings, and contributions, and how you can create a legacy for the future.
Necessary Conclusions
Two of Cups
The Two of Cups represents love, unity, and partnership. As a card that embodies the union of two individuals, this card symbolises the harmonious connection between two people, whether romantic, platonic, or professional. Two individuals exchange a cup, reflecting mutual respect, love, and emotional understanding. The Two of Cups signifies the unity of opposites or complementary forces, creating a harmonious relationship built on mutual trust, affection, and shared values. It is a card of union, where the emotional energy flows freely between two people, fostering partnership and emotional fulfilment.
This card highlights the importance of emotional connection, communication, and empathy in relationships. The Two of Cups suggests you are experiencing or about to experience a powerful bond with another person who can bring joy, peace, and shared purpose. It encourages you to embrace this connection with an open heart and nurture the relationship with kindness, patience, and understanding.
In Relationships: The Two of Cups signifies a deep, harmonious connection between two people. This card indicates a time of mutual love, respect, and emotional balance. It can point to strengthening the relationship, with both partners working together to deepen their emotional bond and support each other's growth. The Two of Cups can also suggest the beginning of a new, meaningful romantic relationship where both individuals align in their values and desires. For singles, this card signals the potential for meeting someone with whom you share a strong emotional connection, possibly leading to a fulfilling relationship. It reminds you that love is about balance, equality, and the mutual exchange of care and support.
In Work: The Two of Cups represents a successful partnership or collaboration. This card suggests you may enter into a business partnership, project, or team dynamic that fosters cooperation, mutual respect, and shared success. The Two of Cups highlights the potential for fruitful alliances, where both parties bring complementary strengths and work together towards a common goal. This card encourages you to embrace collaboration, communicate openly, and approach your work relationships with empathy and respect. It may also indicate a time when you find emotional satisfaction and fulfilment in your professional life through supportive partnerships or working within a harmonious team.
Spiritually: The Two of Cups symbolises a deep, soul-level connection and the union of the self with a higher power or spiritual truth. This card suggests you are experiencing a period of spiritual alignment where your personal beliefs and practices are in harmony with your inner self. It can also represent a spiritual partnership, where two individuals come together with a shared spiritual purpose or goal, creating a sense of unity and support. The Two of Cups encourages you to cultivate spiritual connections that nurture and elevate your soul, whether through relationships with others or a deepened connection to your spiritual path. It suggests a time of healing and emotional balance, where you are open to receiving divine guidance and embracing love in all its forms.
The Next Step
XVIII – The Moon
The Moon represents intuition, illusion, the subconscious, and hidden truths. It invites you to explore the realm of the unconscious mind, dreams, and intuition. A moonlit landscape with a wolf and a dog howling at the moon, a path winding through rocky terrain, and a crab emerging from the water symbolises the mysterious and sometimes deceptive nature of the mind. The moonlight casts shadows, obscuring as much as it illuminates. It invites you to look beyond appearances to understand deeper meanings or hidden emotions. This card suggests there may be illusions, confusion, or uncertainty in a situation, and it encourages you to trust your intuition to navigate through the unknown.
The Moon calls for introspection, asking you to explore your inner world and pay attention to your dreams and emotional responses. It signals a time when the mind may be clouded or things are not what they seem on the surface. The Moon invites you to trust your inner wisdom and be cautious of deception and self-deception.
In Relationships: The Moon suggests there may be confusion, misunderstandings, or illusions. It could indicate that one or both partners are hiding their feelings, or there are secrets to be revealed. This card warns against jumping to conclusions or making assumptions based on surface-level information. The Moon encourages open communication and honesty, urging you to trust your intuition and dig deeper into your emotions. It can also signify a period of emotional uncertainty or mood swings, where clarity may come only after introspection and reflection. This card asks you to be patient with yourself and your partner.
In Work: The Moon suggests there may be hidden factors or uncertainties surrounding a work situation. It encourages you to look beyond the surface. There may be deception, miscommunication, or unclear motivations at play, and you should be cautious about trusting everything you hear or see. This card can also indicate a time of emotional vulnerability in the workplace, when intuition may be more reliable than logic. The Moon invites you to listen to your gut feelings and avoid making decisions without understanding the situation. It may also point to a need for creative or intuitive solutions, as the path forward may not be clear.
Spiritually: The Moon represents the journey into the subconscious mind and the exploration of hidden aspects of the self. This card calls for introspection, inviting you to uncover and confront your fears, desires, and unresolved emotions. The Moon encourages you to pay attention to your dreams, intuition, and inner messages, as these may hold the keys to spiritual growth. However, it also warns of illusions and misleading thoughts, urging you to approach your spiritual journey with caution and awareness. The Moon signifies that the path to enlightenment may be shrouded in mystery, and you must trust your inner wisdom and intuition to guide you.
Surprises
IX – The Hermit, Reversed
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.
Reversed, the Hermit can indicate isolation, loneliness, or a reluctance to seek the answers within. It may suggest that you are withdrawing too much from the world, leading to feelings of disconnection or emotional stagnation. This card reversed warns against excessive solitude or overthinking, which could lead to confusion or avoidance of important decisions. It may also suggest the need to stop searching outside of yourself for answers and instead reconnect with others, seek help, or trust in the guidance around you. The Hermit reversed advises you to find a balance between introspection and engagement with the world.
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 Outcome
King of Pentacles
The King of Pentacles represents mastery, success, and the ability to create and maintain long-term prosperity. He embodies the qualities of discipline, ambition, and practical wisdom, using his resources to build a stable and abundant life. Seated on a throne surrounded by symbols of wealth, such as a crown, a sceptre, and lush greenery, the King of Pentacles signifies someone who has achieved financial security and is now focused on maintaining and expanding that success. He is a figure of authority, leadership, and reliability, representing someone grounded who understands the material world.
This card reflects a person who has worked hard to achieve material success and now uses their wisdom and resources to manage their wealth, home, and business ventures. The King of Pentacles is pragmatic, strategic, and knows how to make sound decisions that will provide long-lasting security. He encourages you to stay focused on your long-term goals, remain disciplined in your financial endeavours, and make decisions based on intuition and practicality. This card also suggests the importance of generosity, as the King of Pentacles often uses his wealth and influence to provide for others and create a secure environment for those he cares about.
In Relationships: The King of Pentacles signifies a reliable and responsible partner. This card suggests a partner committed to building a secure and lasting future together. The King of Pentacles represents someone who provides for their loved ones, not just financially but also emotionally and practically. For those seeking love, this card may indicate that a partnership with someone who shares similar values of security, stability, and long-term commitment is on the horizon. The King of Pentacles reminds you to approach love with responsibility and maturity, understanding that a successful relationship requires emotional investment and practical effort.
In Work: The King of Pentacles represents financial stability, success, and leadership. This card signifies the achievement of wealth, professional mastery, and the ability to manage resources skillfully. You may be in a position of authority, such as a business owner, CEO, or manager, or striving to reach such a position. The King of Pentacles encourages you to focus on building a solid and sustainable career, using your experience and knowledge to make wise financial decisions. This card also highlights the importance of responsibility and the ability to take care of both practical and material matters in a way that benefits not only oneself but also others, whether through mentorship, business ventures, or leadership.
Spiritually: The King of Pentacles represents grounded wisdom and stability in one's spiritual practice. This card suggests you have achieved balance and security in your spiritual life, understanding that fulfilment comes from integrating spiritual wisdom with practical action. The King of Pentacles invites you to approach your spiritual journey with discipline and focus, applying the lessons you've learned to create a stable and harmonious life. The card may also indicate that you are in a position to help others grow or have the wisdom to guide others on their path, using both practical and spiritual knowledge to create lasting change.