Secret of the High Priestess Spread
Difficulty: Average
This spread makes a nice alternative to the Celtic Cross, which covers basically the same ground. It is useful when a question doesn't quite call for the Ankh spread. This tarot spread is helpful for looking into a current trend. The High Priestess may or may not present a mysterious secret to be analysed after the rest of the spread.
1. & 2. Main impulses representing the topic at hand. They may compliment or oppose one another.
3. This is the current influence at this time.
5. The Waning Moon is the influence that is moving into the past.
4. The Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon, or the approaching influence. This is the immediate future.
7. The Light is what is clearly recognized, consciously.
6. The Dark indicates what is there but not fully perceived, though noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.
8. The Next Step is the near future, where this journey leads.
9. The final tarot card, only if it happens to be of the Major Arcana, reveals the Secret of the High Priestess. This is a special message that should be given added weight.
Your Secret of the High Priestess Reading
The Waxing Moon Two of Wands, Reversed |
The Full Moon Six of Swords, Reversed |
The Waning Moon V – The Hierophant, Reversed | |
Significator #1 XVIII – The Moon |
Significator #2 Knight of Cups, Reversed |
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The Dark Ten of Cups |
The Secret of the High Priestess XVI – The Tower |
The Light Knight of Swords |
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The Next Step Page of Pentacles, Reversed |
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Significator #1
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.
Significator #2
Knight of Cups, Reversed
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.
Reversed, the Knight of Cups may indicate emotional instability, unrealistic expectations, or being swept away by fantasies or illusions. The reversal suggests you may be acting impulsively or idealistically without considering the consequences, which could lead to disappointment or heartache. It may also signify a lack of emotional direction or a tendency to avoid responsibility in relationships or other emotional matters. The Knight of Cups reversed invites you to ground your emotions and be more discerning in your pursuits, particularly in matters of the heart. It calls for a more balanced approach, ensuring that emotional impulses are aligned with reality and practicality.
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.
The Waning Moon is the influence that you are putting behind you, as it moves into the past.
V – The Hierophant, ReversedThe 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.
Reversed, the Hierophant can indicate a rejection of traditional values, questioning established belief systems, or feeling trapped by convention. It may suggest that you are struggling with the pressure to conform or feeling disconnected from a spiritual or moral framework. This card reversed encourages you to explore new ways of thinking and seek personal truth, even if it goes against societal norms or expectations. It also suggests the need to break free from dogmatic thinking and find spiritual guidance that resonates with you.
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 Full Moon is the current influence at this time.
Six of Swords, Reversed
The Six of Swords represents moving forward from a difficult situation. This card signals leaving behind a time of hardship or emotional turbulence and heading towards calmer, more peaceful waters. It suggests you are healing or recovering from a challenging experience, and while the road ahead may still require effort, there is relief and optimism as you start moving forward. The image depicts a figure traveling across a body of water in a boat, with swords representing the mental challenges or emotional baggage left behind.
Reversed, the Six of Swords can indicate that you are resisting transition, either unwilling to move on from the past or not ready to let go of a difficult situation. The reversal suggests you may feel stuck in a state of emotional or mental turmoil, unable to move forward or find closure. It may also signify that you still carry emotional baggage or unresolved issues hindering your progress. The reversed Six of Swords encourages you to confront your fears or hesitations and embrace the change necessary for healing and growth. It is a call to leave the past behind and take the first steps towards a brighter future.
In Relationships: The Six of Swords suggests moving on from emotional pain or difficulties. This card indicates that you are healing, leaving behind old hurts or a toxic relationship to find peace. The Six of Swords may signal the end of a difficult period in love, a time you are finally ready to move on and open yourself up to new possibilities. It encourages you to let go of the past, release emotional baggage, and trust that the journey towards healing will lead to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. This card is a reminder that sometimes the best way forward in love is to move away from situations that no longer align with your well-being.
In Work: The Six of Swords indicates a period of transition when you are moving from a challenging work situation or difficult project towards a more favourable environment. This could involve leaving a job, moving to a new position, or changing career paths for greater satisfaction or stability. The Six of Swords signifies a shift, where you distance yourself from old problems and focus on your growth and success. It is a reminder that while change may be intimidating, it often leads to progress and opportunity. The card encourages you to move forward confidently, knowing the journey will bring you closer to your goals.
Spiritually: The Six of Swords represents a journey of recovery and growth. This card suggests you are leaving behind limiting beliefs, old wounds, or difficult spiritual experiences to find peace, balance, and clarity. It may indicate a period of spiritual renewal when you distance yourself from past traumas or negative influences and focus on your path of personal development. The Six of Swords encourages you to trust your spiritual journey, knowing that each step forward brings you closer to a higher understanding or inner peace. It is a reminder that healing takes time, but the journey towards enlightenment is worth the effort.
The Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon; the approaching influence.
Two of Wands, Reversed
The Two of Wands represents planning, decision-making, and exploring possibilities. As the second card in the suit of Wands, it marks the stage where inspiration and initial excitement develop into a more thoughtful, strategic approach. Depicted as a figure between two tall staffs holding a globe and looking out over a vast landscape, the Two of Wands symbolises a moment of looking ahead and considering the future. This card indicates you are standing at a crossroads, contemplating your next steps and weighing your options. The globe represents the world of possibilities, while the staffs represent the energy and determination needed to move forward.
Reversed, the Two of Wands can indicate hesitation, indecision, or a lack of confidence to move forward. It may suggest you are feeling stuck or unable to make a decision about your future or may be avoiding taking the necessary risks. The reversed Two of Wands can also signify a fear of failure or a reluctance to step outside your comfort zone. This card advises you to overcome self-doubt and take action, reminding you that planning and preparation are important, but you must also be willing to take the leap and trust your instincts. It can also suggest you focus too much on what could go wrong instead of the potential rewards, urging you to regain perspective and confidence.
In Relationships: The Two of Wands suggests you are at a decision-making point in your romantic life. You may be contemplating whether to move forward with a relationship or whether it's time to explore other possibilities. This card indicates a strong sense of attraction and potential, but you may need to make a choice or assess how your desires align with the reality of the relationship. For those already in a partnership, the Two of Wands may indicate a time of expansion, where both partners are considering new directions together. It encourages exploration, communication, and mutual decision-making. This card can also indicate that you are contemplating a long-distance relationship or a shift in the dynamics of an existing relationship.
In Work: The Two of Wands represents planning, foresight, and taking the first steps towards a larger goal. You may be considering a new professional opportunity, expanding your business, or exploring an alternative career path. This card suggests you have already gained some experience or knowledge and are looking ahead to the next stage of your professional journey. The Two of Wands encourages taking calculated risks and boldly pursuing new opportunities. It also reminds you to be patient, as success may require careful planning and thoughtful consideration. This card can indicate that you are preparing to step into a leadership role or begin a new venture, but thoughtful consideration of the options is necessary before making a decision.
Spiritually: The Two of Wands signifies a moment of self-reflection and contemplation on the path ahead. This card invites you to look at your spiritual journey and consider what you desire to manifest. It may indicate a time when you are weighing different spiritual practices or philosophies, trying to determine which path feels most aligned with your higher self. The Two of Wands encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and explore new spiritual experiences or ideas that may broaden your understanding of yourself and the universe. It also symbolises the need for inner exploration and preparation for the next phase of spiritual growth. You may be considering whether you are ready to make a deeper commitment or take the next step on your spiritual path.
The Light is what is clearly recognized.
Knight of Swords
The Knight of Swords represents action, intellect, and ambition. This card embodies a bold, determined, and sometimes impulsive energy. The Knight of Swords charges forward with a clear objective, acting swiftly and decisively, fuelled by passion and mental focus. His sword symbolises the sharpness of his mind and his ability to cut through confusion, but his swift movement can sometimes result in hasty decisions or a lack of consideration for the consequences. The Knight of Swords urges you to take action with conviction and purpose, but it also cautions that moving too fast without thought may lead to mistakes or conflict.
The Knight of Swords can represent a person in your life who is assertive and direct in their communication, often quick to speak their mind and take charge. This figure may also symbolise you, urging you to embrace your intellectual strengths and assert your will, but to be mindful of the need for careful thought. This card suggests a period where quick thinking and decisive action are required to achieve success, but it reminds us that rushing into things without proper planning can be risky.
In Relationships: The Knight of Swords represents fast-paced, direct energy. You may be rushing into a relationship, desiring to move things forward quickly or to assert your desires boldly. This card suggests a time of intellectual connection, where you may be eager to discuss important matters or clear up misunderstandings. However, it may also indicate a tendency towards arguments or misunderstandings if communication is too blunt or one person is too headstrong. The Knight of Swords encourages you to speak your truth and take decisive actions in your romantic life but warns against being too forceful or rushing things without considering the feelings of others.
In Work: The Knight of Swords signifies ambition and drive. You may be pursuing your goals with passion, energy, and speed. This card suggests a time to take action and use your mind to tackle challenges head-on. However, the Knight of Swords also warns against charging forward without a coherent plan, as this could lead to burnout, mistakes, or conflict with others. You are encouraged to use your intellect and determination to push forward but to remain mindful of the bigger picture and potential consequences of your actions. This card may also indicate a new project or opportunity requiring quick thinking and bold action, where success depends on the ability to adapt and act fast.
Spiritually: The Knight of Swords represents a time of pursuing knowledge, truth, or personal growth. You may be seeking answers, trying to cut through confusion or uncertainty in your spiritual journey. This card urges you to take swift action in pursuing your goals, but it also warns against rushing into new practices or philosophies without proper reflection or understanding. The Knight of Swords can indicate a time of mental stimulation and spiritual clarity, where you may feel inspired to dive into spiritual matters. However, it also suggests intellectual understanding alone may not be enough—balance is needed with emotional wisdom and reflection. You are encouraged to use your intellect to enhance your spiritual growth but to avoid overthinking or becoming fixated on theories that might disconnect you from your intuition.
The Dark shows what is there but not fully perceived, though it has been noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.
Ten of Cups
The Ten of Cups represents emotional harmony, lasting happiness, and the fulfilment of love and family. Depicted as a happy family or couple standing beneath a rainbow of ten cups, this card signifies the emotional fulfilment that comes from loving relationships, deep connections, and shared experiences. The Ten of Cups suggests you have achieved or are on the verge of experiencing a time of emotional peace when love, happiness, and emotional security flourish. It reflects unity and alignment with yourself and those closest to you.
This card embodies emotional completion, where all the pieces of the puzzle fall into place, and you feel a deep sense of gratitude and contentment. The Ten of Cups emphasises that emotional fulfilment is most meaningful when shared with loved ones, and it encourages you to cherish your relationships, creating peace and love within the family. It suggests emotional balance and joy are possible, not through external achievements alone, but through genuine connection, mutual respect, and love.
In Relationships: The Ten of Cups is one of the most positive cards, indicating emotional fulfilment, joy, and harmony. It may suggest that you are in or will soon experience a satisfying romantic relationship characterised by mutual love, support, and happiness. For those in committed partnerships, the Ten of Cups represents a time of growth and emotional connection when both partners are aligned and working together towards common goals. It may also suggest the possibility of starting a family. For singles, the Ten of Cups indicates that love and emotional fulfilment are within reach, suggesting that you may soon meet someone who brings you joy and companionship.
In Work: The Ten of Cups represents fulfilment through work that brings emotional satisfaction and harmony. It suggests you are in a position where you feel emotional contentment in your professional life, perhaps through collaboration, teamwork, or working for a cause you believe in. The Ten of Cups indicates that genuine success is not just about external accomplishments, but also about feeling valued, appreciated, and engaged with your work. This card may also reflect a work environment that feels like a family, where there is support, trust, and belonging. The Ten of Cups encourages you to find work that aligns with your emotional well-being, where you can experience fulfilment and joy in what you do.
Spiritually: The Ten of Cups represents alignment with one's higher self and a sense of peace and fulfilment in the spiritual realm. It suggests you have reached a state of spiritual harmony and connection, where you feel emotionally balanced, at peace, and in tune with the divine. This card encourages you to nurture your connections, whether through family, community, or personal practice, as it brings you a sense of fulfilment. It may also indicate a time when you feel emotionally supported and connected to the universe.
The Next Step is the near future, where this journey will take you.
Page of Pentacles, Reversed
The Page of Pentacles represents new beginnings, ambition, and the desire for learning and growth. This card embodies the energy of curiosity, practicality, and a youthful approach to manifesting material and financial opportunities. The Page of Pentacles holds a pentacle in their hands, gazing at it intently, symbolising a focus on goals, dreams, and the potential to create something tangible. The card speaks to your willingness to learn, grow, and invest in your future, whether through formal education, career development, or personal growth.
Reversed, the Page of Pentacles may indicate a lack of focus, unrealistic expectations, or immaturity in financial or career matters. You may be struggling to stay committed to a goal, or letting distractions prevent you from making tangible progress. It can also suggest a fear of failure, procrastination, or a tendency to be overly cautious about taking practical action. The reversed Page of Pentacles encourages you to refocus your energy, take a more grounded approach to your goals, and be willing to invest time and effort into your growth. It may also suggest needing more practical knowledge or skills before moving forward with a particular project or goal.
In Relationships: The Page of Pentacles suggests a fresh, grounded approach to relationships. It may indicate the beginning of a new, promising connection, where both partners are open to exploring the potential for growth and stability. This card encourages patience and steady progress in relationships, suggesting that you are looking for a partner with whom you can build a secure and lasting foundation. The Page of Pentacles may signal learning and growth together, whether that involves taking on new challenges, learning about each other's values, or making long-term commitments. The card emphasises the importance of nurturing a relationship with care, attention, and realistic expectations.
In Work: The Page of Pentacles signifies new opportunities for growth, learning, and advancement. You may be starting a new project, career path, or educational pursuit that promises potential for future success. This card speaks to the desire for mastery, a solid work ethic, and the willingness to learn to improve your skills or position. It encourages you to take a practical, disciplined approach to your career goals, focusing on the steps needed to build a stable, successful foundation. The Page of Pentacles may also indicate the start of an apprenticeship or training phase where you acquire the skills necessary to advance in your career. The card suggests success will come from dedication, hard work, and a focus on continual improvement.
Spiritually: The Page of Pentacles represents a time of growth, learning, and grounding within one's spiritual practice. It indicates a phase where you may explore new teachings, philosophies, or practices with a practical, down-to-earth mindset. The card suggests a thirst for knowledge and understanding, encouraging you to embrace your journey with patience and discipline. The Page of Pentacles reminds you that spiritual growth requires a commitment to learning and applying wisdom, and that tangible progress is made through consistent effort. This card invites you to deepen your spiritual practice.
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.
XVI – The Tower
The Tower represents sudden upheaval, destruction, and revelation. This card symbolises the collapse of established structures that were built on unstable foundations. A tall tower being struck by lightning, with people falling from it, signals that something in your life is about to be drastically altered, often through unexpected events or revelations. While the image may appear dramatic, the Tower invites a necessary shake-up or disruption that clears the way for transformation. The destruction is not meant to be detrimental, but to reveal the truth and tear down false beliefs, patterns, or illusions that no longer serve your best interests.
The Tower calls attention to areas of life where change is unavoidable and often uncomfortable. Though it can represent loss, chaos, or vulnerability, it also signals the potential for freedom and growth through the breaking down of illusions. You are encouraged to release your attachment to the old structure and trust that what remains after the dust settles will be stronger and more aligned with your true purpose.
In Relationships: The Tower indicates a sudden and unexpected change—this could be an argument, a breakup, or a moment of shocking revelation that forces both partners to confront underlying issues. While the upheaval may be painful, it offers an opportunity to rebuild the relationship from a more authentic place, free of illusions or false expectations. The Tower urges you to face uncomfortable truths and let go of outdated beliefs or patterns preventing the relationship from developing. This card can also signify a need to release unhealthy attachments to make way for a more genuine connection.
In Work: The Tower suggests an unexpected disruption in your professional life. This could be a sudden job loss, a major shift in a project, or the breakdown of a system that no longer works. The Tower indicates that a structure built on unstable ground is collapsing, and while this may initially seem like a crisis, it is ultimately a catalyst for change and growth. You are encouraged to embrace the chaos as an opportunity to reassess your goals and approach, shedding old methods or beliefs that no longer align with your vision of success. The Tower signals the need for radical change, pushing you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace radical new possibilities.
Spiritually: The Tower represents a profound awakening, where your beliefs or worldview may be shattered to make room for deeper understanding and enlightenment. This card invites you to confront the illusions or false constructs that have kept you from seeing the truth of your spiritual path. The Tower represents the moment of revelation that breaks down the ego, allowing the individual to see things more clearly. It is a reminder that spiritual growth often requires moments of upheaval, where the old self is destroyed to make way for the new. The destruction of the old is essential for the emergence of wisdom and self-awareness.