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 Seven of Cups, Reversed |
The Full Moon V – The Hierophant, Reversed The Waning Moon |
 III – The Empress | |
Significator #1 Page of Swords, Reversed |
Significator #2 Six of Pentacles, Reversed |
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The Dark 0 – The Fool |
The Secret of the High Priestess Knight of Wands |
The Light Queen of Swords |
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The Next Step Three of Pentacles |
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Significator #1
Page of Swords, Reversed
The Page of Swords represents curiosity, mental agility, and a thirst for knowledge. This card indicates a time of exploring new ideas, seeking the truth, and being inquisitive about the world. The Page of Swords embodies the energy of a young, eager mind, ready to learn and communicate. Holding a sword and looking forward with determination, this figure symbolises a desire to cut through confusion and uncover deeper truths. This card is a call to embrace mental challenges, use logic and intellect, and approach situations with keen observation and a clear perspective.
Reversed, the Page of Swords suggests you may be engaging in gossip, being overly critical, or misinterpreting information. There may be a tendency to jump to conclusions without understanding a situation or communicate in a crude, tactless manner. The reversal warns against using intellect or sharp words to manipulate or undermine others. It encourages you to be more careful with your communication. It can also indicate a lack of focus, leading to confusion or misunderstandings. The Page of Swords reversed suggests the need to slow down, gather more information, and approach situations with greater maturity and understanding.
In Relationships: The Page of Swords suggests a time of intellectual curiosity and communication. This card can indicate that you or your partner are seeking clarity or trying to understand the dynamics of the relationship more deeply. There may be a need for open, honest communication, and the Page of Swords encourages expressing your thoughts clearly, even if the conversation may be uncomfortable. The Page also warns against jumping to conclusions. Take the time to gather information before making assumptions. In some cases, the Page of Swords may indicate someone more focused on mental stimulation than emotional connection, so it's important to balance intellect and emotion in the relationship.
In Work: The Page of Swords signals a time for gathering information, learning, or sharpening skills necessary for success. You may be in the early stages of a new project or endeavour, and this card suggests you should approach it with curiosity, a willingness to learn, and the ability to think critically. It may also point to new developments or challenges on the horizon that require you to adapt quickly. The Page of Swords encourages you to be analytical in your approach to work and be prepared to respond quickly to new opportunities or problems. This card can also suggest that someone in the workplace is observing you, so it's important to be mindful of how your actions or words are perceived.
Spiritually: The Page of Swords represents exploration and a quest for truth. You may seek answers to deeper questions, explore new spiritual practices, or test your beliefs. This card suggests an openness to ideas and a desire to uncover the truth behind mysteries. The Page of Swords invites you to approach your spiritual journey with a clear and discerning mind, seeking knowledge while remaining sceptical of superficial answers. It encourages asking questions, seeking wisdom from various sources, and being open to revelations that challenge preconceived notions. However, it also cautions against rushing to conclusions or getting caught up in distractions that may divert attention from the deeper truths of the spiritual path.
Significator #2
Six of Pentacles, Reversed
The Six of Pentacles represents generosity, balance, and the exchange of resources. This card embodies the energy of giving and receiving, and the importance of fairness and reciprocity in material and emotional exchanges. The figure on the card holds scales, distributing coins to those in need, symbolising the act of sharing resources fairly. The Six of Pentacles signifies a period where you may be called upon to give to others, but it also suggests you could find yourself in a position to receive help, support, or resources from others.
Reversed, the Six of Pentacles suggests an imbalance in the giving and receiving dynamic. You may be giving too much of your time, energy, or resources, leading to a feeling of depletion, or you may be in a situation where you are not receiving what you need, either materially or emotionally. This card reversed warns against being taken advantage of or neglecting to ask for help when needed. It may also indicate that you struggle with fairness in your interactions or feel resentful about unequal exchanges. The Six of Pentacles reversed encourages you to assess your relationships and ensure balance in your interactions. It may suggest the need to set boundaries, reassess who is giving and receiving, and restore fairness in your dealings.
In Relationships: The Six of Pentacles indicates a relationship with a healthy exchange of energy between partners. This card suggests a balance between giving and receiving, where both parties contribute equally to the relationship, whether emotionally, materially, or in terms of effort. The Six of Pentacles encourages you to consider whether the relationship is balanced or if one partner gives more than the other. If there is an imbalance, this card advises you to address the issue and ensure that both individuals are contributing fairly. The card also speaks to the idea of supporting one another in times of need and being willing to offer help and care when needed.
In Work: The Six of Pentacles suggests you may experience a period of financial stability, where you can share your resources with others or receive help or recognition for your work. This card may indicate a raise, promotion, or an opportunity to assist others. It speaks to the importance of using your success to support others and create balance within the workplace. The Six of Pentacles can also suggest that you may be in a position to mentor or share your knowledge with others, promoting fairness and equal opportunity. It encourages you to remain generous and fair in professional dealings and trust that your efforts will be reciprocated in future rewards.
Spiritually: The Six of Pentacles represents the balance between giving and receiving within one's spiritual practice. You may be in a position to share your insights, wisdom, or resources with others, or you may require guidance. This card encourages you to embrace the concept of reciprocity in your spiritual journey, understanding that growth comes not just from personal practice but also from helping others and being open to receiving insights. The Six of Pentacles reminds us that spirituality is about balance—about being generous with one's knowledge and resources but being open to receiving guidance and nourishment from others or the universe. It calls for an equal exchange of energy, whether in prayer, meditation, or community.
The Waning Moon is the influence that you are putting behind you, as it moves into the past.
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 Full Moon is the current influence at this time.
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 Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon; the approaching influence.
Seven of Cups, Reversed
The Seven of Cups represents choices, illusions, and the complexity of emotional decisions. This card depicts seven cups filled with different images, symbolising various desires, dreams, or fantasies. Some cups may hold treasure, others snakes, skulls, or clouds, representing the spectrum of possibilities you face. The Seven of Cups signals a time when you are confronted with many options, each representing different emotional paths, dreams, or desires. However, it also suggests these options may be clouded by illusions, wishful thinking, or unrealistic expectations, making it challenging to discern what is valuable or achievable. This card asks you to consider your choices carefully, distinguishing between what is grounded in reality and what is a fleeting fantasy.
Reversed, the Seven of Cups indicates a lack of clarity or focus, and you may be struggling with decision-making or overwhelmed by too many choices. The reversal suggests you may have fallen prey to illusions, escapism, or unrealistic expectations, and now face the consequences of these choices. It may also signal that you are avoiding making decisions or can't commit to a path because you are too caught up in dreams or fantasies. The Seven of Cups reversed urges you to face reality, clear away illusions, and focus on the choices most aligned with your desires. It suggests you may need to eliminate distractions and prioritise your goals.
In Relationships: The Seven of Cups indicates emotional confusion or being faced with many options, each offering a distinct possibility. It can signify a time when you may be caught up in daydreams or fantasies about love, perhaps idealising certain relationships or not seeing things clearly. This card may also suggest that you are unsure about a current relationship, feeling torn between different emotional desires or potential partners. The Seven of Cups advises you to ground yourself in reality, consider the consequences of your choices, and choose a path that aligns with your emotional needs. It cautions against being swept away by illusions or unrealistic expectations in relationships.
In Work: The Seven of Cups represents a time of many options, opportunities, or career paths, but it may also indicate confusion or difficulty in deciding. You may feel overwhelmed by the possibilities or tempted by opportunities that seem too good to be true. This card encourages you to take a step back and assess each option carefully, considering not only the rewards but also the potential risks or consequences. The Seven of Cups advises you to remain focused and not get distracted by illusions or promises of easy success. It's a reminder that not all opportunities are as they appear, and clarity and discernment are essential when making career decisions.
Spiritually: The Seven of Cups suggests a time of inner conflict, where you may be drawn to many spiritual paths, practices, or beliefs, but are uncertain which one resonates with you most deeply. This card can indicate spiritual confusion or a tendency to be distracted by illusions or false promises of enlightenment. The Seven of Cups invites you to ground your spiritual practice, reminding you to stay focused on your values and beliefs, rather than chasing trends. It also encourages you to explore your desires mindfully, making sure that your spiritual choices are rooted in your true self.
The Light is what is clearly recognized.
Queen of Swords
The Queen of Swords represents intellect and independence. This card embodies a woman who is sharp, perceptive, and unafraid to speak her mind. With a keen intellect and a clear vision, the Queen of Swords can cut through confusion and see the truth of any situation. She represents mental clarity, objectivity, and a rational approach to problem-solving. The Queen holds her sword with authority, signifying her ability to assert herself and set boundaries. She is calm and composed, yet her mind is quick and discerning. Her energy is about using logic, reason, and communication to navigate life's challenges.
The Queen of Swords encourages you to embrace your intelligence and intuition. She is a symbol of emotional detachment in the sense that she does not allow her emotions to cloud her judgement. The Queen of Swords values truth, and her words carry weight; she will speak with precision, even if it means being blunt or cutting. This card may also suggest the need to adopt a more objective perspective, detach from emotional influence, and approach situations with a level-headed, logical attitude.
In Relationships: The Queen of Swords represents clear communication and an intellectual connection. This card suggests you may need to approach your romantic life honestly and directly. You may be called to express your needs, desires, and boundaries without hesitation. The Queen of Swords reminds you to maintain independence and not lose yourself in a relationship. It can also indicate the need to address misunderstandings or miscommunications and approach emotional situations logically. The Queen of Swords advises to balance intellect with emotional sensitivity in matters of love.
In Work: The Queen of Swords symbolises clear thinking, effective communication, and strategic planning. You may be in a position where you are required to make decisions based on logic, objective assessment, and insight. This card suggests trusting your intellectual abilities, deciding confidently, and communicating clearly with others. The Queen of Swords can also indicate a role where you must serve as a leader, counsellor, or advisor, using your wisdom and clear judgement to guide others. It may also suggest the need to remain professional and composed, using reason to handle any difficult situations that arise. The Queen of Swords reminds you to be independent and self-sufficient in your career, relying on your abilities rather than seeking validation from others.
Spiritually: The Queen of Swords represents inner wisdom. You may be seeking truth in your spiritual journey, and this card urges you to trust your insights and inner guidance. The Queen of Swords asks you to approach spirituality with objectivity and discernment, seeking wisdom from trusted sources while filtering out distractions or illusions. This card can also indicate a time of spiritual growth that requires a balance of intellect and intuition, where clear, focused thinking will help you navigate your path. The Queen of Swords represents the ability to cut through spiritual confusion and gain a deeper understanding of your true purpose.
The Dark shows what is there but not fully perceived, though it has been noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.
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.
The Next Step is the near future, where this journey will take you.
Three of Pentacles
The Three of Pentacles represents teamwork, collaboration, and the mastery of a craft. This card embodies the energy of building something solid through collective effort, skill, and dedication. It signifies the importance of working with others to achieve a shared goal and highlights the value of bringing different strengths, talents, and perspectives together. The figure on the card is a skilled artisan or worker, either collaborating with others or demonstrating their craftsmanship. This card suggests your efforts are being recognised and you're on the path towards mastery in your field.
The Three of Pentacles is a card of development and progress, indicating that you are in the early stages of building something significant, whether a career, creative project, or relationship. The focus is on creating a solid foundation and working diligently towards long-term goals. This card encourages you to continue honing your skills, paying attention to the details, and remaining committed to the process. It also speaks to the importance of receiving feedback, collaborating with others, and acknowledging that success often requires the contributions of multiple people working together in a unified effort.
In Relationships: The Three of Pentacles suggests you and your partner may be building something solid and long-lasting together. This could be the development of a deeper commitment or the creation of shared goals and values. The card emphasises the importance of teamwork and collaboration. You may need to work with your partner to overcome challenges or to improve the relationship's foundation. Communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to support each other's growth are key themes in the Three of Pentacles. This card can also suggest that your relationship is in a stage of growth and development, where the effort of both parties is needed to ensure a lasting bond.
In Work: The Three of Pentacles signals collaboration, recognition, and progress in one's work. It may indicate that you are working as part of a team or are about to be recognised for your contributions to a project. This card signifies that your skills are being appreciated and that you are moving forward in your professional development. It also points to the importance of learning from others, whether through mentorship, teamwork, or collaboration. The Three of Pentacles reminds you that success is often achieved by working with others and sharing knowledge and expertise. It may also suggest you are at a point in your career where you are refining your craft and preparing to take on more responsibility.
Spiritually: The Three of Pentacles represents growth, mastery, and the development of one's spiritual practice. You may be deepening your understanding and expanding your skills in this area. The card encourages you to continue your spiritual development with dedication, patience, and attention to detail. It also suggests that you may benefit from connecting with others who share similar spiritual goals or values, as collaboration and learning from others are key to growth. The Three of Pentacles invites you to recognise that spiritual mastery, like any other craft, takes time, effort, and the willingness to work with others in the pursuit of a shared understanding.
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.
Knight of Wands
The Knight of Wands represents boldness, adventure, and pursuing goals with passion and vigour. It embodies the energy of someone fearless, dynamic, and determined to move forward in their pursuits, no matter the obstacles. This card signifies action, enthusiasm, and a fiery drive to achieve one's ambitions. Depicted on horseback, charging forward with a wand in hand, the Knight of Wands is on a quest, eager to conquer challenges and explore new frontiers. His energy is contagious, and his confidence in the face of uncertainty encourages you to act decisively and boldly in your own life.
The Knight of Wands is a card of momentum and adventure, signalling a time when you should take action to make things happen. This is a card of inspired movement, where you are being urged to follow your passions, take risks, and embrace opportunities that lead to personal growth. However, the card also warns to avoid recklessness or impulsive decisions, as the Knight can sometimes be too quick to charge ahead without considering the consequences. It encourages enthusiasm but with awareness and responsibility.
In Relationships: The Knight of Wands indicates a time of passionate energy and adventure. For those in committed relationships, this card suggests a renewed sense of excitement, spontaneity, and enthusiasm. It may represent a period of rekindled passion, where both partners are eager to explore new facets of the relationship or take risks together. For those who are single, the Knight of Wands can signify a fast-moving romantic encounter filled with excitement and intensity. However, the Knight of Wands may also point to a tendency for relationships to be temporary, encouraging you to be mindful of how quickly things progress. This card reminds you to stay true to your desires while seeking a balance between passion and stability.
In Work: The Knight of Wands represents bold action, ambition, and the drive to succeed. This card signifies a time when you should take decisive action towards your career goals. The Knight of Wands is determined, fearless, and ready to face challenges head-on, suggesting that you should embrace new opportunities, take risks, and pursue ventures confidently. It can also indicate a new, exciting job or project that requires energy and enthusiasm. While this card encourages fast movement, it also warns against rushing into things without planning. You are encouraged to harness your energy wisely, balancing excitement with practicality to avoid burnout or missteps.
Spiritually: The Knight of Wands signifies intense growth and spiritual exploration. You may feel a pull to expand your consciousness, take risks in your spiritual practices, or go on a journey of self-discovery. This card encourages you to follow your inner calling with excitement and confidence but approach spiritual exploration with an open mind and a sense of purpose. The Knight of Wands represents a spiritual quest, full of new experiences and insights. It's a time to embrace change, seek new wisdom, and venture beyond your comfort zone while staying true to the heart's deepest desires.