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 0 – The Fool |
The Full Moon III – The Empress |
The Waning Moon Two of Swords, Reversed |
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Significator #1 Ten of Swords |
Significator #2 King of Pentacles |
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The Dark Seven of Cups |
The Secret of the High Priestess Queen of Wands, Reversed |
The Light Seven of Wands |
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The Next Step IV – The Emperor |
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Significator #1
Ten of Swords
The Ten of Swords represents painful endings, betrayal, and hitting rock bottom. This card signals a time of tremendous distress, often indicating that a situation has reached its peak of destruction, and the only way out is through the aftermath. The image depicts a figure lying face down with ten swords piercing their back, symbolising the ultimate betrayal or defeat. The Ten of Swords signifies a crisis or a moment where you feel like everything falls apart, and you are at the lowest point possible. However, it is important to note that the Ten of Swords also marks the completion of a cycle, meaning that while the end is painful, it is also the beginning of a new chapter.
Despite its bleak appearance, the Ten of Swords carries the potential for rebirth. The card encourages you to acknowledge the pain and suffering you have experienced but to understand that the worst is over. While the damage has been done, this moment represents the conclusion of a painful cycle. From here, things can only get better. The Ten of Swords invites you to accept the end of a situation, release any lingering attachment to the past, and open yourself to the possibilities of the future.
In Relationships: The Ten of Swords suggests the painful end of a relationship, possibly involving betrayal, dishonesty, or emotional devastation. You may experience the finality of a breakup, a sense of loss, or the painful realisation that a relationship is no longer serving your well-being. This card indicates a time of heartache but also signals the end of a difficult emotional journey. The Ten of Swords urges you to release any attachment to the past and allow yourself the time and space to heal. While this card represents a painful ending, it also holds the promise of emotional liberation and the opportunity to rebuild your sense of self and open yourself up to future relationships.
In Work: The Ten of Swords represents a significant failure, burnout, or the collapse of a professional endeavour. You may have experienced a career setback, loss of a job, or the failure of a project. This card signals the end of a phase in your work life, often due to betrayal, poor decisions, or circumstances beyond your control. While the Ten of Swords can represent a moment of defeat, it also suggests this is the conclusion of a difficult chapter. The card encourages you to accept the end of the situation and focus on the lessons learned, knowing that from this point forward, you can move on to more fulfilling professional opportunities.
Spiritually: The Ten of Swords indicates spiritual crisis, despair, or the shattering of old beliefs. You may be going through an intense period of doubt, loss, or a profound sense of disconnection from your spiritual path. This card represents the breaking down of old structures and ways of thinking, which can feel devastating but is necessary for growth. The Ten of Swords invites you to embrace this spiritual death and let go of outdated beliefs or attachments that no longer serve you. Though painful, this is an opportunity for rebirth, allowing you to reconnect with your true self and the divine.
Significator #2
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.
The Waning Moon is the influence that you are putting behind you, as it moves into the past.
Two of Swords, Reversed
The Two of Swords represents indecision, stalemate, and the need for balanced judgement. This card appears when you are faced with a difficult decision or unable to see the truth of a situation. The swords in this card often depict a figure blindfolded, symbolising the inability to see the full picture or to make a clear choice. The Two of Swords asks you to balance intellect and emotions, carefully weigh the options, and trust in your ability to make the right decision when the time is right. It signifies a period of inner conflict, where the mind is divided, and external circumstances may not provide clear answers.
Reversed, the Two of Swords can indicate confusion, avoidance, or a refusal to make a decision. The reversal suggests you may be stuck in a state of denial, unwilling to confront the reality of a situation or to take the steps to resolve an issue. The Two of Swords reversed urges you to acknowledge your feelings and confront the choices you have been avoiding. It may also suggest that you are letting fear or indecision paralyse you, preventing you from moving forward. The reversed card encourages you to break free from this mental stalemate and make a decision, knowing that action is often the key to clarity.
In Relationships: The Two of Swords indicates a relationship stalemate or a decision that needs to be made. This card suggests there may be a situation where you are avoiding confronting difficult truths or making a choice in your romantic life. It could indicate a relationship where communication has stalled or there is a lack of clarity regarding the next steps. The Two of Swords encourages you to be honest with yourself and your partner, addressing the emotional blockages or uncertainties that may exist. It is a reminder that avoiding a decision or shutting out emotions will not resolve the situation.
In Work: The Two of Swords signals indecision or mental conflict regarding a job, project, or career path. This card suggests you may be at a crossroads in your professional life, unsure of which direction to take. The Two of Swords asks you to carefully evaluate the options available, ensuring you are not making decisions based on external pressure or fear. It may also indicate a time when you feel stuck or unable to make progress, either because of hesitation or external factors. The card encourages you to reflect on your goals, trusting that clarity will come with patience and introspection.
Spiritually: The Two of Swords represents inner conflict or a need to balance one's beliefs. This card suggests you may feel torn between two paths, practices, or ways of thinking. The Two of Swords encourages you to look inward, seeking clarity and guidance from your higher self. It is a reminder that spiritual growth often requires tough decisions, and the ability to balance opposing forces within the self is key to moving forward. You may need to quiet the mind, remove distractions, and connect with your intuition to find the answers you seek.
The Full Moon is the current influence at this time.
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 Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon; the approaching influence.
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 Light is what is clearly recognized.
Seven of Wands
The Seven of Wands represents perseverance, defence, and standing your ground in the face of challenges. It indicates a time when you are confronted with competition, opposition, or criticism, but must remain firm and assertive in protecting your position or beliefs. Depicted as a figure standing on higher ground, holding a wand to defend themselves against several others below, the Seven of Wands suggests rising above obstacles and confronting adversity head-on. This card calls for courage and determination, encouraging you to defend what you have achieved or believe in when it feels like others are challenging you.
The Seven of Wands speaks to a moment where you may feel like you are being attacked or overwhelmed by external forces. However, the figure's elevated position suggests that with the right mindset and perseverance, you have the advantage. This card encourages you to remain steadfast in your actions and decisions, knowing you are in a position to succeed despite the opposition. It reminds you to trust in your abilities and be confident that you can overcome any challenges that arise.
In Relationships: The Seven of Wands indicates tension or rivalry. This could manifest as external pressures, such as family or friends interfering, or internal struggles where both partners may experience differing needs or desires. You may need to stand your ground in protecting the relationship or asserting your boundaries. This card encourages you to remain firm and assertive in your beliefs about love and relationships, even if you face opposition from others. It may also suggest that you must fight for your connection, whether confronting misunderstandings or pushing back against external forces that threaten your unity. For single individuals, the Seven of Wands can indicate the need to stay true to your values and not be swayed by external influences in romance.
In Work: The Seven of Wands signals a time when you may be facing competition, criticism, or challenging circumstances. This card suggests you are in a position of advantage, but you must defend your place to maintain your success. The Seven of Wands indicates you will face obstacles, but it encourages you to remain strong, assertive, and confident in your abilities. It may point to the need to stand up for your ideas, work, or career goals, especially when others question or oppose them. This card advises you to avoid complacency and engage with challenges, knowing that overcoming them will only strengthen your position. It is a reminder that success often requires persistence and the ability to rise above opposition.
Spiritually: The Seven of Wands indicates a time of spiritual challenge or inner conflict, where you may feel the need to defend your spiritual beliefs or practices. The card suggests you are on a path that may be difficult to navigate, and you may face external criticism or doubt from others. However, the Seven of Wands encourages you to remain firm in your spiritual convictions and trust that you are on the right path. It also suggests you may need to stand up for your beliefs, even if you feel isolated or misunderstood. This card encourages inner strength and the courage to defend your truth while remaining open to growth and deeper understanding on the spiritual journey.
The Dark shows what is there but not fully perceived, though it has been noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.
Seven of Cups
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.
The Seven of Cups invites you to assess your desires and ambitions and reflect on which ones align with your authentic self. It calls for discernment, suggesting that you may be overwhelmed by too many possibilities, or distracted by illusions, and need to focus on the path that best serves your true purpose.
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 Next Step is the near future, where this journey will take you.
IV – The Emperor
The Emperor represents authority, structure, leadership, and stability. As the fourth card of the Major Arcana, it embodies order, discipline, and the ability to create and maintain systems that provide security and success. Sitting upon a grand throne adorned with ram's heads, symbols of strength and leadership, the Emperor exudes power. He is the ruler of his domain, symbolising mastery over the material world and the ability to make decisions confidently. His crown and sceptre reinforce his role as a sovereign figure who governs with authority.
The Emperor is a symbol of structure and organisation, signifying the need for discipline and clear boundaries. He encourages taking responsibility, setting goals, and leading with strength and integrity. The Emperor calls for action grounded in practical wisdom and a solid understanding of the frameworks that govern our lives. His presence indicates the importance of authority in achieving long-term success and the need to stand firm in your beliefs and decisions.
In Relationships: The Emperor represents stability, security, and leadership. It suggests that a solid foundation is necessary for a relationship to thrive. You may be called upon to take on a more protective or responsible role or seek a partner who offers stability and structure. This card can also signify the need for boundaries and mutual respect within a relationship. The Emperor emphasises the importance of leadership and protection.
In Work: The Emperor is a powerful card of success, structure, and authority in the professional realm. It suggests you may be in a position of leadership or will soon be called to take charge of a situation or project. This card encourages discipline, responsibility, and strategic planning in career goals. The Emperor advises you to approach your work with a strong sense of organisation and control, building a foundation to support long-term growth and achievement. Success is likely through creating order and taking decisive, informed action.
Spiritually: The Emperor represents the manifestation of spiritual authority and the use of disciplined energy to create structure and order in one's spiritual practice. It invites you to approach your spiritual journey with focus and responsibility. This card suggests that spiritual growth can be achieved through setting intentions, building a solid foundation, and taking determined action. The Emperor also calls for integrating spiritual teachings into everyday life, using wisdom and strength to create stability.
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.
Queen of Wands, Reversed
The Queen of Wands embodies confidence, warmth, creativity, and the ability to inspire others. It represents a powerful, passionate energy that is both nurturing and assertive. The Queen of Wands is a woman of action, someone not afraid to step into the spotlight and take charge of her life and circumstances. She radiates self-assurance and charm, attracting others through charisma and enthusiasm. Depicted with a sunflower and a black cat, the Queen of Wands is in touch with her intuition and creativity, and she uses these traits to manifest her desires and lead others with grace.
Reversed, the Queen of Wands can indicate a lack of confidence, burnout, or a loss of direction. You may feel disconnected from your inner power or struggle with self-doubt. This reversal may also point to an overextension of energy, where you put too much effort into pleasing others or maintaining control, leading to emotional exhaustion or frustration. The reversed Queen of Wands asks you to reassess your power and reconnect with your creativity and passions. It may also indicate a need to step back and find balance, focusing on self-care and nurturing your needs before trying to lead or inspire others. The reversed Queen of Wands also warns against being domineering or controlling, reminding you that leadership is about empowering others, not overshadowing them.
In Relationships: The Queen of Wands represents confidence, warmth, and attraction. This card suggests a period of emotional connection, where you and your partner are in sync, both passionate and supportive of one another. The Queen of Wands encourages being bold in love, expressing desires and needs confidently, and creating a relationship full of joy. For those who are single, the Queen of Wands signifies the potential for attracting a romantic partner who embodies warmth, strength, and charisma. This card invites you to approach love with a sense of self-assurance, knowing that you deserve a passionate and fulfilling relationship.
In Work: The Queen of Wands signifies success, leadership, and creative energy. This card suggests you are in a position where you can take charge of your professional life, whether by leading a team, initiating new projects, or inspiring others with your vision and passion. The Queen of Wands is a natural leader, and her creativity and drive make her well-suited for roles that require innovation, problem-solving, and the ability to bring people together. This card encourages you to trust your instincts and embrace your natural leadership qualities, knowing that you can manifest your goals gracefully.
Spiritually: The Queen of Wands represents a time of empowerment and self-discovery. You are being encouraged to trust your intuition and follow your inner guidance as you navigate your spiritual path. The Queen of Wands is deeply connected to her inner fire, and this card invites you to cultivate that same energy within yourself. It suggests a time of creative spiritual exploration when you can tap into your personal power and intuition to find new avenues for growth and insight. The Queen of Wands reminds you that your spiritual journey is one of empowerment and that by embracing your true self, you will attract the experiences and wisdom you seek.