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

	Higher Perceptions XX – The Aeon
Early Causes XI – Lust		Triggering Causes VIII – Adjustment
	Necessary Conclusions VII – The Chariot
Significator #1 0 – The Fool		Significator #2 XIX – The Sun
	Next Step XII – The Hanged Man
	Surprising Experiences XIII – Death
	Outcome XV – The Devil

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

0 – The Fool

(Air, Uranus, Aleph)

The Fool of the Thoth deck embodies the chaotic, boundless energy of pure potential, untouched by form or limitation. He is the alpha and omega of the journey, the primordial force from which all creation arises. Corresponding to Aleph, the breath of life, and the element of Air, the Fool represents the vibrant, unpredictable nature of Uranus, the planet of sudden change and divine inspiration.

The figure of The Fool is richly adorned, standing amid a swirling maelstrom of symbolic forms. He wears motley robes to represent his openness to all experiences, while the winged sun at his feet symbolises the life-giving power of the divine. Around him whirl a tiger (representing instinct and primal fear), a crocodile (a guardian of the mysteries and a symbol of time), and a rainbow-hued disk, representing the harmony of all elements. The Fool holds a blazing torch in one hand and a crystal cup in the other, signifying the balance of will and receptivity. One foot is grounded in the world, while the other stands on the fourth wall, as if attempting to step into our world.

In Relationships: The Fool represents the potential for new beginnings and uncharted emotional experiences. It encourages you to approach relationships with innocence and trust, unburdened by fears or preconceptions.

In Work: This card advises bold action and faith in one's ideas. It suggests venturing into unfamiliar territory and taking inspired risks, understanding that growth lies in embracing uncertainty.

Spiritually: The Fool symbolises the seeker's initial step on the path to enlightenment, an act of surrender to the cosmic current. It urges you to trust the process and let go of the need for certainty.

When ill-dignified: The Fool warns of chaos, recklessness, or naivety. You are cautioned to discern whether you are pursuing freedom or fleeing responsibility and examine whether your actions align with higher wisdom.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

XIX – The Sun

(Sun, Resh)

The Sun radiates with the energy of vitality, clarity, and triumphant renewal. Associated with Resh, the face, this card symbolises self-awareness, illumination, and the expression of the inner light. The Sun, as the central celestial body, embodies life, growth, and divine purpose.

The imagery is vibrant and joyous, as the golden sun blazes in the sky, surrounded by rays of light that fill the scene with warmth and illumination. Beneath it, twin children dance in a fertile landscape, representing innocence, harmony, and the unification of opposites. The background is lush with fields and flowers, a testament to the creative and nurturing power of the sun's energy. The card radiates an undeniable sense of triumph and clarity.

In Relationships: The Sun signifies joy, harmony, and mutual understanding. It brings light to connections, encouraging open communication and the sharing of love without reservation.

In Work: This card represents achievement and the realisation of goals. You are advised to embrace your success and lead confidently.

Spiritually: The Sun symbolises enlightenment, integrating the self, and realising your divine purpose. It calls you to step into your power and radiate your truth confidently.

When ill-dignified: The Sun warns of arrogance, egotism, or overexposure. You are advised to balance your confidence with humility and guard against burning out your energy.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

XI – Lust

(Leo, Teth)

Lust, known as Strength in many other decks, takes on a unique and profound meaning in the Book of Thoth. This card signifies the ecstatic embrace of life's passions and the power derived from uniting primal instincts with spiritual purpose. Associated with Teth, the serpent, it symbolises both the kundalini energy and the continuous cycles of transformation and renewal. Leo, the zodiac of courage and vitality, infuses the card with boundless confidence and creative expression.

The central figure is a woman riding a multi-headed beast, a symbol of primal forces mastered and directed towards a higher purpose. Her nudity represents authenticity and fearlessness, while the cup she holds aloft is the Holy Grail, symbolising the ultimate spiritual goal. The beast itself, covered in fiery hues, represents the dynamic power of creation, destruction, and renewal. The background is filled with swirling red and gold, reflecting the intensity of life force and divine energy.

In Relationships: Lust represents passion, desire, and a fearless embrace of emotional intensity. It encourages you to fully engage with your relationships, revelling in love's transformative power.

In Work: This card signifies success achieved through boldness, enthusiasm, and a connection to one's creative instincts. You are advised to channel your energy into projects that ignite your passion.

Spiritually: Lust symbolises the awakening of spiritual vitality and integrating one's primal and divine natures. It calls you to surrender to the ecstatic flow of universal energy.

When ill-dignified: Lust warns of unchecked desires, destructive passions, or an overindulgence in material pleasures. You are advised to restore balance and align your desires with a higher purpose.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

VIII – Adjustment

(Libra, Lamed)

In the Thoth deck, the card traditionally known as Justice is renamed Adjustment, reflecting the dynamic nature of balance and the constant recalibration required to maintain harmony. Associated with Lamed, the ox-goad, it represents the guidance and discipline needed to align oneself with universal truth. Libra, the zodiac of balance and fairness, infuses the card with its themes of equity and measured judgement.

The central figure of Adjustment is a serene androgynous figure holding a sword while balancing on their toes, between a balanced pair of scales. The sword symbolises the piercing clarity of truth, while the scales represent the cosmic law of cause and effect. Their poised stance is framed by geometric patterns, emphasising precision and the mathematical order of the universe. Behind them, a brilliant green background evokes the idea of renewal and the living equilibrium of nature.

In Relationships: Adjustment highlights the importance of honesty, fairness, and mutual accountability. It encourages you to communicate openly and seek a balanced dynamic.

In Work: This card suggests success will come through careful analysis, ethical decision-making, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. It warns against cutting corners or ignoring the consequences of actions.

Spiritually: Adjustment signifies alignment with divine truth and the quest for inner harmony. You are called to reflect on your actions and ensure they are in alignment with your highest principles.

When ill-dignified: Adjustment warns of imbalance, dishonesty, or an inability to take responsibility for one's actions. You are advised to confront uncomfortable truths and restore equilibrium through introspection and accountability.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

XX – The Aeon

(Judgement, Fire, Shin)

The Aeon represents transformation, evolution, and the awakening to a higher state of consciousness. Associated with Shin, the tooth, this card reflects the process of breaking through old paradigms to embrace a new spiritual era. Crowley's reinterpretation of Judgement as The Aeon emphasises rebirth on a cosmic scale, rather than individual reckoning.

The central figure is the translucent child-god Horus, representing the dawn of a new age. Above him, Nuit, the goddess of infinite space, arches across the sky, and Hadit, the fiery point of divine inspiration, burns at her core. The two incarnations of the same figure symbolise the transition from the old to the new. The vibrant reds and blues throughout the card evoke the dynamic forces of destruction and creation.

In Relationships: The Aeon signifies the potential for profound change. It suggests leaving behind outdated patterns and embracing a higher level of connection and understanding.

In Work: This card indicates a turning point, calling you to align with your true purpose and embrace transformative opportunities.

Spiritually: The Aeon symbolises awakening to a higher state of being. It calls you to release the past and step into your divine purpose with courage and clarity.

When ill-dignified: The Aeon warns of resistance to change, clinging to outdated beliefs, or fear of transformation. You are advised to trust the process of renewal and embrace the potential of the new era.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

VII – The Chariot

(Cancer, Cheth)

The Chariot represents triumph through willpower, discipline, and the unification of opposing forces. Associated with Cheth, the fence, it symbolises both protection and the boundaries that define and direct progress. Cancer, the zodiac sign of emotional depth and intuition lends the card its nurturing energy, ensuring that strength is tempered with compassion.

The Charioteer is a figure of regal composure, encased in golden armour and standing within a shell-like chariot. This shell evokes the protective qualities of Cancer, while the armour signifies spiritual and emotional fortitude. In his hands, he holds the Holy Grail, a symbol of divine purpose and spiritual attainment. The four sphinxes that draw the chariot—two white and two dark—represent the dual forces of light and darkness, which the Charioteer must master to move forward. The canopy above him is adorned with stars, linking his journey to celestial guidance and higher aspirations.

In Relationships: The Chariot indicates a relationship that requires balance and mutual effort to succeed. It suggests overcoming obstacles through shared determination and a focus on common goals.

In Work: This card signifies victory achieved through discipline, focus, and the ability to steer conflicting forces towards a unified purpose. You are encouraged to remain steadfast and clear in your intentions.

Spiritually: The Chariot represents the journey of the soul towards higher awareness, guided by the alignment of will and intuition. It calls you to embrace your inner strength and move forward confidently.

When ill-dignified: The Chariot warns of a loss of direction, internal conflict, or reckless ambition. You are advised to reassess your goals and ensure you are not being led astray by conflicting desires or external pressures.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

XII – The Hanged Man

(Water, Mem)

The Hanged Man represents surrender, transformation, and the wisdom gained through self-sacrifice. Associated with Mem, the waters, this card embodies the flow of unconscious depths and the mysteries that lie beyond the material world. It is not a card of suffering but one of enlightenment through letting go.

The central figure is suspended upside-down, forming a cross with his legs, a symbol of balance and sacrifice. His arms form a triangle, evoking the union of spirit and matter. Behind him, the swirling blue-green background suggests the ocean of the subconscious. The serene expression on his face reflects the tranquillity found in surrendering to a greater truth. Around him, rays of light emanate, signifying the revelation that arises from this state of suspension.

In Relationships: The Hanged Man suggests a need for patience, selflessness, and understanding. It encourages you to see things from your partner's perspective and release control.

In Work: This card indicates a period of pause or sacrifice, where immediate goals may need to be set aside for long-term growth. You are advised to trust in the process and focus on the bigger picture.

Spiritually: The Hanged Man symbolises enlightenment achieved through surrender and the release of ego. It calls you to embrace the transformative power of stillness and contemplation.

When ill-dignified: The Hanged Man warns of stagnation, resistance to change, or clinging to outdated beliefs. You are advised to let go of what no longer serves you and embrace the wisdom of surrender.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

XIII – Death

(Scorpio, Nun)

Death represents transformation, endings, and the profound renewal that arises from letting go. Associated with Nun, the fish, this card symbolises the regenerative cycles of life and the eternal flow of existence. Scorpio, the zodiac of intensity and rebirth, infuses the card with themes of metamorphosis and profound emotional depth.

The figure of Death is a skeletal figure wielding a scythe, harvesting the forms of life to make way for growth. Surrounding him are figures dissolving and reforming, emphasising the continual cycle of destruction and creation. Fish swim in the background, symbolising the life force that persists through change. The overall imagery is dynamic and alive, with a swirling interplay of light and shadow reflecting the transformative energy of this card.

In Relationships: Death signifies the end of a relationship or the transformation of its dynamics. It encourages you to release what no longer serves you, allowing space for growth.

In Work: This card indicates a major transition or the end of a phase. You are advised to embrace change and view endings as opportunities for renewal.

Spiritually: Death symbolises the shedding of old identities and the rebirth of the soul. It calls you to embrace transformation and trust in the process of spiritual evolution.

When ill-dignified: Death warns of resistance to change, fear of endings, or an inability to move forward. You are advised to confront your fears and trust in the natural cycles of transformation.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

XV – The Devil

(Capricorn, Ayin)

The Devil symbolises bondage, materialism, and the potent, often misunderstood forces of desire and instinct. Associated with Ayin, the eye, this card invites a piercing vision into the illusions and structures that bind us. Capricorn, the zodiac of ambition and discipline, infuses the card with themes of mastery over material and earthly limitations.

The central figure is a goat before a phallic structure, symbolising generative power and material dominance. This card is seething with esoteric symbols of competition within a person. The background, webbed in deep, earthy tones, suggests the shadowy nature of the forces at play. The card is alive with energy, hinting at temptation and the potential for liberation.

In Relationships: The Devil represents intense, often obsessive attraction. It can warn of relationships rooted in control or dependency, urging you to assess whether your connections are serving your growth.

In Work: This card suggests material success, often achieved through relentless ambition. However, it warns of becoming enslaved by wealth or status and advises balancing ambition with higher values.

Spiritually: The Devil symbolises the necessity of confronting and integrating one's shadow self. It calls you to transcend material attachments and awaken to higher truths.

When ill-dignified: The Devil warns of oppression, excessive materialism, or destructive desires. You are advised to liberate yourself by recognising and overcoming illusions and self-imposed limitations.