Relationship Spread #2
Difficulty: Easy
This relationship spread focuses more on the common ground of the relationship, with three cards in the middle column showing the common ground. The middle column essentially displays the past, present, and future of the relationship.
Card #4 stands for the common base of the relationship, which may be thought of as the past events which have shaped their characters, bringing them together. The current connection that binds them together is Card #3, indicating the values shared. Card #7 implies the common goals that would keep the pair together moving into the future.
The columns on either side show what each partner brings to the table. Remember, relationships need not be romantic, and the partners could even be groups rather than individuals. In this layout, the other person is on the left-hand side and the reader on the right.
Cards #1 & #2 indicate the separate personalities of each member of the relationship. These cards form a sort of bridge with the cards beneath them, #5 & #6, which show the qualities that each partner offers the other person, and thus to the relationship as a whole.
Your Relationship #2 Reading
Mutual Goals |
||
Your Qualities |
Connection (Present) |
Others' Qualities |
What You Bring |
Common Base (Past) |
What They Bring  |
7: Mutual Goals
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.
3: Connection
I – The Magus
(Mercury, Beth)
The Magus of the Thoth deck radiates dynamic energy, the force of will and intellect that shapes reality. He corresponds to Beth, the house, signifying the power to create structure and form. Governed by Mercury, the Magus represents the mastery of communication, skill, and adaptation, embodying the ability to transmute thought into action.
The Magus stands amidst the elements he commands. Around him swirls the wand, cup, sword, and disk, each imbued with vibrant, electric energy. His figure exudes movement and control, as though he exists in a state of constant creation. Above him, the winged caduceus—the rod of Hermes—rises as a symbol of unity and transformation. The beam connecting heaven and earth signifies the infinite cycle of energy and potential.
In Relationships: The Magus suggests magnetic attraction and the ability to manifest deep, meaningful connections. It emphasises the importance of clear communication and aligning intentions with actions to nurture relationships.
In Work: This card signifies mastery and the ability to manifest success through focus and skill. It advises you to harness your talents and act with precision and intention to achieve your goals.
Spiritually: The Magus represents the awakening of personal power and the alignment of the microcosm and macrocosm. It is a call to take responsibility as a conscious creator in the divine play of existence.
When ill-dignified: The Magus warns of manipulation, overconfidence, or a scattering of energy. You are urged to examine your motives and ensure your actions serve the highest purpose, avoiding the temptation to misuse your gifts.
4: Common Base
IV – The Emperor
(Aries, Tzaddi)
The Emperor represents the force of order, authority, and structure, embodying the disciplined energy required to manifest power and stability in the material world. He is linked to Tzaddi, symbolising insight and vision, representing the ability to perceive higher truths and take decisive action in alignment with divine will. As the astrological ruler Aries, he brings fiery determination and a pioneering spirit.
The Emperor sits on a ram-adorned throne, a clear nod to Aries, surrounded by a vibrant red background that speaks of his dynamic energy and martial authority. His sceptre, along with the orb and cross, symbolises the dominion of spirit over matter. At his feet lies the double eagle shield, representing far-reaching vision and the ability to soar above obstacles. The geometric forms surrounding him suggest the stability of order, while the lamb beneath his throne reminds us of the balance between power and protection.
In Relationships: The Emperor indicates a relationship rooted in stability, leadership, and mutual respect. It calls for clarity, honesty, and the willingness to establish healthy boundaries and foundations.
In Work: This card represents mastery over the material realm and the ability to build structures that endure. It encourages you to take charge of your destiny confidently and lead by example.
Spiritually: The Emperor signifies the grounding of spiritual energy into practical action. He calls you to embody your highest ideals in your daily life, manifesting divine will through disciplined effort.
When ill-dignified: The Emperor warns of rigidity, authoritarianism, or a misuse of power. You are cautioned to balance control with flexibility and lead with wisdom rather than dominance.
2: Your Qualities
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.
1: Their Qualities
XVI – The Tower
(Mars, Peh)
The Tower represents sudden upheaval, revelation, and the destruction of false structures. Associated with Peh, the mouth, this card conveys the power of truth to shatter illusions. Mars, the planet of force and conflict, infuses the card with explosive energy and transformative destruction.
The imagery is vivid and chaotic. A tall tower, struck by lightning, crumbles as flames consume it, symbolising the collapse of rigid, outdated systems. Figures fall from the tower, illustrating the inevitability of change and the humbling of ego. The colours are fiery and intense, reflecting the raw energy of destruction. Amidst the chaos, the lion-serpent Yaldabaoth and a dove representing the Holy Spirit suggest a transformation brought about by hidden wisdom revealed by divine grace.
In Relationships: The Tower indicates sudden changes or disruptions. It may signify a breakup or the dismantling of illusions, allowing for greater honesty and authenticity.
In Work: This card signals upheaval or the collapse of established structures. You are advised to embrace change as an opportunity for rebuilding stronger foundations.
Spiritually: The Tower symbolises enlightenment through the destruction of illusions. It calls you to surrender to the transformative power of truth and embrace the freedom that follows.
When ill-dignified: The Tower warns of resistance to change or the denial of necessary upheaval. You are advised to confront uncomfortable truths and allow the process of transformation to unfold.
6: What You Bring
XIII – Death
5: What They Bring
VI – The Lovers
(Gemini, Zain)
The Lovers represent the alchemical union of opposites, a card rich with symbolism of choice, harmony, and divine love. Associated with Zain, the sword, this card represents the piercing clarity needed to discern and unite polarities. Gemini, the zodiac of duality and communication, imbues it with the energy of connection and synthesis.
The Thoth Lovers card depicts the union of the royal figures of Sol and Luna under the guidance of a cupid-like angel. Below them, the Orphic egg is encircled by the serpent, symbolising potential and cosmic rebirth. The figures are surrounded by the emblems of alchemical transformation: fire and water, masculine and feminine, light and shadow. The imagery suggests not only romantic love but also the integration of the conscious and unconscious mind, as in shadow work.
In Relationships: The Lovers signify connection, mutual respect, and the merging of hearts and minds. It also emphasises the importance of choice and the conscious commitment to love and partnership.
In Work: This card suggests collaboration and harmonising diverse forces to achieve a greater goal. It encourages you to seek partnerships that align with your values and vision.
Spiritually: The Lovers represent the union of opposites within the self, a crucial step on the path to enlightenment. It calls you to embrace your inner dualities and find harmony through integration.
When ill-dignified: The Lovers caution against indecision, misaligned partnerships, or superficial connections. You are urged to examine whether you are avoiding responsibility or compromising your truth for the sake of harmony.