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 Three of Cups (Abundance)
Early Causes VIII – Adjustment		Triggering Causes Two of Swords (Peace)
	Necessary Conclusions XIX – The Sun
Significator #1 Four of Swords (Truce)		Significator #2 XVII – The Star
	Next Step X – Fortune
	Surprising Experiences Queen of Wands
	Outcome Ace of Wands

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

Four of Swords (Truce)

Astrological Correspondence: Jupiter in Libra

The Four of Swords represents Truce, a moment of peace after a period of mental or emotional conflict. In the Thoth imagery, the four swords converge at a central point, creating a sharp intersection over a lotus flower, symbolising balance, peace, and spiritual calm. The swords are not in active conflict but align in a way that suggests a temporary cessation of mental struggle, offering a moment for reflection and respite.

With Jupiter in Libra, this card emphasises the themes of balance, expansion, and harmonious resolution. Libra brings the need for equilibrium, and Jupiter fosters growth through peaceful cooperation. This card suggests you may find yourself in a situation where there is a pause in conflict, a moment to regain clarity and find peace within yourself before moving forward.

The Four of Swords invites you to embrace this moment of truce, allowing space for healing and reflection. The lotus flower at the centre reminds us that stillness can lead to spiritual growth and mental clarity. Though the conflict may not be resolved permanently, this pause offers an opportunity for rebalancing and gathering the strength needed for the next phase.

In Relationships: The Four of Swords can indicate a time of pause or rest. It suggests a need to take a break or step back from a situation to regain mental clarity before moving forward. It may also indicate a time of emotional healing in the relationship.

In Work: The Four of Swords suggests rest or retreat after a challenging time. It encourages you to take a mental break from stress or conflict to gain perspective and clarity before continuing. It can also indicate the need for strategic rest to re-energise and move forward with renewed focus.

Spiritually: The Four of Swords calls you to retreat and reflect. It indicates a time for meditation, contemplation, or rest to restore mental and spiritual health. The card invites you to rest from spiritual activity and allow the mind to clear, creating space for deeper insight.

When ill-dignified: The Four of Swords can indicate stagnation, withdrawal, or avoidance of necessary action. It may also suggest a refusal to rest or heal, leading to burnout or mental exhaustion. You may be using 'rest' as an excuse to avoid dealing with important issues, leading to further mental confusion or distress.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

XVII – The Star

(Aquarius, Heh)

The Star represents hope, inspiration, and the flow of divine energy. Associated with Heh, the window, this card symbolises clarity and the opening of the soul to cosmic light. Aquarius, the zodiac of vision and humanitarian ideals, imbues the card with themes of enlightenment and universal connection.

The central figure is a nude woman, representing purity and vulnerability, pouring water from two vessels—one onto the earth and the other into a pool, symbolising the balance between spiritual and material realms. Behind her, a radiant star dominates the sky, surrounded by smaller stars, signifying guidance and hope. The background, rich with blues and violets, evokes the tranquillity of the natural world.

In Relationships: The Star suggests healing and renewed hope. It encourages you to trust in the flow of love and remain open to its guidance.

In Work: This card signifies inspiration and creative potential. You are advised to trust your intuition and align your efforts with a higher vision.

Spiritually: The Star symbolises a connection to the divine and the flow of universal energy. It calls you to share your gifts and have faith in the cosmic plan.

When ill-dignified: The Star warns of disillusionment, a loss of faith, or a failure to see one's potential. You are advised to reconnect with your inner light and trust in the process of renewal.

 

 

 

 

 

Early 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.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

Two of Swords (Peace)

Astrological Correspondence: Libra

The Two of Swords represents a moment of mental conflict, where you are confronted with opposing thoughts or emotions, signalling a need for balance and resolution. The card features two crossed swords, their blades intersecting at the centre of the card, symbolising the tension between conflicting mental forces. This imagery conveys inner peace amidst mental tension, as you are called to navigate through indecision and find harmony in your thoughts.

Libra's influence highlights the importance of balance, suggesting that resolution can only be achieved through equilibrium and careful contemplation. The swords' crossing forms a stable structure, emphasising the need to bring mental clarity and alignment to opposing views or choices.

The Two of Swords invites you to seek peace by considering your options and allowing time for reflection. This card reminds us that balance, particularly in moments of mental conflict, can lead to a clear path forward. While the answer may not be apparent, this card encourages you to trust that clarity will emerge through patience and introspection.

In Relationships: The Two of Swords may indicate a relationship at a standstill, where both partners face an important decision, yet neither can move forward due to uncertainty or lack of communication. This card suggests the need for both partners to open their eyes and see things clearly before making a decision that will affect the relationship.

In Work: The Two of Swords may indicate a situation where you are facing a difficult choice or a mental block in your career. It suggests the need to weigh different options before making a decision that will influence the next phase of your work. It can also indicate the need for a balance between competing interests.

Spiritually: The Two of Swords suggests you may be at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take in your spiritual life. It indicates a time of indecision or a need to balance different aspects of your spiritual journey, such as intellect versus intuition, before going forward.

When ill-dignified: The Two of Swords can point to avoidance, emotional blockages, or the inability to decide out of fear or confusion. A tendency to ignore or suppress critical issues may lead to greater internal conflict. It may also represent mental stagnation or the inability to see a solution to a problem.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

Three of Cups (Abundance)

Astrological Correspondence: Mercury in Cancer

The Three of Cups, or Abundance, represents celebration, emotional fulfilment, and the joy of unity. It symbolises the flow of emotional energy shared between individuals in a harmonious, collective experience.

The card depicts three chalices floating in the water, surrounded by a vast sea. This imagery speaks to emotional harmony and the satisfaction of celebrating together. The card conveys communal joy, highlighting the strength of emotional connections and the importance of shared experiences in creating lasting bonds.

In Relationships: In romantic terms, the Three of Cups signifies a relationship enriched by friendship, mutual joy, and emotional companionship. It speaks to the celebratory aspects of love, where two people come together not only as lovers but also as friends, sharing in mutual happiness and enjoyment.

In Work: In a professional context, the Three of Cups indicates successful teamwork, collaboration, and a celebratory atmosphere within the workplace. This card suggests a time to celebrate collective achievements, where the entire team or group works well together to achieve success. There is an emphasis on positive, uplifting energy in the work environment.

Spiritually: The Three of Cups is about emotional unity and connection with others on a soul level. It may represent a time when the seeker feels deeply connected to a community or a higher purpose, where spiritual joy is shared with others. This card encourages you to celebrate your spiritual journey and share your light with others.

When ill-dignified: The Three of Cups can indicate overindulgence, excessive partying, or shallow relationships. It may suggest a lack of depth in social interactions, where people are more concerned with surface-level pleasures than meaningful connection. This card warns against using distractions like excessive drinking or partying to avoid deeper emotional work.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

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.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

X – Fortune

(Jupiter, Kaph)

Fortune represents the ever-turning wheel of fate, symbolising the cycles of change and the opportunities that arise through the interplay of forces. Associated with Kaph, the palm of the hand, this card signifies the ability to grasp the turning tides of fortune and shape one's destiny. Jupiter, the planet of expansion and abundance, imbues the card with optimism and growth.

The Wheel of Fortune is depicted as a cosmic mechanism, a rotating mandala of symbols and figures. At its centre is the ten-spoked wheel, representing the cyclical nature of existence and integration of opposites. Around it spin the Sphinx, the serpent, and the baboon, embodying stability, transformation, and the playful chaos of change. The wheel is connected to its spiritual counterpart above, signifying the promise of renewal and the unity of all things within the cosmic dance.

In Relationships: Fortune suggests change and new opportunities. It encourages you to embrace the unpredictable nature of love and remain open to its possibilities.

In Work: This card signifies a turning point and the potential for unexpected success. You are advised to seize opportunities and trust in the benevolent forces of change.

Spiritually: Fortune represents the acceptance of life's cycles and the wisdom gained through change. It calls you to embrace the flow of the universe and find peace in its rhythms.

When ill-dignified: Fortune warns of resistance to change, missed opportunities, or the chaotic forces of upheaval. You are advised to trust in the process of transformation and remain adaptable in the face of uncertainty.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

Queen of Wands

Element: Water of Fire

Astrological Correspondence: Cancer

The Queen of Wands represents the emotional and nurturing qualities of Water combined with the dynamic power of Fire. As Water of Fire, she embodies the balance of intuition, compassion, and creativity with the strength and vitality of fiery inspiration. The Queen channels her energy in a way both magnetic and nurturing, guiding and protecting what she creates with emotional depth and wisdom.

This card signifies a person who possesses the ability to inspire and lead through emotional intelligence and nurturing energy. While the Princess and Prince represent the beginnings of creative expression and active drive, the Queen of Wands embodies the harmonious flow of that energy, managing it with confidence, care, and resilience. She is a visionary who nurtures her creations, empowering others with her dynamic yet empathetic approach. The Queen of Wands encourages you to trust your intuition, inspire those around you, and take a balanced, compassionate approach in your leadership and creative endeavours.

In Relationships: The Queen of Wands represents a relationship of passion and emotional depth. She is the nurturing force behind the bond, who maintains balance and harmony with great strength. Her love is fierce, protective, and encouraging, creating an environment where both partners feel empowered to grow.

In Work: This card represents a person in a position of leadership who uses both intuition and intellect to guide their endeavours. The Queen of Wands knows how to balance assertiveness with empathy, leading by example and encouraging others to step into their own creative power. In the workplace, she represents a role model or mentor figure, someone who nurtures the growth of others through her example and leadership.

Spiritually: The Queen of Wands is a leader who embodies creative expression and the nurturing aspects of spirituality. She encourages you to embrace your personal power and trust your intuition. There is an emphasis on self-love and self-expression in her influence, guiding you towards a harmonious relationship with your spiritual path.

When ill-dignified: The Queen of Wands can represent emotional volatility, arrogance, or an abuse of power. She may become controlling or demanding, using her charm to manipulate others. The Queen, in this state, may be too emotionally driven and fail to maintain balance, leading to disharmony or unnecessary conflict.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

Ace of Wands

(Root of Fire)

The Ace of Wands bursts with raw, fiery energy, representing the essence of creation, power, and new beginnings. This card features a radiant, explosive pillar of fire, emanating brilliant golden flames. The flames twist and curl into serpentine forms, symbolising uncontained potential, primal force, and the dynamic nature of inspiration. Surrounding jagged lightning bolts reinforce the card's theme of sudden illumination and transformative energy. This is the unfiltered essence of fire—pure will, passion, and the unstoppable drive to bring something new into existence.

In Relationships: The Ace of Wands signals the beginning of a passionate and dynamic relationship, full of energy and potential. It represents the excitement of a new romantic connection or the rekindling of a passionate bond.

In Work: This card suggests a surge of inspiration or the start of an exciting new project. It encourages you to take bold action and trust in your creative abilities to manifest your ambitions.

Spiritually: The Ace of Wands represents the spark of spiritual awakening or a new phase in spiritual growth. It urges you to trust your inner fire and seek alternative paths of enlightenment and self-expression.

When ill-dignified: The Ace of Wands can indicate a lack of direction, wasted energy, or premature enthusiasm. It cautions against rushing into new ventures without a solid foundation or purpose. You should reflect on whether your creative impulses are grounded or merely fleeting.