Comic Strip Spread

 

 

Difficulty: Easy

Note: This spread works best with decks like the Diary of a Broken Soul or Surrealist Tarot because they display scenes rather than pips and do not use reversals.

The Comic Strip Spread is a simple nine-card chronological spread that looks like a page of a comic book. This method should be used to get a glimpse of the future as it would pan out naturally. It may be insightful to use this spread in coordination with biorhythms. The spread is easy to read as a storyboard, just like a comic strip.

The main subject is apparent in the first card, while the story plays out through the following tarot cards.

It is important to pay particular attention to the cards and the relationships with their neighbours. Notice which directions the cards are facing, and how they interact.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Comic Strip Reading

Three of Disks (Works)	XX – The Aeon	Ten of Wands (Oppression)
0 – The Fool	Seven of Disks (Failure)	Ten of Disks (Wealth)
XI – Lust	Two of Disks (Change)	Queen of Cups

 

 

 

 

Card 1: Three of Disks (Works)

Astrological Correspondence: Mars in Capricorn

This card represents the creative energy of the material world. It symbolises the early stages of a project or endeavour, where solid foundations are laid, and the initial success of turning a vision into reality. The imagery emphasises the act of building, forming, and creating, illustrating the groundwork being established for something that has the potential to grow into a larger, more successful manifestation.

The Three of Disks suggests you are involved in a process of construction, whether literal or metaphorical, and are seeing the fruits of your effort begin to take shape. This card highlights the importance of persistence, collaboration, and focusing on the practical aspects of bringing ideas to fruition. The influence of Mars in Capricorn signifies a concerted effort towards tangible results, urging you to continue applying hard work and determination to ensure the success of your endeavours. It encourages building upon existing foundations to create something lasting.

In Relationships: The Three of Disks suggests teamwork and the collaborative effort needed to make a relationship successful. It could indicate working with a partner to build a future or invest in shared goals. This card is a positive omen for relationships built on mutual effort and shared practical goals.

In Work: In professional matters, the Three of Disks indicates the productive stage of a project or business venture when early results show promise. It suggests the need for attention to detail and teamwork. This card is a signal of success through hard work and collaboration.

Spiritually: The Three of Disks represents the work required to build a solid foundation in one's spiritual practice. The card suggests that spiritual growth will be attained through dedication, practice, and attention to detail. It may also symbolise integrating spiritual teachings into everyday life, creating a balanced and fruitful path.

When ill-dignified: The Three of Disks can indicate a lack of progress or failure to put in the work to achieve success. It may suggest that efforts are disjointed, uncoordinated, or poorly executed, and can represent dissatisfaction or frustration with the material aspects of a project.

 

 

 

 

Card 2: 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.

 

 

 

 

Card 3: Ten of Wands (Oppression)

Astrological Correspondence: Saturn in Sagittarius

The Ten of Wands represents burden, restriction, and the oppressive weight of responsibility. The card depicts ten crossed wands in a constricted pattern, symbolising an overwhelming force that stifles energy and creativity. Saturn's restrictive and heavy influence clashes with Sagittarius' desire for freedom and expansion, creating a dynamic of tension and frustration.

This card signifies a state where you feel weighed down by excessive duties, obligations, or external pressures. It reflects the culmination of an effort that has become unsustainable, leaving little room for growth or flexibility. The Ten of Wands warns against overextending oneself and suggests it may be time to delegate, release unnecessary burdens, or find new ways to approach challenges. While it acknowledges the strength required to carry such a load, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of balance and self-care.

In Relationships: The Ten of Wands suggests you may carry too much emotional responsibility. There could be an imbalance in giving and receiving, leading to feelings of being weighed down or overburdened.

In Work: This card signals that you have taken on too many responsibilities and are now feeling the strain of your obligations. It advises you to delegate tasks or lighten the load before burnout sets in. Success may have come, but not without cost.

Spiritually: The Ten of Wands suggests your spiritual journey may feel burdensome. You may be carrying the weight of spiritual expectations or obligations, which hinders your progress. It calls for a re-evaluation of priorities and the need to release unnecessary burdens.

When ill-dignified: The Ten of Wands may indicate overwhelming stress or burnout. You could be taking on more than you can handle, or there may be a sense of being trapped by your responsibilities. It is a warning against pushing oneself too far and neglecting self-care.

 

 

 

 

Card 4: 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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Card 5: Seven of Disks (Failure)

Astrological Correspondence: Saturn in Taurus

This card represents a period of introspection and re-evaluation concerning material efforts. It depicts a series of seven disks arranged in an unbalanced pattern, symbolising the results of investments and efforts that have not yet materialised or reached their potential. The image suggests that while the seeds of progress have been sown, they are not yielding the expected results, and there may be stagnation or lack of progress.

This card reflects a time when you must pause and assess whether your material endeavours are still on track. The Seven of Disks asks you to evaluate your literal and metaphorical investments and determine whether to continue with the current path or cut your losses. The energy of Saturn in Taurus brings a message of slow growth and caution, emphasising the need for patience and discipline. However, it also points to the potential for failure, suggesting that not all endeavours are destined for success.

The Seven of Disks encourages careful consideration of one's approach to material pursuits and reminds you that sometimes progress may take longer than anticipated, but the key lies in strategic reassessment and patience.

In Relationships: The Seven of Disks may indicate dissatisfaction or a sense that things are not progressing as expected. You may question whether your emotional investments are yielding the desired results. This card asks for patience and introspection before making decisions.

In Work: The Seven of Disks suggests a period of review, where you evaluate the outcome of your efforts. This card can indicate a feeling of stagnation or frustration with a lack of progress, but it also encourages careful assessment before continuing. It may signify the need for strategic adjustments or a new direction.

Spiritually: The Seven of Disks indicates a need for self-reflection. You may feel stagnant or question your spiritual path. It encourages patience and contemplation, asking you to assess where you are and what you seek before continuing on your journey.

When ill-dignified: The Seven of Disks can indicate failure, frustration, or lack of foresight. It suggests your efforts are misdirected or that you are being too critical of your progress. There may be a tendency to give up prematurely or to fail to evaluate the situation properly before making a decision.

 

 

 

 

Card 6: Ten of Disks (Wealth)

Astrological Correspondence: Mercury in Virgo

This card represents the culmination of material success and the realisation of long-term financial and material security. It signifies abundance, prosperity, and the foundation built through hard work, dedication, and practical wisdom.

The imagery in the Ten of Disks reflects the achievement of lasting material stability, symbolising the results of consistent effort and wise decisions over time. This card represents not only individual wealth but also the potential for collective prosperity, such as family legacy, inheritance, or generational wealth. It is the card of lasting success that extends beyond the present moment to touch future generations.

With the influence of Mercury in Virgo, the Ten of Disks emphasises the intellectual and practical considerations that lead to long-term stability, such as planning, organisation, and attention to detail. This card suggests a time of financial ease and material comfort has arrived or is within reach, brought about by the steady application of effort and wisdom. It speaks to fulfilment and satisfaction in the material realm, highlighting the fulfilment of knowing your material foundation is secure and enduring.

In Relationships: The Ten of Disks can represent stability and creating a secure, nurturing environment. It suggests a relationship grounded in shared material success and mutual support. There may be a focus on family and long-term commitment, or the building of a lasting foundation for the future. This card could also point to inheritance or the transfer of wealth, either materially or through shared wisdom.

In Work: The Ten of Disks points to the fruition of years of hard work. This is the reward for staying committed to your goals and putting in the effort to build a foundation for your future. It may signify financial success, security, and the establishment of long-term wealth. It is a card of prosperity achieved through discipline, focus, and consistency. The Ten of Disks is the ultimate card of material fulfilment and represents the completion of a cycle where the fruits of your labour are now realised.

Spiritually: The Ten of Disks suggests that true wealth comes from balancing material abundance with spiritual wisdom. It emphasises the importance of securing your material and physical needs to progress spiritually, showing that success in the material world is not separate from spiritual growth. The card calls for gratitude and wisdom in managing both your physical and spiritual resources.

When ill-dignified: The Ten of Disks may indicate a misplaced focus on material wealth at the expense of emotional, relational, or spiritual richness. It can point to overindulgence, greed, or the dangers of becoming attached to financial success or status. This card, when negatively aspected, may also highlight issues related to inheritance, family disputes, or the breakdown of long-term stability, particularly if that foundation was built upon unstable or selfish motives.

 

 

 

 

Card 7: 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.

 

 

 

 

Card 8: Two of Disks (Change)

Astrological Correspondence: Jupiter in Capricorn

This card symbolises the dynamic balance between opposing forces and the ever-shifting nature of material reality. The two disks in motion reflect the fluid and cyclical nature of life's material aspects, such as work, resources, and finances. The snake and yin-yang imagery emphasises the constant flow of these aspects and the need to navigate them with adaptability and flexibility.

This card suggests you are experiencing—or will soon encounter—change or fluctuation in material matters. The Two of Disks advises you to stay nimble and open to shifting circumstances, reminding us that change is inevitable and can be an opportunity for growth. The balance between the two disks represents the ability to manage competing demands, integrating opposing forces to maintain equilibrium.

The Two of Disks also brings the influence of Jupiter in Capricorn, which encourages expansive growth and the pursuit of long-term success within the structure of discipline and responsibility. It suggests the need to adapt to changes while maintaining focus on practical goals and building solid foundations for the future.

In Relationships: The Two of Disks may indicate the need to juggle multiple aspects of life, such as balancing work, home, and romantic commitments. It can represent the fluid, ever-changing nature of relationships, calling for the ability to adapt to shifts in dynamics.

In Work: The Two of Disks suggests a need to balance various aspects of career and business. It represents the challenges of managing multiple projects, finances, or priorities, and advises adaptability and resourcefulness in the face of ever-changing circumstances.

Spiritually: The Two of Disks calls for balance and the ability to adapt to changes in one's spiritual path. The card warns against being rigid and encourages you to flow with the changes and challenges of your spiritual journey.

When ill-dignified: The Two of Disks can signify instability, indecision, or being overwhelmed by too many competing priorities. It may indicate a lack of balance, difficulty managing material matters, or an inability to adapt to changing circumstances. In the worst case, it may suggest that you are resisting necessary changes or are being stretched too thin.

 

 

 

 

Card 9: Queen of Cups

Element: Water of Water

Astrological Correspondence: Cancer

The Queen of Cups embodies the purest expression of emotional depth, intuition, and nurturing energy. As Water of Water, she symbolises the harmonious flow of feelings, offering profound emotional wisdom and understanding. She is depicted as a serene and graceful figure in a waterfall, holding a cup that symbolises her ability to channel the depths of her emotional and intuitive nature with calm and poise.

Her Cancerian influence enhances her sensitivity, compassion, and protective instincts, making her a nurturing guide through emotional landscapes. She is deeply attuned to her inner world and the needs of others, offering care, understanding, and support with unshakable grace.

The Queen of Cups invites you to embrace emotional intelligence and connect with intuition. Her presence suggests a time to nurture yourself or others, trust intuitive insights, and approach emotional challenges with empathy and wisdom. She encourages you to cultivate inner harmony and use your emotional depth as a source of strength and guidance.

In Relationships: The Queen of Cups signifies a partner who is emotionally mature, loving, and intuitive. She represents someone who offers emotional support and can nurture a relationship with wisdom and care. The Queen suggests a time of emotional balance when love flows freely and comfortably. She can also indicate a time when you need to cultivate emotional security in relationships.

In Work: The Queen of Cups is a card of emotional intelligence. She suggests a career in which compassion, counselling, or care-taking is emphasised. The Queen represents the ability to lead with emotional insight, bringing empathy and understanding to professional environments. Her presence can also indicate that you need to approach your work with greater emotional intelligence or personal care.

Spiritually: The Queen of Cups suggests a time of emotional healing when you can tap into your emotional wisdom to guide your spiritual growth. The card indicates intuition and inner knowledge, pointing towards a time when your connection to your emotional self will provide you with clarity and spiritual insight.

When ill-dignified: The Queen of Cups may indicate emotional instability, a tendency to over-empathise at the expense of self-care, or the possibility of emotional manipulation. You may become overly dependent on others for emotional support or struggle with emotional boundaries. There may also be a danger of neglecting personal emotional needs in the service of others.