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  II – The Priestess |
The Full Moon  Two of Swords (Peace) |
The Waning Moon  XVI – The Tower |
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Significator #1  Four of Wands (Completion) |
Significator #2  Three of Disks (Works) |
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The Dark  Five of Swords (Defeat) |
The Secret of the High Priestess  Four of Swords (Truce) |
The Light  Ace of Wands |
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The Next Step  Six of Disks (Success) |
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Significator #1
Four of Wands (Completion)
Astrological Correspondence: Venus in Aries
The Four of Wands represents the harmony and stability achieved after the completion of a phase of effort or creation. It reflects the satisfaction and joy of building a firm foundation and the sense of accomplishment that follows. The card depicts four wands crossed symmetrically, forming a balanced and stable structure like a wheel. Their placement emphasises equilibrium, with the energy of Venus bringing beauty and refinement to the fiery drive of Aries.
This card is a moment to recognise the results of focused effort, where the fiery initiative of Aries is tempered by Venus' sense of harmony and aesthetics. It signifies a pause to celebrate milestones, appreciate achievements, and enjoy the peace and security of a stable structure. While it marks completion, it also carries the potential for future growth, as stability provides a springboard for new ventures. The Four of Wands reminds us to acknowledge and honour the harmony we have worked to create.
In Relationships: The Four of Wands represents harmony and stability. It suggests the foundation of the relationship has been solidified, and the time has come to celebrate the commitment and mutual understanding that exists.
In Work: This card indicates a time of achievement and recognition. You have reached a point where you can enjoy the fruits of your labour and feel confident in your progress. It's a moment of consolidation before the next phase.
Spiritually: The Four of Wands represents spiritual peace and stability. It indicates balance and alignment, where you can take time to reflect and celebrate the progress you have made on your spiritual path.
When ill-dignified: The Four of Wands may suggest an unstable or superficial foundation. You might be focused too much on external appearances or celebrations rather than addressing deeper issues. It is a warning not to take the stability for granted, as cracks may be forming beneath the surface.
Significator #2
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.
The Waning Moon is the influence that you are putting behind you, as it moves into the past.
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.
The Full Moon is the current influence at this time.
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.
The Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon; the approaching influence.
II – The Priestess
(Moon, Gimel)
The Priestess is a figure of serene and inscrutable wisdom, embodying the mysteries of the subconscious and the cycles of the Moon. She corresponds to Gimel, the camel, representing the capacity to traverse vast spiritual deserts and access hidden truths. The Moon's influence lends her an air of receptivity, intuition, and connection to the rhythms of the cosmos.
Seated on her throne, the Priestess holds a bow, an emblem of Artemis and lunar cycles, symbolising her mastery of timing and precision. Her arms mirror the crescent moons of the background, merging her form with the sea of the unconscious. Before her, a tapestry adorned with pomegranates and palms veils the sacred mysteries, separating the seen from the unseen. At her feet lies the crescent moon, a symbol of her dominion over intuition and the waxing and waning cycles of existence.
In Relationships: The Priestess indicates the presence of profound emotional depth and unspoken bonds. It encourages you to trust your intuition and explore the layers of your connection without rushing to conclusions.
In Work: This card suggests the answers lie in reflection and inner knowledge rather than external action. It advises you to trust your instincts and remain patient while the path unfolds.
Spiritually: The Priestess represents the deep well of inner wisdom, the gateway to divine knowledge. She calls you to explore your dreams, meditations, and intuitions for insight into the mysteries of the self and the universe.
When ill-dignified: The Priestess cautions against passivity, confusion, or ignoring intuitive warnings. You are advised to confront hidden fears and distinguish between genuine intuition and projections of the unconscious mind.
The Light is what is clearly recognized.
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.
The Dark shows what is there but not fully perceived, though it has been noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.
Five of Swords (Defeat)
Astrological Correspondence: Venus in Aquarius
The Five of Swords represents the complexities of conflict, often showing the aftermath of a battle where the victor is left with a hollow triumph. The card features five swords arranged in a dynamic, chaotic pattern, with broken blades and a sense of turbulence. This design symbolises the intellectual or mental anguish that follows a destructive confrontation.
The Venus in Aquarius influence adds a layer of detachment and the coldness of rationality, as victory here may come at the cost of relationships or the integrity of one's ideals. The imagery implies that the battle was fought without true understanding or empathy, and any success gained feels unfulfilling.
This card is a cautionary message about the nature of conflict and the price of victory. It encourages reflection on whether the victory is worth the emotional toll and whether the ego-driven approach has led to isolation. It warns of the potential for self-deception, where the illusion of winning overshadows the deeper consequences of discord. The Five of Swords highlights the danger of intellectual arrogance, encouraging a re-evaluation of motivations and the long-term effects of strife.
In Relationships: In a romantic context, the Five of Swords can indicate conflict, betrayal, or disagreements that may lead to emotional hurt. The card suggests that intellectual or verbal battles have damaged the relationship or one person has 'won' at the expense of another. It can signify a need for resolution and forgiveness, or the decision to exit a toxic situation.
In Work: The Five of Swords may represent a loss or failure because of conflict in the workplace. It could indicate a competitive atmosphere where you win but feel morally compromised or defeated, even if you technically 'won'. This card warns of the mental toll of rivalry and deceit.
Spiritually: The Five of Swords indicates inner conflict, where your mind is in turmoil. It suggests a time when your intellectual pursuits may have become disconnected from your higher purpose, and ego-driven struggles interfere with spiritual peace.
When ill-dignified: The Five of Swords represents destructive conflict, where your thoughts and actions are driven by ego, and victory is hollow or short-lived. It may suggest manipulation, deceit, or a situation where you have 'lost' even if you technically won. The mental energy is consumed in futile struggles, leaving you with no actual sense of fulfilment.
The Next Step is the near future, where this journey will take you.
Six of Disks (Success)
Astrological Correspondence: Moon in Taurus
The Six of Disks (Success) represents material success, generosity, and balanced exchange. This card indicates you are in a position of both receiving and giving in the material realm, leading to a harmonious flow of resources. The six disks represent a balanced circulation of wealth and effort, suggesting that prosperity is enjoyed and shared with others.
The Six of Disks symbolises the positive results of one's hard work and investments in the material world. It speaks to the rewards of perseverance and discipline, showing that success in material matters has reached a point where generosity and mutual benefit are possible. The influence of the Moon in Taurus highlights emotional satisfaction derived from stability and security, with an emphasis on enjoying the fruits of one's labour while maintaining a grounded, nurturing attitude towards others. This card encourages giving and receiving in equal measure, fostering balance and mutual support.
In Relationships: The Six of Disks signals a balanced, equitable partnership where both parties share responsibility and resources. This card may indicate the growth of a relationship built on mutual respect and support, where both partners invest in one another's well-being.
In Work: The Six of Disks indicates the successful completion of a project or business venture, bringing both rewards and recognition. It symbolises the ability to share success with others and suggests wealth, recognition, and stability are being achieved. It may also indicate charitable efforts or the redistribution of wealth in a way that benefits both the individual and the collective.
Spiritually: The Six of Disks represents harmony and balance between the material and spiritual realms. It suggests you are experiencing spiritual fulfilment through generosity, charity, or service. It may also suggest that your spiritual wealth is shared or passed on to others.
When ill-dignified: The Six of Disks can suggest imbalance or exploitation in material matters. You may be hoarding resources or being taken advantage of by others. This card warns against materialistic motivations or unequal relationships where one party benefits at the expense of the other.
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.
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.