The Love Triangle Spread
Difficulty: Complicated
Casually referred to as the Love Triangle, this spread can be used to determine the dynamics of the relationship between three people, regardless of whether romance is involved. This spread is arranged in the form of a hexagram, consisting of several large and small triangles. This tarot spread may seem somewhat complicated, but it is not entirely that difficult.
The first step is to interpret the card for each individual position in the spread. Generally, one might ask about a relationship they are involved in, but this does not have to be the case. Ordinarily, the reader's representative card is #1, their main person of interest is #2, and the other person would be #3.
The second step fills in the downward triangle and involves further examination of the individuals through their views of the other people. Each person has two more cards showing the way they see and relate to the other members of the triangle. For example, Card #6 indicates how Person #3 relates to Person #1, while Card #9 stands for Person #1's attitude toward Person #3.
The next step completes the upward triangle and the hexagram, focusing on cards #10–13. It also completes the many smaller triangles and hints at the potential for each relationship. The final card, #13 can be considered the significator of the reading, which suggests the overall potential for this three-way relationship.
Your Love Triangle Reading
| P#3 | 3to2 | 2+3 |
2to3 | P#2 | ||
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3to1 |  |
Overall |  |
2to1 |  |
| 1+3 |  |
1to3 |  |
1to2 |  |
1+2 |
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P#1 |  |
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1: Person #1
(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.
2: Person #2
Astrological Correspondence: Jupiter in Gemini
The Eight of Swords features two large swords crossed over six smaller ones. These smaller swords are arranged in two sets: three pointing left and three pointing right, symbolising conflicting mental forces and confusion. This card represents mental interference, where over-analysis and conflicting thoughts prevent you from making decisions. The swords, each different in type, further emphasise the scattering and disorganisation of the mind, leading to a sense of being trapped by one's own thoughts, perhaps an inner critic.
The Jupiter in Gemini influence indicates mental expansion, but with a dualistic nature that leads to indecision. The card suggests that although you may feel restricted, the limitations are often self-imposed by an inability to focus or make a choice. While the potential for resolution exists, breaking free from this mental entrapment requires clarity and a shift in perspective to gain control over scattered thoughts and find the right course of action.
In Relationships: The Eight of Swords may indicate feelings of entrapment or restriction. You may feel as if you are stuck in a mental prison, unable to break free from negative thought patterns or emotional ties. It suggests that you must confront your limiting beliefs to move forward.
In Work: The Eight of Swords can indicate mental barriers, such as self-doubt, lack of confidence, or feeling restricted in one's career. It suggests you may feel trapped by circumstances or your own thoughts, but the solution lies in breaking free from these mental constraints.
Spiritually: The Eight of Swords signifies a state of mental paralysis, where you cannot move forward on your spiritual journey because of fear, confusion, or negative thinking. It calls for you to recognise your own role in creating limitations and take action to break free from the mental constraints that prevent growth.
When ill-dignified: The Eight of Swords may indicate a deeper sense of entrapment, where you resist change or refuse to see a way out of your mental struggles. It suggests a state of greater isolation, fear, or hopelessness, and warns that your own thinking exaggerates these feelings.
3: Person #3
Element: Earth of Fire
The Princess of Wands represents the fusion of the fiery creative impulse with the grounded, material energy of Earth. The Princess embodies the potential for creative energy to manifest in tangible, lasting form. As Earth of Fire, she symbolises the ability to bring fiery inspiration and passion into the physical realm, making it real and enduring.
This card speaks to the beginning of a creative or spiritual journey, where passion, enthusiasm, and bold ideas are taking shape and solidifying. The Princess is not just a dreamer but a doer, turning inspiration into something with substance and practical value. Her energy is earthy and stable, allowing for the manifestation of creative projects or ventures to thrive in the material world. The Princess of Wands encourages you to embrace your inner creativity and channel it into something concrete, reminding that significant transformations begin with focused action.
In Relationships: When the Princess of Wands appears in a romantic context, it suggests the early stages of passion—exciting and full of potential, but not yet fully formed. The relationship is in its foundation stage, with room for growth and expansion. It represents a time of exploration and discovery in the realm of love, where energy is building but has not yet taken shape into long-term commitment.
In Work: This card indicates the birth of a new venture or project that will manifest in the material world. The Princess of Wands often heralds the arrival of new opportunities, but she also brings with her the potential for those ideas to be grounded and practical. She urges you to focus on laying solid foundations for future growth.
Spiritually: The Princess of Wands points to spiritual awakening or an initial foray into a new spiritual practice. There is a spark of creative potential, but it is still in the early, earthly stages of development. This card is about planting the seeds for spiritual growth that will flourish over time.
When ill-dignified: The Princess of Wands can signal a lack of direction or focus, where the initial excitement and energy are scattered, leaving you stuck in a cycle of false starts. There may also be an element of stagnation or inertia, as ideas fail to manifest into reality. It is a call for more grounded effort and the need to overcome obstacles to bring creative desires into the physical world.
4: Person #1's view of #2
Astrological Correspondence: Jupiter in Leo
The Six of Wands represents triumph, success, and the confidence that comes with achieving a hard-won victory. The card features six wands arranged in a harmonious and balanced pattern, radiating energy and stability. Flames burn brightly at the intersections, symbolising the dynamic, victorious energy of Jupiter's expansive influence paired with Leo's bold, charismatic nature.
This card signifies the rewards of perseverance and effort, along with the recognition of those achievements by others. It is a moment of celebration and validation, where personal success aligns with public acknowledgment. The Six of Wands also reflects the importance of leadership, generosity, and using one's influence to uplift and inspire others. It encourages you to savour your accomplishments while remembering the responsibility that comes with triumph.
In Relationships: The Six of Wands indicates positive recognition. There may be a public celebration of a commitment or the successful overcoming of obstacles. It represents mutual admiration and respect.
In Work: This card signifies a well-earned victory in professional life. You may receive praise, promotion, or recognition for your efforts. It suggests your hard work has been acknowledged, and you are on the path to greater achievements.
Spiritually: The Six of Wands represents a moment of spiritual triumph. It indicates that you have navigated challenges and are now reaping the rewards of your efforts. It is a time of affirmation and confirmation of your spiritual path.
When ill-dignified: The Six of Wands may indicate a hollow or fleeting victory. It can also suggest pride, arrogance, or overconfidence in the face of achievement. You might focus too much on external validation rather than the deeper satisfaction of personal growth. It cautions against becoming self-important.
5: Person #2's view of #3
Astrological Correspondence: Jupiter in Pisces
The Nine of Cups represents joy, emotional abundance, and the fulfilment of heartfelt desires. This card depicts nine cups arranged symmetrically, overflowing with clear, pure water, symbolising the harmonious flow of emotional energy. The imagery exudes completeness and satisfaction, reflecting the culmination of efforts that lead to genuine happiness.
Jupiter in Pisces combines the expansive, benevolent energy of Jupiter with Pisces' intuitive and empathetic nature, creating a powerful alignment of emotional depth and generosity. This pairing amplifies the sense of boundless joy, compassion, and the effortless manifestation of desires.
The Nine of Cups signifies a time of emotional contentment and the realisation of aspirations. It encourages you to revel in your achievements, appreciate the beauty of life's blessings, and share your joy with others. While it is a card of celebration and abundance, it also reminds us to remain open to the continuous flow of emotional energy, ensuring that happiness is not stagnant but ever-renewing.
In Relationships: The Nine of Cups signifies the satisfaction of emotional desires. It can indicate the fulfilment of a romantic wish, such as finding true love, an emotionally harmonious relationship, or strengthening an existing bond. There is contentment and emotional satisfaction in the romantic sphere.
In Work: The Nine of Cups represents emotional fulfilment through one's work. It suggests you are on the path towards achieving your professional goals and are experiencing success and satisfaction. This is a card of recognition, where you can bask in the joy of your accomplishments.
Spiritually: The Nine of Cups is a card of emotional and spiritual fulfilment. It suggests a time of peace, harmony, and the realisation of spiritual desires. You may feel aligned with your higher self and at peace with your spiritual journey.
When ill-dignified: The Nine of Cups can indicate emotional overindulgence, satisfaction derived from shallow or materialistic pursuits, or complacency. It can point to a temporary sense of fulfilment that does not last, leading to emotional emptiness after the initial joy fades.
6: Person #3's view of #1
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.
7: Person #2's view of #1
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.
8: Person #3's view of #2
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.
9: Person #1's view of #3
Astrological Correspondence: Moon in Aquarius
The Seven of Swords features six swords pointing downward, surrounding one large, central sword. The swords' arrangement creates a sense of imbalance, indicating confusion, strategy gone awry, or mental conflict. The large sword in the centre represents a central issue or challenge, while the six surrounding swords suggest attempts at intellectual or strategic action that fail to resolve the problem.
The Moon in Aquarius influence brings emotional confusion or distorted perceptions, where rational thought may be clouded by fears or hidden motives. This card points to the futility of relying solely on cleverness or deceit to solve problems. Instead, it urges you to face the situation directly, as manipulation is unlikely to bring lasting resolution.
The Seven of Swords warns of misdirected efforts, cautioning you to know the consequences of trying to escape or avoid the truth through deceit or cunning. It signals a time of reassessment, urging a clearer, more honest approach to mental challenges.
In Relationships: The Seven of Swords may suggest dishonesty, hidden motives, or the need for careful communication. It could indicate that one partner is concealing something important, or a relationship is built on mind games. The card calls for transparency and openness to avoid betrayal or misunderstanding.
In Work: The Seven of Swords may indicate that you are using strategy, perhaps even deceit, to achieve success. It suggests a need to be cautious of the ethics of your actions, as victory gained through dishonesty can be short-lived. Alternatively, the card may indicate a situation where you are being strategic, working behind the scenes to plan for future success.
Spiritually: The Seven of Swords indicates a need for discernment and caution. It may signify a situation where you are hiding your true spiritual intentions or are not being entirely honest with yourself. The card urges you to confront secrets or falsehoods to achieve spiritual clarity.
When ill-dignified: The Seven of Swords can signify outright deception, manipulation, or betrayal. It can also point to avoidance of the truth or a tendency to hide behind false pretences. This card warns against the misuse of intellect for personal gain, urging you to reconsider the ethics of your actions and motivations.
10: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #2
(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.
11: Overall relationship between persons #2 and #3
(Taurus, Vav)
The Hierophant is a figure of sacred knowledge and spiritual authority, acting as the bridge between the divine and the mundane. Linked to Vav, the nail, he unites opposing forces and secures the sacred connection between heaven and earth. Taurus, the zodiac sign of stability and sensuality, lends him an enduring, earthy strength.
The Hierophant is depicted as a commanding figure robed in red, symbolising spiritual power and divine authority. He stands as a bridge between the divine and material realms. A large pentagram glows on his chest, signifying mastery over the elements and sacred knowledge. He holds a three-ringed sceptre, representing dominion over body, mind, and spirit. The Egyptian priestess beneath him suggests hidden wisdom or esoteric teachings. Surrounding him are symbolic beasts—the bull of Taurus, an elephant, and four cherub masks—reinforcing themes of strength, structure, and initiation into higher knowledge. The composition conveys mystical revelation, initiation, and the channelling of sacred truths.
In Relationships: The Hierophant suggests relationships guided by shared values, spiritual connection, and mutual growth. It emphasises the importance of trust, commitment, and alignment in beliefs.
In Work: This card speaks to mentorship, tradition, and the power of established systems. It advises you to seek wisdom from trusted sources and honour the tried-and-true methods that lead to success.
Spiritually: The Hierophant represents initiation into higher knowledge and the sacred mysteries. He invites you to seek wisdom from spiritual teachings and align your actions with divine will.
When ill-dignified: The Hierophant warns against dogmatism, blind adherence to tradition, or excessive reliance on external authority. You are advised to discern whether you are following your spiritual truth or conforming to others' expectations.
12: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #3
Element: Water of Earth
Astrological Correspondence: Virgo
The Queen of Disks represents the receptive, nurturing qualities of the Earth element, blending practicality with emotional depth and intuition. She is depicted seated upon a throne, overlooking a thriving harvest from above, symbolising the fertility, stability, and prosperity she nurtures. This card embodies the nurturing force that not only creates a stable and loving environment but also grounds emotional energies into tangible, material results.
The Queen of Disks combines the emotional sensitivity of Water with the grounded, stable nature of Earth, offering a harmonious balance between intuition and practicality. She is the archetype of a wise and compassionate figure who can provide for others and create an environment where both physical and emotional well-being can flourish. Her wisdom is rooted in her ability to manage both material and emotional realms, ensuring that both are in harmony and serve to sustain growth.
This card emphasises the importance of creating a stable foundation in all areas of life—be it in family, business, or personal well-being. It encourages nurturing your environment with care, patience, and understanding to bring about long-lasting stability and prosperity. The Queen of Disks reminds us that abundance arises from a balanced approach to life, where material and emotional needs are honoured and cultivated.
In Relationships: The Queen of Disks represents a loving partner who creates a safe, stable, and nurturing home environment. She values loyalty and security and brings emotional depth to her connections. This card may also indicate the need for you to focus on providing care and support to your loved ones or to nurture the relationship through practical, everyday actions.
In Work: The Queen of Disks suggests that success is achieved through patience, nurturing, and consistent effort. She symbolises the ability to create stability and security in one's career, especially through careful planning and grounded decisions. The Queen also embodies wealth that comes through hard work, intuition, and a focus on long-term stability.
Spiritually: The Queen of Disks calls for grounding and nurturing one's spiritual practice. She suggests the need to be practical and patient in spiritual matters, focusing on creating a stable foundation for growth. She also highlights the importance of taking care of the physical body and environment as part of a holistic spiritual path.
When ill-dignified: The Queen of Disks may indicate a tendency to become overly materialistic, possessive, or controlling. She may represent someone too focused on appearance or superficial security who neglects emotional or spiritual growth. The card also warns against being too concerned with the physical aspects of life to the exclusion of deeper, more meaningful pursuits.
13: Overall 3-way Relationship
(Root of Earth)
The Ace of Disks represents the raw, unmanifested potential of the physical world. At the centre of the card lies a single disk, surrounded by a swirling energy that symbolises the seed of all material manifestation. This image reflects the potential for creating wealth, stability, and physical well-being. The Ace of Disks marks the initiation of a new cycle in the realm of material affairs, a beginning full of possibility and grounded in the Earth element.
This card embodies the promise of prosperity and abundance, signifying the fertile ground from which tangible results will grow. It suggests you are on the brink of a new opportunity that has the potential for lasting growth and concrete success. The Ace of Disks is a symbol of manifestation, inviting the energy of physical reality to align with your intentions, and pointing to the importance of patience, effort, and practical action in bringing desires into the material world.
In Relationships: The Ace of Disks represents a new, stable foundation for a relationship. It suggests a relationship could be grounded in the material realm, such as sharing resources, practical concerns, and tangible commitments. It is a positive sign for the long-term potential of a relationship if both partners are willing to invest in it practically and thoughtfully.
In Work: The Ace of Disks signifies the beginning of a new venture or enterprise with the potential for incredible material success. It suggests a strong foundation is being laid, and this card heralds new opportunities to make money or build a business. It encourages focusing on long-term goals and being practical in your approach to success.
Spiritually: This card represents grounding one's spiritual practice into the physical realm. It suggests a connection between the material and spiritual worlds, where the material world reflects the spiritual, and vice versa. The Ace of Disks invites you to manifest your spiritual insights in the physical world and recognise the divine in all things material.
When ill-dignified: The Ace of Disks can indicate missed opportunities in material matters or the failure to capitalise on available resources. There may be a reluctance to invest time and energy into practical affairs, or an inability to manifest your desires in the physical realm. It could also represent greed or an overemphasis on materialism at the expense of spiritual growth.