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
Astrological Correspondence: Sun in Gemini
The Ten of Swords symbolises the culmination of mental struggle and the end of a difficult intellectual phase. The card depicts ten swords arranged in the shape of the Tree of Life, illustrating the collapse of mental structures. This imagery emphasises the breakdown of old thought patterns and the finality of a challenging mental cycle.
This card represents a moment of intense closure, often following conflict, betrayal, or harsh mental realisations. However, it is not merely a card of defeat—it marks the end of a chapter and the potential for renewal. The swords' placement in the Tree of Life suggests that the end of one cycle clears the way for new understanding and growth. Though the situation may feel like a dramatic loss, it carries the seed for transformation, indicating that closure creates space for new possibilities.
In Relationships: The Ten of Swords indicates a painful end or betrayal, often one where mental or emotional abuse has occurred. It may represent the end of a toxic situation or the final straw in a relationship that has been deteriorating for some time. While painful, this card can also indicate that you are ready for closure and can now move on to new possibilities.
In Work: The Ten of Swords signifies a complete failure or collapse of a project or endeavour, often because of betrayal, poor judgement, or harsh realities. It may represent the end of a career or a job but also suggests that this ending is necessary to make way for new opportunities. It's a card of finality and transition, signalling that the worst is over.
Spiritually: The Ten of Swords represents hitting rock bottom mentally and emotionally, but also the possibility of spiritual rebirth. It signals a time when you may have suffered greatly, but this suffering can lead to deeper understanding and growth. It encourages you to release old thought patterns and embrace a fresh, transformative spiritual journey.
When ill-dignified: The Ten of Swords indicates prolonged suffering, often due to an inability to let go of mental hurts or betrayals. It suggests you may be stuck in a cycle of self-inflicted pain, unable to release negative thoughts or emotional baggage. The card warns against dwelling in despair and encourages you to recognise that the worst has passed and that renewal is possible.
2: Person #2
Astrological Correspondence: Moon in Sagittarius
The Nine of Wands represents resilience, inner strength, and the perseverance needed to overcome challenges. This card features nine wands arranged in a structured yet dynamic pattern, radiating energy and determination. The Moon brings intuition, emotional depth, and adaptability, while Sagittarius contributes an optimistic and expansive drive, resulting in a card that embodies enduring strength amidst adversity.
This card signifies the ability to push forward despite difficulties, maintaining resolve and focus even when the path is arduous. It reflects the culmination of effort, where one has faced many battles and emerged stronger, though perhaps weary. The Nine of Wands encourages you to trust your instincts, remain vigilant, and protect what you have worked hard to achieve. It is a reminder that the final stretch of a challenge requires courage and unwavering determination.
In Relationships: The Nine of Wands represents a period where you may feel guarded or defensive because of experiences. It suggests a time of emotional resilience, where you are protecting the relationship or your heart but still willing to continue fighting for love.
In Work: This card indicates that you have faced many obstacles in your career or pursuits and are now standing strong, prepared to face any further challenges. It calls for perseverance and the belief that you can overcome any remaining difficulties.
Spiritually: The Nine of Wands speaks to spiritual endurance. You may have gone through difficult periods in your spiritual path but have come out stronger. This card encourages you to remain vigilant and steady as you continue your journey.
When ill-dignified: The Nine of Wands can indicate weariness, defensiveness, or being overwhelmed. You may feel like giving up or be too focused on old wounds to move forward. It warns against becoming too rigid or entrenched in past difficulties.
3: Person #3
Astrological Correspondence: Venus in Virgo
This card signifies the rewards of careful planning, hard work, and self-sufficiency. It represents financial success, personal independence, and the satisfaction of having built one's wealth and stability. The Nine of Disks embodies a period of accomplishment, where you enjoy the material comforts resulting from your labour and efforts.
The imagery reflects a time of prosperity and security, where you can bask in the luxury and enjoyment of the material world. At the same time, this card suggests a connection to the material realm not driven by excess or greed. The Nine of Disks speaks to the ability to appreciate the fruits of one's work without becoming consumed by it. It encourages a mindful enjoyment of material success while maintaining independence and self-control.
With the influence of Venus in Virgo, this card highlights the appreciation for beauty, comfort, and refinement within a context of practicality and discipline. The Nine of Disks encourages celebrating achievements and enjoying the rewards of thoughtful, strategic effort.
In Relationships: The Nine of Disks suggests a time of contentment and satisfaction. It may indicate that you enjoy the benefits of a stable, flourishing relationship where both partners are self-sufficient and enjoy material comforts together. It can also signify enjoying peace and abundance in love.
In Work: The Nine of Disks indicates a time of accomplishment and financial independence. It suggests you have worked hard to achieve success and are now enjoying the benefits of your efforts. It may also indicate a time of personal enjoyment and reflection on the rewards of your labour.
Spiritually: The Nine of Disks represents fulfilment and enjoying the fruits of your labour. It suggests you have reached a level of spiritual self-sufficiency and that your path is one of peace, contentment, and balance between material and spiritual realms.
When ill-dignified: The Nine of Disks can indicate overindulgence, materialism, or complacency. It may suggest you are too focused on wealth or external appearances and neglect your spiritual growth or inner needs. The card warns against becoming too comfortable and losing sight of goals.
4: Person #1's view of #2
(Water, Mem)
The Hanged Man represents surrender, transformation, and the wisdom gained through self-sacrifice. Associated with Mem, the waters, this card embodies the flow of unconscious depths and the mysteries that lie beyond the material world. It is not a card of suffering but one of enlightenment through letting go.
The central figure is suspended upside-down, forming a cross with his legs, a symbol of balance and sacrifice. His arms form a triangle, evoking the union of spirit and matter. Behind him, the swirling blue-green background suggests the ocean of the subconscious. The serene expression on his face reflects the tranquillity found in surrendering to a greater truth. Around him, rays of light emanate, signifying the revelation that arises from this state of suspension.
In Relationships: The Hanged Man suggests a need for patience, selflessness, and understanding. It encourages you to see things from your partner's perspective and release control.
In Work: This card indicates a period of pause or sacrifice, where immediate goals may need to be set aside for long-term growth. You are advised to trust in the process and focus on the bigger picture.
Spiritually: The Hanged Man symbolises enlightenment achieved through surrender and the release of ego. It calls you to embrace the transformative power of stillness and contemplation.
When ill-dignified: The Hanged Man warns of stagnation, resistance to change, or clinging to outdated beliefs. You are advised to let go of what no longer serves you and embrace the wisdom of surrender.
5: Person #2's view of #3
(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.
6: Person #3's view of #1
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.
7: Person #2's view of #1
Astrological Correspondence: Sun in Scorpio
The Six of Cups symbolises harmony, emotional fulfilment, and glee derived from experiences or connections. In this deck, the card features six golden cups arranged in a balanced and symmetrical pattern, overflowing with water from flowers, representing the renewal and richness of emotional energy. The imagery conveys an atmosphere of sensual satisfaction and the revitalising joy of revisiting memories or tapping into emotional resources from the past.
The Sun in Scorpio combines the warmth and illumination of the Sun with Scorpio's depth and intensity, highlighting a connection between the conscious acknowledgment of joy and the transformative power of emotional experiences. It signifies a moment of emotional harmony where the past serves as a source of strength and inspiration for the present.
The Six of Cups invites us to indulge in the pleasures of memory and connection, celebrating the richness of our emotional life. While it carries echoes of nostalgia, it is not merely a backward glance but an affirmation of the deep well of emotional abundance that fuels growth and joy. It reminds us to embrace moments of pleasure, allowing them to recharge our spirits and enrich our present.
In Relationships: The Six of Cups can suggest a reunion with a past lover or rekindling of childhood affection or relationships that hold emotional nostalgia. It may also indicate a period of emotional healing, where you can find solace in the purity of love once experienced or remembered.
In Work: The Six of Cups might represent revisiting passions, returning to work or environments where you once found emotional fulfilment. This card suggests drawing on experiences or revisiting a childhood dream or ambition could help bring growth and emotional satisfaction in your career.
Spiritually: The Six of Cups speaks to a desire for a return to spiritual innocence and simplicity. It can be a reminder to embrace the spiritual joy and wonder of childhood or early spiritual experiences. It may also indicate a time to reconnect with old spiritual practices that once felt powerful, or to seek comfort in sacred places or rituals.
When ill-dignified: The Six of Cups may point to excessive attachment to the past, nostalgia for things that no longer serve you. There may be a reluctance to move forward, clinging to former relationships or times with an unrealistic expectation. You may feel stuck, as if you are living in the past and unable to embrace the present or future.
8: Person #3's view of #2
Astrological Correspondence: Saturn in Pisces
The Eight of Cups represents stagnation, disillusionment, and the weariness that arises from unfulfilled emotional needs. This card features eight cups arranged in an imbalanced structure, with their contents spilling out or appearing stagnant. The imagery conveys decay and loss, symbolising the dissatisfaction of clinging to unproductive emotional attachments or patterns.
Saturn in Pisces reflects the tension between structure and fluidity, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining emotional boundaries in the face of dissolution or disappointment. This astrological pairing underscores the feeling of being weighed down by emotional fatigue or the realisation that what once brought joy no longer fulfils or inspires.
The Eight of Cups signifies the need to let go of what has become draining, even if it requires confronting discomfort or loss. It marks a pivotal moment of release, encouraging a quest for deeper meaning and renewal. By recognising the futility of staying in an unfulfilling situation, the card points towards the potential for growth and transformation through emotional detachment and self-reflection.
In Relationships: The Eight of Cups often points to a relationship that, despite its outward appearance of fulfilment, no longer satisfies the seeker's emotional needs. You may be ready to leave behind a relationship or feel a sense of loss or disappointment, understanding that something more profound is required to restore your emotional balance.
In Work: The Eight of Cups suggests a desire to leave behind an unfulfilling job or career. You may feel disconnected or uninspired by your work and ready to seek new opportunities that better align with your emotional or spiritual goals. This card may indicate a major change or transition in the professional sphere.
Spiritually: The Eight of Cups represents a turning away from superficial or hollow experiences and seeking something of greater depth. It may indicate a spiritual quest, a period of introspection where the seeker must leave behind old beliefs or practices to pursue more meaningful growth.
When ill-dignified: The Eight of Cups can signal an emotional retreat into isolation or the avoidance of necessary change. It can indicate that you are unwilling to walk away from an unfulfilling situation, despite your inner knowing that it is time for something new. There may be a reluctance to let go, resulting in stagnation.
9: Person #1's view of #3
(Scorpio, Nun)
Death represents transformation, endings, and the profound renewal that arises from letting go. Associated with Nun, the fish, this card symbolises the regenerative cycles of life and the eternal flow of existence. Scorpio, the zodiac of intensity and rebirth, infuses the card with themes of metamorphosis and profound emotional depth.
The figure of Death is a skeletal figure wielding a scythe, harvesting the forms of life to make way for growth. Surrounding him are figures dissolving and reforming, emphasising the continual cycle of destruction and creation. Fish swim in the background, symbolising the life force that persists through change. The overall imagery is dynamic and alive, with a swirling interplay of light and shadow reflecting the transformative energy of this card.
In Relationships: Death signifies the end of a relationship or the transformation of its dynamics. It encourages you to release what no longer serves you, allowing space for growth.
In Work: This card indicates a major transition or the end of a phase. You are advised to embrace change and view endings as opportunities for renewal.
Spiritually: Death symbolises the shedding of old identities and the rebirth of the soul. It calls you to embrace transformation and trust in the process of spiritual evolution.
When ill-dignified: Death warns of resistance to change, fear of endings, or an inability to move forward. You are advised to confront your fears and trust in the natural cycles of transformation.
10: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #2
Astrological Correspondence: Saturn in Leo
The Five of Wands represents conflict, struggle, and the tension that arises from competing forces. The card features five crossed wands in an unbalanced configuration, with flames emanating erratically, symbolising disarray and discord. Saturn, the planet of limitations and discipline, meets the fiery and bold energy of Leo, creating a clash between authority, control, and the need for self-expression.
This card indicates a period of difficulty where challenges arise, either from external competition or internal conflicts. It reflects a situation where one's will and energy are met with resistance, demanding resilience and adaptability. Despite the chaotic energy, the Five of Wands also suggests an opportunity for growth through struggle, as obstacles force us to refine our approach and test our strength. It reminds you that conflict, while uncomfortable, can catalyse transformation and clarity.
In Relationships: The Five of Wands can indicate tension or disagreement. There may be a power struggle, competition, or a need to assert one's own desires. You are advised to navigate these challenges with patience and understanding.
In Work: This card suggests competition or conflict in the workplace. You may be facing challenges from colleagues or external forces. It is a time to maintain focus and rise above the noise to stay on course.
Spiritually: The Five of Wands represents the struggle between different aspects of the self. You may experience internal conflict or confusion about your spiritual path. It calls for introspection and a deeper understanding of the forces at play.
When ill-dignified: The Five of Wands suggests the conflict may be unnecessarily escalated, or you may be caught up in petty struggles. It warns against being distracted by trivial matters and encourages you to focus on the greater goal.
11: Overall relationship between persons #2 and #3
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.
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
Element: Fire of Water
Astrological Correspondence: Pisces
The Knight of Cups represents the dynamic pursuit of emotional fulfilment and creative inspiration. As Fire of Water, he embodies the passionate drive to explore the depths of emotion and intuition, combining heartfelt intensity with purposeful action. The Knight is a noble figure on horseback, holding a cup with a crab aloft, symbolising his quest for emotional truth and romantic ideals.
The influence of Pisces enhances his sensitivity, imagination, and connection to the mystical and unseen. This pairing infuses the Knight's journey with dreamlike qualities, urging you to follow your creative visions and emotional aspirations, even if they seem intangible or challenging.
The Knight of Cups encourages you to actively pursue your dreams and ideals with courage and determination. He warns, however, against being swept away by fantasies or unrealistic expectations. By channelling his fiery passion and watery intuition, the Knight inspires a balanced approach to emotional and creative endeavours, driven by both heart and purpose.
In Relationships: The Knight of Cups indicates a person full of romantic fervour and idealistic love. He is the quintessential lover, pursuing relationships with enthusiasm and passion. This card may indicate an individual ready to express their love in bold, dramatic ways, or a situation in which love and romance are pursued with intensity and excitement.
In Work: The Knight of Cups suggests you may embark on a path driven by emotional inspiration or creative passion. It can also represent a time of emotional pursuit when you follow your desires or dreams, whether in the arts, healing, or another area that requires deep emotional engagement.
Spiritually: The Knight of Cups indicates a journey of emotional or spiritual discovery. It suggests you are exploring your inner world and seeking to understand deeper emotional or spiritual truths. This card encourages you to follow your heart, trusting your intuition to guide you.
When ill-dignified: The Knight of Cups can indicate emotional instability or impulsive romantic decisions based on fleeting desires. You may become too idealistic, leading to emotional disillusionment. It could also point to a tendency to act out of emotional intensity without considering the consequences or to chase after unattainable dreams.