Ankh Spread

 

 

Difficulty: Kind of tough

The Ankh Spread is for questions about the causes behind trends. It is similar to the Celtic Cross and Secret of the High Priestess spreads, but it covers the reasons behind the circumstances in question differently, perhaps giving a better explanation of why things are the way they are.

The loop of the upper section of the ankh reveals the spiritual background and causes of the situation, while the stem of the base focuses on prospects for the outcome.

The first two tarot cards represent the two parent causes of the situation. They will either complement each other or show two opposing sides of a conflict, depending on how they relate. These are the significator cards of the Ankh spread.

3. This tarot card shines light upon the early causes of the trend in question.

4. Pinpoints the causes that triggered the current situation.

5. Reveals the spiritual perspective of the subject at hand.

6. This card examines the reasons why this course of action had to unfold, as a means to this end.

At this point, it is good to pause to soak in the meaning of the first six cards before moving forward to the last three cards. The last three reveal prospects for the future.

7. The Next Step gives clues about the immediate future.

8. Surprising Experiences encountered en route to the result.

9. This represents the result.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Ankh Reading

	Higher Perceptions King of Staves
Early Causes V – The Pope		Triggering Causes VII – The Chariot
	Necessary Conclusions VI – The Lovers
Significator #1 Ten of Swords		Significator #2 Ten of Cups
	Next Step Seven of Staves
	Surprising Experiences X – The Wheel of Fortune
	Outcome Nine of Swords

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

Ten of Swords

The Ten of Swords signifies an overwhelming and painful ending. It suggests a situation that has reached its breaking point, often after a period of mental or emotional strain. This card points to the finality of a difficult chapter and the potential for renewal after a painful conclusion.

Symbolism: The array of ten swords represents the intensity of betrayal, loss, or defeat. The overwhelming nature of the arrangement emphasises the depth of the crisis. The contrast between the swords and the flowered background highlights the gravity of the situation and the possibility of a new beginning once the pain subsides.

In Relationships: A painful breakup or emotional betrayal. The Ten of Swords marks the end of a challenging relationship or emotional chapter but also signals the opportunity for healing.

In Work: The culmination of a difficult period at work, possibly signalling job loss or failure. This card suggests that, while painful, the end of this chapter clears the way for new opportunities.

Spiritually: A painful spiritual awakening or crisis. The Ten of Swords invites you to embrace the lessons learned and recognise that endings often bring new beginnings.

When ill-dignified: A protracted period of suffering or an unwillingness to move on from the past. The Ten of Swords warns against dwelling in pain or allowing it to define you.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

Ten of Cups

The Ten of Cups represents emotional completion, harmony, and fulfilment. It signifies a time of lasting happiness, contentment, and the realisation of emotional dreams. This card speaks to family, love, and the joy of emotional unity.

Symbolism: The ten chalices arranged in two rows of five suggest a perfect balance and alignment of emotional forces. The detailed decoration of the cups emphasises the richness of emotional life and the culmination of desires fulfilled.

In Relationships: The achievement of emotional harmony and fulfilment in your relationships. The Ten of Cups signals lasting love, happiness, and emotional contentment.

In Work: A sense of emotional fulfilment in your professional life, especially in work that aligns with your values and passions.

Spiritually: Complete emotional and spiritual harmony. This card invites you to embrace the fulfilment of your soul's desires and live in emotional balance.

When ill-dignified: Emotional discontent, disharmony, over-indulgence, or a sense that things are not as perfect as they appear. The Ten of Cups warns against taking happiness for granted.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

V – The Pope

The Pope represents tradition, spiritual authority, and shared values. He embodies the connection between divine wisdom and earthly institutions, urging adherence to established principles.

Symbolism: The Pope's raised hand conveys blessing, while his staff with a triple cross represents divine authority. The kneeling figures at his feet highlight devotion and the transmission of sacred teachings. The symmetrical composition and golden background reinforce his role as a stabilising spiritual guide.

In Relationships: A union founded on shared values or traditions. It may suggest the influence of societal expectations on relationships.

In Work: Success comes through adherence to established systems or mentorship from a trusted authority figure.

Spiritually: The Pope urges respect for spiritual traditions and the wisdom passed down through generations.

When ill-dignified: Dogma, blind conformity, or resistance to innovation. It cautions against rigid adherence to outdated ideas.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

VII – The Chariot

The Chariot symbolises determination, willpower, and triumph through self-discipline. It represents the ability to move forward and achieve success by mastering conflicting forces.

Symbolism: The stationary horses reflect control rather than speed, while the charioteer's detailed attire and golden background emphasise victory and refinement. The calm pose suggests strength in discipline over chaos.

In Relationships: A time to take charge of your relationship's direction. The Chariot signals progress but warns against domination.

In Work: Triumph through focus and determination. It's a call to harness all resources and overcome obstacles confidently.

Spiritually: The Chariot encourages the mastery of inner conflicts to progress along the spiritual path.

When ill-dignified: Loss of direction, lack of control, or excessive force. It warns against being carried away by ambition or unchecked emotions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

King of Staves

The King of Staves represents authority, vision, and mastery. He is the embodiment of focused action, leadership, and the ability to direct energy towards a clear, long-term goal.

Symbolism: The King sits on his throne, holding his staff with dignity. His royal robes and crown symbolise his mastery and wisdom, while his composed expression suggests thoughtful decision-making. The repeating ornate pattern in the background reinforces the themes of structure, control, and power.

In Relationships: Leadership, vision, and maturity. The King of Staves represents a steady and visionary partner who provides guidance and stability.

In Work: Mastery of your craft and a clear vision for your future. The King encourages strategic leadership and long-term planning in your professional endeavours.

Spiritually: Mastery over your spiritual path. The King of Staves invites you to embody your inner wisdom and use it to lead others or further your own spiritual journey.

When ill-dignified: Dictatorship, narrow-mindedness, or rigid thinking. This card warns against becoming too controlling or focused only on your vision at the expense of others' needs.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

VI – The Lovers

The Lovers represent choice and the uniting of opposites. It embodies the transformative power of love and the necessity of making meaningful decisions.

Symbolism: The young couple standing beneath Cupid symbolises connection and divine guidance in love. The formal Renaissance clothing and the golden background elevate their union to a sacred level, while the static composition emphasises balance and deliberate choice.

In Relationships: A powerful connection that unites hearts and souls. It may signify a new relationship or a pivotal choice in love.

In Work: A partnership or decision with far-reaching consequences. The Lovers encourage the alignment of values with your work.

Spiritually: The Lovers symbolise unity with your higher self and the harmonious integration of opposites.

When ill-dignified: Temptation, discord, or indecision. It warns against superficial connections or poor choices.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

Seven of Staves

The Seven of Staves represents defence, resistance, and standing your ground. It symbolises the courage to protect what you've built and assert your position, even in the face of opposition.

Symbolism: The seven staves arranged in a symmetrical pattern suggest a challenge to your stability or position, yet they also indicate the strength and resilience required to protect it. The uneven arrangement reflects the dynamic energy of struggle and resistance. The pale tan background continues the theme of elemental energy, grounding the conflict within a broader context.

In Relationships: A time to defend your boundaries or assert your position. This card may indicate a need to stand firm in your values or beliefs, especially if they are being challenged.

In Work: A period of resistance in your professional life, where you must protect your ideas, position, or accomplishments from competition or opposition.

Spiritually: The Seven of Staves represents spiritual defence, a time to stand firm in your beliefs and spiritual practices. It invites you to protect your inner peace from outside forces.

When ill-dignified: Over-defensiveness, stubbornness, or aggression. This may indicate that you are unnecessarily guarding yourself from challenges or are too resistant to change.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

X – The Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune signifies cycles, fate, and the ever-changing nature of life. It reminds us of the importance of adaptability and acceptance in the face of change.

Symbolism: Figures ascending and descending on the wheel represent the ups and downs of life. The patterns add richness to the composition, while the golden background underscores the divine and inevitable nature of change.

In Relationships: A turning point in relationships, whether for better or worse. The Wheel reminds us to embrace change.

In Work: Unexpected opportunities or setbacks. It advises adaptability and resilience in navigating shifting circumstances.

Spiritually: The Wheel teaches surrender to the cycles of life and faith in the greater plan of the universe.

When ill-dignified: Resistance to change, bad luck, or repeating cycles. It warns against clinging to the past or fearing the future.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

Nine of Swords

The Nine of Swords represents anxiety, nightmares, and mental distress. It signals a time of intense worry or fear that is often exaggerated or self-created. This card highlights the impact of negative thoughts and the toll they take on your mental health.

Symbolism: The formation of eight swords opposing the one below reflects the intense focus on worry, creating anxiety or mental overload. The repetitive pattern of the swords emphasises the sharpness of the thoughts that cause distress.

In Relationships: Anxiety, regret, or guilt. The Nine of Swords can indicate that fear or obsessive thoughts are clouding your ability to move forward.

In Work: Worry or mental stress related to your job or professional situation. This card points to the emotional toll that stress and overthinking are taking on you.

Spiritually: A period of spiritual doubt or anxiety. The Nine of Swords advises you to confront your fears and trust that they are only mental projections, not reality.

When ill-dignified: Escalated stress or overwhelming fear that leads to paralysis. The Nine of Swords warns against letting anxiety dominate your life or prevent you from taking action.