Relationship Spread #2
Difficulty: Easy
This relationship spread focuses more on the common ground of the relationship, with three cards in the middle column showing the common ground. The middle column essentially displays the past, present, and future of the relationship.
Card #4 stands for the common base of the relationship, which may be thought of as the past events which have shaped their characters, bringing them together. The current connection that binds them together is Card #3, indicating the values shared. Card #7 implies the common goals that would keep the pair together moving into the future.
The columns on either side show what each partner brings to the table. Remember, relationships need not be romantic, and the partners could even be groups rather than individuals. In this layout, the other person is on the left-hand side and the reader on the right.
Cards #1 & #2 indicate the separate personalities of each member of the relationship. These cards form a sort of bridge with the cards beneath them, #5 & #6, which show the qualities that each partner offers the other person, and thus to the relationship as a whole.
Your Relationship #2 Reading
Mutual Goals |
||
Your Qualities |
Connection (Present) |
Others' Qualities |
What You Bring |
Common Base (Past) |
What They Bring  |
7: Mutual Goals
Five of Swords
The Five of Swords represents conflict, competition, and mental struggle. It suggests a situation where victory may come at a cost, with tension and discord present. This card can indicate a win achieved through manipulation, dishonesty, or at the expense of others.
Symbolism: The swords are arranged in an unbalanced formation of four-on-one, highlighting the disharmony and imbalance created by conflict. The uneven positioning of the blades reflects the instability caused by mental or emotional discord, while their fine craftsmanship hints at the complexity of the situation.
In Relationships: Conflict or mental challenges. The Five of Swords suggests that a fight or disagreement may have left scars, and one must decide whether to continue fighting or walk away.
In Work: A competitive or combative environment. This card warns that achieving success at the expense of others may lead to resentment or long-term harm.
Spiritually: Mental conflict or inner turmoil that disrupts your peace of mind. The Five of Swords advises resolving spiritual disputes and finding reconciliation within yourself.
When ill-dignified: Deception, defeat, or unnecessary conflict. The Five of Swords warns against manipulative behaviour or unnecessary mental battles that lead to no real resolution.
3: Connection
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.
4: Common Base
Knave of Staves
The Knave of Staves represents youthful enthusiasm, exploration, and new beginnings. This card signifies a time of discovery and creative energy, where the world is seen with fresh eyes.
Symbolism: The Knave, holding a staff and standing confidently, embodies the spirit of adventure and curiosity. The lush green ground beneath their feet suggests new beginnings rooted in fertile possibilities, while their elaborate, dark robes signify maturity and depth despite their youth. The golden background emphasises their potential and promise.
In Relationships: A new, exciting chapter in your romantic life. The Knave of Staves suggests the beginning of a passionate connection or the rekindling of youthful excitement.
In Work: A time of learning and exploration in your professional life. The Knave of Staves indicates being on the verge of an exciting new venture or creative project.
Spiritually: The beginning of a new spiritual path or awakening. This card invites you to approach your spiritual journey with open-mindedness and enthusiasm.
When ill-dignified: Immaturity, impulsiveness, or lack of direction. This suggests you may be rushing into something without considering the consequences.
2: Your Qualities
IV – The Emperor
The Emperor symbolises structure, authority, and stability. He represents the power of rules and order to create security and success, though sometimes at the expense of flexibility.
Symbolism: Seated upright with a sceptre and orb, the Emperor exudes control and dominion. His luxurious robes and the golden background emphasise his regal and unshakable power. His stillness reflects his role as a protector of order and enforcer of discipline.
In Relationships: A relationship built on structure and commitment. It can suggest the presence of a protective partner or the need to establish boundaries.
In Work: Leadership, organisation, and discipline are essential for achieving success. The Emperor encourages taking control and assuming responsibility.
Spiritually: The Emperor teaches the importance of structure and discipline in spiritual practice, encouraging grounded growth.
When ill-dignified: Tyranny, rigidity, or abuse of power. It warns against controlling behaviours or excessive adherence to rules.
1: Their Qualities
Six of Staves
The Six of Staves is the card of victory, achievement, and recognition. It signifies triumph after struggle and the public acknowledgment of success.
Symbolism: The six staves arranged in two parallel rows crossing evoke order, stability, and success. The balance of the composition suggests victory has been achieved through harmony and diligence. The flowery tan background emphasises the card's formal and celebratory nature, reinforcing the sense of accomplishment and recognition.
In Relationships: A time of public recognition in your relationship. The Six of Staves signifies success and admiration, whether it's the acknowledgment of your bond or a shared accomplishment.
In Work: Achievement and recognition in your professional life. This card signals a moment where your hard work is celebrated, whether through a promotion, award, or public acknowledgment.
Spiritually: Victory in your spiritual practice, where you feel accomplishment and clarity. The Six of Staves invites you to bask in the light of your progress and growth.
When ill-dignified: Overconfidence, arrogance, or an inability to recognise the work of others. This may suggest that victory is being taken for granted, or external recognition is fleeting and shallow.
6: What You Bring
Nine of Coins
5: What They Bring
VIII – Justice
Justice represents fairness, balance, and accountability. It signifies the importance of truth and the consequences of one's actions, urging you to act with integrity.
Symbolism: The seated figure holds a sword and scales, embodying fairness and the enforcement of law. The richly adorned gown and golden background highlight the divine and universal nature of justice, while the knight in the background underscores executive authority.
In Relationships: A need for honesty and balance. Justice may signal the resolution of conflicts or the importance of mutual respect.
In Work: Fair rewards for effort and accountability for mistakes. Justice encourages acting with integrity and taking responsibility.
Spiritually: Justice emphasises the law of karma and the importance of living a life aligned with truth and fairness.
When ill-dignified: Bias, dishonesty, or imbalance. It warns against unfair judgements or evading accountability.