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 VIII – Justice
Early Causes XV – The Devil		Triggering Causes VII – The Chariot
	Necessary Conclusions II – The High Priestess
Significator #1 IX – The Hermit		Significator #2 I – The Magician
	Next Step XVI – The Tower
	Surprising Experiences XIV – Temperance
	Outcome XII – The Hanged Man

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

IX – The Hermit

The Hermit represents wisdom, introspection, and the search for spiritual clarity. He calls for a retreat into solitude to find deeper meaning.

Symbolism: The Hermit holds a glowing lantern, symbolising divine wisdom. His staff represents the guidance he offers others, while the snake hints at his persuasiveness. His solitary journey through a barren landscape reflects the pursuit of enlightenment.

In Relationships: A time for introspection and finding deeper meaning.

In Work: A need for solitude, mentorship, or stepping back to reassess goals.

Spiritually: A journey of spiritual discovery and the search for deeper truths.

When ill-dignified: Isolation, withdrawal, or stagnation in one's journey.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

I – The Magician

The Magician signifies mastery, skill, and the power to shape reality. This card represents harnessing resources and directing one's energies towards success. The Magician embodies the potential to manifest desires into tangible form.

Symbolism: He stands before a table with tools representing the four elements: a cup (Water), a sword (Air), a coin (Earth), and a wand (Fire). His raised wand symbolises the connection between spirit and matter, and his hat, shaped like an infinity symbol, signifies endless potential.

In Relationships: A time to use charm, wit, and initiative to build or strengthen relationships.

In Work: Opportunity, success, and the power to manifest goals through skill and action.

Spiritually: The Magician teaches the importance of intention, focus, and using one's talents for higher purposes.

When ill-dignified: Deception, manipulation, or scattered energy. Warning against using one's power for selfish gain.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

XV – The Devil

The Devil represents temptation, materialism, and the enslavement of desires. It points to the darker aspects of the self, where one is bound by addictions, fears, or unhealthy attachments.

Symbolism: The Devil is depicted as a horned figure with a monstrous appearance, standing over two chained figures. The chains are loose, indicating that freedom is possible, but the figures are unaware of their power to escape. The card represents self-imposed limitations.

In Relationships: Unhealthy attachments, temptation, or toxic relationships. A call to break free from negative patterns.

In Work: Materialism, greed, or feeling trapped in a situation. The need to release limiting behaviours.

Spiritually: The need to confront personal fears, addictions, or attachments that block spiritual growth.

When ill-dignified: Excess, obsession, or being enslaved by negative influences or desires.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

VII – The Chariot

The Chariot represents victory, control, and determination. It signifies the ability to overcome obstacles and navigate life's challenges through focus and willpower.

Symbolism: The charioteer rides a chariot drawn by two sphinxes, symbolising opposing forces that must be balanced. The chariot is adorned with symbols of conquest, and the figure wears a crown, signifying authority and triumph.

In Relationships: A relationship driven by effort and mutual determination, or one that requires balance and compromise.

In Work: Triumph through perseverance, conquering challenges with focus.

Spiritually: A journey of self-mastery, overcoming inner struggles, and moving forward with purpose.

When ill-dignified: Recklessness, lack of direction, or being pulled in conflicting directions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

VIII – Justice

Justice represents balance, fairness, and accountability. This card calls for the resolution of disputes and alignment with truth and fairness in all areas of life.

Symbolism: Justice sits with a sword in one hand and scales in the other, symbolising impartiality, truth, and balance. Her crown and steady gaze emphasise her authority over matters of fairness.

In Relationships: A balanced relationship or the need to resolve unresolved issues with fairness and integrity.

In Work: Legal matters, contracts, or decisions that require careful evaluation.

Spiritually: A reminder to live truthfully, aligning actions with higher principles.

When ill-dignified: Dishonesty, imbalance, or the refusal to accept responsibility for one's actions.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

II – The High Priestess

The High Priestess represents intuition, wisdom, and hidden knowledge. She invites introspection and reminds us to trust our inner voice in uncovering truths that are not immediately apparent.

Symbolism: Seated on a throne with a book of wisdom and keys, the High Priestess represents access to esoteric knowledge. The curtains behind her suggest mystery and the boundary between the conscious and unconscious realms.

In Relationships: Emotional depth, secrets, or a need for patience and understanding.

In Work: Hidden opportunities, deep research, or learning emerging from within.

Spiritually: Trust your intuition and explore spiritual truths beyond the material world.

When ill-dignified: Ignorance, repressed emotions, or manipulation behind the veil of mystery.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

XVI – The Tower

The Tower signifies sudden upheaval, revelation, and the breaking down of false structures. This card represents moments of crisis or dramatic change that lead to profound transformation.

Symbolism: The Tower is struck by lightning, causing it to collapse. Figures fall from the tower, symbolising the suddenness and unexpected nature of the event. The crown-like top falling from the tower suggests that pride or false beliefs are being shattered.

In Relationships: A sudden revelation or event that shatters illusions, leading to change or the breakdown of a relationship.

In Work: Unexpected disruption, the destruction of old structures, or a breakdown of outdated systems.

Spiritually: A wake-up call that challenges beliefs or systems, leading to greater clarity and spiritual growth.

When ill-dignified: Crisis, destruction without transformation, or a refusal to accept change.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

XIV – Temperance

Temperance represents balance, moderation, and the art of harmonising opposites. This card suggests a period of a careful blending of energies, creating harmony between diverse aspects of life.

Symbolism: Temperance is shown pouring liquid between two cups, symbolising the blending of forces or energies. Her wings suggest a spiritual connection, and her alchemical knowledge signifies a harmonious outcome. The card teaches the importance of moderation.

In Relationships: A balanced, harmonious relationship or the need for patience and moderation in love.

In Work: A time to blend different skills or approaches to find success. Collaboration and diplomacy are key.

Spiritually: A call for balance, peace, and alignment between the spiritual and material realms.

When ill-dignified: Excess, imbalance, or an inability to find middle ground.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

XII – The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man symbolises suspension, sacrifice, and a shift in perspective. This card represents moments when one must release old beliefs or attachments to gain deeper insight and understanding.

Symbolism: The Hanged Man is depicted hanging upside down, suspended by one foot. His serene expression reflects acceptance and surrender, as he finds wisdom through a change in perspective. His hair resembles a crown symbolising enlightenment and the illumination gained through this pause.

In Relationships: A period of reflection, where relationships may need to be reassessed. It could also suggest a sacrifice for love or personal growth within relationships.

In Work: A time for letting go of old ways of thinking, re-evaluating goals, or waiting patiently for a shift in circumstances.

Spiritually: A time for surrender and spiritual enlightenment, achieved through a different perspective.

When ill-dignified: Stagnation, indecision, or an unwillingness to make necessary sacrifices for growth.