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 XIX – The Sun
Early Causes XVII – The Star		Triggering Causes III – The Empress
	Necessary Conclusions XXI – The World
Significator #1 XVI – The Tower		Significator #2 II – The High Priestess
	Next Step XIV – Temperance
	Surprising Experiences XI – Strength
	Outcome XVIII – The Moon

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

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In Work: Unexpected disruption, the destruction of old structures, or a breakdown of outdated systems.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

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

XVII – The Star

The Star represents hope, inspiration, and divine guidance. This card signifies moments of clarity, healing, and the connection to higher aspirations.

Symbolism: The Star is a nude woman pouring water onto the ground and into a pool, symbolising the flow of spiritual energy. A star shines brightly above her, representing guidance and inspiration. The peaceful, open landscape conveys hope and renewal.

In Relationships: A time of healing, hope, and emotional renewal. This card suggests trust and faith in the potential for deep connection.

In Work: Inspiration, new opportunities, and alignment with your true calling.

Spiritually: A period of spiritual renewal, where divine guidance leads the way towards greater fulfilment.

When ill-dignified: Hopelessness, lack of faith, or feeling disconnected from one's spiritual path.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

III – The Empress

The Empress embodies creativity, fertility, and nurturing energy. She symbolises the fruitful aspects of life, from creativity to personal growth, and encourages abundance in all forms.

Symbolism: Adorned with a crown of stars, she sits in a lush, fertile garden, holding a sceptre and shield. These symbols signify both authority and protection. The crescent moon beneath her feet connects her to cycles of intuition and growth.

In Relationships: Nurturing love, emotional bonds, or the creation of something new in a relationship, such as a family.

In Work: Success in creative ventures, productive work, and harmony.

Spiritually: Connection with natural and cosmic cycles, alignment with divine timing.

When ill-dignified: Stagnation, overindulgence, or the misuse of creative energy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

XIX – The Sun

The Sun represents clarity, success, and vitality. It signifies moments of joy, abundance, and realising one's potential.

Symbolism: The Sun shines gloriously over a youthful couple, symbolising innocence, energy, and optimism. A multi-coloured brick wall shelters them, representing protection, growth, vitality, and success. The clear sky suggests obstacles are removed and clarity reigns.

In Relationships: Joyful, open-hearted love. The Sun represents happiness, clear communication, and successful partnerships.

In Work: Success, recognition, and the fulfilment of goals. Positive energy surrounds professional endeavours.

Spiritually: Enlightenment and the ability to see the truth clearly.

When ill-dignified: Arrogance, overconfidence, or a tendency to overlook important details in the pursuit of success.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

XXI – The World

The World represents completion, fulfilment, and the achievement of wholeness. This card signifies the end of a cycle and the successful realisation of goals and aspirations.

Symbolism: The World features a figure dancing within a wreath, holding two wands. The four corners of the card show the symbols of the fixed signs of the zodiac: the bull, lion, eagle, and man, representing the harmony of the four elements and the completion of the journey.

In Relationships: Harmony, fulfilment, and the completion of a phase of a relationship. The achievement of mutual understanding and goals.

In Work: The successful completion of a project or phase, leading to accomplishment and new beginnings.

Spiritually: The attainment of wholeness, completion, and the alignment of the self with the universe.

When ill-dignified: Complacency, stagnation, or the inability to move forward despite opportunities for growth.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

XI – Strength

Strength symbolises inner strength, courage, and emotional mastery. It represents the power of compassion and grace in overcoming challenges, rather than brute force.

Symbolism: A woman calmly subdues a lion, symbolising the triumph of inner strength over raw power. Her serene expression and gentle hands show mastery through patience and understanding.

In Relationships: Strength to overcome emotional challenges through understanding and patience.

In Work: Success through resilience, determination, and tact, not through force.

Spiritually: Mastery of inner impulses and alignment with higher virtues.

When ill-dignified: Weakness, impatience, or misuse of power in challenging situations.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

XVIII – The Moon

The Moon signifies illusion, intuition, and the subconscious mind. It represents the mystery of the unknown, hidden fears, and the need to trust inner guidance while navigating uncertainty.

Symbolism: The Moon is depicted with two dogs howling at the moon, symbolising the pull of primal instincts. A crayfish crawls from the water, representing the subconscious emerging into consciousness. The path leads towards a distant horizon, symbolising the journey through confusion to clarity.

In Relationships: Illusions in relationships, emotional confusion, or hidden feelings. Trust your intuition to navigate these uncertain waters.

In Work: Uncertainty or the need to trust your instincts. Hidden factors may influence the situation.

Spiritually: A time to confront fears, listen to your inner voice, and seek clarity in moments of doubt.

When ill-dignified: Deception, illusion, or being misled by false hopes or unclear situations.