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 0 – The Fool
Early Causes XX – Judgement		Triggering Causes XIV – Temperance
	Necessary Conclusions XIX – The Sun
Significator #1 XII – The Hanged Man		Significator #2 II – The High Priestess
	Next Step XXI – The World
	Surprising Experiences VII – The Chariot
	Outcome XI – Strength

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

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.

 

 

 

 

 

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

XX – Judgement

Judgement signifies awakening, rebirth, and the call for transformation. It represents a moment of reckoning, where one must confront past actions and make a decisive move towards spiritual renewal.

Symbolism: The card depicts an angel blowing a trumpet, summoning the figures below to rise from their graves. This symbolises resurrection, awakening, and the opportunity to start anew. The figures represent souls being called to accountability and transformation.

In Relationships: A transformative period in relationships, where past actions and decisions must be reconciled.

In Work: A time of reckoning, where decisions from the past may come to fruition, calling for a new direction.

Spiritually: Spiritual awakening and the need to answer a higher call. Transformation and rebirth are key themes.

When ill-dignified: Denial, avoidance of responsibility, or refusal to embrace the transformative potential of change.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

0 – The Fool

The Fool represents freedom, spontaneity, and new beginnings. This card signifies the start of an adventurous journey, full of potential but also uncertainty. He reminds us to embrace the unknown with optimism and an open heart.

Symbolism: The Fool carries a staff and a small sack, symbolising untapped potential and the lessons to be learned. The playful animal at his feet represents instinct, loyalty, and sometimes, the forces that pull us in conflicting directions. His carefree attitude invites a leap into the unknown.

In Relationships: New romantic beginnings, playfulness, and spontaneity, but be wary of impulsive actions.

In Work: A time for exploration, openness to unconventional opportunities, and embracing the unfamiliar.

Spiritually: Embarking on a journey of self-discovery, embracing the unknown with faith.

When ill-dignified: Recklessness, lack of foresight, and the dangers of ignoring consequences.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

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.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

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.

 

 

 

 

 

The Outcome

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.