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 XIV – Temperance
Early Causes XVIII – The Moon		Triggering Causes VI – The Lovers
	Necessary Conclusions V – The Pope
Significator #1 XV – The Devil		Significator #2 VII – The Chariot
	Next Step XVII – The Star
	Surprising Experiences XVI – The Tower
	Outcome XII – The Hanged Man

 

 

 

 

Significator #1

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Significator #2

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Early Causes

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Triggering Causes

VI – The Lovers

The Lovers represents choice, duality, and the connections that shape our lives. This card often signals a critical decision between love and duty, passion and responsibility.

Symbolism: A young man stands between two women, representing virtue and temptation, while a winged figure above aims a bow and arrow, guiding his choice. The lush background reflects the complexity and growth that relationships bring.

In Relationships: Choices in relationships, including romantic triangles, commitment, or the deepening of bonds.

In Work: A crossroads where personal values must be aligned with career decisions.

Spiritually: A call to balance inner conflicts and unite dualities in the quest for harmony.

When ill-dignified: Indecision, infidelity, or superficiality in relationships.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Perceptions

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Necessary Conclusions

V – The Pope

The Pope represents tradition, spiritual guidance, and morality. He symbolises the need for structure, passing sacred knowledge, and alignment with established systems or mentors.

Symbolism: Seated on a throne with a triple-cross sceptre and a raised hand in blessing, the Pope embodies divine wisdom. The twin pillars behind him suggest the gateway to higher knowledge and understanding.

In Relationships: A traditional, committed relationship or the need to realign with moral principles.

In Work: Seek guidance from a mentor or adhere to established structures for success.

Spiritually: The Pope calls for a return to faith, ethics, and divine wisdom in all aspects of life.

When ill-dignified: Dogmatism, hypocrisy, or blind adherence to outdated traditions.

 

 

 

 

 

The Next Step

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Surprises

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.

 

 

 

 

 

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.