Malkuth (Kingdom)
78 Spreads
The following tarot spreads have been created out of a simple formula:
1. The theme of each spread is inspired by a single RWS tarot card.
2. The questions of each spread are based on specific symbols found inside that
particular card.
3. The shape of each spread is inspired by a graphic found on each card.
The major arcana spreads have quotes from Arthur Waite’s Pictorial Key to accompany them.
Reader’s Choice
You are free to remove the card each spread is based on and keep it in sight during your reading. This will help you gain entrance and knowledge of the card. Alternately, you may choose the card from a separate deck so you always shuffle with a full deck for these readings. If the card inspiring the spread appears in the spread, it will take on heightened meaning.
The Fool “Optimism Through Adversity” Spread
With light step, as if earth and its trammels had little power to restrain him, a young man in gorgeous vestments pauses at the brink of a precipice among the great heights of the world; he surveys the blue distance before him-its expanse of sky rather than the prospect below. The edge which opens on the depth has no terror; it is as if angels were waiting to uphold him, if it came about that he leaped from the height. His countenance is full of intelligence and expectant dream.60
Cast your cards to invoke the Fool’s optimism no matter what energy surrounds you.
1. Bag—What do I carry with me from the past?
2. White Rose—What has yet to blossom?
3. Dog—What do my animal instincts compel me to do?
4. Cliff—What am I risking?
5. Brink—What do I risk by not stepping forward?
6. Air—What helps me to think clearly?
7. Direction—Where should I head?
8. Posture—What simple message brings me forward?
The Magician “Power Generation” Spread
In the Magician’s right hand is a wand raised towards heaven, while the left hand is pointing to the earth. This dual sign is known in very high grades of the Instituted Mysteries; it shews the descent of grace, virtue and light, drawn from things above and derived to things below. The suggestion throughout is therefore the possession and communication of the Powers and Gifts of the Spirit.61
Cast your cards to invoke the Magician’s magical ability. The cards follow the shape of his energetic flow.
1. Upward Hand—What is my purpose?
2. Downward Hand—Where do my talents lie?
3. Suits on Table—What tools are at my fingertips?
4. Snake Belt—How can I use myself as an instrument of the greatest good?
5. Posture—How do I allow divine energy/light/power to flow through me?
The High Priestess “Inner Knowledge” Spread
In a manner, she is also the Supernal Mother herself—that is to say, she is the bright reflection. It is in this sense of reflection that her truest and highest name in bolism is Shekinah—the co-habiting glory.…Mystically speaking, the Shekinah is the Spiritual Bride of the just man, and when he reads the Law she gives the Divine meaning. There are some respects in which this card is the highest and holiest of the Greater Arcana.62
The High Priestess knows everything about you. Cast your cards to gain her inner knowledge. This spread imitates the High Priestess and her two outer pillars.
1. Triple Crown—What is evolving?
2. Book/Scroll—What do I know?
3. Dress—What covers me?
4. Cross—What is the nature of reality?
5. Veil—What is hidden?
6. Pomegranate—What is growing?
7. Water—What moves through me?
8. Moon—What is illusion?
The Empress “Love and Evolution” Spread
The Empress signifies the door or gate by which an entrance is obtained into this life, as into the Garden of Venus; and then the way which leads out therefrom, into that which is beyond, is the secret known to the High Priestess: it is communicated by her to the elect.63
Cast your cards to experience and invoke love and evolution. The cards form the shape of her scepter.
1. Symbol of Venus—What do I love?
2. Wheat—How do I nurture others?
3. Waterfall—What emotion is flowing?
4. Zodiac Crown—Who am I?
5. Scepter—What power do I wield?
6. Throne—What stability do I maintain?
7. Hidden Pregnancy—What is being born?
8. Pomegranates—What fertile grounds await?
The Emperor “Stability” Spread
He is executive and realization, the power of this world, here clothed with the highest of its natural attributes… He is the virile power, to which the Empress responds, and in this sense is he who seeks to remove the Veil of Isis; yet she remains virgo intacta.64
Cast your cards to invoke the Emperor’s stability in the shape of a square.
1. Throne—What is the stability I have created?
2. Bulls—What gives me strength?
3. Ankh—What is eternal?
4. Ball—What am I exuding that will come back around?
5. Crown—How to I connect with divinity?
6. River—How do I remain emotionally resilient?
7. Mountain Range—How can I lift my vision higher?
8. Armor—How can I protect myself while staying open?
He is rather the summa totius theologiæ, when it has passed into the utmost rigidity of expression; but he symbolizes also all things that are righteous and sacred on the manifest side. As such, he is the channel of grace belonging to the world of institution as distinct from that of Nature, and he is the leader of salvation for the human race at large. He is the order and the head of the recognized hierarchy, which is the reflection of another and greater hierarchic order.65
How does Grace appear in your life? Cast your cards in the shape of the Hierophant and his two disciples to find out.
1. Hand Gesture—What blessings do I give to others?
2. Triple Cross Staff—How is my fate, fortune and destiny connected?
3. Triple Crown—Where does my authority lie?
4. Cloak—What protects me?
5. Dual Keys—What doors does my knowledge unlock?
6. Pillars—What is truth?
7. Double Clerics—Who can I count on for support?
8. Slippers—What keeps me grounded?
This is in all simplicity the card of human love.66
Examine aspects of passionate love with a spread inspired by the Lovers card’s mountain.
1. Nudity—What makes me comfortable in my own skin?
2. Sun—Is this relationship worth the effort?
3. Angel—What does love teach me?
4. Snake—What mistake can I avoid making?
5. Apple—What do I have working in my favor?
6. Fire—How can I keep our passion alive?
7. Mountain—How high will we climb together?
The Chariot “Progression” Spread
He has led captivity captive; he is conquest on all planes—in the mind, in science, in progress, in certain trials of initiation.67
Cast your cards to move in the best direction possible. The spread is shaped like a stage or the Chariot’s coach.
1. Lunar Breastplates—What is changing?
2. Crown—How do I remain above the fray?
3. Laurel—How will I be victorious?
4. Sphinxes—What are my choices?
5. Curtains—What should I keep close to the vest?
6. Carriage Column—Where is my stability?
7. Winged Symbol—How do I fly?
8. City—What will I build?
Fortitude, in one of its most exalted aspects, is connected with the Divine Mystery of Union; the virtue, of course, operates in all planes, and hence draws on all in its symbolism. It connects also with innocentia inviolata, and with the strength which resides in contemplation.68
Cultivate inner and outer fortitude by casting your cards in the shape of Strength’s lemniscate.
1. Female—How can I be both vulnerable and strong?
2. Lion—What do my instincts tell me?
3. Lemniscate—How can I expand my thinking?
4. Hand Gesture—How can I be gentle with others?
5. Garland Belt—Where should I place a boundary?
6. White Gown—How can I bring peace to my inner world?
7. Mountain—What is the long term aspiration?
8. Yellow Background—How can I access creative solutions and responses at every turn?
The Divine Mysteries secure their own protection from those who are unprepared.69
Gain Hermit-like wisdom by casting your cards in the shape of the Hermit’s staff.
1. Cloak—How do I remain still?
2. Staff—What helps me move forward?
3. Lantern—How do I protect sacred knowledge?
4. Star—How can I spread inspiration?
5. Mountain Range—What challenge do I face?
6. Mountain Top—What challenge will I overcome?
7. Beard—What wisdom do I possess?
8. Age—What have I learned?
Wheel of Fortune “Destiny” Spread
The symbolic picture stands for the perpetual motion of a fluidic universe and for the flux of human life. The Sphinx is the equilibrium therein. The transliteration of Taro as Rota is inscribed on the wheel, counterchanged with the letters of the Divine Name—to show that Providence is implied through all.70
Cast your cards in the shape of a wheel to align with the winds of fate, fortune, and destiny.
1. Wheel—Where is natural energy moving me?
2. Sphinx—What is the riddle I must solve?
3. Serpent—What is exiting?
4. Jackal—What is rising?
5. Lion (Leo)—Where do I need to be strong?
6. Ox (Taurus)— Where should I be steadfast?
7. Person (Aquarius)—Where should I be compassionate?
8. Eagle (Scorpio)—What must take flight?
The operation of this is like the breathing of the Spirit where it wills, and we have no canon of criticism or ground of explanation concerning it. It is analogous to the possession of the fairy gifts and the high gifts and the gracious gifts of the poet: we have them or have not, and their presence is as much a mystery as their absence.71
Cast your cards in the shape of Justice’s sword to gain insight on your work, career, and life path.
1. Double-Edged Sword—What duality must I embrace?
2. Scales—Are my actions balanced?
3. Hanging Veil—What is hidden?
4. Crown—What do I know beyond a shadow of a doubt?
5. Throne—What action can I take toward security?
6. Slipper Pointing Out—How can I move in the right direction?
7. Lack of Blindfold—What do I need to see that’s right in front of me?
8. Yellow and Gold Colors—What specific action should I take next?
The Hanged Man “Mystic Vision” Spread
It should be noted (1) that the tree of sacrifice is living wood, with leaves thereon; (2) that the face expresses deep entrancement, not suffering; (3) that the figure, as a whole, suggests life in suspension, but life and not death. It is a card of profound significance, but all the significance is veiled.72
Invoke inner vision by casting your cards in the shape of the Hanged Man’s tree.
1. Gallows/Cross—What are the boundaries of my state of existence?
2. Leg Position—What crossroad am I at?
3. Arms—Over what am I powerless?
4. Halo—How can I acknowledge divine nature in everything around me?
5. Foliage—What lessons does nature teach me?
6. Serene Face—What is my insight?
7. Ropes Binding Feet—How can I give up the struggle?
8. Upside Down—How can I embrace new visions?
The veil or mask of life is perpetuated in change, transformation and passage from lower to higher, and this is more fitly represented in the rectified Tarot by one of the apocalyptic visions than by the crude notion of the reaping skeleton. Behind it lies the whole world of ascent in the spirit.73
Cast your cards to reinvent your entire life in the shape of the Death card’s flag.
1. Skeleton—What is temporal?
2. Armor—What protects me?
3. Horse—What moves me forward?
4. Dead King—What can I overthrow?
5. Praying Child—Who will listen?
6. Bishop—How to I find what clicks?
7. Twin Towers—What is before me?
8. Sunrise—How shall I ascend?
Temperance “Integrate Power” Spread
It is called Temperance fantastically, because, when the rule of it obtains in our consciousness, it tempers, combines and harmonizes the psychic and material natures. Under that rule we know in our rational part something of whence we came and whither we are going.74
Cast your cards in the direction of Temperance’s sacred fluid to unlock the power of integration into your life.
1. Wings—What is my true potential?
2. Lilies—What is my passion?
3. Crown—What do I know?
4. Path—What direction must I go in?
5. Mountain—What is my challenge?
6. Mixing fluid—How do I go with the flow?
7. Foot in water—How do I connect to my unconscious?
8. Foot on land—How can I ground myself?
9. Glowing crown—What is possible?
The Devil “Unleashed Possibility” Spread
What it (the Devil) does signify is the Dweller on the Threshold without the Mystical Garden when those are driven forth therefrom who have eaten the forbidden fruit.75
Eat forbidden fruit, encounter the world with unfiltered eyes, and throw the gates of possibility open as you cast your cards in the shape of the Devil’s horns.
1. Inverted pentagram—How am I different?
2. Hand gesture—Where have I been mislead?
3. Lovers—Who do I dominate?
4. Nudity—Where am I most vulnerable?
5. Chains—What binds me?
6. Torch—What passion burns at my soul?
7. Bat wings—What has gone awry?
8. Horns—Where do my animalistic instincts lead me?
The Tower “Shatter False Illusions” Spread
The Tower has been spoken of as the chastisement of pride and the intellect overwhelmed in the attempt to penetrate the Mystery of God; but in neither case do these explanations account for the two persons who are the living sufferers. The one is the literal word made void and the other its false interpretation. In yet a deeper sense, it may signify also the end of a dispensation…76
Shake up your life and cast your cards in the shape of the tower and lightning.
1. Crown—What is no longer true?
2. Lightning—What wakes me up?
3. Left Figure—What tricks does the material world play?
4. Right Figure—What belief must I release?
5. Clouds—What new possibility is forming?
6. Yod Fire Sparks—How can I open myself to divine inspiration?
7. Flaming Windows—What gets rid of what I don’t need?
8. Cliff—What risk should I take?
The Star “Vulnerability and Inspiration” Spread
The figure will appear as the type of Truth unveiled, glorious in undying beauty, pouring on the waters of the soul some part and measure of her priceless possession. But she is in reality the Great Mother in the Kabbalistic Sephira Binah, which is supernal Understanding, who communicates to the Sephiroth that are below in the measure that they can receive her influx.77
Cast your cards to ignite the muse, cultivate tender vulnerability, and open yourself to inspiration by casting your card in the shape of the Star’s eight-pointed star.
1. Posture—How can I remain open?
2. Nudity—How is vulnerability an asset?
3. Stars—How do I hone my focus on the highest possible source?
4. Jug—How can I collect wisdom?
5. Bird—What gives me wings for both worlds?
6. Tree—How do I stay grounded?
7. Mountain—What is possible?
8. Flowers—What is manifesting right now?
The Moon “Lunar Reflection” Spread
The face of the mind directs a calm gaze upon the unrest below; the dew of thought falls; the message is: Peace, be still; and it may be that there shall come a calm upon the animal nature, while the abyss beneath shall cease from giving up a form.78
Stand between the Moon’s white towers and bask in the lunar glow.
1. Dual Towers—What false towers have I built?
2. Dog—What is the loyal, responsible thing to do?
3. Wolf—What does my primal self want?
4. Moon—What does intuitive clarity tell me?
5. Sun—What harsh reality exists?
6. Pool—What is my subconscious showing me?
7. Lobster—What is emerging from the depths of my soul?
8. Path—Where will this new illumination lead me?
The characteristic type of humanity has become a little child therein—a child in the sense of simplicity and innocence in the sense of wisdom. In that simplicity, he bears the seal of Nature and of Art; in that innocence, he signifies the restored world. When the self-knowing spirit has dawned in the consciousness above the natural mind, that mind in its renewal leads forth the animal nature in a state of perfect conformity.79
Cast your cards in the shape of a sunflower and allow the sun’s energy to permeate every level of your being.
1. Sun—How do I let the highest, clearest energy flow through me?
2. Child—How do I retain innocence?
3. Nudity—How can I let down my guard?
4. Banner—What do I need to express to others?
5. White Horse—What is magical about my life?
6. Wall—What boundary do I need to create?
7. Sunflowers—How can I be creative?
8. Red Head Feather—Whose soul am I linked to?
Judgement’s “No Going Back” Spread
It is the card which registers the accomplishment of the great work of transformation in answer to the summons of the Supernal—which summons is heard and answered from within.80
Cast your cards in the shape of the red cross on Judgement’s flag to encourage the card’s life-changing properties.
1. Trumpet—What is my wakeup call?
2. Angel Gabriel—Where is divine intervention?
3. Red Cross—Who helps me?
4. Flag—What should I feel free to express on the outside?
5. Coffins—What is stagnant?
6. Open Arms—What do I embrace?
7. Dead Rising—What marks my second chance?
8. Water—What changes forever?
It represents also the perfection and end of the Cosmos, the secret which is within it, the rapture of the universe when it understands itself in God. It is further the state of the soul in the consciousness of Divine Vision, reflected from the self-knowing spirit.81
Unleash the magic of the World card into every segment of your life by casting your cards in the shape of the infinity wreath.
1. Dancer—What can I celebrate?
2. Magic Wands—What can I conjure?
3. Wreath—What continues?
4. Androgyny—How do I find integration and expression?
5. Head (Aquarius)—What am I thinking?
6. Lion (Leo)—What is my passion?
7. Ox (Taurus)—How can I ground myself?
8. Eagle (Scorpio)—What helps me fly?
Ace of Pentacles “Manifest Potential” Spread
Seasonal shifts pull the soul in new directions. Cast your cards when you feel the urge to create something new in your life. It may be a new job, new habit, new relationship, or new hobby. This spread helps you get your thoughts together and leads you toward the manifestation of something wonderful in the natural world.
Cast in the shape of the Ace of Pentacle’s garden gate and create a threshold with your cards.
1. Pentacle—What do I have?
2. Palm—How do I support my desire?
3. Garden Gate—What threshold do I need to cross?
4. Flower—What is my natural talent?
5. Path—What should I focus on to stay true to my path?
Two of Pentacles “Make the Best Choice” Spread
The Two of Pentacles reflects choices. Choices can be a luxury or they can be agony. Cast your cards to help figure out the best choice for your current situation. Nine cards are selected because nine is the number of wish fulfillment.
Select the first two cards intentionally. They should each represent the choices you are deciding between, like the two pentacles in the juggler’s hands.
Intentional Choice 1 Intentional Choice 2
3. Number Two—What energy surrounds my options?
4. Lemniscate—What remains constant, no matter my choice?
5. Dance—What can I get excited about?
6. Stage Card—What am I being overly dramatic about?
7. Ship Moving Down Wave—What works in my favor?
8. Ship Moving Up Wave—What challenge must I face, no matter what?
9. Card’s Advice—Which choice should I make?
Three of Pentacles “Long-Term Project/Goal” Spread
Long-term goals and projects require dedication, collaboration, and effort. They echo the figures seen on the Three of Pentacles who work together to create a beautiful sacred space.
Support yourself and your big idea by casting your cards in the symbol of creative trinity, a triangle.
1. Church—How does my sense of spirituality support my work?
2. Bench—What continues to give me a leg up?
3. Apron—How can I best protect myself during the process?
4. Covered Head—What to I need to keep close to the vest?
5. Mason—What helps me work with clarity?
6. Two Figures—Who can I consult for help along the way?
7. Triad—What image or symbol should I focus on that encourages the final outcome?
Four of Pentacles “Release Fear” Spread
Holding tightly to things, be they ideas, objects, people, or behavior, is a sure way to lose or suffocate them. Trusting the present moment is a sublime life tool. It allows you to release emotions and old habits. The knowledge that you will always be okay, that you’ll always have what you need at your fingertips, is truly sacred knowledge.
The Four of Pentacles reflects stability through its number, but the figure looks to be holding on for dear life. Cast your cards to foster trust in letting go by making a square and a triangle.
1. Dark Cloak—What am I hiding from the world?
2. Stage Card—Who am I doing this for other than myself?
3. Grasping—What am I holding too tightly to that must be let go?
4. City—What have I built that I can be proud of?
5. Block—What security can I depend on, no matter what?
6. Eyes—How can I best stay in the present moment?
7. Crown—What is my highest ideal and greatest gift that occurs when I release fear?
Five of Pentacles “Through Thick and Thin” Spread
The Five of Pentacles often reflects the ups and downs and highs and lows of any relationship or marriage. The ability to survive tough times reveals the strength between people. Challenges often show us what we are made of. Tough times offer depth to any relationship. Cast your cards to help see yourself through tough times so when the snow stops falling, you’ll be sitting pretty.
Cast your cards in the shape of two figures and the glimmer of hope above them.
1. Storm—What is our challenge?
2. Snow—How is my ego getting in the way?
3. Couple—What draws us together?
4. Crutches—What supports me?
5. Posture—What wounds me?
6. Stained Glass—How can I let more light into the relationship?
7. Church/Sanctuary—What action will save us?
Six of Pentacles “How to Open and Give More to Others” Spread
Each of us is a universe unto ourselves. When we open our hearts and perceptions, we find we can give more of ourselves to the world around us and to others. This engages a symbiotic relationship of energy, flow, and beauty. Our energy flows to others and reciprocal energy returns.
Cast your cards to engage in this heart-opening spread inspired by the Six of Pentacle’s scales.
1. Scales—How am I too judgmental of myself and others?
2. Coins—What can I offer?
3. Beggars—What or who needs my attention?
4. Merchant—How can I give the best of myself?
5. Fortress—What single action helps me to become more successful?
6. Secret Red Tab—What is the secret to getting out of my own way?
Seven of Pentacles “What Now?” Spread
The Seven of Pentacles reflects a moment where you’ve been working really hard and garnered results but are wondering what you should do next.
Cast your cards in the shape of the pentacles on the card.
1. Pastoral Landscape—What is the state of my current situation?
2. Vegetation —What gifts have I already manifested?
3. Tendrils—What is developing?
4. Hoe—What tool is at my disposal?
5. Boots—What supports me?
6. Figure’s Gaze—What do I need to focus on?
7. Posture—What should I do next?
Eight of Pentacles “Work You Love” Spread
It is said that when you do work that you love, it ceases to feel like work and more like play or flow. Passionate individuals who love their work say they’d continue whether they are paid or not. Cast your cards to bring you closer to the work you were meant to do (unless you are already doing it—then good for you!).
Cast the cards in the shape of the five-pointed star.
1. Bench—How do I rise above the noise and distraction to find my inner purpose?
2. Apron—What is my advantage?
3. Tool—What tool do I need to get to work?
4. Distant City—Who desires what I offer?
5. Displayed Pentacles—How can I believe in myself in a deeper way?
Nine of Pentacles “Luxurious Life” Spread
True luxury is a state of mind. It has nothing to do with the objects surrounding you or the dollar amount they cost. Luxury isn’t bought; it’s experienced. Appreciation of anything comes from within you. Sunlight sliding over the body is a luxury. Buttered toast is a luxury. Hugging a child is a luxury. Cast your cards to engage and enjoy simple things. They contain the secret key of intense pleasure.
Cast your cards in the receptive shape of the Nine of Pentacles’ neckline.
1. Dress—What makes me feel wonderful?
2. Falcon—What can I always depend on?
3. Grapes—What brings me immense sensual pleasure?
4. Vineyard—What beauty surrounds me?
5. Tree—What grounds me in the intricacies of life so I can reach higher?
6. Snail—How can I slow down to appreciate what is right in front of me?
7. Tendril—What will develop when I stay focused on the moment?
Ten of Pentacles “Threshold of Treasure” Spread
A specific magic occurs when tarot pentacles reveal the true nature of the material world. Pentacles are the only visible suit of tarot—the only suit we can hold, taste, and feel. All other suits are invisible. This knowledge allows us to interact and understand the interplay between the visible and invisible in new and evocative ways. The material world becomes an unfolding treasure responding to our thoughts, desires, actions, and imaginings. Cast your cards to pass through a threshold of magic and into unfolding possibility.
Cast your cards in the Ten of Pentacles’ “secret in plain sight” shape of the Tree of Life.
1. Family—Who supports me?
2. Generations—What have I inherited?
3. Dogs—How can I connect with animal energies?
4. Tree of Life—How can I move toward divinity?
5. Old Man—How do I best cultivate wisdom?
6. Married Couple—What bonds me to others?
7. Child—What can I play with?
8. Threshold—How do I move through the profane and into the sacred every day?
9. Scale Tapestry—How do I integrate balance in all things?
10. Castle Tapestry—What is possible?
Page of Pentacles “Sharpen Focus” Spread
The gift of the Page of Pentacles lies in her ability to apply laser focus to any situation, task, or challenge. Cast your cards in this spread when you need to sharpen your focus and hone your powers of discipline to any task.
Cast your cards in a circle like the pentacle in the page’s hand.
1. Gaze—What will keep my thoughts focused?
2. Pentacle—What happens when I focus on the task at hand?
3. Grove of Trees—What unseen troves of magic support me?
4. Mountain—How high is it possible to rise?
5. Pointed Foot—What step should I take in the near future?
6. Plowed Field—What is possible if I am disciplined?
Knight of Pentacles “Vow of Silence” Spread
Expression is always a healthy activity; however, sometimes we are asked to keep a sacred secret. Sometimes a secret is so delicious it can be excruciating to harbor. Alternatively, it is possible to weaken the sacred nature of a thing if we are quick to share it. Often, keeping things to ourselves will give it and ourselves power, especially if we share because we seek the approval of other people. If you have a habit of hanging everything out for the world to see, cast your cards in this spread to cultivate the power of silence and subtlety, just like the Knight of Pentacles.
Cast your cards in the shape of the five-pointed star on the knight’s pentacle.
1. Pentacle—What is the nature of the silence needing to be held?
2. Armor—How am I protected?
3. Closed Lips—How do I keep my secret?
4. Horse—What power do I gain?
5. Plowed Field—What develops if I hold on to this energy?
Queen of Pentacles “Self-Care” Spread
The Queen of Pentacles cares for everyone around her with love, tenderness, and an eye for material comfort and sensuality. We can take care of others better when we take good care of ourselves.
Cast your cards in the shape of the queen’s crown to consider how you can treat yourself like royalty.
1. Pentacle—What splurge should I indulge in?
2. Royal Clothing—How can I improve my wardrobe?
3. Roses—How can I exercise self-love?
4. Bunny—How can I change my inner dialogue and speak to myself as kindly as I’d speak to a child?
5. Goat—What gives me more energy?
6. Pan—How can I have a wickedly good time?
7. Abundance—What happens when I am kinder to myself?
King of Pentacles “Financial Growth” Spread
The King of Pentacles, king of the material world, is a wealthy man whose money works for him in a multitude of ways.
Cast your cards in the shape of the king’s kingdom to concentrate on financial growth and increase material stability.
1. Pentacle—How can I track my spending?
2. Garden—How can I reward myself for changing my habits?
3. Bull Horns—How can I change my mindset?
4. Armor—What helps me to protect my assets?
5. King’s Head—How can I set realistic financial goals?
6. Castle—What will happen if I take proactive steps now?
Ace of Cups “Emotional Flow” Spread
The Ace of Cups reflects an open channel of love, emotion, and creativity. Allowing emotions to flow rather than stifling them to please others leads to personal happiness and expression.
Cast your cards in the shape of Waite’s W initial seen on the card to discover what magic lies in cultivating emotional flow.
1. Clouds—What is my general situation?
2. Angelic Hand—What opportunity is being offered to me?
3. Cup—What is the true nature of my heart?
4. Dove—When I allow vulnerability, what gifts do I receive?
5. Sacramental Bread/Wafer—What do I need to accept?
6. Fountain—What happens when I give the love I crave?
7. Lotus Flower—What makes rebirth possible?
8. Pool of Water—What can I focus on to stay open?
Two of Cups “Ideal Partner” Spread
An ideal partner may be an actual person, a romantic entanglement, or something more abstract, like work that suits you or a house and home that feels like it was constructed just for you. Ultimately, we want to parter with the people and things that suit us best. But do we know and attract what is best for ourselves? This spread will help you. Often just stating your desire for an ideal possibility and releasing attachment to its form will bring it to you.
Cast your cards in the triangle shape of the card to discover and encourage a willing parter to reveal themselves and appear by your side.
1. Lion—What fierce action can I take to attract my ideal partner?
2. Wings—How can I encourage divine intervention?
3. Cups—How can I cultivate a sense of openness toward what is best for me?
4. Dual Snakes—How can I integrate what and who I love while maintaining autonomy?
5. Hand Gesture—What single, small action brings my partner closer to me?
Three of Cups “Lighten Up” Spread
We all go through grouchy, intense periods of time when it feels like the weight of the world is on our shoulders. During these stretches, it is often hard to see the forest for the trees. This expression means we are too close to heaviness, sadness, or our personal blinders to see the big picture. During moments like these, it’s helpful to take a breath, step back, and lighten up. Seeing friends and venting is often just the trick to release pent-up frustrations.
Cast your cards in the shape of the cup on the card to find ease and space for the present moment and allow stress and heaviness to float away.
1. Left Maiden/Air/Kether—What is a new way of understanding my life?
2, Center Maiden/Fire/Chokmah—How can I make my passions a reality?
3. Right Maiden/Water/Binah—How can I soften my resistance and become pliable to possibility?
4. Three Figures—Who supports me?
5. Grapes/Intoxication—How can I release stress permanently and sink into bliss?
6. Celebration—What can I celebrate in this moment?
7. Harvest—What will result if I lighten up?
Four of Cups “Embrace New Possibilities” Spread
The Four of Cups reflects a figure who is offered an opportunity in the form of a cup. Does he see it? Will he acknowledge it? Life is fast and confusing sometimes. We can’t possibly see all opportunities and possibilities as they fly at us. We can make an effort to keep our awareness open to important and potentially life-changing opportunities when they come our way.
Cast your cards in the shape of the tree trunk to find the support you need and recognize a new possibility.
1. Hand with Cup—What small adjustment can I make to see new possibilities?
2. Three Cups—What excellent possibilities are already in my grasp?
3. Tree—What support can I count on through thick and thin?
4. Closed-Off Posture—What helps me loosen up?
5. Cloud—What magical attribute is working in my favor?
Five of Cups “Replace Bad Habits with Good Ones” Spread
Humans are habitual creatures. Our tendencies can be a help or a hindrance. Good habits support success, health, and happiness. Old habits stifle us and become obtrusive as we grow and evolve if we don’t let them go.
Cast your cards in the shape of the bridge on the Five of Cups card. It will help you cross over and figure out how to swap a negative, destructive, or disruptive habit for an empowering one.
1.Black Cloak—Why does my habit need discarding?
2. Three Spilled Cups—What price do I pay for my bad habit?
3. Two Standing Cups—What positive habit can I replace it with?
4. Water—What is my challenge to dropping the habit?
5. Bridge—How can I cross once and for all?
6. Distant Castle—What is the result of my bravery?
Six of Cups “Memory Lane” Spread
The Six of Cups is often described as the “walk down memory lane” card. It is fun to wander down memory lane when time and imagination afford it. Looking back on the past offers an opportunity to revisit old narratives through a fresh set of eyes. We are free to add, amend, or replace old stories with new insights. It is important, however, to not let the stories of your life define you. Instead, write your story fresh each day with actions, intentions, and energy that reflect the essence of who you truly are.
Cast your cards in the shape of the Six of Cups’ three figures to discover new wisdom and heartfelt messages by taking a saunter down old familiar roads.
1. Town Square—Where have I felt most protected?
2. Flowering Cups—What is the great gift of past experience?
3. Boy—What great gift have I received from another?
4. Girl—How can I learn to accept love, tenderness, and kindness when it is offered?
5. Gloved Hand—How did I learn to protect myself?
6. Figure Walking Away—What old narrative can I release?
Seven of Cups “Castles in the Air” Spread
The Seven of Cups is often called the “castles floating in the air” card. This expresses the idea that dreams are illusions and nothing more, yet each invention, medicine, literature, theory, and breakthrough existing in the world was once an idea, a floating castle in the air, in the form of someone’s imagination. Knowing this, you can work with the Seven of Cups to bring your flights of fancy, daydreams, and thoughtful meanderings to fruition.
Cast your cards in the shape of seven floating cups to dream far and wide—and then make those dreams a reality.
1. Female Head (Empress)—What springs from my creativity?
2. Glowing Figure (High Priestess)—What deep secret needs to emerge?
3. Snake (Magician)—How powerful am I?
4. Castle (Tower)—What shall I destroy to be reborn?
5. Jewels (Wheel)—What good would I do with all the money in the world?
6. Wreath (World)—What is eternal?
7. Dragon (Sun)—What passion burns inside of me?
Eight of Cups “Moving On” Spread
There comes a time in everyone’s life when it is time to move away from a pattern, behavior, or person. These moments are different for each of us, yet we are well aware of them, whether they creep up on us or hit us like a lightning bolt.
Cast your cards in the direction of the figure who moves upward when you are actively ready to head for higher ground.
1. Eight Cups—What is the situation/state/thing I will leave behind?
2. Boots—What supports me?
3. Boulders—What stands in my way?
4. Walking Stick—What helps me navigate the path?
5. Eclipse—What secret magic works in my favor?
6. Water—How do I keep my emotions in check?
7. Path—What can I trust to guide me?
Nine of Cups “Wish Come True” Spread
An old saying reminds you to be careful what you wish for; you just might get it. The Nine of Cups lets you know you’ll indeed be getting your heart’s desire. What do you want more than anything?
Cast your cards in the shape of the magic genie’s cups to glean information about your deepest desire and highest thoughts.
1. Genie—What do I want more than anything?
2. Crossed Arms—What blocks me?
3. Cups—How will I feel when I get it?
4. Tablecloth—What is a hidden and unforeseen consequence?
5. Bench—What keeps me steady through it all?
Ten of Cups “Family Harmony” Spread
The Ten of Cups is often considered “the happily ever after” card. We know this fairytale ideal does not really exist. First, because we are always living in our present, and “ever after” implies the future. Second, because even well-adjusted, silly, and happy families, relationships, and situations will face challenging times. Good thing we can always look to the cards for solutions and suggestions.
Cast your cards in a rainbow shape to invoke familial harmony in any challenging situation.
1. Home—What is the current situation?
2. Stage Card—How can I face the obstacle/challenge?
3. Clasped Couple—What can I depend on?
4. Open Hands—How can I stay open to possibility?
5. Dancing Children—What small adjustment brings everyone together?
6. Rainbow—What is the silver lining and lesson of this challenge?
Page of Cups “Psychic Development” Spread
The Page of Cups is the most psychic card of the deck. Use her as inspiration when you want to improve your psychic and intuitive abilities. These abilities can be used to bring us closer to the life we desire.
Cast your cards in the shape of a receptive cup to hone your psychic skills.
1. Fish—How can I foster trust in my psychic and intuitive flashes?
2. Water—How can I keep my psychic channels open?
3. Youth—How can I look at the world through childlike eyes?
4. Stage Card—Should I share my gifts with others?
5. Cup—What helps me hone these skills and move deeper into personal alignment?
Knight of Cups “Romantic Seduction” Spread
The Knight of Cups is the gentle, poetic romancer of the deck. His appearance invokes sweet words, thoughtful gifts, and sensual notions.
Cast your cards in the shape of Hermes’ wings, found on the knight’s helmet, when you want a little help in seducing someone tasty.
1. Wings—How should I make my intentions known?
2. Horse’s Gait—What’s the best way to approach them?
3. Cup—What can I offer them?
4. Cliff—What do I risk?
5. Armor—What protects my heart?
6. Horse—What helps me become slow and steady?
7. River—Where is this taking me?
Queen of Cups “Cultivate Beauty” Spread
Cups are the suit of emotion, compassion, and love. Experiencing beauty is like falling in love. The beauty of a flower, a landscape, a person, or a poem offers an opportunity to transcend ourselves. Our heart beats a little bit faster, our ego slips away, and we open in appreciation for such a thing existing. The greatest gift we give ourselves is to expand and cultivate our sense of beauty, to let it unfold and recognize beauty in new forms.
Cast your cards in the shape of a shell with the help of the Queen of Cups. She is an expert at spying and cultivating compassion and beauty. She will help you to discover it in the most unlikely places.
1. Gown—How can I treat myself like the beautiful creature I am?
2. White Cliffs of Dover—What inspires my imagination to new heights?
3. Crown—How do I keep my crown chakra open?
4. Mermaids—How can I encourage magic to greet me?
5. Sand—How do I stay grounded when I’m flying?
6. Stone—What do earth elements teach me?
7. Surf—What messages are revealed in the waves?
8. Shell—What treasures await?
King of Cups “Emotional Strength” Spread
Emotions are like waves breaking upon the shore. They influence and form our behavior, attitudes, and lifestyle. Emotions can feel like tsunamis or gentle laps. The strength of the King of Cups lies in his ability to maintain an even course, no matter what emotion or feeling he encounters. This is why the King of Cups is the most successful artist of the deck and a visionary who is able to see his inspirations through to their finished product and completion.
Cast your cards like waves in the ocean to gain his wisdom.
1. Waves—How can I best sustain emotional highs and lows?
2. Ship—What message do I need to hear?
3. Sea Monster—How can I let what frightens me empower me?
4. Throne—How do I embrace my calling?
5. Fish—What should I bring to the surface after I dive deep?
6. Cup—How can I remain open and clear so I can be open to holding each new experience as it comes at me?
Ace of Wands “Embrace Your Passion” Spread
Everything existing in the world began with a spark: great love affairs, classic works of fiction, and everything containing consciousness. The Ace of Wands reflects a singular spark of passion. The spark contains the power to transform the individual; sometimes it can transform the world.
Cast your cards in the shape of an explosion with the Ace of Wands to embrace your passion. Discover where it might take you. Don’t worry if you don’t know what that passion is just yet. The more open and active you are, the quicker it will come.
1. Castle/Home—What is the state of my present situation?
2. Wand—What is the nature of my passion?
3. Angelic Hand—What divine influence works in my favor?
4. Clouds—What remains unseen?
5. River’s Water—What challenge extinguishes my flames?
6. River Path—Where will my passions take me if I follow up on them?
7. Green Leaves—What will emerge as I remain in tune to the stirrings within me?
Two of Wands “Plotting and Planning Expansion” Spread
The Two of Wands is the combination of divine inspiration meeting duality, and it is this energetic process that ensues. This happens when an idea or insight hits you, you see how it will take form in the world, and you take action, sometimes before you even realize it.
Cast your cards in the shape of dual wands to help guide your inner sparks to fruition.
1. World—What do I envision?
2. Bay—What awaits my call?
3. Red Rose—How do I infuse beauty in my work?
4. White Lily—How do I infuse authenticity in my work?
5. Plowed Field—What is my next small step?
6. Distant Mountains—How do I remain open to divine inspiration?
Three of Wands “Patience” Spread
Wands rush us to action, feeling, and sensory overload. Waiting can feel excruciating when we want something with every fiber of our being. We must trust our action will bring us required results without rushing, pushing, or forcing things to happen just because we want them in the moment. The Three of Wands reflects following through on a passionate idea. You stand waiting for the response. During such times, turn your thoughts to other matters. Try your best to forget it altogether. A wise witch forgets about her spell as soon as she casts it. She clears her mind and allows the forces that be to take care of it for her. Her trust and faith is steadfast, as yours should be.
And for moments where, try as you might, you still find yourself obsessing, cast your cards in the shape of three wands and a wish to know that everything will be okay.
1. Wand One—What I felt.
2. Wand Two—What I did.
3. Wand Three—How results may appear.
4. Ships—What can I do to remain steady?
5. Sea—How can I foster support?
6. Distant Land—Who hears my intention?
7. Response—What response should I remain open to?
Four of Wands “Stability of Passion” Spread
Wands are explosive. Such is the nature of the suit of fire. Wands are exhausting when burning too brightly, yet they become elusive if blown out. The Four of Wands is an opportunity to stabilize passion in a steady, healthy, sustainable manner. It transforms into a self-infusing force in life.
Cast your cards in the shape of garland to access the wisdom of the Four of Wands. It will keep a steady keel for matters meaning the world to you.
1. Flowers—What is blooming?
2. Garland—What do I have the power to create?
3. Celebration—What reason do I have to celebrate?
4. Bridge—What challenge do I still need to confront?
5. Moat—What is my emotional state regarding the maintenance of my passion?
6. Walled Fortress—How do I protect my passion in a sustainable way?
Five of Wands “Settle Down Now” Spread
The Five of Wands reflects a passionate skirmish. While this often reflects an exciting conflict of creative ideas, it can also be a sticky place, especially for people who are uncomfortable with confrontation or when tensions run super high.
Cast your cards, one for each figure and a single card for a last piece of advice, to calm yourself if you find yourself at your wit’s end, at the mercy of another person’s crazy energy, or to give yourself a moment’s peace.
1. Anger—Why am I so worked up?
2. Wands—What is at stake?
3. Energy—How can I transform the energy into a healing force?
4. Solid Stance—How do I cultivate the strength I need to wrap this up?
5. Upward Face—What is the higher reason for all of it?
6. Horizon Line—Where should I aim my sights?
Six of Wands “Road to Success” Spread
We all dream of success while working toward the culmination of our heart’s desire. The journey toward fruition is what really counts. The Six of Wands allows us to luxuriate in our success, encourage us to receive praise and recognition, and step with pride for the work we have accomplished thus far.
Cast your cards like an unfolding path to continue paving the road to your success.
1. Wand—What keeps me focused on my long-term goal?
2. Wreath—How do I stay in the moment?
3. Marchers—Where can I cultivate allies?
4. Horse—What can I always rely on?
5. Horse Covering—What is hidden that I should see?
6. Horse Looking Back—What great lesson am I learning?
7. Rider’s Stance—What keeps me upright and steady through it all?
Seven of Wands “Perseverance” Spread
The Seven of Wands reflects a moment of extreme self-defense. Our attackers can come in the form of people, the begrudging or belittling voices in our head, or even patterns ingrained in the body.
Cast your cards in a fence of defense to find renewed strength and perseverance through moments like these.
1. Held Wand—What am I defending?
2. Six Wands—What am I up against?
3. High Ground—What is my advantage?
4. Unmatched Shoes—How can I hold two opposing thoughts confidently in my head?
5. Leaves—What will blossom if I stay the course and let no one, not even myself, dissuade me?
Eight of Wands “Ready, Aim, Fire” Spread
The Eight of Wands reflects pure energy moving across a field, as if an advancing army had catapulted it into the air. The card is intention in flight. To be sure all of your intentions hit their intended mark, cast your cards in this spread, one question for each wand.
1. Wand 1—What is the nature of my intention?
2. Wand 2—What helps me formulate it articulately?
3. Wand 3—How does my intention help others?
4. Wand 4—What does it add to the world?
5. Wand 5—Why is this important to me?
6. Wand 6—What obstacle stands in the way?
7. Wand 7—How can I steer clear and shoot over the obstacle?
8. Wand 8—What secret do I need to know?
Nine of Wands “Breaking Barriers” Spread
The fellow on the Nine of Wands is a true survivor. He’s been through the ringer, yet he pushes Ahead-top-of-pageXXpbb. The pulsing energy of fire can take its toll, but those who are persistent will find new and miraculous worlds appearing before them.
Cast your cards in the shape of a square to harness the energy of the Nine of Wands and break barriers as they appear to challenge you.
1. Bandage—What is the wound that lets in the light?
2. Fence—What stands before me?
3. Wand—What do I have at my disposal as I move forward?
4. Sideways Glance—What should I be wary of?
Ten of Wands “Regeneration” Spread
The Ten of Wands reflects the culmination of energy, passion, and tireless work. It is the end of a cycle, as all tens are. We all need to honor the cycles of our lives. We can’t move full speed Ahead-top-of-pageXXpbb all the time. Rest is as important as work; in fact, renewal makes for more effective work. The Ten of Wands reminds you to put down your wands—effort and extended energy—and rest.
Cast your cards with five cards in a row to remind you to regenerate your mind, body, and spirit.
1. Posture—What will help my body repair itself?
2. Load—How can I put down my burdens?
3. Manor—Where can I go to rest and rejuvenate?
4. Fields—What will appear as a result of my work?
5. Stage Card—How can I quiet my mental chatter and learn to focus on my inner self?
Page of Wands “Adventurous Soul” Spread
Where do you want to go? What adventures do you seek? Access the page’s energy. The Page of Wands is the intrepid traveler of the deck. She journeys far and wide. She lets her wild curiosity chart her course.
Cast your cards in the upward slope of the pyramids to discover where your adventurous soul is leading you.
1. Red Flame Feather—What stokes my passion?
2. Page’s Gaze—Where do I need to go?
3. Pyramids—What sacred knowledge is learned when I am adventuring?
4. Red Desert Sands—How do I stay grounded and centered while circumstances and places change around me?
Knight of Wands “Make Your Move” Spread
Is there something in your life—a project, a relationship, or a goal—that needs one final boost of energy to move it toward completion? Are you feeling shy and need the power of extroversion for a task? The Knight of Wands’ energy is explosive and combustible. Utilize the Knight of Wands’ fiery energy for anything you need to push over the finish line, from romance to work to family.
Cast your cards in the shape of distant pyramids and enjoy the Knight of Wands’ power boost.
1. Wand—How do I best harness my passion?
2. Armor—What protects the vulnerable parts of myself?
3. Flaming Elements—How does the energy affect my aura?
4. Horse—What aids me in my quest?
5. Distant Pyramids—What is my ultimate prize?
Queen of Wands “Own Your Passion” Spread
What do you love more than anything? What is the greatest passion of your life? Do you need soul clarification? Are you looking to stoke your internal fire? The Queen of Wands is the shining flame of the tarot deck because she knows what thrills her and saturates herself in it. Every moment of every day, she immerses herself in passion’s fire and garners personal evolution. She owns who she is and what she loves.
Activate the Queen of Wands inside you by casting your cards in the shape of her sunflower.
1. Throne—What is my birthright?
2. Lion—How am I fierce?
3. Sunflower—How can I best harness my energy?
4. Black Cat—How do I focus energy and attention toward elements that satisfy me?
5. Pyramids—How can I store my energy and access it at any time?
6. Leg-Parted Posture—How do I maintain ownership over my physical body?
King of Wands “Visionary” Spread
How can you make a difference in the world? Can you focus on your gifts, do what you love, and make the world a better place? I know you can. Visionaries see the big picture. They use failure as an engine. They remain focused. They obtain their goals.
Access the King of Wands’ energy inside you, let nothing deter you, and cast your cards in the shape of his wands to make your vision a reality.
1. Wand—What is my vision?
2. Salamander—How does passion inspire direct action?
3. Throne—What natural gifts do I already possess?
4. Lion—What challenges me in obtaining my goal?
5. Desert—What simple, singular action helps me to achieve it?
Ace of Swords “Choose Your Thoughts” Spread
Are you distracted? Do you need to focus? Do you let self-doubt and random emotions cloud how you act in the world? Control your thoughts and control your experience of the world. Become the active observer of yourself. Allow negative or painful thoughts and feelings to slip away. Take action on the good ideas fostering pleasure, satisfaction, and growth. Allow darkness and negativity to perish by removing their power over you. Your mind is a powerhouse. Use it wisely.
Cast your cards in the shape of the all-powerful sword to cultivate and hone the power of the mind.
1. Clouds—What is manifesting right now?
2. Angelic Hand—What are my gifts?
3. Grip—What ideas do I cling to that must slip away?
4. Sword—What thought/idea/decision should I live by?
5. Olive Branch—What mental symbol brings me peace?
6. Palm Branch—What helps me rise above dark thoughts and feelings?
7. Mountaintops—What can I attain with the power of the mind?
Two of Swords “Reset the Mind” Spread
Do you seek inner peace? Do you yearn for the power of contemplation? Do you need to make an important decision? Restore inner peace, calm, and zen when you need it most.
Cast your cards in the X shape the figure makes with her arms.
1. Blindfold—What is the best way to block out chaos and confusion?
2. Swords—How am I my own worst enemy?
3. Stage Card—How do I drop concern for what other people think?
4. Water—How do I find inner peace?
5. Distant Shore—What possibilities await?
Three of Swords “Embrace Heartbreak” Spread
Is your heart torn apart? Are you experiencing a breakup, betrayal, or the deep emotional pain of loss? There’s no way around heartache during the course of our life. It is a pain we all must bear. Ease pain by embracing it. Reject and repress nothing. Be kind to yourself in the process. Feel every feeling. Be kind and loving toward yourself until it passes.
Cast your cards in the shape of your tender heart to remind you these feelings won’t last forever.
1. Heart—How can I stay present and experience the discomfort so it moves through me?
2. Rain—What eases my suffering?
3. Sword 1—Past pain.
4. Sword 2—Present pain.
5. Sword 3—Future pain.
6. Clouds—What changes?
7. Wind—What is the lesson?
Four of Swords “Restful Night’s Sleep” Spread
Are you struggling with sleep? Does night find you awake, tossing and turning? Daytime is excruciating without enough sleep. Peace and quiet pervades the Four of Swords. Activate the restful, restorative qualities of this card to help you back into an excellent sleep schedule.
Cast your cards like the swords in this card for helpful solutions to get you sleeping soundly. Keep the Four of Swords visible during the reading. Meditate on the card before going to sleep.
1. Sword 1—What energy is keeping me awake?
2. Sword 2—What can I replace this energy with?
3. Sword 3—How can I become present in the moment and allow myself to drift to sleep?
4. Sword 4—How do I set up the most comfortable sleeping situation ever?
Five of Swords “Banish Passive-Aggressive Behavior
Once and for All” Spread
Is a passive-aggressive person or situation making you crazy right now? Passive-aggressive situations are stressful, harmful, and soul sucking. The Five of Swords reflects unkind actions, fights, and mental abuse. Cast your cards to release yourself from unkind behavior. Create boundaries. Passive-aggressive behavior only works if you play into it. Learn from the experience, change your energy, and banish passive-aggressiveness from your life forever.
Cast your cards in the shape of the swords on the card.
1. Sword 1—What is the root of the issue?
2. Sword 2—How do I stay calm and focused in the situation?
3. Sword 3—How do I change my energy and reaction to this situation?
4. Sword 4—What limits do I need to set?
5. Sword 5—How do I stay mindful and never repeat this situation ever again?
Six of Swords “Better Times Lie Ahead-top-of-pageXXpbb” Spread
Are you ready for a new outcome? Looking to move toward greener pastures and happier experiences? The Six of Swords is often called the “better times lie Ahead-top-of-pageXXpbb card.” It is a transitional card reflecting figures escaping a situation or moving Ahead-top-of-pageXXpbb to distant shores. Bouncing off that interpretation, cast your cards when you want to look toward a positive future.
Cast your cards in the shape of a boat to begin your journey.
1. Swords—What is the root of the issue? (choose this card intentionally or randomly)
2. Boat—What will help me get over it?
3. Boatman—Who helps me to move Ahead-top-of-pageXXpbb?
4. Water—How can I remain emotionally open and deep?
5. Child—How can I protect myself?
6. Cloaked Figure—What hidden element do I not yet see?
7. Distant Shore—What can I look forward to?
Seven of Swords “Clean Getaway” Spread
Are you looking for a clean break and a quick getaway? The Seven of Swords reflects a creeping figure who slips away unnoticed by others. There are times when we need to leave a situation and only take the good with us. Doing so, we leave past habits and negative behaviors behind.
Cast your cards in the shape of a tent top to make your break.
1. Swords in Hand—What valuable lesson will I take from this situation?
2. Swords Left Behind—What do I no longer need?
3. People in Background—What permanent boundaries must I erect?
4. Posture—How can I be integrated in my approach?
5. Stage Card—How can I be more authentic to myself in the future?
Eight of Swords “Release Ties of Bondage” Spread
Do you feel tied down? Are you being stifled and suppressed by a person, situation, or even yourself? Free yourself from the ties that bind by understanding why you are here to begin with. The Eight of Swords can reflect an imprisonment leading to great freedom. When the blindfold comes off, you will see the world with a new set of eyes and never return to this place again.
Cast your cards in a straight line to evolve into who you were always meant to be.
1. Swords—What thoughts imprison me?
2. Castle—How do I release old behavior?
3. Binds—How can I save myself?
4. Shore—How do I safely land on two feet?
5. Distant Cliffs—What direction shall I head in?
Nine of Swords “Change Thought Patterns” Spread
Do you feel like you are driving yourself crazy? Are you being held hostage by thoughts continuously running through your mind? Thought habits can lodge in the mind just like physical habits in the body.
Cast your cards like the wall of swords to break free of old thoughts when they have outlived their purpose and need to be set free.
1. Swords—How do I let negative thoughts go and replace them with new, empowering ones?
2. Quilt—What protection can I count on?
3. Bed—What fills me when I release angst and pain?
4. White Nightgown—How do I wipe the slate clean?
5. Hands on Face—How can I rejuvenate myself?
6. Etching Carved in Bed Frame—What single action can I take to stop wounding myself and start healing?
Ten of Swords “Break the Cycle” Spread
Are you ready to break a cycle? Are you noticing how situations and events return to you again and again? It’s not always easy to break cycles. If it was, we wouldn’t struggle with it and history wouldn’t repeat itself. Perhaps the Ten of Swords looks like the scene of a bloody murder because deep, true, irrevocable change is frightening. It sets us off into unknown territories. It reflects a cycle reaching its complete and utter conclusion.
Cast your cards in the line of a spine and end the situation forever.
1. Body—What is finished?
2. Hand Gesture—What secret will I uncover?
3. Swords in Spine—How can I integrate a new reality?
4. Water—What will wash away past pain?
5. Red Fabric—What do I need to sacrifice?
6. Dark Night—What is the darkness part of this situation?
7. Rising Dawn—What new reality unfolds?
Page of Swords “Get to the Bottom of the Situation” Spread
Is there a mystery you need to solve? The Page is Swords is the plucky detective, the Nancy Drew, of the tarot deck. Use her enterprising, clever energy to get to the bottom of any mystery, unravel secrets, and cultivate truth.
Cast your cards in the shape of the birds rising high in the sky.
1. Posture—Where do I stand?
2. Rugged Terrain—What is my challenge?
3. Sword—How can I keep the highest thoughts and clearest thinking?
4. Birds—How can I better interpret messages?
5. Wind—How can I adapt to shifting winds and changing situations?
6. Clouds—What helps me see the truth?
7. Trees—What is revealed?
Knight of Swords “Do the Right Thing” Spread
Are you ready to take a stand? Knight energy is decisive and swift. Once an idea takes hold or a decision is made, it should be executed promptly and swiftly. Often, the universe or the world unfolds in a manner in which swift response is required and extraordinary results are garnered. Open yourself to these opportunities so doubt, fear, and timidness do not hold you back from doing the right thing.
Cast your cards in the shape of the knight’s sword.
1. Gait—What needs my attention?
2. Sword—How do I stand up for truth?
3. Speed—How do I trust the energy surrounding me?
4. Butterflies—How do I stay connected to the highest ideal?
5. Knight—What action is required?
Queen of Swords “Articulate Thoughts with Ease” Spread
Invoke the power of language through the clear and concise articulation of thoughts. Articulation and the way we put words together affects how we think about ourselves on the inside and how we organize our life on the outside. It carries a transformative power whose butterfly effects work outwardly and inwardly.
Cast your cards to articulate creatively, precisely, and with the utmost ease.
1. Crown—How can I open to high-level wisdom?
2. Bird—What message is the animal world sending me?
3. Butterfly—How can I invoke beauty through words?
4. Tree—How can I remain grounded in all three worlds?
5. Blooming Clouds—How do I gather support in all places?
6. Cloud Cape—How do I keep my highest self with me during regular life?
7. Hand Gesture—How do I stay open and available to new inspiration?
King of Swords “Make it Happen” Spread
King energy is mature and masculine. Access this energy to become effective and produce results. The King of Swords sees clearly into the heart of the situation and takes direct action.
Cast your cards in a stable and powerful square.
1. Gaze—What helps me focus on the end goal?
2. Sword—How can I best express my truth?
3. Clouds—What helps me rise to the challenge?
4. Blue Sky—How can I move past previous limitations?
60. Waite, Pictorial Key.
61. Waite, Pictorial Key.
62. Waite, Pictorial Key.
63. Waite, Pictorial Key.
64. Waite, Pictorial Key.
65. Waite, Pictorial Key.
66. Waite, Pictorial Key.
67. Waite, Pictorial Key.
68. Waite, Pictorial Key.
69. Waite, Pictorial Key.
70. Waite, Pictorial Key.
71. Waite, Pictorial Key.
72. Waite, Pictorial Key.
73. Waite, Pictorial Key.
74. Waite, Pictorial Key.
75. Waite, Pictorial Key.
76. Waite, Pictorial Key.
77. Waite, Pictorial Key.
78. Waite, Pictorial Key.
79. Waite, Pictorial Key.
80. Waite, Pictorial Key.
81. Waite, Pictorial Key.
