Decision Spread

Difficulty: Easy
This simple but highly useful spread calls for a question to be asked in this format:
'What happens if I do (X), and what happens if I do not do (X)?'
Please note that it should not be viewed as a decision between two different options, but about whether a single option should be exercised or not. A second option would call for a separate reading.
Card #7 is the significator, the overall theme of the query.
Cards #3, #1, & #5 represent the chronological sequence of events that occurs if the reader chooses to do (X).
Cards #4, #2, & #6 represent the chronological sequence of events that unfolds if the reader chooses not to do (X).
Your Decision Reading
The Significator![]() III. The Empress |
Outcome if you do it: | ||
![]() Six of Stakes |
![]() Three of Pentagrams |
![]() XII. The Hanged Man |
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| Outcome if you don't do it: | |||
![]() Three of Stakes |
![]() Page of Swords |
![]() XVI. The Tower |
|
III. The Empress
Reversed
Symbolism:
The Empress sits upon her throne, her presence commanding yet nurturing. She holds the Hand of Glory, a macabre artifact symbolizing her power to claim whatever she desires. Her surroundings are lush and fertile, with dark roses blooming amidst the decay—symbols of beauty and abundance arising from even the grimmest conditions. Her expression is one of calm authority, radiating life-giving energy.
Meaning:
The Empress represents creation, fertility, and the nurturing aspects of life. She signifies abundance and the ability to bring ideas, projects, or relationships to fruition. This card invites you to connect with your creative or maternal instincts and embrace the cycles of growth and renewal. It may also point to emotional or physical abundance and a celebration of life's pleasures.
Reversed, the Empress warns of stagnation, overbearing tendencies, or emotional imbalance. It may point to neglect, smothering, or difficulties in manifesting creativity.
Keywords:
Reversed: Stagnation, neglect, overbearing, creative block, emotional imbalance.
Outcome if you do it:
Six of Stakes
Reversed
Symbolism:
A female cadaver, suspended by six stakes, serves as a macabre warning to all who pass. The stakes are arranged as a barrier, both defensive and triumphant, symbolizing victory achieved at a great cost. The ominous scene speaks of hard-won triumphs and the fulfillment of one's ambitions, albeit shadowed by loss.
Meaning:
The Six of Stakes signifies triumph and recognition. It represents a well-earned victory and the satisfaction of achieving goals through perseverance and hard work. This card heralds positive news and fulfillment of long-held desires. It also reminds you to remain humble and grateful in success.
Reversed, the Six warns of delays, paranoia, or feelings of insecurity despite external achievements. It can also point to betrayal or fear of losing one's position.
Keywords:
Reversed: Delays, fear, betrayal, disloyalty, insecurity.
Three of Pentagrams
Reversed
Symbolism:
Three upright coffins sit in a dungeon, each holding a sleeping vampire. This scene symbolizes craftsmanship, mastery, and recognition. The coffins represent the culmination of skilled labor, each one a testament to work well done and renown earned.
Meaning:
The Three of Pentagrams speaks to skill, artistry, and the recognition of one's talents. It suggests that your hard work is being acknowledged, and you are on the path to success through dedication and mastery. This card can point to collaboration and the value of teamwork in achieving greater things.
Reversed, it may indicate a lack of recognition, mediocrity, or a situation where your talents are not being fully utilized. It warns against falling into complacency or settling for less than your true potential.
Keywords:
Reversed: Mediocrity, underachievement, lack of recognition, missed opportunities.
XII. The Hanged Man
Reversed
Symbolism:
The Hanged Man is shown suspended upside-down from a barren tree, his foot bound by a chain of silver. His expression is serene, as if willingly surrendering to his predicament. A pool of crimson liquid forms beneath him, reflecting a full moon, symbolizing surrender and the potential for transformation. Surrounding him, shadows twist into shapes of wings, hinting at the freedom that comes through letting go.
Meaning:
The Hanged Man represents surrender, perspective, and the need to pause. It encourages you to let go of control and view a situation from a different angle. This card often signals a period of waiting or self-sacrifice, where stepping back can lead to greater understanding or personal growth.
Reversed, the Hanged Man warns of resistance to change, stagnation, or clinging to outdated perspectives. It may suggest the need to take decisive action after prolonged inaction.
Keywords:
Reversed: Resistance, indecision, stagnation, delay, refusal to see another perspective, avoidance.
Outcome if you do not do it:
Three of Stakes
Reversed
Symbolism:
Three stakes pierce a human figure's neck, transforming them into a grotesque scarecrow. The haunting scene evokes the toil and sacrifice required to achieve one's ambitions. The stakes symbolize strength in numbers and the effort needed to succeed, even when the journey feels grueling.
Meaning:
The Three of Stakes represents teamwork, effort, and the establishment of solid foundations. It is a card of growth and progress, highlighting the importance of collaboration and persistence in achieving long-term goals. This card encourages you to rely on allies and work together to achieve success in endeavors involving commerce, trade, or creative ventures.
Reversed, it suggests that relief from difficulties is near, but progress may be stalled due to unresolved issues or lack of effort.
Keywords:
Reversed: Delay, obstacles ending, loss of direction, missed teamwork.
Page of Swords
Reversed
Symbolism:
A young Page stands vigilant, holding his sword balanced with its tip pointed earthward. His posture conveys readiness, alertness, and a cautious approach to potential threats. Though at rest, his eyes scan the horizon, reflecting curiosity and a hunger for knowledge.
Meaning:
The Page of Swords represents curiosity, observation, and a keen intellect. It suggests a time for learning, exploration, or gathering information before acting. This card often represents someone who is eager to uncover truths or defend their beliefs with determination.
Reversed, the Page of Swords warns of unforeseen challenges or a lack of preparedness. It may indicate misinformation, impulsiveness, or difficulties stemming from inadequate planning or premature action.
Keywords:
Reversed: Misinformation, impulsiveness, confusion, unpreparedness, difficulty.
XVI. The Tower
Reversed
Symbolism:
The Tower is shown as a crumbling gothic spire, struck by lightning and engulfed in flames. Figures are seen falling from the heights, their faces contorted in shock and despair. The dark sky above swirls with storm clouds, while the ground below splits open, exposing molten lava. Amid the destruction, a single raven perches on the rubble, symbolizing the potential for renewal through upheaval.
Meaning:
The Tower represents sudden upheaval, revelation, and the breaking down of false structures. It signals a dramatic, often unexpected event that shakes the foundations of your life, forcing you to confront harsh truths. While challenging, this card ultimately clears the way for genuine growth and transformation.
Reversed, the Tower suggests avoiding necessary change or clinging to unstable circumstances. It may warn of delayed consequences or a refusal to face reality.
Keywords:
Reversed: Resistance, avoidance, delayed change, denial, suppressed upheaval, lingering instability.
