The Love Triangle Spread

Difficulty: Complicated

Casually referred to as the Love Triangle, this spread can be used to determine the dynamics of the relationship between three people, regardless of whether romance is involved. This spread is arranged in the form of a hexagram, consisting of several large and small triangles. This tarot spread may seem somewhat complicated, but it is not entirely that difficult.

The first step is to interpret the card for each individual position in the spread. Generally, one might ask about a relationship they are involved in, but this does not have to be the case. Ordinarily, the reader's representative card is #1, their main person of interest is #2, and the other person would be #3.

The second step fills in the downward triangle and involves further examination of the individuals through their views of the other people. Each person has two more cards showing the way they see and relate to the other members of the triangle. For example, Card #6 indicates how Person #3 relates to Person #1, while Card #9 stands for Person #1's attitude toward Person #3.

The next step completes the upward triangle and the hexagram, focusing on cards #10–13. It also completes the many smaller triangles and hints at the potential for each relationship. The final card, #13 can be considered the significator of the reading, which suggests the overall potential for this three-way relationship.

Your Love Triangle Reading

P#3		3to2	2+3	2to3		P#2
	3to1		Overall		2to1
1+3		1to3		1to2		1+2
			P#1

1: Person #1

Symbolism:
The Hierophant sits between two pillars, with his hand raised in blessing and two followers kneeling before him. He holds a triple cross sceptre, symbolising his spiritual authority. The keys at his feet represent access to higher wisdom and the mysteries of life. His robe and crown emphasise tradition and institutional power.

Meaning:
The Hierophant symbolises tradition, guidance, and spiritual learning. He represents the wisdom passed down through teachings, rituals, and institutions. This card may indicate seeking guidance from a mentor, joining a community, or adhering to established norms. It also encourages you to examine your beliefs and values to ensure they align with your inner truth.

In relationships, the Hierophant suggests shared values and a strong moral foundation. Spiritually, he urges you to connect with divine teachings and the collective wisdom of humanity.

Keywords:
Tradition, guidance, spiritual learning, mentorship, wisdom, community, rituals, institutions, moral alignment, shared values.

2: Person #2

Symbolism:
The Chariot shows a warrior standing in a chariot pulled by two horses of contrasting colors, symbolising opposing forces. The warrior wears a crown and holds a wand or reins, signifying control and determination. The canopy above him suggests moving forward from a place of stability into the unknown.

Meaning:
The Chariot signifies triumph through determination, discipline, and focus. It speaks to mastering conflicting forces and steering your life toward success. This card often appears when you are on the brink of achieving a goal, but it reminds you that persistence and self-control are essential.

In relationships, the Chariot suggests navigating challenges together. Spiritually, it emphasises aligning your willpower with your higher purpose.

Keywords:
Triumph, determination, focus, control, discipline, victory, mastery, momentum, perseverance, alignment.

3: Person #3

Symbolism:
A tall tower struck by lightning collapses as figures fall from its heights, symbolising sudden upheaval. Balls and debris erupt from the structure, representing destruction and chaos. However, the lightning bolt signifies divine intervention, clearing away illusions and false foundations to reveal the truth.

Meaning:
The Tower represents sudden change, upheaval, and the collapse of false structures. While the experience may be shocking or painful, it paves the way for transformation and rebuilding. This card calls for resilience and the ability to embrace new beginnings born from chaos.

In relationships, it may signal a dramatic shift or revelation. Spiritually, it urges you to let go of false beliefs and align with authenticity.

Keywords:
Upheaval, change, chaos, destruction, revelation, transformation, truth, divine intervention, awakening, rebuilding.

4: Person #1's view of #2

Symbolism:
The Hermit is an elderly figure carrying a lantern and a staff. The lantern symbolises inner wisdom and guidance, while the staff represents support and stability. His cloak signifies introspection, reflecting the solitude of his journey.

Meaning:
The Hermit represents introspection, wisdom, and solitude. He invites you to step back from external distractions and seek answers within. This card often appears during periods of self-discovery, encouraging you to listen to your inner voice.

In relationships, the Hermit may indicate a need for personal space or reflection. Spiritually, it highlights the quest for enlightenment and the value of solitary contemplation.

Keywords:
Wisdom, introspection, solitude, guidance, reflection, self-discovery, enlightenment, patience, inner truth, retreat.

5: Person #2's view of #3

Symbolism:
A skeletal figure wielding a scythe moves through a barren landscape. Heads, hands, and flowers lie beneath the scythe, symbolising the inevitable end of all things. Despite its grim imagery, the card signifies renewal and the promise of rebirth.

Meaning:
Death represents transformation, endings, and the clearing away of the old to make space for the new. This card doesn't predict physical death but rather signifies a profound shift or transition. It invites you to release attachments and embrace the inevitability of change.

In relationships, Death can mark the end of a phase, whether through growth or closure. Spiritually, it emphasises rebirth, renewal, and the cycles of life.

Keywords:
Transformation, endings, rebirth, change, renewal, transition, letting go, closure, release, metamorphosis.

6: Person #3's view of #1

Symbolism:
The High Priestess is shown seated, holding an open book, signifying hidden knowledge and mysteries. She is flanked by two pillars (sometimes black and white), representing duality and balance. Her veil hints at the separation between the conscious and subconscious. Her serene expression reflects her mastery of the inner world and her connection to divine intuition.

Meaning:
The High Priestess embodies mystery, wisdom, and the power of intuition. She encourages stillness and reflection, guiding you to trust your inner voice over external noise. This card often appears when something hidden needs to be uncovered, whether it's a secret, a truth, or a deeper understanding of oneself.

In relationships, the High Priestess may suggest emotional depth or hidden dynamics. Spiritually, she symbolises the gateway to higher knowledge, urging you to explore the realms of dreams and symbols to uncover your truth.

Keywords:
Intuition, mystery, inner wisdom, reflection, subconscious, hidden knowledge, spirituality, patience, introspection, stillness.

7: Person #2's view of #1

Symbolism:
The Devil is portrayed as a horned figure with two chained human figures below, representing bondage to materialism or desires. The chains are loose, suggesting self-imposed limitations. Their animalistic features symbolise the materialism and polarity of nature.

Meaning:
The Devil represents temptation, materialism, and the shadow side of human nature. It highlights unhealthy attachments, addictions, or fears that may be holding you back. This card calls for awareness and the courage to break free from self-imposed limitations.

In relationships, it warns of codependency or power imbalances. Spiritually, the Devil challenges you to confront and integrate your shadow self.

Keywords:
Temptation, bondage, materialism, addiction, fear, control, power, shadow self, self-awareness, liberation.

8: Person #3's view of #2

Symbolism:
The Moon hangs high in the sky, casting a dim, mysterious light over a landscape. A dog and a wolf howl at the moon, representing instincts and the untamed subconscious. A pool sits between two towers, suggesting the unknown. A crayfish crawls out of it, symbolising hidden emotions emerging.

Meaning:
The Moon represents intuition, mystery, and the subconscious. It suggests a time of uncertainty where not everything is as it seems. This card invites you to trust your instincts and explore hidden depths. It also warns against illusion or confusion, urging clarity.

In relationships, it can indicate emotional complexity or hidden dynamics. Spiritually, it calls for embracing intuition and the mysteries of the psyche.

Keywords:
Intuition, mystery, subconscious, illusion, uncertainty, emotions, dreams, instincts, exploration, hidden truths.

9: Person #1's view of #3

Symbolism:
An angelic figure pours water from one cup to another, symbolising balance and the harmonious blending of opposites. One leg is robed in blue, the other in red, reflecting equilibrium between the conscious and subconscious leading to spiritual enlightenment.

Meaning:
Temperance signifies balance, moderation, and the art of blending opposites to create harmony. It encourages patience, self-restraint, and the ability to adapt fluidly to life's changes. This card often appears when you are finding equilibrium in a challenging situation or working toward a greater sense of peace.

In relationships, it suggests compromise and mutual understanding. Spiritually, Temperance represents alignment with your higher self and a focus on unity and integration.

Keywords:
Balance, harmony, moderation, patience, adaptation, unity, self-restraint, healing, integration, peace.

10: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #2

Symbolism:
A nude female kneels by a stream, pouring water onto the earth and back into the water, symbolising renewal and flow. Above her, stars shine brightly, representing hope and divine guidance. A bird perched in a tree or nearby adds an air of peace and harmony. The scene exudes serenity and openness.

Meaning:
The Star symbolises hope, inspiration, and renewal. It reminds you to trust in the universe and your own potential. This card often appears after a challenging period, offering reassurance and a sense of peace. It encourages vulnerability and faith in the future.

In relationships, it signifies harmony and healing. Spiritually, the Star points to alignment with your higher purpose and divine inspiration.

Keywords:
Hope, inspiration, renewal, peace, faith, healing, guidance, openness, vulnerability, harmony.

11: Overall relationship between persons #2 and #3

Symbolism:
The Sun shines brightly over two joyful children, symbolising innocence and vitality. A wall represents protection and growth. The radiant light of the sun signifies clarity, success, and the life force itself.

Meaning:
The Sun represents joy, success, and illumination. It heralds a period of clarity, achievement, and fulfilment. This card encourages positivity, optimism, and self-expression, reminding you to celebrate life's blessings.

In relationships, the Sun signifies warmth, harmony, and mutual happiness. Spiritually, it points to enlightenment and connection with divine light.

Keywords:
Joy, success, clarity, vitality, positivity, enlightenment, achievement, growth, warmth, celebration.

12: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #3

Symbolism:
The Lovers card depicts a man standing between two women, with Cupid above aiming an arrow. The scene suggests a choice or a union, with the women often representing opposing influences. In some interpretations, the figures are Adam and Eve, symbolising the duality of earthly and spiritual love.

Meaning:
The Lovers represent connection, harmony, and the power of choice. This card speaks to deep relationships, whether romantic or platonic, and the alignment of values and goals. However, it also highlights the necessity of making meaningful decisions, often at a crossroads where the heart and mind must collaborate.

In relationships, the Lovers symbolise love, commitment, and mutual respect. Spiritually, they encourage balancing the dualities within yourself and finding unity in diversity.

Keywords:
Love, harmony, connection, choice, duality, relationships, unity, attraction, alignment, crossroads.

13: Overall 3-way Relationship

Symbolism:
A serene figure, often a woman, gently tames a lion by holding its jaws open. Her calm demeanour contrasts with the lion's ferocity, symbolising mastery of inner strength. Above her head, the infinity symbol signifies limitless power and spiritual resilience. The image evokes vitality and harmony with nature.

Meaning:
Strength represents courage, compassion, and the balance between force and gentleness. This card embodies inner fortitude, suggesting that true power comes from patience, understanding, and self-discipline rather than brute force. It often appears in situations requiring emotional resilience or the taming of one's impulses.

In relationships, it signifies the power of kindness and understanding. Spiritually, Strength encourages connecting with your inner courage and finding peace amidst challenges.

Keywords:
Inner strength, courage, patience, compassion, resilience, self-discipline, confidence, harmony, emotional balance, fortitude.