Secret of the High Priestess Spread

Difficulty: Average
This spread makes a nice alternative to the Celtic Cross, which covers basically the same ground. It is useful when a question doesn't quite call for the Ankh spread. This tarot spread is helpful for looking into a current trend. The High Priestess may or may not present a mysterious secret to be analysed after the rest of the spread.
1. & 2. Main impulses representing the topic at hand. They may compliment or oppose one another.
3. This is the current influence at this time.
5. The Waning Moon is the influence that is moving into the past.
4. The Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon, or the approaching influence. This is the immediate future.
7. The Light is what is clearly recognized, consciously.
6. The Dark indicates what is there but not fully perceived, though noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.
8. The Next Step is the near future, where this journey leads.
9. The final tarot card, only if it happens to be of the Major Arcana, reveals the Secret of the High Priestess. This is a special message that should be given added weight.
Your Secret of the High Priestess Reading
The Waxing Moon![]() Six of Swords |
The Full Moon![]() Valet of Batons |
The Waning Moon![]() Ten of Swords |
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Significator #1![]() The Devil (Le Diable) |
Significator #2![]() Knight of Cups |
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The Dark![]() Six of Batons |
The Secret of the High Priestess![]() Knight of Coins |
The Light![]() Seven of Coins |
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The Next Step![]() The World (Le Monde) |
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Significator #1
The Devil
(Le Diable)
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.
Significator #2
Knight of Cups
Symbolism:
The Cavalier of Cups is shown riding a steady horse, holding a cup as if offering or presenting it, symbolising emotional pursuit and romantic ideals. The card reflects themes of charm, devotion, and the quest for emotional or creative fulfilment.
Meaning:
The Knight of Cups represents romance, charm, and the pursuit of emotional or artistic goals. It suggests taking action based on intuition and feelings, but warns against overidealizing or being overly passive.
In relationships, it indicates a romantic approach or a deepening of emotional bonds. Spiritually, it highlights the importance of aligning your actions with your heart's desires.
Keywords:
Romance, charm, idealism, emotional pursuit, creativity, intuition, action, inspiration, deepening bonds, heartfelt journeys.
The Waning Moon is the influence that you are putting behind you, as it moves into the past.
Ten of Swords
Symbolism:
Ten swords create a dramatic and heavy configuration, with sharp points emphasising finality and closure. The card represents the end of a difficult cycle, ultimate surrender, and the potential for new beginnings after hardship.
Meaning:
The Ten of Swords represents endings, betrayal, or collapse. It signifies the conclusion of a painful chapter and the opportunity for a new beginning. This card, while harsh, reminds you that the worst is behind you, and recovery is possible.
In relationships, it can indicate betrayal or the end of a partnership. Spiritually, it symbolises surrender and transformation through acceptance of life's cycles.
Keywords:
Endings, betrayal, collapse, release, transformation, surrender, painful closure, renewal, recovery, acceptance.
The Full Moon is the current influence at this time.
Valet of Batons
Symbolism:
The Valet of Batons stands confidently, holding a tall baton upright, symbolising youthful energy and curiosity about growth and opportunity. The figure's posture suggests enthusiasm and the beginnings of creative or spiritual endeavours.
Meaning:
The Valet of Batons symbolises youthful enthusiasm, curiosity, and the spark of creativity. This card represents a message or opportunity related to growth, passion, or inspiration. It encourages embracing new experiences and allowing your adventurous spirit to guide you.
In relationships, it may indicate playful energy or the start of something exciting. Spiritually, it reflects the first steps on a creative or inspirational journey.
Keywords:
Curiosity, enthusiasm, exploration, inspiration, passion, opportunity, potential, creativity, messages, adventure.
The Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon; the approaching influence.
Six of Swords
Symbolism:
Six swords are symmetrically aligned, creating a sense of motion and balance, often softened by decorative flourishes. The card symbolises transition, progress, and moving away from difficulties toward calmer waters.
Meaning:
The Six of Swords represents transition, recovery, and moving away from difficulties. It signifies a journey—physical, emotional, or mental—toward calmer circumstances. This card encourages leaving behind what no longer serves you.
In relationships, it may indicate healing and moving on together or apart. Spiritually, it reflects the process of releasing burdens for personal growth.
Keywords:
Transition, recovery, moving on, healing, journey, progress, leaving difficulties, calm, relief, personal growth.
The Light is what is clearly recognized.
Seven of Coins
Symbolism:
Seven coins are arranged in a slightly uneven yet intentional pattern, adorned with budding leaves, symbolising patience and growth. This card represents long-term investment, reflection on progress, and the anticipation of rewards.
Meaning:
The Seven of Coins represents patience and evaluation of progress. It suggests taking a step back to assess whether one's efforts have been fruitful. There may be a sense of waiting or uncertainty about the outcomes of hard work, but this card encourages perseverance and trusting in the process. It also warns against impatience or becoming too disillusioned with the slow pace of progress.
In relationships, it can signify reassessing the dynamics and questioning whether efforts are being reciprocated. Spiritually, it represents patience and the wisdom of understanding that results take time to manifest.
Keywords:
Patience, evaluation, progress, effort, assessment, perseverance, growth, waiting, dissatisfaction, long-term rewards.
The Dark shows what is there but not fully perceived, though it has been noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.
Six of Batons
Symbolism:
Six batons are arranged in a balanced and symmetrical configuration, with flourishing leaves representing triumph and vitality. This card evokes themes of victory, recognition, and the successful culmination of efforts.
Meaning:
The Six of Batons signifies victory, recognition, and public acknowledgment of achievements. It reflects success earned through effort and encourages confidence in your abilities. This card invites you to celebrate your accomplishments while remaining humble.
In relationships, it suggests mutual support and shared success. Spiritually, it symbolises alignment with your purpose and the rewards of perseverance.
Keywords:
Victory, success, recognition, confidence, triumph, achievement, support, accomplishment, honor, celebration.
The Next Step is the near future, where this journey will take you.
The World
(Le Monde)
Symbolism:
Symbolism:
A dancing figure surrounded by a wreath occupies the center, representing completion and harmony. The four corners of the card feature symbols of the elements or the four cherubs, signifying unity. The figure holds wands or batons, symbolising mastery and balance.
Meaning:
The World signifies completion, fulfilment, and wholeness. It represents the successful culmination of a journey and the integration of all aspects of your life. This card invites you to celebrate your achievements while embracing the interconnectedness of existence. It heralds a time of balance, unity, and alignment with your purpose. The World also indicates readiness for new adventures following the conclusion of one phase.
In relationships, it signifies harmony and mutual understanding. Spiritually, it reflects enlightenment and integration with the cosmos.
Keywords:
Completion, fulfilment, harmony, unity, wholeness, success, integration, achievement, enlightenment, new beginnings.
The Secret of the High Priestess - if, and only if, this card a Major Arcana, it reveals the Secret of the High Priestess. This is a special spiritual message that you should pay extra special attention to. If it is not a trump, the Priestess has revealed no secret.
Knight of Coins
Symbolism:
The Cavalier of Coins is a steadfast figure on a sturdy horse, holding a coin firmly in hand, symbolising dedication and determination. The imagery conveys patience, responsibility, and a methodical approach to achieving goals.
Meaning:
The Knight of Coins represents reliability, diligence, and steady progress. He embodies the energy of persistence, ensuring that all tasks are completed with care and attention to detail. This card speaks to the need for patience and hard work in achieving long-term goals and financial stability.
In relationships, it suggests a reliable partner or a steady, consistent approach to commitment. Spiritually, it reflects the importance of persistence in achieving one's goals, whether material or otherwise.
Keywords:
Reliability, diligence, patience, responsibility, steady progress, methodical, persistence, commitment, work ethic, grounded.
