The Love Triangle Layout
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 layout may seem somewhat complicated, but it is not entirely that difficult.
The first step is to interpret the tile 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 tile 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 tiles showing the way they see and relate to the other members of the triangle. For example, Tile #6 indicates how Person #3 relates to Person #1, while Tile #9 stands for Person #1's attitude toward Person #3.
The next step completes the upward triangle and the hexagram, focusing on tiles #10–13. It also completes the many smaller triangles and hints at the potential for each relationship. The final tile, #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
The East Wind represents the core of your being and the birth of new energy. This tile embodies the vital force of growth, mirroring the nurturing yet resilient nature of Wood. It signifies that the energies influencing your current state are rooted in your inner self—your creativity, ambitions, and authentic identity. In a reading, the East Wind magnifies surrounding influences, urging a return to your origins to re-establish balance and purpose. Its presence implies that growth comes from aligning with your true nature, emphasising organic development, adaptability, and the inherent strength to nurture new beginnings.
2: Person #2
The Pearl represents hidden beauty, wisdom gained through hardship, and the treasures that lie within. This tile speaks of a situation where something valuable is being overlooked or where patience is required to uncover hidden potential. It is also a symbol of spiritual refinement, urging you to look beyond surface appearances to find deeper truths. The Pearl may indicate a reward after long effort, whether in personal growth, career, or relationships. It suggests that what you seek is already within your grasp—you only need the patience to recognise it. However, like a pearl formed through pressure, this reward often comes after struggle and perseverance.
3: Person #3
The Peacock, as the first tile of the Bamboo suit, signifies prosperity, renewal, and the arrival of great fortune. Its dazzling plumage represents recognition, status, and elevated social standing, yet it carries a caution—pride and vanity can lead to downfall. Success should be embraced with humility, as arrogance may unravel what has been earned. The Peacock is also an omen of transformation; a major shift in your life path is imminent, requiring wisdom and grace to navigate. This tile suggests opportunities for growth and self-expression will soon present themselves, but they must be handled with balance and self-awareness to avoid overreaching.
4: Person #1's view of #2
The Lotus is a sacred emblem of rebirth, enlightenment, and the ability to rise above challenges. Its emergence suggests new beginnings—a birth, a fresh opportunity, or spiritual awakening. Rising from the mud to bloom in pristine beauty, this tile signifies triumph over adversity and the purity of spirit gained through hardship. The Lotus encourages letting go of pain, releasing attachments to negativity, and embracing a higher state of consciousness. It heralds a period of recovery and renewal, reminding you that even the most challenging circumstances can lead to profound clarity. Now is the time to embrace new perspectives and allow yourself to flourish.
5: Person #2's view of #3
A symbol of devotion, emotional stability, and harmony, the Duck embodies long-lasting relationships built on mutual trust and shared goals. Whether in love, friendship, or business partnership, this tile speaks of unwavering loyalty and the ability to weather hardships together. The Duck's presence reassures that unity and commitment will overcome all obstacles, leading to enduring companionship and shared prosperity. It also serves as a reminder to maintain balance in relationships—communication, reciprocity, and emotional nourishment are necessary to sustain the bond. If conflicts arise, this tile encourages reconciliation through patience and understanding rather than stubbornness or pride.
6: Person #3's view of #1
The Rat embodies industriousness and resourcefulness, symbolising the relentless pursuit of opportunity. It represents a mind that works methodically to accumulate essential resources and strategically prepare for future challenges. This tile speaks to shrewd decision-making, the skill of recognising hidden potential in everyday situations, and the disciplined work required for long-term security. At the same time, it cautions against excessive cunning and exploitation, reminding you that ethical conduct and balanced ambition are vital. The Rat encourages you to use vigilance and calculated planning to transform everyday actions into a robust foundation for success. It champions perseverance, continuous improvement, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances without compromising integrity. On the negative side, this creature can be cowardly, cunning, and cruel—and a major pest which spreads disease and destruction.
7: Person #2's view of #1
The Rooster symbolises punctuality, discipline, and the promise of new beginnings. It stands for communication and the commitment to rising early, establishing order in your daily life. This tile embodies self-reliance and the drive to assert your presence in the world, ensuring that every new day is approached with determination. The Rooster's crow is not just a call to awaken; it signifies the importance of marking time and seizing opportunities as they emerge. It champions responsibility and the readiness to defend one's personal space, encouraging you to face challenges. The Rooster teaches that consistency, vigilance, and proactive engagement create the groundwork for enduring success.
8: Person #3's view of #2
The Knot signifies connection, fate, and the web of relationships and circumstances that shape our lives. It suggests that events or people are deeply intertwined, and understanding these connections is key to resolving current challenges. This tile can indicate strong bonds—whether romantic, familial, or spiritual—that require care and attention to remain intact. However, it may also warn of entanglements or obligations that have become restrictive. If the Knot feels too tight, it may be time to untangle yourself from unhealthy patterns or commitments. The lesson of the Knot is that relationships and choices are bound by cause and effect; mindful actions will create harmony, while carelessness may lead to complications.
9: Person #1's view of #3
Spring is the season of renewal, fresh opportunities, and the awakening of potential. This tile signifies the start of a new chapter—whether in relationships, career, or personal growth. Seeds that have been planted, either in the physical or spiritual realm, are beginning to take root. Now is the time for action, as the energy of creation and expansion is strong. However, like any new growth, this phase requires nurturing, patience, and care. Rushing ahead recklessly may damage delicate progress. Spring is also a time of hope and enthusiasm; embrace change with an open heart, knowing that the cycle of renewal is in your favour.
10: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #2
The Entering tile signals the imminent removal of barriers that have confined you, ushering in a period when hidden opportunities become accessible. This tile speaks to the moment of transition when your efforts align with new gateways to success. It demands courage and readiness—entering uncharted territory with both determination and mindfulness. The energy of this tile implies that personal and professional doors, once firmly shut, are now opening. Embrace this moment as an invitation to move forward; however, the transition requires that you leave behind outdated practices and step into roles that foster growth. The Entering tile, thus, is both a call to action and a herald of transformation, underscoring that the rewards for seizing these new opportunities are worth the effort of change.
11: Overall relationship between persons #2 and #3
Winter represents stillness, endings, and the contemplation that comes before renewal. This tile signifies a period of quiet, where external activity slows, and the focus turns inwards. It may indicate a time of rest, solitude, or even loss—but within this stillness lies great wisdom. Winter teaches that endings are necessary for rebirth; it is a time to release old burdens, reflect on experiences, and prepare for a new cycle. Patience is required, as growth often happens beneath the surface before it becomes visible. Trust the process—this period of dormancy is temporary, and spring will come again.
12: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #3
The Fire tile is a potent emblem of imbalance, transformation through crisis, and the urgency to address burning issues before they consume vital resources. It warns that an intense, potentially destructive force is at play, whether in the realms of finance, personal relationships, or spiritual well-being. Fire demands immediate attention, signalling that unchecked passions or conflicts may lead to irreversible losses. This tile forces you to confront what is out of control—whether it be a volatile situation, unresolved emotions, or unsustainable ambitions—and restore equilibrium before the conflagration spreads further. Yet, in its purifying aspect, Fire also carries the promise of renewal. By facing and resolving these fiery challenges, you can emerge cleansed, with a clearer sense of purpose and boundaries that protect your future.
13: Overall 3-way Relationship
The Carp signifies perseverance, tranquillity, and spiritual fulfilment. A bringer of both material and emotional wealth, this tile reflects the journey towards balance and peace. Just as the carp swims against the current, overcoming obstacles will lead to deep contentment and inner harmony. The Carp is also associated with personal evolution—through consistent effort and inner strength, one can transform challenges into victories. This tile may also indicate a situation where patience and persistence will be rewarded, especially in matters of career, education, or self-improvement. A transformation is on the horizon; trust your ability to rise above adversity.
