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![]() King of Clubs |
The Full Moon![]() Page of Clubs |
The Waning Moon![]() Strength |
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Significator #1![]() The Hanged One |
Significator #2![]() 5 of Spades |
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The Dark![]() Ace of Spades |
The Secret of the High Priestess![]() Queen of Spades |
The Light![]() 8 of Spades |
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The Next Step![]() 2 of Hearts |
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Significator #1
The Hanged One
This Hanged One is suspended in limbo but it is not a decision that is made in haste. This card suggests a stage where decisions are made based on unconditional sacrifice; without expectations of anything in return.
The seeker as The Hanged One may allow us to make choices that require some form of sacrifice; but they are made without conditions attached thus, it is an opportunity for growth and maturity.
The situation as The Hanged One suggests not making decisions in haste. If the outcome of any given situation depends on choices that we make; we may wish to reflect on how our contributions can and will influence the circumstances before making a move.
Significator #2
5 of Spades
Dilemma of action or inaction. Knowing when to make a stance and fight, and when it is more advisable to wait awhile in the hope conditions become more favourable. A choice of getting involved in someone else's battle or putting personal needs first. The need to weigh up all odds or to evaluate all variables before deciding a course of action.
The Waning Moon is the influence that you are putting behind you, as it moves into the past.
Strength
The Strength card may suggest imposing one's will upon another whether intentional or not. It is a stage where we learn that true strength lies not in our ability to control what is in our external reality; rather it is about enduring hardships with grace and maintaining compassion.
The seeker as Strength advises us to explore aspects within that drives us to manipulate, control or influence people or situations without consideration. It may be an indication for us to realise that true strength lies not in exerting our will through force.
The situation as Strength may suggest a stage to evaluate the circumstances with objectivity. To maintain our position without compromise; if we perceive retreat as a weakness instead of strength.
The Full Moon is the current influence at this time.
Page of Clubs
The build-up of power and energy to undertake something of relevance or importance. Early stages of manifestation, with a sense of naivety or uncertainty as a basis. The beginning of a venture which has potential to become something more substantial in time. The spark or initial emanation of creative energy.
The Waxing Moon indicates what is on the horizon; the approaching influence.
King of Clubs
A person with strong beliefs of what is right and what is wrong, and will not be swayed in those beliefs. The ability to cut away anything that has no purpose or use to them. The urge to in right any personal sense of being wronged, flaunting a fighting spirit whereby arguments are backed up with appropriate actions. Coming across as being unforgiving by nature. Being aware of the bigger picture and long-term objective, and the taking of appropriate action regardless of the fact a few toes may be trod on along the way. This could indicate a person who likes to be active and can energise others around them with their enthusiasm.
The Light is what is clearly recognized.
8 of Spades
Issue of either feeling either trapped or protected, often by the energies of another. The relinquishing of personal freedom. Putting yourself out to ensure the safety or well-being of another. Either being smothered by the attentions of someone else, or being the person who is doing the smothering.
The Dark shows what is there but not fully perceived, though it has been noticed on a deeper level of consciousness.
Ace of Spades
The feeling of walking on a knife edge, not wanting to put a foot wrong through fear of the subsequent fall. A danger of going round in circles with no progress or new experienced possible. The start of something that may require intense mental focus or fortitude. The need to break away from usual habit patterns or routines.
The Next Step is the near future, where this journey will take you.
2 of Hearts
The unconditional sharing on a romantic or spiritual level with another like-minded being. Tuning in to the desires, thoughts and emotions of a person we resonate with whereby we feel we have become one being as opposed to two individuals. If the relationship is unhealthy or not balanced it can indicate one person is being clingy or manipulative of the emotions of their partner.
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.
Queen of Spades
Doing what is needed to pave the way for a new beginning or regrowth regardless of how long it may take to manifest. Honest communication or wise counsel. Observing others allowing them to learn by their own mistakes before offering guidance as to how the lesson can pave the way for future endeavours. Knowing when silence is the most appropriate way of dealing with another person or issue and when to be to the point verbally. This could indicate a person who will be honest in their communication with themselves as well as others, impervious to the fact they may at times appear insensitive.