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 | ||
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| 1+3 | ![]() |
1to3 | ![]() |
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1+2 |
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P#1 | ![]() |
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1: Person #1

A feeling of vulnerability, or belief we cannot cope with what life is about to throw at us. The release of emotion in either a positive or harmful way. The wearing of the heart on the sleeve. Expansive expression of emotions in balance with how thought processes are portrayed.
2: Person #2

Retaining focus and control of emotions when faced with intense adversary. Being open to the fact it is okay to ask for help or support when it is required. Feeling of numbness on an emotional level. The creating of waves, yet at the same time maintaining a firm grasp on personal thoughts and/or emotions. This may indicate a man who is prone to emotional outbursts, but in the main does work hard at keeping a lid on things.
3: Person #3

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.
4: Person #1's view of #2

Focus on a journey ahead, despite any apparent signs of upheaval or difficulty in the making. The possibility of ending up some way from where you began your journey or existence. Following through with what you believe is right despite any opposition encountered along the way.
5: Person #2's view of #3

Standing your ground and being equal to the posturing of another. Not acquiescing or walking away when threatened or intimidated. Mutual respect offered and received when faced with the energy of another who would have otherwise assumed a superior role. Ability to bring a perceived threat down to a tolerable level through the use of clear communication. Acceptance of differences and similarities we have with others. This could indicate a person who will face any challenge head on and can back up their actions with appropriate words where necessary.
6: Person #3's view of #1

The personality or character trait of following through with an objective, despite the attempts of others to thwart progress. The ability to just 'know' their role in life, which is followed through regardless of any question of ethics or morals raised by those who are ignorant or less knowledgeable. This could indicate a person who will lead by example and will be able to back up the 'talk' with the 'walk'. Alternatively, there could be a requirement for you to utilise this character trait.
7: Person #2's view of #1

New challenges which require movement, effort, energy or focus. A possible choice of aiming higher or reaching out sideways/laterally in our endeavours. Hesitancy or lack of confidence in moving away from what is seen as a comfort zone or position of safety.
8: Person #3's view of #2

The Emperor card represents structure; the need for it or lack of it. It is about setting standards to adhere to, limitations and boundaries of rules of engagement and maintaining them. At a stage when one cannot identify such boundaries, The Emperor provides an idealised example until rigid adherence becomes a burden of expectations.
As the Seeker, this card represents the need to identify standards that are meaningful rather than those imposed by others. To discard old boundaries or limitations for new ones is a stage of self-regulation by which one identifies the principles to live by.
In a situation, this card suggests that stability may be achieved when a sound structure is in place.
9: Person #1's view of #3

The ability to 'read' on an emotional level thus seeing what may be hidden from us (often classed as being able to see behind the mask). The ability utilises a different angle of approach thus having a deeper understanding in comparison to others who only have two dimensional abilities. Overcoming or conquering of fears. Taking control of emotions whereby calm can then ensue. This could indicate a person who keeps their feelings to themselves, preferring to only show what they feel comfortable in showing, with a lot happening below the surface.
10: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #2

The demonstration of being a true friend in circumstances where others may choose to turn a blind eye. Being with someone and accepting them for what they are and who they are. A state whereby it is possible to feel comfortable with the energies of another, even though both parties may be partaking in different activities. The ability to watch over someone we care about without taking on the role of judge and jury should we disagree with their actions.
11: Overall relationship between persons #2 and #3

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.
12: Overall relationship between persons #1 and #3

It is where we will find the eye of the needle and cross it;
a place none may follow but it's going to be alright because we are finally ready to take
responsibility for choices we made; we are finally ready to face ourselves.
Who amongst us fear Judgement?
In search of redemption; what we reap as our reward is what we have sown all along.
13: Overall 3-way Relationship

Shedding of a load or burden. Letting go of a part of your life that has now run its course and is no longer of relevance. Reflecting on what has perhaps been challenging and assessing how that challenge is now paving the way for the next step or stage of your journey.