Everyone has their own individual approach to tarot reading. This is one of the many things that makes the world of tarot so diverse. Each of us has a different way that the cards speak to us.
I often use a three card spread to answer a client’s specific questions. I rarely give the cards positions like past, present or future but rather read the energies/story of the cards and how they relate to each other. For example I look at what story they are telling each other, how do the cards influence each other, and what is the message of the centre card. In reading the three card spread above, this is how the cards spoke to me. I did not have any specific question, just shuffled the cards and chose three.
I love the fact that The High Priestess came out. She often speaks of mystery, things hidden and looking beyond what seems to be the situation. The fact that all is not known and there are so many possibilities makes my heart skip a beat. A reminder to be open and yet discerning of all things around you. In the topic at hand (whatever the client has identified) one’s intuition will play a part in seeing the bigger picture.
The High Priestess’ energy is connecting to the Star card. My first thoughts when I see the Star card is always about being guided. In ancient times the stars were used to navigate to new worlds or to herald in news of an upcoming event or dreams coming true; dreams that are usually positive in nature. The woman is naked to represent freedom and natural expression. Thus far in the reading I would say that any feelings one had of good news about a particular topic or project is very likely to come to fruition without many issues. A time to dream or go for something bigger and brighter than first thought of.
Our last card is one of steadiness and perhaps persistence. Here is the energy of restraint a sort of balancing of the powerful energy of the first two cards. Our Knight is not looking at the stars or focusing on hidden things, he is planning ahead. Here we have the practicalities of the situation. In the end we have to know how to materialize (ground ourselves in earth) the possibilities presented and the dreams granted. The Knight of Pentacles can at times be too cautious and lack the flow of emotions and passion that first bore the seeds for the dream. However the message in this three card spread is to keep alive the passion even as the details of moving forward become a little monotonous.
Sue Belmore, former President TGA.
Published in the Journal of the Tarot Guild of Australia Inc. The Magician, #52, Spring 2016
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