Lesson 6 - Assignment

[Amethyst Rose]

Due Feburary 28th

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.

Extra Credit:

Design your own spread. Explain the layout and meaning of the cards in those positions. Do a reading on yourself or your partner using this spread. Describe the outcome. You do not have to post the reading.


The following have not Handed in the assignment:

Goddess Rhiannon

halfwaynowhere

Bookgirl83

Valkie

Rua

Lady Ravenna

Gaia21

OriginalWacky

-Sky-

[Lolith]

When is this due, and did you want us to post our reading in it's entirety or just mention if there are any patterns to the cards?

[Amethyst Rose]

Oops, I keep forgetting to put down due dates. Fixed now. And no, you don't have to post the reading.

[Clockwork_Eros]

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

The Prince of Cups. I am subtle and manipulative, and given the right situation feel no remorse for using people. I am artistic, deeply passionate but outwardly calm. My emotions are either hard to discern or masqueraded as a different feeling. I am ambitious, I seek knowledge and wisdom with a healthy fervor, and do want power. I am protective of those I love. I am practical, yet a romantic, and I am the person everyone comes to for advice. I am tolerant of others, but am not afraid to make enemies if it gets me where I want to be-though I always weigh the costs versus rewards


2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.


Here is a fifteen card spread used from the LWB in the Thoth deck.

(13) (9) (5) (4) (8) (12)
(2) (1) (3)
(14) (10) (6) (7) (11) (15)

Card 1 represents the querent and the nature of the problem.
Card 2 & 3 help define the querent and the nature of the problem, as well as the key influences acting on each.
Cards 13, 9, 5, & 4, 8, 12 These cards are the future. If they compliment each other, then the cards on the upper left are a development of the cards in the upper right. If they conflict, then the cards in the upper right are considered to be where the querent is heading now, and the upper left show where an alternative action would place the querent.
Cards 14, 10, & 6 These cards should be considered in decision making. They show the psychological basis of the issue.
Cards 7, 11, & 15 These cards are the forces beyond the querents control: karma, destiny, the actions that will affect them. These cards show what the querent must adapt to.

My Reading
Cards:
1- 7 of disks, Failure, showing my currently lack of ambition, my apathy, and my feeling of being less than good enough.
2- The Hermit, withdrawl from current affairs for inspection od the Self.
3- 8 of swords, Interference. Something which has caused me to be less active, an obstacle.

I am currently apathetic, tired out, and feel like something is dragging me down.

4- Ace of wands, Root of the power of fire, Natural energy, abundant energy.
8- 4 of disks, Power, earthly power, dominion
12- The Fool, spiritual transcendence and earthly innocence, yet mistakes. (I've always seen it as new beginings as well)

Future shows energy and power, which comes with the possibility of misuse or mistakes being made.

5- Adjustment, balance of the opposites (below)
9- Queen of Cups, watery part of water, feminine, poetic, imaginative, dreamy.
13- Knight of wands, Firey part of fire, masculine, active, prideful, impetuous.

The two court cards are both dominant aspects of myself. This shows a balance of the two, coming from the energy and power of the new beginning?

6- Knight of Swords, Fiery part of air, active skillful, clever, deceitful, unreflective.
10- Ace of Cups, Root of the power of water, happiness, pleasure, productivity.
14- 3 of disks, Works, Buisness, employment, financial success.

I am waiting for my boss to open his store, which is weighing on my mind, because I am afraid that my job, though enjoyable, will absorb too much of my time. The Knight of swords is either my boss (though it doesn't feel like him) or the source of my Interference (tying into the 8 of swords, the only other sword in the spread. This feels most right)

7- Princess of Cups, earthy part of water. This is a feminine who is luxuriant, romantic, graceful and gracious. It's also the card that I use to signify my best friend.
11- 9 of cups, Happiness, pleasure, physical well being.
15- 3 of wands, virtue, success after struggle, hope.

I'm not really sure what to make of this.

All in all, the swords seem to correspond, that I should keep in mind the man who is my interference (who?). I also thought it noteworthy to point out the balance of my two distinct sides, the Watery part of water and the firey part of fire, where in the future holds the Root of power of fire and in the psychological now holds the root of power of water.

Where I am at right now is transitory, a period of needed negativity so that I can grow, and I will, soon. Perhaps it will be my friend who helps me realize where this interference comes from, and help me to become the fool again so that I might balance myself and realize my potential. In this comes both happiness and hopefully success concerning my employment. (A large concern of mine)

Extra Credit:

Design your own spread. Explain the layout and meaning of the cards in those positions. Do a reading on yourself or your partner using this spread. Describe the outcome. You do not have to post the reading.



I don't feel comfortable doing a second reading so soon after the first, but I have a spread that I have been using for a while, which I like because it can be as simple or as complex as you want to make it. But I will get to that in a moment.

#/#' means that the first number is crossed by the second number, which normally denotes a trouble or complication, but it can be positve. They are mainly used to help clarify the reading.

(2)
(5/9)
(6/10)
(1/8)
(3) (4)
(7/11)

It's hard to see, but it makes three curved lines coming from a single point.
The 1 card is the querent, it gives an overview of the general state. Card 8 crosses card 1 showing that which blocks the querent.
Card 2 is the future.
Card 3 is the gift of divinity, normally something the querent needs.
Card 4 is the Now, the moment, that which is, the problem, the situation.
Card 5 is the connection between the querent and the future, the pathway through which that particular outcome is obtained. Card 9 crosses this card, defining the pathway, either it's trials and bumps, or something positivie about it.
Card 6 is the connection between Divinity/The Self and the querent. It is the pathway through which the event or qualities needed by the querent can be realized. The crossing card again defines the pathway with it's trials or positivity.
Card 7 is the connection between the here and now, and the querent. It shows both what led up to, what is, and what will very soon be. This crossing card normally defines a problem that is present.

Now, when I said you could make it simple or complex, it is because you can add to this spread. Sometimes I will use both the Osho Zen Tarot and the Thoth tarot, drawing an Osho card for each section (one for the querent, one for each of the connections, one for the future, one for Divinity, and one for the Present. The crossing cards can be defined by the same card used for the card they cross, or they can get their own defining card) The Osho cards help define the individual sections. Ive also used runes instead of the Osho Zen Tarot, and I've used runes with the Osho Zen tarot as well. (Confused yet?) These little additions just help add definition to the reading, but can get very very specific. I only flesh the reading out like this if I feel it needs it, it's really an intuition call.

I hope I haven't confused you. I know I can be a little inarticulate at times.

[goldcat79]

_firedevil Part 1 .Find your signifier card . And mine is
The card Initration#16 and i find this card to suit me and
the way i need and want my life .
This is from The Sarced Circle Tarot deck.

I feel is card is the way i need to take this life of mine
so in a way everything
from the the woodpecker to cauldronin the middle of the
of the labrinth and all the things in between i feel a very
stronge pull to this card so this my signifier for now .

:broomride Part 2 .Here is a 12 card spread "The Zodiac"
it to is from my new deck . well i am not sure how
to make this look like circle but if you take these numbers
and then start at one and go counter-clock wise you get the right spread for this
card one : aries : personality. this card will give general cluesto the personality of the querent {the person for whom the reading is being made ;this might be yourself }.this innate personality will affect and color the querents attitude toward all areas of thier life .



code:
(10) (11)



(9) (12)



(8) (1)



(7) (2)



(6) (3)


(5) (4)



1 . Is Aries : Personality : This card will give general clues to the personality of the querent {the person for whom the reading is being made ;this might be yourself }.this innate personality will affect and color the querents attitude toward all areas of thier life .


2 . Is Taurus :Financial Matters: This card is concerned with the material circumstances of the querent - financial position and so on the indications of this card can be cross referencedwith card eigth {legal matters} and card ten {career}

3 . Is Gemini : Travel and Commucication: This card will indicate any travel opportunities that might arise out ofpresent circumstances and moreover any news lettersorother kinds of communication that the querent canexpect to recieve that will prove to be important.

4 . Is Cancer : Home Life and Parents: This card is concerned with the background of the querent thier upbringing and relationship with thier parents or the cicumstances of their present home life.

5 . Is Leo : Pleasures :This card indicates the things that give the querent plearuse perhaps thier hobbies or interests and the area from which the querent can derive stimulation and satisfaction.

6 . Is Virgo : Health: Card six will show the state of the querents health or circunstances that might affect thier health physical emotional or spiritual such as environmental factors stress or worries .

7 . Is Libra : Marriage and Relationships:This card concerns the closest current relationships of the querent or relationshipsthat will be brought about by present events and trends

8 . Is Scorpio : ending and legal matters:This card will indicate matters that are coming to a logical coclusion this might be relationship residence in a certain town or dwelling a job or a course of study such endingmay be peceived as negative or positive card eigth is also concerned with any legal matters that the querent may be involved in at the present time or in the near future as a result of present events.

9 . Is Sagittarius : Philosophy and Religion.This is concerned with the querents personal view of spirituality and may offer some advice on the path to follow or how they may develop themselves in these areas this can be cross referenced with cards one{personality} and twelve {fears and restrictions}

10 . Is Capricorn : Career:This card will show cureent trends or interests in the querents career it may offer advice on areas that can be developed into a future career .

11 . Is Aquarius : Friends: card eleven will show the querents attitude toward their friends and how their friends perceive them.

12 . Is Pisces : Restrictions an Secret Fears:This card gives insight into the things that hold back the querentand prevent him or her from achieving all that they might it may show areas that need to be explored worked through and healed before the querent can go forward.

The fisrt card is the person in the reading and then you go from that piont and make to reversecard so you get a great reading

And make sure you shuffle the deck real well and then make sure you have the question that you want in your mind and lay your cards out in the spread

i will do my reading with partner this weekend and i will tell you how the spread worked _firedevil well have a great day everyone.


Here is my reading .

Card One :Is King of Discs

Crad Two : Is 8 of Swords-revesre

Crad three: Is 0 The Green Man-reverse

Card Four : Is 4 of Swords

Card Five : Is 6 of Cups-reverse

Card Six : Is 13 Death

Card Seven; Is 6 The Lovers

Card Eight ;Is 12 Sacrifice-reverse

Card Nine :Is 9 of Discs

Card Ten : Is 2 of Wands-reverse

Card Eleven :8 of Discs

Card Twelve : Is 3 of Wands

[Ivy Artemisia]

Part 1: Usually, I would say that my significator card is the Empress. However, I was thumbing through my deck to find her and I stopped at the Moon. I felt as though the Moon card is my significator today. To me, the moon represents projection, illusions, emotional issues. And today, I’m feeling a little bit off, that the personality I’m projecting isn’t really mine, and that I can’t make MY personality come out. So, the moon, it is.

Part 2: I went searching for a spread I had never seen before and came up with the Triskele.

http://www.byzant.com/images/tarot/spreadtriskele.gif

Card 1 is called the covering. It covers the important events, issues, influences and attitudes toward the situation or question.

Card 2 is called the crossing. It represents the obstacles, conflicts, oppositions and problems that the questioner has or will face.

Card 3 is the “root.” It shows past events or influences that have played a role in bringing about the current situation.

Card 4 is the future. It represents future events and fresh influences that are about to come into play in the near future.

Card 5 is the outcome. The eventual outcome.

I liked the use of the words “fresh influences” in Card 3.

Source: http://www.byzant.com/tarot/spreadtriskele.asp


Reading
1- Covering- Seven of Wands
2- Crossing- Eight of Wands reversed
3- Root- Nine of Pents
4- Future- Ace of swords
5- Outcome- Five of swords reversed

I went to the learntarot site to look up my cards and the reinforcements/conflicts. It said that the five of swords is a reinforcement of the seven of wands. That’s the only pattern that I could find with learntar0t.com.

However, I’ve noticed that I have no cups or major arcana in my spread. This spread is about my work/office environment and its right on.

I’m feeling boxed in here. Its not the best place to work My major obstacle is the fact that though there is a BIG change coming, I’m not willing to move. In the past, I’ve tried to be very independent and I make the most money in my “pay grid,” but its not really enough. The future holds a new place where I can showcase my knowledge, talent and abilities… and if I don’t get off my butt and try something, I’ll be in a miserable place here. Duh.



EC: When I read, many times I’ll make up spreads of my own as I go along. I’ll flip the first card over, as an overview/general outcome of the situation that the reading is regarding. I will then flip over a few more cards as clarifiers. Its like a Quick and dirty, unorthodox style of reading. J

I’ve also created a spread that I call the Elemental Challenges spread

I’ve attached the spread as an attachment. It’s a little different from other tarot spreads. Let me explain…

Card 1- Past
Cards 2-10 Present (2-9 are challenges and obstacles you are facing/will face)
Card 11- Future
Card 12- Outcome

Here are the cards broken down:
Card 1- represents past issues that have influenced your situation
Card 2- represents your knowledge about the said issue.
Card 3- is an issue, challenge or possible solution that you will find relating to card 2*
Card 4- represents how you feel about the situation
Card 5- is an issue, challenge or possible solution that you will find relating to card 4*
Card 6- represents how strongly you want to effect a change in the situation
Card 7- is an issue, challenge or possible solution that you will find relating to card 2*
Card 8- represents your current financial, material, or familial situation.
Card 9- is an issue, challenge or possible solution that you will find relating to card 8*
Card 10- is an overview of the present situation
Card 11- represents fresh influences and the future
Card 12- is the outcome of the situation as it stands today
*cards 3,5,7,9 could be used also as clarifiers.

[celticfire]

1. i'm very torn about what my signifier card is/should be. on the one hand, i see it as The Moon. but right now, it is much more in tune with the following:

Queen of Swords

This card shows a woman sitting upon an carved throne surrounded by a stone arch. She bears a stern, forceful, and formidable expression on her face. She is herself, a force to be reckoned with. In her left hand is a large sword, and it is held high with the tip pointed to the ceiling. Because of her appearance, I see her as not only a powerful but intelligent and a fully capable leader.
(book meaning: represents a woman whi is rational and logical; has deinitey ideas and opnions to how things should be done; she is shrewd and mentally agile; does not give her heart freely in love though and may at times, isolate herself due to past disappointments)

This is SO me...I'm very 'controlling' of my environment. I am demanding, but friendly in that process and I do consider others. Once I set a goal though, there isn't much to sway me from achieving it. I don't trust easily...and it takes alot for me to give of myself. Its like people around me have to prove themselves before I'm willing to let them in. I've tried hard to not be quite so distant, but its just how it is with me.



2. I found several spreads I thought were interesting on aeclectic tarot forum. One in particular that I liked (maybe because it pertains to my present focus of things lately?????LOL) is the Outlook Spread. This spread comes from "Power Tarot" by Trish MacGregor and Phyllis Vega. It is a simple, four card spread as follows:

-----1-----3-----
------2-----4----

Card 1: outlook for the situation, event or project
Card 2: what/who will help
Card 3: what this will lead to
Card 4: how you will feel about the outcome

Here is my reading for myself:

Card 1: Strength
Card 2: 4 of Wands
Card 3: 2 of Wands
Card 4: 7 of Wands

First of all, I was overwhelmed with the presence of Wands in this. I've not had this happen before, especially not in a small card reading. The suit of Wands represents many things, of them here are a few: aggressive, ardent, bold, charismatic, caring, courageous, creative, eager, enthusiastic, forceful, inspiring, optimistic, passionate, wholehearted. I see several of these things in myself. If it had been an all wands reading, it would be of Fire energy.

For the first card, Strength, it means inner strength, not that of the physical. Because it represents the 'outlook of the situation', I see this card as saying in this context as a reminder not to give up on the goals I have set for myself. As part of that though, I shouldn't push too hard...take pride in what I have achieved (possibly of my interviews?) and be patient.

The Four of Wands is the what/who will help. Because of the typical meaning of this card, I found that hard to understand at first. But upon further research I've found that is more of the 'what' will help here. This card means that plans are coming together and that the things coming together will positively effect my long term goals/plans. This is like the 'kid in a candy store' for me. I'm so terribly excited about the things going on around me right now because it was such a surprise, everything has been. It has been totally unexpected and I need to just go with the moment of it and be myself.

The third card which says 'what this will lead too' is the Two of Wands. I see this card as telling me that even though the energy I'm feeling is good, that I shouldn't let the power of the situation control me. With the surprises that have come, I have been more encoruaged and have gotten maybe a bit too bold, or too sure of myself. This tells me that yes, positive changes are coming, but I should be appreciative in order for them to fully come to fruition. Being overzealous or too bold could change the tide on this.

The final card asks 'how you will feel about the outcome'? In this, I drew the Seven of Wands is about defiance and aggression. They go hand in hand here. By taking a stand to seek changes in my present career, I have put forth an energy of defiance. This is being tackled by the aggression I've been feeling in my present career...the issues going on there have been overwhelmingly more apparent since I started in earnest to search my soul for what I should do (even though they don't know). I've come to the conclusion that its just not worth the hassel anymore to fight every day, everything in my present position...I enjoy the work that I do, just not the environment I'm in any longer. This card says its ok to let that go.

The outcome to me of this reading is that the decision I'm making for myself have been the ones I need to make. Even though I feel guilty for them at times, I know that for my own benefit, well-being, and future, that they are the right things to do. Because of my personal strength and resolve in this matter, I've received nice 'surprises' for my efforts. There will still be issues to be dealt with, but with strength and compassion I will achieve success.



ok...that's about all i can write for now...i'll do the ec later.:)

bb

[halfwaynowhere]

1. My significator is the Queen of Swords... she is a difficult woman, who puts up her own barriers. she is tough and self confident, but can come across as cold and intimidating... I feel this card describes me because i often isolate myself from others, I don't show my emotions often, and I have a major superiority complex...
2. (I will edit this and finish the assignment tomorrow... i keep missing keys on the keyboard as i type, meaning its time for me to go to bed.... i already know what spread i intend on using, i just have to actually do it...)

[linaXgrazzada]

1. my signifier card could either be the queen of cups for her honesty, hospitaliy, and gift of vision or the magician for his belief in sorcery and creativity.

2. i found a love spread on a website that ive used a few times abd its pretty good.
1 4 7
2 5 8
3 6 9

the first column describes one person in the relationship
1= how the first person feels
2=what the first person needs
3= what the first person expects from the relationship

the last column describes the other person in the relationship
7= how the second person feels
8= what the second person needs
9= what the second person expects from the relationship

the middle column shows different things about the relationship
4= what the relationship is founded
5= what the relationship needs
6= the future of the relationship

the extra credit is coming soon!

[Willow Rosette]

This assignment was harder for me I found several that portrayed different aspects of myself. But not wanting to admit those other sides of myself I chose VII The Chariot. It signifies a man who succeds through will and perserverance. he over comes all obstacles. his clothes reflect balance, stability, and harmony (still working on this part.) But the card meaning is Perserverance, Major effort, Possible voyage or jourany. Need for attention to details, Urgancy to gain control over ones emotions.

The spread I chose is the cirle spread. It has nine cardslaid out in a circle, which represent the wheel of they year and the elemental corrispondents. The first card is the querent card and are in the middle of the circle, then they start being laid out number two through nine clock wise starting at the three o clock poition.

----------------------------------------------8

------------------------------------7-------------------9

----------------------------6-----------------1-----------------2

--------------------------------------5-------------------3

------------------------------------------------4

Card one: is the querent card. This card corresponds to the center of the circle, where all times and places are one and are connected to all other realms. The quarent stands at the center of the circle and has access to all the realms and may choose or reject what is offered to him or her, negative or positive. This card indicates the present situationof the quarentin his or her personal quest for knowledge.

Card two: Mental aspects. This card corresponds to the dirrection of the east, the element of air, the sword, the season of spring, and the dawn/beginnings. Its station on the wheel is the spring equinox, which we call Ostara, when new life germinates and emerges with the increase of life an d warmth. Magically air rules all mental activity, from the inceptionof an idea to an abstract knowledge, to the questioning of established ideas. Air is the inspiration of life giving breath, the gentle breeze on the plain, the rushing wind on the mountain top and the distructive hurricane.It is the power of sound, the vocalization of ideas, and the communication of knowledge. This is the place where the querent develops mental powers, ideas, imagination, where questions are asked and knowledge is received. This card will indicatewhat the quarent should work on to balance this area of life.

Card three: Relationships. This card is placed on the southwest corner of the circle and corresponds to the start of summer and the festival of Beltane (which means "bright-fire") a May celebration of life and fertility. The weather is getting warmer, the seeds have been planted, and the young animals have been born. We rejoice in the change in weather and energy at Beltane. The Lord and Lady approach their sacred marriage which gives life to the earth. It is the time of the union of opposites to make a single whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. This card is cincerned with relationships, lovers, close friendships that will either help you grow or prevent progress.

Card four: Creative Inspiration. This card corresponds to the dirrection of the south and the element of fire. The wand, the season of summer, and Noonday, its station on the wheel is the mid summer solstice. Which we all call Coamhain. When the earth flowers and grows lush in the heat magically fire rules creativity, life energy, and the spirits. Fire is the illumination within the force of the spirit. It is the glow of the candel flame, the warmth of the hearth, the bearning heat of the desert, and the incandescence of the sun. The fire that both purifies and distroys. Fire is the power of inner sight and creative vision. Dirrecting it and controlling it to make it manafest in the world. This card will indicate what the quarent should work on to balance this area of life.

Card five: Actions. This card corrseponds to the dirrection of south west, and the festival of Lughnasad. The high summer celebration of ripening corn and the start of the harvest. The ancients celebrated the occasion with gatherings and games and contests. This card gives advice on positive actions that you need to take at this point in your development and is also concerned with the development of your mascaline side.

Card six: Emotional aspects. This card corresponds to the dirrection of the west. The element of water, the cup or cauldron, and the season of autumn. Its station on the wheel is Herfest. The autumn equinox. Which marks the harvest and the completion of the vegitation cycle of the year. As the days begin to grow colder and the light declines, it is the time of fullness and maturity. Magically water rules emotions and feelings, including love and hate, daring and cowardness, happiness and sarrow, giving and taking. It also rules intuition, and psychic skills. Water is cleansing and purifing. It is the power of experience. Water can be the safety of the uterine waters of the womb. The cleansing stream, the deep pool, of the subconsions mind, the nourishing river, the brew of initiation, the movement of the tides. The power of the sea, To give bounty or to distroy with its tempest. This card indicates what the quarent should work on to balance the emotional area of their life.

Card seven: Subconsious aspects. This card corresponds to the north west and the festival of Samhain. The start of winter. Samhain is the hinge of the year. When one year turns to the next. It is a potent time between times. When the veils between the worlds are thin and the other world is very close. The energies of Samhain relate to a deep inner journies. This card advises you on the subconsiousness or the deeply rooted base of inner self. Which will either block or aid your progress, and may offer advice on how to begin dealing with it.

Card 8: Practical matters. This card corresponds to the dirrection of the north. The element of earth. The pentacle, shiels, or stone. The season of winter and midnight. Its station on the wheel is mid-winter solstice. Which is Yule. When the sun is reborn at the dead time of year. When the earth sleeps. From this point on the days begin to lengthen once more. And the thought of the worst of the winter weather is still to come. We have the promise of the return of spring, magically the earth rules the body and the material plain. Including such things as money, and possessions. The earth is solid, the manifest world that supports and nourishes us. It is the standing stone beneith the stars. The silent cave, the sacred grove, high mountain peak, the fertile fields, the crystals, rocks, and stones. Our home planet. It is the power of touch, and all that is solid and tangable. This is the place where the quarent develops his or her practile powers of manifistation. This card will indicate what quarent should work on to balance this area of life.

Card 9: Inner strength. This card corresponds to the north east. And is the festival of Imbolc. When the light is noticibly returning after the winters dark. New shoots are visible on the bare earth and give us the promise of sping, and the return of greenery and the life and warmth. This card indicats what the quarents inner strengths are to draw upon and build upon. It also relates to the development of their feminine, intuitive, nurturing side.

The reading to this spread will come soon, hopefully before this weekend.

[Anubis RainHawk]

Extra Credit

Yes/No Spread

-----1-----
5--6--3--4
----2----

1) Who you are.

2)Yes or No; which is more likely

3)If yes, what should be known

4)Additional info

5) If no, what should be known

6)more info

outcome
To experiement with this spread, I did a reading for someone who wanted to know if she was going to get the job she was interviewed for. Based on the cards, the answer was yes and it will be a very helpful and fulfilling career.

Anubis RainHawk

[Raven Reed]

I am having a REALLY difficult time picking a signifier. I don't usually use one, truth be told.

[Amethyst Rose]

I don't use one either, but I'd still like you to pick one. :) Just go through the cards and find one who's qualities match your personality. This isn't just about finding a signifier, it's about your understanding about card meanings, as well.

[Amethyst Rose]

1. my signifier card could either be the queen of cups for her honesty, hospitaliy, and gift of vision or the magician for his belief in sorcery and creativity.

2. i found a love spread on a website that ive used a few times abd its pretty good.
1 4 7
2 5 8
3 6 9

the first column describes one person in the relationship
1= how the first person feels
2=what the first person needs
3= what the first person expects from the relationship

the last column describes the other person in the relationship
7= how the second person feels
8= what the second person needs
9= what the second person expects from the relationship

the middle column shows different things about the relationship
4= what the relationship is founded
5= what the relationship needs
6= the future of the relationship

the extra credit is coming soon!

Hey there....don't forget to do a reading on yourself using this spread, and tell me about the outcome and any patterns you see in the cards. :)

[Amethyst Rose]

Extra Credit

Yes/No Spread

-----1-----
5--6--3--4
----2----

1) Who you are.

2)Yes or No; which is more likely

3)If yes, what should be known

4)Additional info

5) If no, what should be known

6)more info

outcome
To experiement with this spread, I did a reading for someone who wanted to know if she was going to get the job she was interviewed for. Based on the cards, the answer was yes and it will be a very helpful and fulfilling career.

Anubis RainHawk


This is an interesting spread.... I'm confused, however, on how you determine if your cards are telling you yes, or no....

Oh, also....did you just choose to do the EC first? Cuz if not, where did you put the rest of the assignment, LOL :)

[CanisFirebrand]

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

I choose the King of Cups. I was torn between the Knight and King, but choose the King.

The card shows a gray stone throne. The bottom of the throne is obscured by darkness and is unseen. Behind the throne is 2 curved arches. Upon the trone sits a man in a black hooded robe. Around his neck is a chain with a pendant. The pendant is indistingusable. His hands are placed on the edge of the armrests. His right is almost gripping the armrest. His left holds a cup. Shown around the perimeter of the cup is three red jewels.
His feet are unseen as they are in the same obscured area as the bottom of the throne.

Even though I am a fire sign person, I choose the suit of cups.
Cups represent the element of water and emotions, love, relationships and intuition.

As I said, I am a fire person, and as I display some of those traits; creative energy, ambition, I feel the suit of cups represent me a tad better in the tarot.

Kings are usually seen as powerful, wise and just in their dealings with others.

One of my best traits is that I sincerely care about others and truly wish to help them. I am known to be a good listener and people feel comfortable around me to talk.
I am tolerant of others and their views. I do not judge quickly and an prone to defending others of differnet backgrounds or viewpoints.




2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.


From my LWB a spread called The Mystic Seven

Used for divining the answer to a specific question or when seeking guidance in a particular matter.




1
5 6
7
3 2
4



1. The past
2. The present
3. The future
4. The advised path - what the inquirer should do to gain more control over the current situation.
5. Influences - the current environment and how it might affect the matter.
6. Obstacles - that which inhibits the inquirer
7. The outcome

My Reading: Asked about my financial sitution and if things would turn around in this year.

Cards

1. Queen of Pentacles - As this card represents the past, and court cards can indicate people in your life, I would imagine this card relates to a strong female in my past. Most likely my mother who is very practicle, intelligent and strong. Her influences can be seen in the way I deal with money and finances

2. X of Pentacles(reversed) - Usually the ten represents stability and security of finances, emotions. Reversed it can indicate a loss or theft or losing finances in other methods.

3. XVI(The Tower) (reversed) - Reversed gives the feeling of opression, imprisonment and lack of hope.

4. IX of Pentacles (reversed) - As this card is supposed to represent the advised path, the reversed meaning behind this card is not inspirational. It makes mention of deception or mistrust. Or an unfinished project.

5. XV(The Devil) (reversed) - The reading tends to be heading towards the depressing, as if it wasn't already there. This card reveals a weaking of moral fiber.

6. V of Swords (reversed) - Such continues in this reading by highlighting obstacles to overcome. Reversed, this card could stand for a funeral. At best, it would signify a hollow victory or disgrace as a result of that victory.

7. Knave of Pentacles - As in life, I guess the message is there is always a silver lining. This card is seen as a positive omen bringing welcome news and/or messages.

First impressions: This readings is heavy with Pentacles and cards that are reversed.
With lots of pentacles representing the element of earth as well as material matters and money, it makes sense to see a lot of pentacles come up.

Reversals tend to indicate that energies present in the cards is there, but in lesser quantities or unable to excert itself fully.

Overall, this reading was depressing. Though it did finish out on a high note, the journey through the reading was bleak and depressing.

What I take from the reading is that my mothers views helped shape the way I am today. Her sense of practicality as well as her caring nature has spilled over into the way I deal with matters and people.

Presently, things seem to be bleak and depressing. The loss indicated in the reading could be loss of hope and the feeling that things will never get better.

This feeling is mirrored and strengthened in the next card indicating that because of this loss of hope, I feel imprisioned and tormented by my situation. Even though this is revelaed as my future, things are never set in stone.

Continuing on with that theme, the advised path is mired by distrust of forces present around me. I seem to be blocking everything for fear of following bad advice. This is not healthy in that blocking out negativity is good, for the most part, I am also blocking positive energy.

Still sliping down the spiral, the Devil appears and represents the current environment. Because of the bleak outlook of finances and the unforseeable hope, thoughts have been entertained of trying to "win" money by gambling or games of chance such as lottery. The magical thought that if I could just pick the lucky lottery numbers, all my troubles would vanish. It isn't a healthy course to maintain as they are impractical thoughts and ones that should be dismissed.

As mentioned such things would be hollow as though finanances might be in better shape as a result of a quick fix, there could be lingering effects that would cause future problems.

The reading does end on a positive note in representing the outcome. Welcome news will be brought to me by a male in my life or one that I will meet.

I am the type of person that always believes that good will happen, however I can become so immursed in my present situation that it is sometimes hard to see/maintain that hope.

I think that general theme is very present in this reading and pretty accurate to my current situation and feelings.

I have recently purchased a hose and racked up a lot of debt moving into the house. I have tried to obtain equity loans to resolve the debt and make it more managable. However, since its a new mortgage, there isn't any equity built up. I was advised to wait until later in the year to inquire about possibilities.

Extra Credit:

Design your own spread. Explain the layout and meaning of the cards in those positions. Do a reading on yourself or your partner using this spread. Describe the outcome. You do not have to post the reading.



I haven't used this spread yet, but will do so after coming up with the specifics for it.

I'll call this spread The Wall.

Uses would be to gain some insight into situations where you feel like you are blocked or unable to see past your present situation.

Cards 2-9 are layed sideways and read from left to right for purposes of knowing whether the card is reversed or not. If the top of the card is on the left side, read as normal. If the top of the card is at the right, treat it as reveresed. That is if you read reversals in your readings.

Card meanings:

Card 1: Your present state of mind
Card 2,3: The things that are causing you to feel blocked/walled in
Card 4,5,6: The boundry of your wall. Cards that ovver hope and a suggested path to embark on.
Card 4 is the beginning of the journey. Card 5 is the path that it will take you. Card 6 leads you to your outcome and relates to card 10.
Card 7,8,9: The root of the problem. Influences or situations that are causing you to be or feel like you are blocked.
Card 10: The outcome. Should hopefully give insight into a path you need to take to overcome the block.

http://wicca.solitaryspaces.com/images/misc/wall.jpg

Will post a reading later on. I want to make sure that this reading would work and probably do a test reading or two. I might need to tweak it a bit.

[Lolith]

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you. Since I never use a signifier card, I thought it would be difficult to choose one that fit me. I shuffled through the deck, and nothing seemed to "pop" out at me, so what I decided to do was gather all the queens and pay attention to each on individually. I layed them out before me and studied the images, then I read the meanings of each one. The card I chose for myself is the Queen of Swords. When I look at this card I wouldn't think it would be my signifire, but the deeper meaning is what drew me to it.

This queen is/can be a sharp-witted, perceptive, confident, stron woman who is ready to face her problems. The events in her life have made her who she is, yet she has some of her softness left. There are two sides to her (light/dark or soft/hard), and she is not afraid to show either of them if she feels the need to. That harsh darker side will come out if she is pushed, and when she is, she can get pretty sharp-tounged. She has the courage to overcome her obstacles, andthe intellect to oversome her enemies.

The reason I chose this card is because all of this is almost exactly what I am like. It can be hard for me to admit at times, but I can be pushed to the point that my witty, "dark," sometimes cruel side can come out. I try to keep that side of me at bay, but I cannot lie to myself and say that it is not there. At work I am known for my brutal honesty, and will verbally attack someone if pushed to hard (I work in the food industry and I do know how far I can push the limits ;) ) Yes, I can be knows as quite the little ***** at work, but most people know the real me and understand when I "snap" ocasionally. Besides that meaner side, I can be a very nice person, honest. On a lighter note, I am a very strong person ready to face my problems (though not always right away). All the difficult stuff I went through in my life helped create who I am. I came out pretty decenta and very strong, but I can be a little harsh at time.

2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. I chose the Spirit Spread from this (http://www3.sympatico.ca/terrir/spreads.html) website. From the website: This is a spread of self-discovery. There are no problems or resolutions stated, but more an assessment of one's current state of being. It may be used for meditation, and study.

Layout:
___________7_______
___________5_______
____9__4__1/2__3__10
___________6_______
___________8_______

Card Meanings:
1. Your spirit essence
2. Mental state
3. Emotional state
4. Physical state
5. Masculine state
6. Feminine state
7. Work and outter world
8. Home and inner world
9. Self image
10. State of your relationships.

Outcome:
Since this was a personal internal spread, I'm going to hold back on what cards were drawn. If you'd like to know, PM me, but I just don't want my current state of mind out there for the world to see. No offence to anyone, but it did get kind of personal. Hopefully, this will describe the outcome fairly well. If you want me to further clarify things, just let me know.

The basic outcome of this reading was pretty accurate. It showed me that I have a lot of work ahead of me for my mental, emotional, physical states. I have it in me to get to where I want myself, but it'll take some time. I've done it before and I can do it again. The masculine/feminine states showed me that I have the urge to get out there and create something new. I need to wait until the time is right to act on that, but in the mean time the conditions are right and I can put myself to good use. When it came to my world cards, I had a pattern. Both of these cards were 8's, which to me shows that these are going to be some challenged areas. I'm not thrilled seeing this, but in the back of my head I knew this already and I've been trying to deny this fact. Both cards fit pretty closely to their respective position, and helped me see more clearly on them. For my self image card, I will share what I got. When I flipped it over, I saw Death. I know that I need to change the way I see myself, and this has been something I've been working on for years. I've been feeling that urge to do something with myself, and seeing this card showed me that now is the right time. The final card in this spread showed me that I have the power and ability to create new relationships. To me the card that came up was very supportive and helpful. Since I moved, I found it very hard to make friends here, but this card gave me the hope I needed.

There weren't too many patterns in the spread other than the one that I already mentioned. All the cards were balanced nicely, and I didn't draw too many of one suit. One thing I did notice though, is that no cups were drawn. I found this suprising since I can be very emotional, but this opens me up to getting to the real root of things. I can look past the emotion and see what's really going on.

Extra Credit: I found creating my own spread very fun once I got past the inital fear of it. I was so overwhelmed at first, but found it easy once I sat down and just relaxed. A friend wanted me to create a spread that mainly women can use, but I wanted something more universal. To satisfy both of us I came up with a cat spread. It's a general spread, but works better when you have a specific goal or problem on your mind. I created it to hopefully give a better insight on the situation as a whole, and also, show them viewed from different sides as well. This was the very first spread I created so it might need some work, but for now it seems to work fine.

Layout:
To make things easier, I drew up the spread then scanned it. If it's not here, it'll probably be at the bottom of the post. Don't laugh though, I am not an artist and did the best I could do :P
Basic layout is 15 cards layed out in a relative shape of a cat. The first 14 cards make up the cat, while the last is the outcome or goal. I created this to help myself see the patterns in certain cards, and how they can either work against or help each other.

Card Meanings:
1. Where your heart is at.
2 & 3. What you see; what you know about your goal.
4 & 5. What you hear; what you think you know about your goal.
6. Your sixth sense; what your intuitin is trying to tell you.
7. What you hunger; what you think your goal will get you.
8 & 9. Strengths
10 & 11. Obstacles
12, 13, & 14. What will help keep you balanced while you try to overcome your obstacles
15. Outcome

Outcome:
I found this very overwhelming at first because so many cards were used. Once I got over the initial shock, I was able to see things a little easier. Overall, I found the reading very helpful and acurate, but the last few cards gave me some problems. That might've been because I was tired, so I will look over the cards again later on (I wrote them down).

I love the way the head worked out. It really showed me the subject from different angles, and even helped me see what I thought was there. The pairing workout out great, and helped me see the cards in a different way. The body showed me some obstacles that I know have been an inner struggle for me for some time, so they were pretty acurate as well. The strengths confused me, but I don't think this has anything to do with the spread, but rather my newness with the cards. The same goes for the tail. I can see a way that they fit together, but cards I have never drawn before came up, so it's very new to me. From what I do see though, there is a positive and a negative there and the third card shows me the balance I need to achieve to help myself through difficult times. The outcome of the spread is pretty self explanatory, but we will see what happens.

I think when I get more comfortable doing larger spreads, this spread will be great for me to use. It really seemed to show a very large, yet innertwined outlook on my subject. If anyone wants to use this for personal readings, go for it. I'd love to hear how this works out for other people.

[CanisFirebrand]

Cute :)

A very unique looking spread. The picture really helps with the outlines behind the cards. And the drawing is better then anything I could do.. Looks like a cat to me.. The mouse esp.. that is how mice are always drawn that I see.

[Madjek]

Lesson 6 - Assignment


1. I had a really hard time picking a signifier card. I ended up picking The Empress.
Description: A beautiful woman is sitting a rather comfortable throne with lots of pillows behind her. There is a field of wheat in front of her. Behind her is a lush green forest. The sky is gold. Beside her on the ground is the symbol of Venus. Thru the forest there is a river that ends in a water fall.

The reason I ended up choosing this card is because she represents beauty and I’m beautiful! Just kidding! She represents all things beautiful; creation and fertility, love and kindness. I feel she represents all that is woman and I relate her to the arts. So being a mother and an artist I feel she could represent me.


2. I found this spread in “The Realm of Tarot Cards”. (http://members.tripod.com/~turcio/index-5.html)

PYRAMID SPREAD....
THIS IS A GREAT SPREAD FOR LOVE AFFAIRS AND MARRIAGES.

_________6
______4____5
___1____2____3

CARD 1: REPRESENTS THE EARLY DAYS OF THE RELATIONSHIP.

CARD 2: REPRESENTS A SIGNIFICANT EVENT THAT HAPPENED ALONG THE WAY.

CARD 3: REPRESENTS HOW THE RELATIONSHIP CHANGED FROM IT.

CARD 4: REPRESENTS THE SITUATION RIGHT NOW.

CARD 5: REPRESENTS THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE.

CARD 6: INDICATES THE ACTION YOU SHOULD TAKE.


I've been having some difficulties with my cards. I believe they are a bit upset with me so my reading was coming out all weird. I'm working on making things right with them but a friend was kind enough to help me out with a reading and it was incredibly accurate.

My reading:

1. 5 of Pentacles
2. The Chariot
3. 3 of Cups reversed
4. The Hermits reversed
5. 5 of swords
6. 8 of Pentacles reversed



1. Your relationship has always been just a little bit of a struggle.... you've been reaching for goals that are just out of your reach....always trying to get something bigger and better than what you already had.

2. The major change in your relationship came when you changed. You moved on in your life towards your goals and success, but that move or your success wasn't really appreciated, and your partner never really moved on with you

3. This lead to discord in your relationship.... you've felt under appreciated...you're not the friends you used to be...

4. Right now you're feeling lost and confused as to what to do. You're taking refuge in being alone, separating yourself from your partner or the situation in an effort to fix the situation and heal. Consider that your ego may be the cause of the problem...it's keeping you from seeing good sense.

5. The challenge you face right now is in setting your priorities straight. It's okay to want something, but don't be selfish about it. Don't be insensitive when dealing with your partner, and above all be honest with them.

6. What you need to do is trust in yourself and your abilities. You know what is best for yourself, so go for it. You need to have the ambition to do what you want....but be honest in your dealings, and beware of being a hypocrite.

I got 2 five's which are known for being negative and 3 reverse cards. I've been having some second thoughts about my relatioship and can't seem to make up my mind as to what it is I want.

I'm going to try and do a reading for myself tomorrow and see if my cards are still mad at me.

[Anubis RainHawk]

This is an interesting spread.... I'm confused, however, on how you determine if your cards are telling you yes, or no....

Oh, also....did you just choose to do the EC first? Cuz if not, where did you put the rest of the assignment, LOL :)

Yes=Any Major, King, Knight, or even number

No=Queen, Page, odd number

I guess that doesn't sound like there's enough nos, but I think I read this interpretation in a tarot book.

BTW, I chose to do the extra credit first because I was doing reading for someone and I just decided to create a spread. The rest of the assignment is comming soon.

Anubis RainHawk

[Amethyst Rose]

That's interesting... I think I'll have to try this one. So many people ask yes no questions, but I don't like answering them, and have them reword the question. This could be handy.

And thanks for clearing that up... I was a little confused. :)

[Aidron]

1.) Signifier Card - This is a bit of a tricky one for me. I seem to consistently demonstrate qualities from each of the court cards from the suit of wands (swords in most decks).

With the Page of Wands I readily showcase a studious and analytical mindset, one that prefers to observe and learn far more than act, usually a result of my indecisiveness. I can also be quite child-like and cause all sorts of mischief if you take your eye off me, and I am forever bored and unimpressed by the minds of others. A slight, restlessness in my learning if you will.

With the Knight of Wands I can be quite active, using logic and careful analysis to make the best decision then swinging things into motion and acting on them with great dedication. I can also at times be extremely stubborn, committed to my ideas and ideals and looking my nose down on flawed logic. A type of warrior combatant of the mind, sticking to my ideas and conclusions and at times trampling over others who I feel hold invalid view points.

With the Queen of Wands I showcase an introverted aspect of air, careful self-analsysis, dark or taboo thoughts, and downright apathy for those and that around me. However, I can also show great interest in the sociological and psychological aspects related to air, concerning communciations and trying to instill logic on a group mind or spread it as a marvelous approach to life.

With the King of Wands I can very much be a powerful mental individual, one who suffers no fools, tolerates no bullshit and can be quite aloof. I exert my wit and razor tongue on targets I feel are worthy of my disgust, yet can be a great counselor and advisor if need be and I feel the subjects are worthy of such attention.

Note: The interesting thing about the King and Queen with me is I can manifest both extroverted and happy-go-lucky personalities (as is more likened to a King) or a more introverted and reflective one (as is more likened to a Queen), at least in my perspective.

So, frankly, I've never been able to pick one. Each one suits me (no pun intended) in profound ways, for good or for ill, and I've each pop up as signifiers for me in the past. Perhaps as I evolve more one will become more dominant than the others, but for right now I can't see any of them being more accurate than another.

In turn, The Empress, The Moon, and The High Priest also make great choices for signifier cards for myself. With the former it is my spirit card, and I can be quite nurturing, sparking new inspiration in people and usually the one to birth new ideas before anyone else has a chance. With The Moon my strong intuition, reflective personality, and lack of fear in exploring the dark and often taboo parts of myself and the world is evident, as well as my skill with the occult (and it just so happens to be my talent card). With the High Priest my disdain for conformity and anything trite is evident, and my love of originality, learning, and seeking out new wisdom is quite obvious. While I'm sure many (though not all) are capable of manifesting qualities of numerous cards, particularly of the Major Arcana, these three tend to be the ones that resonate strongest within me.

Despite how difficult it is for me to select just one signifier card, if you force my hand ( ;) ) I would undoubtedly select The Moon. It is a card of change, fluidity, mystery, primal energies and hidden influences. All of these things and much more apply to me; often in extremely magnified ways. I very much welcome change 95% of the time, I am fluid and am very capable of adapting, I have a love affair with mystery (both discovering them and creating them), and I often explore my own inner desires to discover the truth and welcome them happily. In turn I can be very difficult to read, and in grand situations that surround me am often the hidden key influence in anything (such as manipulating those involved intentionally or unintentionally, or being the one who can finally solve the problem). Of course, The Moon isn't afraid to shine either and I'll be the first to admit that I can come across as rather egotistical, even if it is not my intent (another quality that suits The Moon).


2.) A New Spread - I found this one over on the forums at aeclectic.net (http://www.aeclectic.net). Took me awhile to figure out which new spread I would like to try, as I wanted something that I could make use of time and again (for myself or others), that way I am not wasting my time.

I decided to go with The Spirit Spread. I have begun building a permanent ancestral altar in my bedroom near my altar and I thought it would be perfect, since they are no doubt coming closer and making their presence known more often than usual due to my actions to incorporate them in my life more fully and honor them year round.


The Spirit Spread


--2-----3--
-----1-----
--4-----5--

Card #1 Represents the spirit and provides information about who they are.
Card #2 Represents why they are with you right now.
Card #3 Represents what they want you to know.
Card #4 Represents what actions you can take and/or how you can help them.
Card #5 Represents a summary and outcome of the situation.

According to forums, the person who claims to have created it designed it for those who believe they have a spirit lingering around, but I see no reason why it could not be elaborated on to suit many situations; whether they be ancestors or spirits that are not lingering around, yet you wish information on. For instances where you know who the spirit is and simply wish more information, I would alter the spread as follows:

Card #1 Represents the spirit's general state of being.
Card #2 Represents where they are and why they are there/here.
Card #3 Represents what they would wish you to know.
Card #4 Represents what actions you can take to incorporate them into your life more or to repel their presence, depending on the situation.
Card #5 Represents a summary and outcome of the situation.

My Results Performing This Spread:

Card #1 - Eight of Cups. This card without a doubt represents my grandmother (mother's side). An older woman walks away from two water dragons in a pond and several jeweled goblets with a bright sun off in the distance. My grandmother left us suddenly, even though my mother made her swear upon her life that she would stick around to help raise me. I've always known she was still around since when she was here physically we had a powerful unspoken bond (which actually I did not learn out until many years later why). From this card I realize it was not her wish to leave (not that I ever believed it was), but merely her time and she was very heart broken to have to leave my mother and I, who are represented by the two water dragons in this case (and we both have strong water influences in our natal chart in all actuality). The goblets representing the rest of her children and grand children (although there are more like 80, not 8 of them). While I am sure she loved each of her other children and grandchildren, my mother and I were very close to her (physically and emotionally, we lived right across the street from her), so we are naturally singled out in this card.

Card #2 - Knight of Wands. My grandmother is here with me now, as she has been since she passed away (something that is only confirmed by this card for me) to help me grow and come into my own power, which stems from the realm of air (intellect, wisdom, analysis, logic, etc.). In this particular card the Knight of Wands rides a great crystalline dragon with some silvery-grey scales. I happen to be the knight and she the dragon within this particular card, which is only further confirmed in many ways... one being that she was as pale as I am (and that's pale!), with platinum blonde hair and some hints of silvery-grey to it. This represents her assisting me throughout my journey in this life.

Card #3 - Temperance. She wishes me to take my love of and affinity for balance and keep it fueled, for only then will I truly be content in life. I also must learn to stop indulging beyond what is healthy in certain things unless I wish to have life fly right by me and never realize what happened.

Card #4 - Eight of Pentacles. I truly expected the cards to tell me a way I could help her, not help myself and thus help her, but this is not the case. The Eight of Pentacles tells me that I must organize my life more tightly and take better care of myself and my world. When I do such she is happier, and worries less over me. Eventually she will be able to move on to her next life, but she is still holding on to the promise she made my mother... that she would help her raise me. That's pretty darn sweet.

Card #5 - The Empress. My grandmother may have not been the most nurturing and motherly figure in life, in fact my mum is the first to tell you that growing up the woman was a nightmare of a mother. However, she changed over the years and even as she is now has truly come into her own as a very nurturing force in our lives. I sense she wishes to make amends in some respect to my mother for how she treated her as a child, but also this further confirms her holding onto her promise in helping to raise me... she may not physically be here, but she is still around, nurturing me and helping me to grow.

All in all, I rather like this spread, it's definitely going down in my grimoire as one of my favorites to date. It helped to confirm some things I have suspected, have known, and shed new light on some things. It honestly never occurred to me until I read the cards that she was still holding on to the promise she made my mother in regards to helping her raise me. However, I may be a bit biased in this spread's usefulness since it spoke of my grandmother and I really, really, really wuvs my grandma. :D

I also find it interesting to denote that while there are not any obvious or powerful relationships and patterns between the cards, earth does have its influence here. Between the Eight of Pentacles and the Empress, this further confirms the spirit of my grandmother taking precedence in this spread, as she herself was a virgo (sun) and I have long suspected she also possessed strong water qualities as well (signified by the Eight of Cups which represents her) for various reasons.


3.) Original Spread - I had a lot of amazing inspirations for this idea, some I plan to follow up because they were too good to pass up. However, I decided to settle on the one I have labeled: Untold Wisdom, and surprise, surprise it is centered around Athene. As this reading is immensely religious in nature, it may not find much use among many people, but it holds a special place in my heart because she does. Since I wanted to keep this layout simplistic in nature, the number of cards to be used stem directly from her name, Athene, which contains six letters. This spread is designed with the idea in mind that as humans, who are not inherently perfect, we often will miss wisdom from lessons and ordeals we experience during the course of our life. As they say, hindsight is 20/20, foresight... it varies. So, this spread is designed to help improve your vision all around and open your eyes to the wisdom around you.


The layout goes as follows:


*****1*****
***2*6*4***
**3*****5**


Now, that doesn't look very well done to my eyes. In truth it should reflect the letter A, but I never was good with this computer artwork using characters upon the keyboard. :2G:

Before laying out the cards, I strongly recommend reciting a small phrase in your mind or aloud asking Athene for her wise insights, such as:

"Great Athene, lady of wisdom, gift me with your insights please."

Card #1 - Wisdom that you are overlooking at this time and should apply to your life.
Card #2 - Wisdom you can learn from the immediate past that you may have overlooked.
Card #3 - Wisdom you can learn from the distant past that you may have overlooked.
Card #4 - Wisdom you can learn from the immediate future that you may overlook and/or be very vital.
Card #5 - Wisdom you can learn from the distant future that you may overlook and/or be very vital.
Card #6 - Wisdom that you may overlook in the grand scheme of things and should apply to your life.

If the difference between cards #1 and #6 are not as obvious due to the associations I listed, card #6 tends to touch on more profound lifelong wisdom as opposed to card #1, which conveys wisdom of the moment, for lack of a better phrase. I listed them as such, however, because it seems more user friendly to do so should someone wish to use this spread not in a general way, but in regards to a specific situation.

After the reading has concluded, I strongly recommend you thank Athene for her wise insights and her time, such as:

"Great Athene, lady of wisdom, I thank thee for your insights and time."

If you do not wish to include Athene in this reading, I would dramatically alter this reading (from the number of cards to the actual spread design) or not even bother with it. I cannot imagine her being thrilled with someone using a spread created in her name without honoring her. Also note that this spread should not be abused and I would not recommend using it too much. Just as with abuse of any kind, if you try to become too dependent on something you will inevitably have the proverbial rug pulled out from under your feat, and to abuse a goddess... well, don't come around me if you evoke her wrath. :lol:

My Results Performing This Spread:

Card #1 - Eight of Swords. This card symbolizes that I and Athene are bound together, willingly, which confirms to me that this reading is on the right track. However, it also shows that I am somewhat restricted and bound myself and must learn to rise up as my own person and come into my own. This is in turn further elaborated on by a bit too much dependency on my part toward my mother in some things, but the energy from this card is not extremely potent, denoting that I am already on the right path to applying this.

Card #2 - The Magician. This card further indicates that I have been relying a bit too much on outside forces and not enough on myself to manifest a stronger magical life, though only recently. I do not sense from this card that my reliance on such is incorrect or disapproved of, only that I need to balance it with more independence.

Card #3 - Ten of Wands. The past year and a half have been quite the struggle, bluntly put. However, this card tells me I should have relied more on myself than others to overcome these obstacles, that some were meant only for me to contend with and that in the future I should keep that in mind. If I do I will grow much more from the experiences and success will taste much sweeter.

Card #4 - Ten of Swords. I will need to strengthen my resolve and heed the wisdom of the other cards; to rely more on myself and only call to others when I truly need them. I see a troublesome experience in the future concerning my mother and I will need to be objective and wise in my decision to call on others for aid or not to. If I make the wrong choice, I fear a temporary spiritual defeat will be just around the corner.

Card #5 - Two of Wands. In the distant future, within about a year or so from now, I will need to gather my own strength and skills and merge them with with the spiritual support and foundations to succeed and keep my life on a prosperous path. I particularly see schooling and occult studies in this card, and if I can unite these various energies and close unions I will have at the time success and achievement will come much more swiftly.

Card #6 - Ten of Cups. Surprise, surprise... I really must learn to let go of my negative presumptions toward people. I hope for the best, yet expect the worst, and always suspect an ulterior motive or the worst from people. I need to let go of it to obtain the life I wish, or else it will crumble apart.

I rather like this spread, it's one of my better ones to date. Three tens all in one spread definitely makes it a take-notice or else spread in my eyes, and I am standing upon the edge of a proverbial cliff in regards to whether I heed the advice of the reading or not. With two wand and sword cards, I also find it interesting to denote that action and wise decisions are much more critical than each individual card suggests. I must be careful in my actions and not afraid to follow them through, but I must carefully select which path to tread and how to go about turning it from thought into action.

I hope ya enjoyed reading this assignment as much as I did performing it, Am. :tongueout

[Amethyst Rose]

Great job, Aidron! Thanks :)

[Shatril]

My Signifier is the 9 of Pentacles—You see a mature woman dressed in a flowered robe, but on closer inspection you will see that the flowers resemble the symbol for Venus She is wearing a hat the covers her hair completely. The toe of a shoe is showing from beneath her robe. She has a blouse under her robe which has an appliqué of grapes on the neckline. She has a yellow gauntlet on her left hand, on which perches a small bird with a red hood on its head. there is a snail crawling across the card in front of the lady. Behind her is a grape arbor. There are purple mountains in the far background, two very tall trees and a castle. There are 3 pentacles on her left side and six on the right. The ones on the right are piled two on bottom them one then two then one, and the woman’s hand rests on the top one.

To me this symbolizes aging gracefully. Being tranquil and happy alone with nature. The grapes symbolize material well-being, but not over abundance. This is the reward for a life of hard work, and planning. Owning and taking care of property that one loves. This is really right about where I am at this moment. The Bird with the hood is my keeping on hold my desire to have a bunch of animal. This must wait until I decide to completely retire.


Past Lives Spread
The layout has 13 cards, and looks like this:

xxxxxxxxxxx 9xxxxxx10xxxxxxxxxx
x x x x 8 x x x x x x x x x 11 x x x
7 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x 12
x x x x x x x x 13 x x x x x x x x x
1 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x 6
x x x x 2 x x x x x x x x x 5 x x x x
x x x x x x x 3 x x x 4 x x x x x x x

Cards 7-11 represent a recent lifetime, and cards 1-5 a more distant lifetime, both of which represent past lives that are having a strong influence on this lifetime and the question. Cards 6, 12, and 13 are related to the current lifetime. 1 and 7 represent who they were in a past life, 2 and 8 show what they did with that lifetime, 3 and 9 were the life purpose of the past lives, 4 and 10 show how and whether that purpose was resolved or attained, 5 and 11 show what was carried forward from that lifetime, and cards 6 and 12 show how these things manifest in their life right now. Card 13 is the current life's purpose, related to these past events. The cards are read in sequential order, staring with 1 and ending with 13.


Position Card Meaning/Position Description
1 7 wands This probably meant that I was some sort of rights activist or at the very least held strong feelings for some crusade.
2 Magician This one indicates that I was a user of magic. This does not necessarily mean a magician, but possibly a witch, or druid, shaman
3 3 cups We this one rather confirms the fact that I was probably of a religion that was very pagan oriented. Maybe a member of a coven, maybe the leader. (of course, that may be wishful thinking)
4 Chariot This is about how successful I was, and this to me says that I was pretty good at what I did.
5 World This is what I brought forward, and it suits me to a tee. This is about being able to take care of myself, and that is what I’ve had to do all my life, whether I liked it or not
6 Death This shows how what I brought forward is manifesting right now, and this suits. I’m going through a great change in my life, and my ability to take care of myself is what is keeping me together.
7 King Cups Well this guy is a caregiver or counselor.
8 Queen Cups Empathic, channels feelings, emotions, dreams, vision. Hummm maybe a medium or gypsy, as she is also an enchantress. It fits, read your cards and dance for you. Based on my current life that is a strong possibility.
9 Queen Swords Cuts through the crap. A professional woman, intelligent, self-reliant. This fits with the fact that I probably made my living as an empathy or medium or something.
10 Ace Swords Metal focus. Peeling things away to analyze them. Cutting through the crap. Based on this, I would say that I was rather good at being a psychic.
11 9 Pentacles Well this experience has brought me the ability to take care of myself. It also allows me to explore my spirituality outside of the normal current Christian convention in western society.
12 10 Swords Ego hang-up. Hostility. Acceptance, resignation. This is how that life is affecting me right now. Yep, those are my current battles as I move into a new phase of my life.
13 King Pentacles My current life is as a manager, in a business that makes sure that testing laboratories are doing their jobs right. Concern with security and quality, and this is the field that I have worked in ALL of my professional career. That is strange as I did not know that a card with this meaning ever existed, but boy is this the path my life took, and if that is my purpose in life then I’ve been on track all my life. I guess this is not a surprise, cuz I’ve always loved my work and all but two of my employers. Amazing this.

[Shana-chan]

I'm not late yet. ^_^; Phew.

Anyhow, here's my assignment.

I think that my signifier card would be the Empress card. I've figured this out based on me and my two friends. One of my friends would be the High Priestess - a person who is mighty, but afraid, who wants to get things done, but does nothing about it. Another of my friends is the magician - someone very brave and courageous, and who does everything to better herself. And I would be the middle boundry - the Empress, a nurturing type of person.

As for a new layout, I found the Yin Yang tarot spread online. Basically, you lay out 4 cards in a diamond format on either side, one laid on each side after the other, and then you lay out 4 cards down the center, one on top, two in the center (crossed), and one on the bottom. The two crossed in the center are laid out first. It's very similar to the Celtic Cross spread.

Here's how they're read:

Position 1 - factor contributing to the problem
Position 2 - factor contributing to the problem
Position 3 - official or public position for Side A. Impression A wants to make. How Side B perceives Side A.
Position 4 - official or public stance for Side B. Impression B wants to make. How Side A perceives Side B.
Position 5 - what Side A consciously thinks and feels. Side A's ideal outcome.
Position 6 - what Side B consciously thinks and feels. Side B's ideal outcome.
Position 7 - what Side A unconsciously thinks and feels. Deeper motivation.
Position 8 - what Side B unconsciously thinks and feels. Deeper motivation.
Position 9 - guidance for Side A. What A should do to reach its ideal. Position 10 - guidance for Side B. What B should do to reach its ideal.
Position 11 - guidance for both Sides A and B. Key to understanding the conflict.
How they might compromise.
Position 12 - outcome if situation continues as is.

Basically, you just compare each that are in the same position to each other to figure out the reading. This type of reading is generally used when reading for a problem between two people. I assume that it's to figure out what each person feels about the problem.

I'm not going to do a reading for myself, mostly because that's part of my personal code of ethics. I don't do readings for my most beloveds or myself, because those are not the futures that I need to know about. You can mark me down because of it if you want to. o.o ^_^;;;;

Here's the link to the tarot spread: http://www.learntarot.com/yinyang.htm
And I posted a picture of the spread too.

[Amethyst Rose]

Past Lives Spread
The layout has 13 cards, and looks like this:
.
.
.
.


I'm curious, Shatril, about what you think of having two kings and two queens in your reading? Do you think this is significant, or do you feel that patterns in the cards don't apply as much for past life readings?

[Amethyst Rose]

I'm not going to do a reading for myself, mostly because that's part of my personal code of ethics. I don't do readings for my most beloveds or myself, because those are not the futures that I need to know about. You can mark me down because of it if you want to. o.o ^_^;;;;


I don't mind you not reading for yourself, especially if it's a part of your ethics. I don't read for myself, either. :)

However, I am curious of how this reading would work for you... how about doing a reading on your partner, or me?

[faerieridingdragons]

I've chosen the 5ofCups as my signifer card.As I mentioned in lesson5 this is also my favorite minor arcana card.It shows a cloaked figure standing barefoot on a rock in the rapids of a lake.In front of them is the five cups sitting on different rocks also in the rapids.I chose this card because I feel that like this figure I too cloak my feelings and make the choices I given more diffucult for myself.
I chose to do a reading using the Cosmic Spread from RavensongTarot (http://www3.sympatico.ca/terrir/spreads.html)
distant past: The Emperor{discipline,self-control}.
recent past: The Empress{emotional stability,a happy home,prosperity,joy}
the current issue: Princess of Swords{commanding,controlled}
possible future influences: Eight of Wands{movement,progress,swift action}
events to bring resolution: Seven of Pentacles{hard work,growth,money}
present attitude: Temperance{patience,moderation}
helping influences: Three of Pentacles{success through hardwork,business opportunities,artistic ability}
distracting influences: Eight of Pentacles-reversed{lack of ambition,hypocrisy,intrigue}
old focus: Prince of Pentacles-reversed{unfavorable financial news,wasteful,illogical}
new focus: Four of Pentacles{increase of material power and influence}
This means for me to get to where I wish to be I'll have to put in lots of hard work and discipline.I'll also have to overcome some of my less wanted/needed traits.

[Shatril]

I'm curious, Shatril, about what you think of having two kings and two queens in your reading? Do you think this is significant, or do you feel that patterns in the cards don't apply as much for past life readings?
I guess that first King indicates that I was a leader of some sort, probably rather concerned with my subjects. I often have trouble considering myself as anything significant as it seems arrogant. The two queens following are rather reinforcing the leadership roll I guess. There are other cards in the deck that could have given the same meanings, but I got the court cards. I guess that is significant, but I'm not sure what that would read like. I would like your thoughts on this. Your experience is much better than mine. I might be all wet with this. I have trouble interpreting for myself, as I'm always seeing just good things and always leadership rolls. Based on this life, I have a leadership roll in my chosen profession, however, it is a limited number of people that would even know about me. It has made my life comfortable relative to this, and that King speaks volumes about who I am. Maybe this farther past life was similar to this one only in a counselor type of atmospher, who knows maybe I was Carl Jung. hehehehe

[Flaire]

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

As I've read in many places, a signifier is usually a court card. I suck at court cards, but after reading through the meanings of them on learntarot, I have concluded that I am a mix of the King and Queen of Swords. (Moreover, I've done a few of those quizzes that come around here every so often, and I get QoS there, too. This is just an afterthought. )

The King is an analytical man. He thoroughly thinks things through before doing them. This is one of the main reasons why I hate making decisions. Most often I weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

The Queen is honest and witty. One of my defense mechanisms is to make humor in hard times. People hate me for it, but it works for me. :wth: Then again, people tell me I'm witty, so...
Also, above all else, I cherish honesty in people, and I, myself, am an honest person.

2. Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.

I cannot recall where I got this spread from, but I have been using it since last May (probably) and it has done me very well. :)

It is called a General Lay. (simple enough. :lol: )

Card 1: Situation at Hand
Card 2: Obstacles, hinderances or negative influences
Card 3: Wishes, hopes or beneficial influences
Card 4: Things in the past that effect the present situation
Card 5: Things coming into being that will effect the situation
Card 6: The outcome as it coudl be if all continues as it is without change

--
Card 1: 8 of Cups
Card 2: 10 of Pentacles
Card 3: 5 of Cups
Card 4: Page of Cups
Card 5: The Lovers
Card 6: Strength

I'd have to say that this is a reading where emotions and romantic relationships are concerned - not only by the Lovers showing up, but by the fact that half the cards are Cups! Also that the 10 of Pentacles is a relationship card as well.

I wasn't doing a reading for anyone in particular, however, if this one comes back to bite me...Yikes!

[Amethyst Rose]

I guess that first King indicates that I was a leader of some sort, probably rather concerned with my subjects. I often have trouble considering myself as anything significant as it seems arrogant. The two queens following are rather reinforcing the leadership roll I guess. There are other cards in the deck that could have given the same meanings, but I got the court cards. I guess that is significant, but I'm not sure what that would read like. I would like your thoughts on this. Your experience is much better than mine.

I hesitate to say what it means in these readings, because I very rarely use past life spreads myself, that's why I wanted to know what you thought about it. :) However, typically in a reading, getting a lof of kings indicates authority, power and courage....sometimes a father figure. The queens tend to signify a mother figure, caring, stable, fair, also an authority figure, but not as much as a king. Perhaps getting so many in a past life reading indicates a strong marriage or partnership? I donno, just guessing there. I have more to say, but my snot filled brain isn't getting it out right. I'll come back to this later. :)

[CanisFirebrand]

I edited my post on page 2 with half of my extra credit. I want to test my spread before using it and posting the results. :)

[Raven Reed]

Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.

When I use a signifier, I am always tempted to use The Moon. I am moody, suffer from anxiety, and frequently feel I have lost my way in life. But I don’t want to use a card for negative reasons so I don’t use it.

So far, if I use a signifier, I have used The Fool. Everyday is a new beginning, and my path on the Tarot is just beginning, so I feel it is appropriate, and more positive than The Moon. But I think there is a better choice for me, something that I am working towards as I move away from my “Moon” phase.

I choose The High Priestess. I am waiting to find my new path, but I am moving forward and hopefully gathering wisdom along the way. The secretive, mysterious, inward-looking nature of the High Priestess appeals to my Scorpio soul. And I am developing my spiritual self even as other parts of my life are somewhat stagnant. The Goddess Tarot uses the Wisdom card as The High Priestess. That is the card I used as my favorite Major Arcana card. Perhaps not by chance. :smile:

Find a tarot spread, not listed in the lesson, describe the layout and meaning of the cards. Do a reading for yourself using this spread and tell me the outcome. Pay attention to any patterns in the cards and mention them and what they mean in your description of the outcome of the reading. You do not have to post the reading.

This came from another Tarot class that I just started. The spread is by Don S., and his website is http://www.nodntap.net/tarot/whats_new.shtml. It has some good stuff. I am quoting him directly:

All Around Daily Forecast Spread [AADF Spread]

The AADF spread is based around my Daily Outlook Spread, the Shadow card, and the Action card. This spread allows you to use 5 cards to do an all around daily forecast.

Card Layout

..... 1 .....
2 . 3 . 4 . 5

Shuffle and cut as normal.

Card #1 - Elemental Influence Card
Deal cards out onto position #1 until a Pip card (Ace to 10) turns up.

Card #1 is NOT read as normal. It is used ONLY to find the 'Primary Elemental Influence' for your day. Taking on the aspects of this element and using it's will help you through your day.

Wands/Fire - You need to be active and motivated today.
Swords/Air - You need to think before you end up stepping off the deep end.
Cups/Water - Use your intuition today and don't be afraid to let your emotions show.
Pentacles/Earth - Stay stable and grounded today. Take some time to look around and enjoy nature, family, and life.

Card #2: Your Daily Draw Card
Use the next card that comes up in this position as you normally would use/read your Daily Draw Card.

Card #3: Your Persona Card
Deal cards out in this position until a Court card comes up. Use whatever court card comes up and take on it's persona for your day.

Card #4:Your Shadow Card [Or Hidden Influences card].
Take the bottom card from your deck and place it a position #4. This is called your daily 'shadow card or hidden influence' card. This card represents the hidden aspects of you and your day as well as giving you a better idea of your daily focus, and a daily dose of wisdom, [thanks Diana for the extra goodies on this card].

Card #5: Action Card
"This card will suggest a concrete action that the querent can take that will help their situation. It may involve others or it may simply be a way that they can nurture themselves until their difficulty ends. Not every situation can be changed, but sometimes just having something constructive to do in the meantime can be a great anxiety reliever."

Note: If you happen to run out of cards [not likely but possible] then start the whole procedure over.

If you come up with a lot of conflicting cards/elements this might mean you're in for a bear of a day. On the other hand it might actually energize your day.


Here is my draw for the day…

Card #1 (Elemental Influence) – I drew a Sword.
"You need to think before you end up stepping off the deep end."

Card #2 (Daily Draw) – Queen of Swords
A dark haired woman sits on a stone throne. She is in profile. On her head is a crown reminiscent of those of ancient Egypt. She is wearing pale pink, gowned and jeweled. In her hand is a sword pointing downward. The gold, lotus shaped handle has the venus symbol on it, as does the blade. She is surrounded by lotus blossoms.

Card #3 (Personal Card) - (Prince of Staves) Page of Wands
A young, red haired boy stands with a stave in his hand. It is covered in buds. He wears a circlet on his head. Hi is dressed in light colors, with a red cloak that appears to be blowing in the wind. Behind him are rocks.

Card #4 (Shadow Card) – 5 of Staves (Wands)-reversed
Five red haired women face each other, all holding staves. Four are crossing staves, one leans back, ready to swing. It appears in the card that they are all aspects of the same woman.

Card # 5 (Action Card) – 0 Beginnings (The Fool)
The goddess Tara, gowned in light gold and maroon and wearing a crown, looks over her shoulder at us. She stands on a grassy precipice. Before her is a fertile valley, with steep rocky mountains in the background. Around the border of the card is trees.

Ah. Interesting, my cards are fire and air, even The Fool is air, I believe. Looks like I need to keep my head today, both my first and last card emphasize this. I also need to act the part of the Page of Wands by letting my creativity and confidence flow… The Queen of Swords tells me to be honest with myself, and that with the 5 of Wands tells me to look out for self-deception.

I will post extra credit later, I am still working on it. :)

[Shatril]

I hesitate to say what it means in these readings, because I very rarely use past life spreads myself, that's why I wanted to know what you thought about it. :) However, typically in a reading, getting a lof of kings indicates authority, power and courage....sometimes a father figure. The queens tend to signify a mother figure, caring, stable, fair, also an authority figure, but not as much as a king. Perhaps getting so many in a past life reading indicates a strong marriage or partnership? I donno, just guessing there. I have more to say, but my snot filled brain isn't getting it out right. I'll come back to this later. :)
Ok well that is helpful there. If you look at what the reading explains is the meaning within a certain position then your explanation of the cards makes it a little easier to firgure out. I'm still trying to figure out if I was a man or woman in these lives. The cards fell rather weirdly. In the one with all the kings and queens, I think I was probably a woman, and the matriarch of the family. In other words my husband croaked and left me the family to take care of. It looks like I might have been successful at that, at least by my own standards of the time. I found it most interesting that I would have my significator as the last draw in the second past life as how the past life is manifesting in this life. Somehow I think that is significant for the validity of this reading. Thx for the insights. They were very helpful.

I honestly am not really experienced with any readings so any input will help me grow.

Shatril

[linaXgrazzada]

Hey there....don't forget to do a reading on yourself using this spread, and tell me about the outcome and any patterns you see in the cards. :)
4 7
2 5 8
3 6 9

the first column describes one person in the relationship
1= how the first person feels
2=what the first person needs
3= what the first person expects from the relationship

the last column describes the other person in the relationship
7= how the second person feels
8= what the second person needs
9= what the second person expects from the relationship

the middle column shows different things about the relationship
4= what the relationship is founded
5= what the relationship needs
6= the future of the relationship

i did the reading for me and my boyfriend
1= (i'm the first column he's the third) King of swords- I am the experienced and controlling one in the relationship. I'm older than him so this makes sense. i keep him on a bit of a leash lol
2= 8 of pentacles- I need more effort from him towards therelationship
3=judgement- i expect development and a new begining with him. that makes sense because before chris I was in 5 year relationship. he is a new begining for me.
4=3 of swords- that weird it reads that it's built on resentment and strife but I have no idea where from. maybe its just over my head at this time
5=6 of swords- the relationship needs to progress and it needs sacrifice
6=10 of swords- (all three cards are swords could that mean something in itself?)ok i know this isn't good, basically right now its not going anywhere, but i know we probably both need to work harder anyways
7=10 of wands-he feels like hes trying to meet a goal in the relationship. maybe taking it to the next level.
8=page of swords- he needs to be young and not serious and he needs someone who will tell him everything maybe. that ones a bit hard to dicypher
9= the high preistess-maybe hes expecting this to not go very serious. i can see that because I will be moving soon after the summer.

[Willow Rosette]

Sorry it has taken me so long to do a reading with my spread. But here it is. To remind you I am using the circle spread and it looks something like this (but looks much better with the cards). Ok very bad picture of it but it looks like a circle.

--------------------------------8

----------------------7------------------9

--------6-----------------------1-------------------2

----------------------5---------------------3

----------------------------------4

I have never used a signifier card before so Im not 100% sure I did that right. But I put the chariot in the middle as number 1.

#2 is Mental aspects This is what I need to do to create mental balance.

I drew Knight of Swords.(upright) It has a man sittling on a large black cat dressed as a warrior holding a very large sword. The cat is rearing up like a horse would. I think this would signify strength and the need to keep going or pushing through. The lwb meaning is: Bravery, Skill, Capacity, The strength and dash of a young man. Heroic action. Opposition and war. Impetious rush into the unknown with out fear.

#3 is Relationships and I pulled The two of pentacles. And I know this card means the weighing of two options (it was my favorites minor arcana card). This card hit it on the head as far as relationships go. It has a woman holding to pentacles one each hand. She is looking back and forth trying to decide which one.

#4 is Creative Insperation and what I need to work on to achieve balance in this aspect of my life. For this card I pulled Seven of cups. It has a man kind of presenting seven cups that are floating. Above one is The image of a cats face with a white light around the face. I had to pull the lwb for the meaning of this card and it says: Fantasy, Unrelistic attitudes, Imagination, Daydreams, Foolish whims, wishful thinking, illusionary success. So I think it is telling me to find balance in my creative life I need to look towards my imaginations and fantisies.

#5 is Actions. The positive Actions needed in my development. I pulled the Queen of Pentacles. This card has a woman very elaborately dressed holding a staff with a pentacle on the top. She has a large cat laying beside her and two pentacles painted on the wall behind her shoulder with cats faces in the middle. She is looking to the right of the card which would be the future I believe. She looks happy and content. Prosperous and secure in her self. The lwb book says Prosperity and well-being, Wealth, Abundance, Luxury, Opulence, Extreme comfort, Generosity, Security, Liberty, Magnificance, Grace, Dignity, A rich person who is generous, and charatable. A noble soul. So I am thinking maybe this card is telling me in my actions I need to become more generous and charitable. And to hold my self to a higher place. I could use some help on this one.

#6 is My emotional aspects. And what I need to do to achieve balance there. For this one I pulled The Sun (my only reversed card) Im not exactly sure on this card as I havent spent any time with it but it has a man and a woman in matching robes backs to the quarent holding hands and looking at each other. In between them is the sun. But it is in the shape of a Lion. This is a beautiful card that upright I see hope and warmthand rejoicing. I always get good feelings when I see a lion as I am a Leo. I think because it is a man and a woman and is signifying my emotional aspects it would indicate being lonley, maybe in general a mild depression even though at the moment I am well I think it might indicate that some. The lwb says: Unhappiness, Loneliness, Possible a broken engagment or marriage. Canceled plans. Triumph delayed although not necessarily completly lost. Clouded future. Lack of friendship. This card as well is very accurate.

#7 stands for Subconsious Aspects. What is blocking or needed to aide the progress of life. For this card that I think of as the advice card I pulled the Ace of Swords. As with my number 2 card this one as well is of a warrior. He holds a sword as well as a shield with a cat in the middle. Although he is not dressed as warrior like as my number 2 card was. Im not sure what I see just looking at it so im going to pull up the lwb. It says: Great determination, initiative, Strength, Force, Activity, Excessivness, Triumph, Power, Success, Fertility, Prosperity, Deep emotional feeling, Love, Championship. Conquest. I might just be to close to this one but I dont see how it relates to my subconsious. Is it telling me I need to aquire those things? I already have them and need to lean on them? Im not sure on this one either.

#8 is Practicle matters and what I need to do to aquire balance in this area. This card is the four of pentacles. It has a woman sitting alone. Her cat is sitting away from her and watching. she is hoarding four different size pentacles. I know this card to mean hoarding and being alone. The meaning of the lwb is: Love of material wealth, Hoarder, Usurer, Skinflint, Miser, Ungenerous person, Inability to share. OK with this card alone and issues in my life I would think that maybe I should hold on to money more and not spend it or give it away since this card does stand for practical matters. But my number five card was to be generous. I have never been good at looking at the other cards around the one I am reading so normally I would take it all by its self. Maybe number 5 is I need to be more generous of my self and this one indeed means to hold my money closer so that I will have enough to move with? I would love to know if how I see this is right.

#9 is Inner Strength and which strengths inside of myself to draw upon. For this last card I drew the nine of cups. Dont know if this means anything but does a nine card in the ninth position mean something? Anyway it has a man holding a simple staff with a cats head on top and is holding a cup in the palm of his hand with bubbles or steam comming out of the top. His robes are simple yet a rich gold color. He has his other eight cups stacked in a nice order on the ground nicely. He is looking at the one in his hand and is watching the steam move upward. I see orginazition, much success, and wealth. The lwb meaning is: Success, Material attainment, advantage, well being, abundance, Good health, Victory, Difficulties surmounted.

So maybe this reading is telling me all will be fine. If I keep my money close but give of my self I will end up where I need to be. Thats how I see it, I cant wait for input into it.

**Edit** I hadnt considered patterns or anything like that untill I read Anubis' post. Thanks Anubis for the new thoughts. I think the cards I drew were pretty well balanced as well. I had 2 major Arcana cards, 2 swords, 3 pentacles and 2 cups. hhhhmmmm I had no wands. Ok so maybe they werent so balanced. Does that mean I am missing air? im not sure what else.

[Anubis RainHawk]

Significator: Finding my significator was a difficult process because I couldn't decide which card was right for me. In the end, I decided to go by astrology and the traditonal hair/skin color correspondence to come up with the Page of Pentacles as my significator. I feel it is my significator because Pentacles correspond to earth signs, dark hair, and olive skin color-all of which I possess. I also chose the Page because it represents a young male.

According to Robin Wood, the Page of Pentacles represents a scholarly ans studious young person, and as a student, I can relate to that description. Also, the Page of Penatacles is a very trustworthy and reliable person, and after recieving an award for reliabiliy at school, I guess it would apply to me.

I was also considering using the Hermit as my significator. The Hermit corresponds to my astrological sun sign (Virgo) but also imbodies the role of an active seeker, like myself. To me, the Hermit is on a continual journey to understanding himself, the gods, and the world around him, which is something I do as well.

sources: http://www3.sympatico.ca/terrir/spreads.html, Robin Wood Tarot: The Book, www.learntarot.com

Spread: Goddess in very position

1----------------2-------------3------------------7-----------------4------------------5-----------
Artemis Athena Hestia Aphrodite Hera Demeter
---6---
Persephone

The spread was created so that one would be able to commune with the goddesses and also get specific advise on how to improve aspects of thier lives. The correspondence are:
Artemis-Victory
Athena-Wisdom, goals
Hestia-Spirituality
Hera-relationships
Demeter-Nurturing
Persephone-Dreams/Psychism
Aphrodite-Love, inspiration

There are no set questions are meanings for positions like other spreads. Rather, the creator left the questions and meanings up to the reader based on what each goddess represents.

1)How can I win? The Hermit. Basically this card is telling me that I need to continue seeking and searching to be victorious and successful. Intutively, I feel it's telling me to continue researching and studying to become more successful and happy. Though it may seem very obvious that you will become successful if you study, I feel it's specific to me because the cards could say many other things.

2)How can I apply wisdom to my life? 3 of Swords. This is a little harder to interpret. My first guess would be to follow my beliefs even wthen I'm not happy about it. Maybe Athena's trying to tell me that pain and suffering are where I'd be able to learn difficult lessons and apply it to life. I guess it could also mean following my heart and being true to myself even it's difficult to do. Looking at the card, I feel that it's showing my heart being stabled.

3)How can I grow spiritually? 7 of Cups. This card suggests that I dream big to grow. The higher I raise the bar on possiblities, the more that can happen. The card can also suggest meditation, which can apply to me because I have not been able to practice meditation as often as I would like. It could also mean doing things, in my case, rituals and spells. Because I have not done many in a while, it could suggest at time of action in those areas.

4)How can I improve/maintain my relationships? Knight of Swords. My first inclination of this card in this spread would be to be logical. I think this card is specifically suggesting that I think before I speak and act. It can also indicate that I should be aware of others feelings and reactions to my speach and actions.

5)How do I nurture myself? 8 of Cups. I nurture and help myself feel beter my turning away and avioding situations. I make myself feel better by walking away from the problem and not really facing my fear. What I need to understand is that facing my fear can be the most nurturing thing right now because I'll be able to learn and grow from the experiences.

6)What psychic message do I need to bring into the light? 4 of Pentacles. I'm holding onto too much from the past. Once I let these things go, I can become more free and open to other things. What this card is suggesting is that I examine things in my life to understand what things no longer serve and to rid myself of them so I can grow.

7)What do I find beautiful about this situation? The High Priestess. What I like about the situation is that it's mysterious and mystical, yet sacred and divine. I like that all the answers are open to me, I just need to look for them. The card suggests that I find balance, wisdom, and beauty in my everyday life which I find inspiring and lovely.

Patterns:
The first thing I notice is that the reading starts and ends with a major arcana. It's even more interesting because I think they have opposing meanings. The Hermit is searching for knowledge and wisdom and the High Priestess has both. It's possible that this can indicate that I am between both extremes.

I have 2 cups, 2 swords, and one pentacle, so I guess it's showing that I'm preety well balanced between the elements. I see a pattern in the first 5 cards, sword then cup, sword then cup. I'm guessing this can also show balance because they both represent each other's opposite, like in the symbolic inactment of the Great Rite.

source:http://www.tarotpassages.com/Pages2/2000decsprd.htm

Extra Credit: see post #11

Anubis RainHawk

[Raven Reed]

Design your own spread. Explain the layout and meaning of the cards in those positions. Do a reading on yourself or your partner using this spread. Describe the outcome. You do not have to post the reading.

I designed this for runes… does it count?

Year Ahead Spread


*****1*****
***8***5***
*4***9***2*
***7***6***
*****3****

1. First quarter - what to expect.

2. Second quarter - what to expect.

3. Third quarter - what to expect.

4. Fourth quarter - what to expect.

5. Physical issues to deal with throughout the year.

6. Mental issues to deal with throughout the year.

7. Emotional issues to deal with throughout the year.

8. Spiritual issues to deal with throughout the year.

9. How the year will go, overall.

This is my reading…

1. First Quarter – King Of Staves (Wands) –reversed.
A red haired man sits, holding a budded stave. He is dressed in white, wearing a red cloak with a jeweled cloak fastener. He wears a crown. He is facing the right. There are rocks at his feet.

Not taking chances, lack of creativity. Unable to bring ideas to fruition.

2. Second Quarter – Nine Of Pentacles – reversed.
A dark haired young woman in peach colored dress and veil holds up her hands to a dove. In her other hand is a pentacle within disc bearing a lotus. Around her are eight more pentacles. She stands in a grassy field. Behind her are cultivated trees. Surrounding the trees are mountains.

Overindulgence in material pleasure. Theft, threat to safety.

3. Third Quarter – Seven Of Staves (Wands)
A red haired woman stands holding a stave across her body in defense position. Harassing her are six staves. She is on a precipice. The ground is barren and behind her is a beating sun.

Struggles. Courage in the face of difficulty.

4. Fourth Quarter - Power (Emperor) – reversed
Freyja is in a war chariot drawn by two dull colored cats. The chariot is covered in animal figures. She wears rose with a green cloak. Her hair is braided in the front. She is descending through the clouds down to a cultivated area.

Lack of order, authority issues, lack of structure.

5. Physical Issues – Ten Of Cups – reversed
Above a body of water a rainbow spreads. Ten cups radiate from the rainbow, which is reflected in the water. There are faint mountains in the distance and a moon in the sky.

Inability to experience joy, stagnation.

6. Mental Issues – Six Of Pentacles
Two beggar women sit at the feet of a woman in peach gown and veil. She is covered in jewels and holds a pentacle. Around their heads are five mor pentacles. The earth is bare, and there are mountains in the background.

Helping others. Successes.

7. Emotional Issues – Temptation (Devil)
Through cloudy waves the goddess Nyai Loro Kidul beckons. She looks like a mermaid. She is very faint.

Feeling overwhelmed by circumstances, addiction, feeling lost.

8. Spiritual Issues – Balance (Temperance)
The goddess Yemana walks forth from the sea. She has one foot in the water and one on the sand. She wears a blue dress and pearls. She holds a veil that drapes in the water. There are faint mountains in the background behind the sea.

Seeking harmony, spiritual health

9. Overall Year – Two Of Swords
A young dark haired woman sits blindfolded on a wooden bench. In her hands, in a figure V, are two lotus handled swords. Around her are lotus blossoms. In the background is a large body of water, behind that, mountains.

Balance attained, but issues will have to be confronted.

The first quarter upcoming will be stagnant. The second will be too focused on material matters. The third will see struggles. The fourth, further difficulties in that there will be disorder.

Physically, there will be a discomfort. Mentally, I will be helping others deal with similar problems to my own. Emotionally, I will be dealing with addictions or temptations of some sort. Spiritually I will be working along my path.

Overall, the year will be challenging, but if I work it through, I will come out much better for it.

[Devi]

1. Find your signifier card. Tell me what it is, and why you feel that it suits you.