Today, we delve into the fascinating world of the Egyptian Tarot and a unique spread known as the Ankh.
A Bridge Between Worlds: The Egyptian Tarot
Unlike the widely used Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot we know today, the Egyptian Tarot isn't a single, historical deck. The concept of Tarot decks emerged much later in Europe (around the 14th-15th centuries). However, some modern decks draw inspiration from ancient Egyptian symbolism, deities, and beliefs. These decks act as a bridge between the elaborate pantheon of Egyptian gods and the introspective world of Tarot.
The Ankh: Symbol of Life and the Key to the Spread
The Ankh spread takes its name and central symbol from the ankh, an ancient Egyptian hieroglyph representing life, eternity, and the key to the afterlife. This powerful symbol, shaped like a cross with a loop at the top, is central to understanding the spread's layout and interpretation.
The Layout: A Gateway to Understanding
The Ankh spread uses a unique layout that reflects the ankh symbol itself. Here's a breakdown of the card positions:
- Top Loop (Divine Sphere): This position, represented by the loop of the ankh, signifies the spiritual realm, divine influences, and overarching themes impacting your situation.
- Crossbar (Duality): The horizontal bar of the ankh represents the balance between opposing forces, challenges, and opportunities. Two cards are placed here, one on either side.
- Vertical Staff (Foundation): This position, represented by the vertical line of the ankh, signifies the foundation or root cause of your situation, the core issues you're facing.
- Looking Forward (Outcome): Two cards are placed diagonally below the crossbar, pointing downwards. These cards represent the potential future or likely outcome based on the current situation.
Interpreting the Ankh: A Holistic Approach
Unlike some linear Tarot spreads, the Ankh spread encourages a holistic approach to interpretation. Consider the cards in each position and how they interact with each other.
- The Divine Sphere: The cards here set the stage for the entire reading. They reveal the overarching influences, spiritual guidance, or karmic themes at play.
- The Duality: The cards on the crossbar represent the opposing forces or challenges you face. One card might represent an obstacle, while the other offers a potential solution or contrasting perspective.
- The Foundation: The cards in the vertical staff position reveal the root cause of the situation. It's the foundation upon which everything else rests.
- Looking Forward: The two cards pointing downwards offer glimpses into potential outcomes. They don't necessarily predict the future set in stone, but rather the most likely course of action based on the current situation and your choices.
Benefits of the Ankh Spread
The Ankh spread offers a unique way to explore a situation:
- Focus on Root Causes: The emphasis on the foundation cards helps you identify the core issues you need to address.
- Balancing Opposites: The duality position encourages you to consider different perspectives and find a balanced approach.
- Spiritual Guidance: The emphasis on the divine sphere provides insight into the broader forces at play.
- Potential Outcomes: The spread allows you to explore likely consequences based on your current path.
Finding Your Egyptian Tarot Deck
If you're curious to explore the Egyptian Tarot, you'll find a variety of decks available. Some popular options include:
- The Hierophant Egyptian Tarot: This deck features vibrant illustrations inspired by Egyptian deities and hieroglyphs.
- The Book of Thoth Tarot: Created by Aleister Crowley, this deck has a complex system based on his interpretation of Egyptian symbolism.
- The Rosetta Tarot: This deck uses imagery inspired by ancient Egyptian artifacts and the Rosetta Stone.
Remember: When choosing a deck, go with the one that resonates most with you visually and intuitively. I myself use a Lo Scarabeo deck.
A Final Note: A Bridge, Not a Replica
It's important to remember that the Egyptian Tarot isn't a direct descendant of ancient Egyptian practices. It's a modern creation drawing inspiration from that rich civilisation. However, it offers a fascinating way to connect with the symbolism and mythology of ancient Egypt while exploring your own life through the lens of Tarot.