Tarot Cards: The Three-Card Tarot Spread

The Three-Card Spread of the Tarot is the most popular of all Tarot spreads. The beauty of this spread is its simplicity and versatility. Though typically used to reveal the past, present, and future of a situation, it can be employed to answer any number of questions.

Preparing to Lay Out the Three-Card Spread

A deck of Tarot cards should be treated with care. It is generally a good idea to keep your Tarot cards wrapped in a black cloth when not in use. When preparing to read the cards, regardless of the spread used, this cloth can be set down to protect the cards from dirt and debris.

The Major Arcana and Minor Arcana should be shuffled together. While some Tarot readers have a particular method of shuffling, the manner in which the cards are shuffled is unimportant. It is best to say that the cards should be shuffled as you see fit.

Once shuffled, all seventy-eight cards should be spread face-down in a fan-shape. Three cards should be selected and placed face-up on the black cloth. These are the three cards which will be read for the Three-Card Spread.

Reading the Three-Card Spread

The positions of the Three-Card Tarot Spread are simple enough. Three cards are placed beside each other and read left to right. Though usually these cards are considered to represent the past, present, and future, there are numerous other interpretations. You can change the context of the reading with your own creativity.

The positions of the Three-Card Spread are:

1. Past: This card typically represents the influences that are losing their potency in regards to the current situation. This card can also represent the background of the situation. In other interpretations, it can be considered to be the card that relates to the mind and thought.
2. Present: The card in this position reveals the state of the present situation. This card often describes the root of the problem that is being faced. In other interpretations, it can also be the card that is connected to the body and physical influences.
3. Future: Though this card is typically seen as predicting the future, it can also offer advice on how to best deal with the situation at hand. In other interpretations, it is sometimes considered to be the spiritual card of the Three-Card Spread, and can be seen as relating to the spiritual part of the problem.

The Three-Card Spread is common among most Tarot readers, both new and experienced. Its simplicity and versatility make it a reliable option for many different types of questions.