Tarot Cards: The Tetractys Tarot Spread

The Tetractys Spread of the Tarot is a unique and powerful spread. Of all the Tarot spreads, this is the one said to provide a method for forecasting future events. While these events will not be true ‘predictions,’ the Tetractys Spread can at least reveal the most likely outcome in greater detail than most other spreads.

Preparing to Lay Out the Tetractys Spread

In order to successfully cast and read the Tetractys Spread, you must focus fully and completely on the task at hand. Since this spread is a little more complicated to interpret than most of the other spreads, it is important that your focus not waver. Many readers like to meditate before this spread is cast, and some will even remain in a meditative state during the entire reading.

For the Tetractys Spread, both the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana should be shuffled together. You should shuffle until you feel that the cards are shuffled enough. There’s not really any firm rules when it comes to shuffling Tarot cards.

Once shuffled, all seventy-eight Tarot cards should be spread face-down in a fan-shape. Ten cards should be selected and placed face-up on the black cloth in the shape of a tetractys.

Reading the Tetractys Spread

Each of the ten positions of the Tetractys Spread has a specific meaning. The positions and their meanings are:

1. Significator: This card represents the premise of the entire reading. This forms a foundation for understanding all the other cards. This card should be referred to when interpreting all other cards.
2. Dark Card: This card indicates the possible reaction of the cosmos or the world at large to the actions of the individual.
3. Light Card: This card reveals the influences of the cosmos or the world at large that lead to the actions of the individual.
4. Destroyer Card: This card represents past decisions and directions that should not be allowed to continue.
5. Sustainer Card: This card indicates those things that are stable and should not change.
6. Creator Card: This card is indicative of new decisions and directions that should be pursued.
7. Earth Card: This card is a physical card, representing physical realities and day-to-day living.
8. Water Card: This card is an emotional card, revealing feelings, emotions, and whims.
9. Air Card: This card is an intellectual card, indicating thoughts, feelings, goals, and the power of the mind.
10. Fire Card: This card is a passionate card, representing ambitions, creative forces, and the raw power of will.

The Tetractys Spread of the Tarot is a little more complicated than spreads such as the Celtic Cross Spread or the Horseshoe Spread, and so takes some practice to master. It is a powerful spread for those seeking detailed information and advice regarding complex situations.