Three card spread

A three card spread is a simple divination layout that symbolizes past, present, and future in a Tarot reading. Three card spreads may also be used with runes, or other oracles that include random drawing. Another interpretation involves reading the first card as the present, the second as the obstacles in a given situation, and the third card as the outcome.

If a querant does not feel comfortable predicting the future, it can instead be read that the first card represents that which is decreasing in influence in the situation and the future card (instead of representing a possible outcome to be achieved or avoided) as that which is increasing in influence.

Example

Bob is doing a reading for himself about "How can I feel more content about my place in the world?"

He deals:

• Past: The Nine of Wands
• Present: The Emperor
• Future: The Four of Wands

He reads this as, up until now he's been holding it together, dealing with the shit when it comes but not taking any forward action. It's all been holding position. Now he has an opportunity to make a real plan to sort out his life, bring order to the current chaos, and follow it. Ironically, it is by imposing some order on his life that gives him the chance to feel free and content in the future.

Other Uses

The three-card spread can be used to represent any number of different trinities, such as Body, Mind and Spirit; Problem, Analysis and Goal; Me, You and Us; etc.