The past, present and future spreads are old time Tarot classics. They’re a great spread for Tarot readers seeking insight into how a situation has progressed or regressed over time, or indeed how the past continues to affect the subject now and in the future.
When using other spreads such as the Celtic Cross or The Simply Tarot Spread, Subjects can be left wanting more information or detail about their present situation and the future outcome. This past, present and future Tarot spread can certainly provide that.
As we have said with other readings, the past is of equal importance to both the present and future depictions in the reading. The Subject must always consider what has happened in the past to make the right decision now to get the future they want.
The past, present and future won’t provide as much context as, say, a Celtic Cross; only the 1st card drawn and the centre card have any particular contextual significance over and above time-frame. Quite obviously beyond that, the first 3 cards represent the relevant past, the next 3 cards reflect the current situation, and the last 3 indicate the future as thing stand now.
Reading the Past, Present and Future Tarot spread
Here’s a some more detailed guidance on reading the spread, and the way in which the various positions relate to one another.
First Card drawn Significator
The card in position 1 is one of 3 that collectively represent the Subject’s past. This card also acts as a significator; representing the Subject and telling the Reader a bit about that person or their overriding feelings about a situation.
Centre Card (Position 5) The Crux
The centre card depicts what is at the crux, or the heart, of the matter and what all things in this situation revolve around now. In some ways it is like the Conflict position in the Celtic Cross but it differs mainly because in happy times it can reflect positive situations and influences.
1 2 3 Past
Collectively, these cards will highlight people, situations or influences from the past that still have an affect on the Subject. For example, if the Subject was hurt in their last relationship it is likely that they will fear getting hurt in the same way again and this may prevent them from entering into a new relationship. These cards may also be trying to show the person that they have learned a lesson in their past that will be of use to them now.
4 5 6 Present
These 3 cards will illustrate the current situation and key people who may bear influence. Consider these cards against both the 1st card drawn and the centre card to build up detail and to understand the Subject’s emotional reaction to a situation.
7 8 9 Future
The natural follow on, or outcome for the Subject. It is really important to know that the outcome is based on what is happening now. If the Subject continues to deal with their situation in the same way, this is where they are likely to end up. If a different approach is taken the future is likely to differ accordingly. This should be a point of motivation for most people.
A lot of people seeking Tarot readings do so to know what is ahead of them. In understanding what is stated above there should be an acceptance that the Subject has the ability to change their own future and shouldn’t always be taking a passive role.