365 Tarot Spreads: Revealing the Magic in Each Day - Sasha Graham 2014

Emperor Card Spread

On This Day

The design for the Emperor has changed very little through the centuries, whereas other iconic cards such as the High Priestess and the Fool have experienced radical symbolic transformations.

Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius gave his son Commodus the rank of Supreme Commander of the Roman Legions on this day in 176 CE.

Summation of Spread

The Emperor represents the idea of power, governmental authority, and male qualities of assertiveness, creative energy, directed action, and troubleshooting. Showing creative potential in action, organized and rational, his authority extends to the material realm but is lacking in the passion belonging to the Empress.

Ancient Roman emperors are the ideal archetype for tarot’s Emperor card. The Emperor Card Spread is based on symbols found in the Emperor card.

Cast Your Cards

Use this spread to answer any question. Format your question before casting the spread or simply let the cards answer the questions posed. Pull the Emperor card from your deck. Place it in the center of the spread and cast your cards around it as follows:

1. Throne: What is the stability I have created?

2. Bulls: How am I headstrong?

3. Ankh: What is eternal?

4. Ball: Where can I exercise power?

5. Crown: How do I connect with spirit?

6. River: How do I remain emotionally resilient?

7. Mountain Range: What do I leave behind?

8. Armor: How am I responsible?