- Observe, in the chart, the relative phase of the Sun and Moon. If they are in a house together, this is a �new moon� placement, and indicates a seeding process that may be invisible and an intense focus on internal issues of the question. The Sun and Moon in opposite houses are like a �full moon� and show an outward, relating quality-the matter at hand is coming into full bloom.
- A �new moon� or �full moon� combination, with one of the Nodes sharing a house with the Sun or Moon, is like an eclipse. (This is always the physical zodiac relationship of the Sun, Moon, and Nodes during an actual eclipse.) If this relationship appears in a spread, be aware that this is a treacherous and delicate condition. The querent should proceed with great care in matters regarding their question and should examine their deepest emotions before making irrevocable decisions. Timing is critical to success if an eclipse placement appears; specific goals may not come to the desired result.
- Examine major aspects, the elemental balance of planets� zodiac placements, and the number of planets above or below the horizon; or emphasis on a particular quadrant.
- Other modern astrological methods can be added to this spread technique�feel free to experiment. Etteilla�s technique lends itself to tinkering and updating. Those who prefer historical accuracy may follow Etteilla�s directions precisely and be well served by the results. Using modern decks with alternate attribution systems may streamline the learning process for some readers unfamiliar with the Grand Etteilla deck or the Tarot de Marseille.
As a final remark about this spread, the derived horoscope seems to have an amazingly synchronous resemblance to the actual activity in a client�s chart. In the several experimental readings performed while writing this article, the spread-derived horoscopes yielded placements reflecting areas of significant activity in the actual birth chart as seen through typical forecasting techniques. It is reasonable to suspect that Etteilla, as a practicing astrologer, had some notion of this synchronicity. His spread technique seems to take advantage of this apparent (yet unproven) harmony between astrology and Tarot. Etteilla�s spread demonstrates how these very different methods�Tarot and astrology�can inform and mutually reinforce each other through reiterating themes of delineation.
