In today’s episode, we’re exploring the From The Grave Tarot Spread by Pamela Adkins of The Tarot Midwife—a five-card ritual for connecting with spirit, receiving ancestral guidance, and embracing transformation during the season of death and renewal.
What we explore in this episode:
From The Grave Tarot Spread by Pamela Adkins of The Tarot Midwife
How to use tarot as a bridge between the living and the departed
Receive messages of guidance, closure, and renewal from the other side
From The Grave Tarot Spread The From the Grave Tarot Spread—also known as La Danse Macabre or The Dance of Death—comes from Pamela Adkins of The Tarot Midwife. It’s designed as a conversation with spirit, a way to receive messages from those who have passed or to understand what the unseen world wants to teach you about your current path.
This spread invites you to face mortality not with fear, but with reverence.
Note: It’s recommended to perform this spread somewhere quiet, perhaps even at a gravesite, or with ancestral offerings nearby. You may wish to light a candle, set out photos or mementos, and say aloud who you’re inviting to join the reading.
Credit From The Grave Tarot Spread by Pamela Adkins of The Tarot Midwife
1. What situation in your life would the spirit like to address? - Five of Jugs (Five of Cups)
Loss and disappointment. The spirits draw attention to what has already spilled—relationships, opportunities, expectations. The Five of Jugs reminds us that clinging to what’s gone keeps us anchored in grief. The message: forgive yourself and move forward one day at a time.
2. What would the spirit like you to know about this situation? - Ace of Chilies (Reversed)
Your passion flickers, but it isn’t gone. The reversed Ace of Chilies (Wands) suggests that inspiration will return once you stop waiting for permission. Spirit wants you to know that the fire is already within you—it simply needs oxygen to burn brighter.
3. What advice does the spirit have for you? - The Hermit (Reversed)
You’ve walked the lonely path long enough. The Hermit reversed urges you to reach out for connection, mentorship, or guidance. Wisdom grows not only in solitude but in shared experience. Spirit’s advice: You don’t have to do this alone.
4. What will become of the situation if you follow this advice? - Eight of Chilies (Wands)
Momentum returns. The Eight of Chilies is a card of acceleration and clarity—of movement that feels blessed. When you allow yourself to receive support, everything begins to align. What once felt heavy now feels destined.
5. Parting Message from Spirit - Wheel of Fortune (Reversed)
The only constant is change. Spirit reminds you that life’s wheel keeps turning, no matter how tightly you cling to control. There is no “perfect outcome,” only participation. Surrender, spin the wheel, and trust yourself to meet whatever comes with grace.
Ways to Connect & Support