Tarotsmith
Tarotsmith Shadow Alchemy
Tarotsmith Horoscopes
Celtic Cross Spread
Difficulty: Average
This is probably the most well-known tarot spread. A good, basic spread for beginners to practise with, the Celtic Cross is useful for questions of all types. In this spread, it can be helpful to notice the relationships between the pairings of cards #5 & #9, #1 & #2, #3 & #4, and #6 & #10.
- The significator epitomizes what the reading deals with, the initial situation.
- An added impulse that compounds the significator, which may be either complimentary or contradictory.
- This is what is consciously known (thoughts).
- Unconscious driving forces that may not be known fully (emotions).
- The immediate past regarding the current situation.
- The first future card indicates the immediate future.
- This card represents the reader and their attitude towards cards #1 and #2.
- The external influences, the places and people which influence the topic.
- This tarot card suggests expectations; what is secretly hoped for or feared.
- The second future card reveals the long-term outcome.
Your Celtic Cross Reading
The Crown |
The Outcome XIII – Death
External Forces  XV – The Devil
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The Recent Past XIX – The Sun |
The Crossing Card
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The Future XXI – The World |
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The Significator represents what the main theme of the reading deals with, the initial situation.
X – The Wheel of Fortune
Delay in new beginnings or missing out on new opportunities. Having resistance to change. Unexpected problems and obstacles. Fate is not smiling at you right now. 'Shit happens' but 'this too shall pass'. Getting caught up in the dramas of life.
The Crossing Card denotes an added impulse that compounds the initial card, whether complimentary or contradictory.
VII – The Chariot
Taking control of conflicting forces within a project. Moving forward despite these conflicting forces. Using strength of will to get things done. Taking personal responsibility for something. A positive outcome is suggested.
The Crown stands for what the asker is aware of consciously.
VI – The Lovers
A relationship ending or turning sour (it may or may not be romantic). 'Star-crossed lovers;' an ill-fated relationship. The inability to make a choice for any number of reasons – fearing to commit to a decision, being indecisive, or having inner conflict. Choosing the 'low road' in life.
Foundation card reveals unconscious driving forces that the querent may not be aware of.
XVI – The Tower
The collapse of a project or situation, especially when it forces you to revaluate your core values. Someone who challenges your beliefs or forces you to revaluate your life. Being forced out of your comfort zone. Losing your temper, i.e., blowing your top.
The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.
XIX – The Sun
Enjoying or celebrating success. Having energy and vitality, being optimistic and active. Triumph over obstacles. Recognition for work done. Trusting others and experiencing a sense of unity. Coming out of a dark period. Critical reasoning leads to clarity and understanding.
The Future depicts that which lies ahead.
VII – The Chariot
Taking control of conflicting forces within a project. Moving forward despite these conflicting forces. Using strength of will to get things done. Taking personal responsibility for something. A positive outcome is suggested.
The Querent represents the asker and their attitude towards the subject of the reading.
IV – The Emperor
The Father archetype, which implies things like strictness, providing for others, and having respect and recognition from others. The ability to rationally resolve issues and problems. Having structure, stability, and order in your life. An authority figure, a person who is in a position of power.
External Forces represents the influence of others in your life as well as trends in your relationships with others.
XV – The Devil
'Facing your demons'. Overcoming an addiction. Pushing past obsessions and working to limit the number of toxic situations and friendships in your life. Getting help for your problems with addictions, anger management issues, etc. Resisting temptation. 'Better the devil you know than the devil you don't'.
Hopes and Fears shows the expectations you have concerning the outcome of your question.
XX – Judgement
Renewal, regeneration, and (metaphorical) rebirth. Hearing a calling; experiencing an epiphany. Exhibiting good judgment. Thinking 'outside the box'. Forgiving someone who has wronged you. Opening a new chapter in life or passing a significant milestone.
The Outcome of your question. Interpret this card in the context of the entire reading and as an indicator of the path you are currently on, but not necessarily bound to.
XIII – Death
Experiencing a dramatic or significant change in your life. A realisation that there is no turning back; a bell can't be un-rung. A time to discard whatever is not adding to your life. When one door closes, another will open. Taking 'down time' that is necessary for renewal, new growth, and transformation. Dealing with issues regarding death and dying.