Celtic Cross Spread

Celtic Cross

 

 

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.

  1. The significator epitomizes what the reading deals with, the initial situation.
  2. An added impulse that compounds the significator, which may be either complimentary or contradictory.
  3. This is what is consciously known (thoughts).
  4. Unconscious driving forces that may not be known fully (emotions).
  5. The immediate past regarding the current situation.
  6. The first future card indicates the immediate future.
  7. This card represents the reader and their attitude towards cards #1 and #2.
  8. The external influences, the places and people which influence the topic.
  9. This tarot card suggests expectations; what is secretly hoped for or feared.
  10. The second future card reveals the long-term outcome.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Celtic Cross Reading

 

The Crown

XVII – The Star

  The Outcome

VI – The Lovers


Hopes and Fears

X – The Wheel of Fortune


External Forces

XX – Judgement


The Querent

Ace of Coins

The Recent Past

Eight of Wands

The Crossing Card

Nine of Swords


The Significator

XIV – Temperance

The Future

III – The Empress


Foundation card

Nine of Cups

 

 

 

The Significator represents what the main theme of the reading deals with, the initial situation.

 

 

XIV – Temperance

Inflexibility causes problems in resolving issues. An inability to be open to others' viewpoints or to find a middle ground or compromise in a troublesome situation. Taking extreme measures when a more balance approach is required. Adhering to either extreme of abstinence or self-indulgence.

 

 

 

 

 

The Crossing Card denotes an added impulse that compounds the initial card, whether complimentary or contradictory.

 

Nine of Swords

Realisation that fears were blown out of proportion. Things are turning out to be not as bad as expected. Regaining hope or peace of mind. Finding or having someone to comfort you or to help you through difficult times.

 

 

 

 

 

The Crown stands for what the asker is aware of consciously.

 

XVII – The Star

Finding, regaining, or holding on to hope. Seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. The calm after the storm. Meditation. Seeking inner tranquillity or a spiritual awakening. A time to develop a special talent or ability.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foundation card reveals unconscious driving forces that the querent may not be aware of.

 

Nine of Cups

Dreams or wishes fulfilled. Enjoyment of luxury and friendships. Being satisfied with a positive outcome. The ability to appreciate what you have. Having a generous nature. Being happy for others when they succeed.

 

 

 

 

 

The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.

 

Eight of Wands

Watch out – things are moving too quickly or spinning out of control. Spending too much energy on the wrong problem. Spinning your wheels. Making decisions too hastily. Moving forward with reckless abandon. Feeling overwhelmed by the fast pace of events.

 

 

 

 

 

The Future depicts that which lies ahead.

 

Nine of Swords

Realisation that fears were blown out of proportion. Things are turning out to be not as bad as expected. Regaining hope or peace of mind. Finding or having someone to comfort you or to help you through difficult times.

 

 

 

 

 

The Querent represents the asker and their attitude towards the subject of the reading.

 

Ace of Coins

Opportunity is knocking. This is a good time to start a new business venture or to create a firm financial foundation for yourself. A new project is likely to be profitable. Someone is bringing important financial news. 'Sowing your wild oats'.

 

 

 

 

 

External Forces represents the influence of others in your life as well as trends in your relationships with others.

 

XX – Judgement

A lack of common sense. A hasty or ill-considered decision that brings an unwelcome change to your life. Clinging to the confines of conventional thinking. A reluctance to move forward with your life. Holding on to a grudge.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hopes and Fears shows the expectations you have concerning the outcome of your question.

 

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 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.

 

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.

 

 

 

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