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![]() Four of Cups
External Forces ![]() VII – The Chariot
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The Recent Past![]() XVI – The Tower |
The Crossing Card
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The Future![]() Two of Cups |
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The Significator represents what the main theme of the reading deals with, the initial situation.
Ten of Wands
Commitments are lightening up; a sense of weariness is lifting. Getting your priorities straight. Finally getting everything done despite all the problems and setbacks. Relief from stress and pressures. Receiving unexpected help. Quitting a bad job.
The Crossing Card denotes an added impulse that compounds the initial card, whether complimentary or contradictory.
XII – The Hanged Man
Patience. Humility. Making a small sacrifice so that a larger gain might be made. Seeking redemption. Entering a 12-step program. 'Letting go and letting God'. A unique perspective on a situation. Putting a project on hold in order to properly evaluate the situation.
The Crown stands for what the asker is aware of consciously.
Seven of Swords
Trickery or dishonesty; clandestine behaviour. Involvement in underhanded or illegal acts. A risky undertaking. Cunning actions, especially when used to 'level the playing field'. 'Thinking outside of the box'. Working 'smarter, not harder'.
Foundation card reveals unconscious driving forces that the querent may not be aware of.
XVIII – The Moon
Finding out what is really going on. Something that was unclear or ambiguous is now understood. Uncovering or revealing deceit, dishonesty, and self-deception. Experiencing romance. Looking into the mysteries of life. Letting your imagination run free, which may lead you to new insights and discoveries. Finding hidden messages or meaning in your dreams.
The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.
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 Future depicts that which lies ahead.
XII – The Hanged Man
Patience. Humility. Making a small sacrifice so that a larger gain might be made. Seeking redemption. Entering a 12-step program. 'Letting go and letting God'. A unique perspective on a situation. Putting a project on hold in order to properly evaluate the situation.
The Querent represents the asker and their attitude towards the subject of the reading.
II – The Priestess
Try to listen more to the voice inside your heart. Not being able to express insights to others; your advice will be ignored or misunderstood. Beware of allowing your emotions to influence your decisions or actions. Someone is being secretive. Coldness, Detachment.
External Forces represents the influence of others in your life as well as trends in your relationships with others.
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.
Hopes and Fears shows the expectations you have concerning the outcome of your question.
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 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.
Four of Cups
Inability to recognise the good in a relationship or a situation. Feeling depressed, bored, or apathetic about something. Experiencing melancholy. Trying to escape problems through empty pleasures. Being jaded. The novelty of a new situation has worn off and it now seems mundane and boring.

