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.

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 X – The Wheel of Fortune		The Outcome Eight of Cups Hopes and Fears Nine of Coins External Forces Seven of Swords The Querent Two of Cups
The Recent Past IX – The Hermit	The Crossing Card Ten of Wands The Significator VIII – Strength	The Future Eight of Wands
	Foundation card Ace of Swords

An unjust decision, perhaps based on bias, bigotry, or deceit. Delays in the delivery of a decision. Irresponsibility. An inability to make a decision. Being treated unfairly or with prejudice.

Being overburdened, overcommitted, or overwhelmed. Feeling swamped with work. Getting burned out. Working in bad conditions for low pay. A need to delegate responsibilities to others or to set priorities. The 'last straw'. Doubting that things will ever come to a successful completion.

The beginning of a new cycle or a new chapter in life. The end of a difficult situation. Opportunities from unexpected sources. Rapid and/or important changes are coming. Good fortune and luck. Having equanimity saves you from all the drama going on around you.

Discovering a painful truth. Someone is trying to deceive you or misinform you. Cruel or unfair intentions. Undeserved criticism. Close-mindedness. Advice to be less aggressive and more understanding.

Someone has been too withdrawn, antisocial, or introverted and would benefit from the company of others. Loneliness or aloofness. Isolation from people who might provide help or useful guidance. Feeling ostracised, left out.

Being overburdened, overcommitted, or overwhelmed. Feeling swamped with work. Getting burned out. Working in bad conditions for low pay. A need to delegate responsibilities to others or to set priorities. The 'last straw'. Doubting that things will ever come to a successful completion.

Romantic notions are blinding you to the reality of the hard work required for a successful relationship. Reluctance or resistance to enter a relationship. An air of mistrust or tension between two people. The ending of a love affair, friendship, or partnership. A disagreeable end of a conflict.

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'.

The ability to take care of yourself. Financial security and stability. Having a 'prosperity consciousness'. Contentment with what you have. A comfortable and happy home life. Gardening or working around the house.

The inability to recognise how unhealthy the current situation is or an unwillingness to leave it. Sensing that something is missing in your life, but not knowing what. Experiencing regrets about making a change in your life. Settling for the status quo. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.