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 Knight of Cups		The Outcome Queen of Coins Hopes and Fears Ten of Swords External Forces King of Swords The Querent XX – Judgement
The Recent Past IX – The Hermit	The Crossing Card Seven of Wands The Significator King of Wands	The Future Eight of Cups
	Foundation card Six of Wands

Leadership and the abilities associated with it – charisma, a sense of purpose, a desire to make a difference, a willingness to assume power, a sense of destiny, dedication to a cause, and self-confidence. Someone who is passionate and inspiring to others.

Wanting to run away or not confront a problem. Lack of confidence or persistence. A situation where it seems that every time you solve one problem, two more spring up. 'When you're up to your ass in alligators, it's hard to remember that your objective was to drain the swamp'. Remember the old saying, 'What we resist persists'.

Someone who is moody, brooding, overly sensitive, or temperamental. A need to build new relationships. Being too easily swayed by your emotions. A dreamer who is unrealistic. Making mistakes due to being out of touch with your emotions or feelings.

Setting off into a conflict or battle with optimism and with the support of others. Victory through hard won battles. Getting recognition for your success. Celebrating your victory.

Pulling back in order to gain space to think things through. Taking the time necessary to review a situation on your own or with the help of a disinterested third party. Renunciation of material claims or desires. Embracing simplicity. 'Money can't buy you happiness'. An unorthodox teacher (a 'guru') has much to teach you.

Wanting to run away or not confront a problem. Lack of confidence or persistence. A situation where it seems that every time you solve one problem, two more spring up. 'When you're up to your ass in alligators, it's hard to remember that your objective was to drain the swamp'. Remember the old saying, 'What we resist persists'.

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.

Having your mind made up and being closed to new ideas. Guarding your secrets or not sharing your knowledge. Intrusive meddling. Unfair decisions or bad advice. Following the letter of the law may allow you to ignore unfairness and cruelty in yourself and others. Having or exercising 'book learning' but not common sense.

Desperate actions in desperate times. A mess that no one wants to take responsibility for. Hitting rock bottom. Plans fall apart. Continuing to obsess about a situation even though it is finished already. Overkill. Feeling like you've been stabbed in the back. 'He who lives by the sword dies by the sword'.

Being nurturing, a caregiver. A willingness to make sacrifices for others. Sharing your success with people you love. A practical and resourceful approach toward steady progress instead of taking risks in search of quick fixes or a fast buck. A time to work hard toward your goals; there are no easy solutions.