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![]() Ace of Swords
External Forces ![]() Queen of Coins
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The Recent Past![]() Nine of Cups |
The Crossing Card
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The Future![]() Youth of Swords |
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The Significator represents what the main theme of the reading deals with, the initial situation.
XIX – The Sun
Partial success or success after some delays. 'Hiding your light under a bushel'. A missed opportunity. A need for a more energetic approach. Someone who is arrogant, egocentric, or self-absorbed.
The Crossing Card denotes an added impulse that compounds the initial card, whether complimentary or contradictory.
Knight of Swords
Being headstrong, argumentative, opinionated, sarcastic or cruel. Having a hero complex. 'Shoot first and ask questions later'. Wanting to win at any cost. Avoiding confrontation. Ill-conceived plans are falling apart.
The Crown stands for what the asker is aware of consciously.
King of Swords
Good advice or a fair decision. Tough-minded common sense. Being able to make fair and impartial decisions. Your knowledge, intelligence, and expertise are respected. A trusted advisor or expert. 'Knowledge is Power'.
Foundation card reveals unconscious driving forces that the querent may not be aware of.
Four of Wands
Obstacles are blocking a rite of passage (such as a christening, graduation, wedding, or homecoming). You need to put more effort into creating a solid foundation for the future success of something. Someone is being a 'party pooper' or a 'wet blanket'.
The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.
Nine of Cups
A success turns sour or has hidden problems. Too much of a good thing. Overindulgence or debauchery. Smugness, vanity, or selfishness that comes as a result of success. Beware of friends who take advantage of your good fortune or generosity.
The Future depicts that which lies ahead.
Knight of Swords
Being headstrong, argumentative, opinionated, sarcastic or cruel. Having a hero complex. 'Shoot first and ask questions later'. Wanting to win at any cost. Avoiding confrontation. Ill-conceived plans are falling apart.
The Querent represents the asker and their attitude towards the subject of the reading.
VII – The Chariot
Feeling pulled in several directions at once. Feeling a loss of control in your life. An inability to properly master outside influences. Charging ahead rashly. Running roughshod over other people. Losing yourself in the role you have to play in order to succeed. Failure or a very costly victory.
External Forces represents the influence of others in your life as well as trends in your relationships with others.
Queen of Coins
A pretentious person who undermines the success of others. Fiscal irresponsibility may be causing difficulty. Depending on others to solve your problems rather than using your own resources. A 'gold digger'. Indulgence in sensual pleasures is putting your financial security at risk.
Hopes and Fears shows the expectations you have concerning the outcome of your question.
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'.
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.
Ace of Swords
The discovery of a new insight. Beginning to 'Know Thyself'. A learning experience. Being open to new ideas or points of view. Justice, fairness, and honour. Success after a struggle. The mental clarity to overcome conflicts.

