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![]() Knight of Wands
External Forces ![]() Four of Swords
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The Recent Past![]() VII – The Chariot |
The Crossing Card
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The Future![]() V – The Hierophant |
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The Significator represents what the main theme of the reading deals with, the initial situation.
Seven of Swords
Taking or reclaiming what is yours. The return of something lost or stolen. Seeing through dishonesty. A confession or act of contrition. Getting caught red-handed. Experiencing karmic payback.
The Crossing Card denotes an added impulse that compounds the initial card, whether complimentary or contradictory.
XII – The Hanged Man
Involuntary sacrifice. Martyrdom or playing the role of a victim. Experiencing reversals or setbacks. Unwillingness to make a sacrifice so that a larger gain might be made. A need to step back and get a fresh perspective.
The Crown stands for what the asker is aware of consciously.
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.
Foundation card reveals unconscious driving forces that the querent may not be aware of.
Five of Cups
Feelings of loss or abandonment by a loved one. Feeling betrayed by someone you loved or trusted. A relationship has turned ugly and unpleasant, or a painful ending is coming. Seeing the glass as half empty instead of as half full. 'Crying over spilt milk'.
The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.
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.
The Future depicts that which lies ahead.
XII – The Hanged Man
Involuntary sacrifice. Martyrdom or playing the role of a victim. Experiencing reversals or setbacks. Unwillingness to make a sacrifice so that a larger gain might be made. A need to step back and get a fresh perspective.
The Querent represents the asker and their attitude towards the subject of the reading.
0 – The Fool
A time to begin something new, especially when done without bias or preconceived notions. 'Leap and the net will appear'. Keep an open mind. A situation with promise or potential. 'Beginners luck'.
External Forces represents the influence of others in your life as well as trends in your relationships with others.
Four of Swords
Being stuck in a holding pattern. Laziness. Avoiding a conflict rather than resolving it. A vacation or an expected respite from struggles and conflicts does not come or is cut short. Not getting the rest you need. Having problems sleeping.
Hopes and Fears shows the expectations you have concerning the outcome of your question.
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 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.
Knight of Wands
Being spontaneous, eager for adventure, bold and courageous in a new enterprise. Living 'in the moment'. Someone who is the life of the party. A willingness to take a chance on a new way of doing things. Embracing change or being an agent of change.

