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![]() Five of Cups
External Forces ![]() Five of Wands
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The Recent Past![]() Eight of Wands |
The Crossing Card
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The Future![]() Seven of Swords |
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The Significator represents what the main theme of the reading deals with, the initial situation.
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 Crossing Card denotes an added impulse that compounds the initial card, whether complimentary or contradictory.
Seven of Coins
Reaping what you have sown. Rewards have not yet arrived, but your continued hard work will bring favourable results down the line. Reassessing your goals or the strategy for achieving your goals.
The Crown stands for what the asker is aware of consciously.
Two of Swords
A dilemma with no clear answer in sight. An ugly conflict, perhaps where one party is being deceitful or underhanded. A stalemate. A no win situation. A forced or unsatisfactory decision or resolution to a problem. Avoiding making a decision until you're forced to.
Foundation card reveals unconscious driving forces that the querent may not be aware of.
Six of Coins
A gift or loan is forthcoming. Generosity or the repayment of it. Debts repaid. Gratitude and appreciation for the generosity of others. Sharing the wealth. Requests for money or assistance will probably be granted.
The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.
Eight of Wands
Go for it! Clear skies and smooth sailing ahead. Rapidly moving toward the achievement of your goals. Good news is coming. Renewed vigour and energy for an endeavour. Spontaneity. Embarking on an exciting journey. Operating out of a sense of urgency.
The Future depicts that which lies ahead.
Seven of Coins
Reaping what you have sown. Rewards have not yet arrived, but your continued hard work will bring favourable results down the line. Reassessing your goals or the strategy for achieving your goals.
The Querent represents the asker and their attitude towards the subject of the reading.
Four of Wands
Taking time to enjoy the rewards of your efforts. Celebrating a rite of passage, such as a christening, graduation, wedding, or homecoming. Generally, any party or celebration. A shared sense of unity and harmony in your community.
External Forces represents the influence of others in your life as well as trends in your relationships with others.
Five of Wands
Feeling beaten down by petty bickering or office politics. Being in a 'no holds barred' situation – 'every man for himself'. Competition is getting ugly. You may be getting swallowed up in contentious rivalry. Your energy is too scattered and unfocused.
Hopes and Fears shows the expectations you have concerning the outcome of your question.
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.
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.
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'.

