Cross Layout

Difficulty: Easy
The Cross Spread is good for questions asking for advice. It can also be used to determine the meaning of a confusing tile from a previous reading, or for that matter, to shed light on other points of confusion.
In questions asking advice, this layout is self-explanatory. The main thing is to determine the difference between tiles #2 and #3. #1 is the topic and #4 is the result.
In questions regarding confusion, such as: "What was the meaning of Tile (X) in the last spread?" the main thing is also to determine the difference between tiles #2 and #3. In this case, #2 will show what the tile was not referring to, and Tile #3 will show what was really meant. Tile #1 is the topic and #4 represents the purpose it serves.
Your Cross Reading
DO This![]() Wan 4 – Lute |
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It Deals with This![]() Bamboo 8 – The Mushroom |
Do NOT Do This![]() Bamboo 4 – The Carp |
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It Leads to This![]() Circles 7 – The Insect |
It Deals with This
Bamboo 8 – The Mushroom
The Mushroom represents mystery, hidden growth, and transformation beneath the surface. Thriving in unseen places, it suggests that powerful changes are taking place even if they are not visible. This tile foretells unusual events that may alter your path in lasting ways, urging adaptability and open-mindedness. What may seem strange or unexplainable now could later prove to be a blessing. The Mushroom also speaks of intuition and secrets—hidden truths may soon be revealed, and new perspectives will emerge. Stay receptive to unexpected opportunities, as they could lead to greater wisdom and prosperity.
Do NOT Do This
Bamboo 4 – The Carp
The Carp signifies perseverance, tranquillity, and spiritual fulfilment. A bringer of both material and emotional wealth, this tile reflects the journey towards balance and peace. Just as the carp swims against the current, overcoming obstacles will lead to deep contentment and inner harmony. The Carp is also associated with personal evolution—through consistent effort and inner strength, one can transform challenges into victories. This tile may also indicate a situation where patience and persistence will be rewarded, especially in matters of career, education, or self-improvement. A transformation is on the horizon; trust your ability to rise above adversity.
DO This
Wan 4 – Lute
The Lute resonates with the harmonies of balance, introspection, and the gentle rhythms of life. This tile is an invitation to slow down, find solace in the delicate interplay of sound and silence, and appreciate the art of subtle expression. It symbolises the need for restorative pauses in an otherwise frenetic existence—encouraging you to nurture your creative and emotional well-being through the soft strains of music and contemplation. The Lute calls for a mindful retreat from stress, indicating that complex problems may be resolved through calm, deliberate reflection. In its vibration, the Lute speaks of letting go of discord and embracing the moments that allow your inner self to be heard, guiding you towards balanced decisions and a more harmonious existence.
It Leads to This
Circles 7 – The Insect
The Insect tile represents a surge of rapid, energetic activity that delivers quick, albeit transient, successes. It emphasises the potential for short bursts of inspiration and effort that can lead to immediate gains, but it also serves as a reminder that these victories are temporary. This tile underscores the importance of recognising that rapid action can act as a catalyst—a bridge—towards establishing more enduring achievements. It invites you to harness these moments of heightened energy to spark initial progress, while also urging you to develop strategies that convert these brief surges into a stable, long-term foundation. The Insect teaches that while adrenaline-fuelled initiatives can provide a vital boost, lasting growth depends on careful planning and deliberate, sustained effort once the initial momentum has been captured. Use these episodes as signals to seize opportunity, then transition to more measured actions that secure lasting benefits.