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![]() 3 of Hearts
External Forces ![]() Jack of Hearts
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The Recent Past![]() Page of Diamonds |
This Crosses the Significator
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The Future![]() Ace of Spades |
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The Significator represents what the main theme of the reading deals with, the initial situation.
8 of Hearts
The feeling of desolation or loneliness. Being caught up in personal thoughts often negative to the extent external influences/supportive energies go unnoticed. The walking away from a situation which may have caused heartache towards something more positive. The painful acknowledgement that no more can be done with the only real option being that of walking away.
This Crosses the Significator denotes an added impulse that compounds the initial card, whether complimentary or contradictory.
Jack of Spades
Dishonest communication, or lack of respect for how words can be twisted and be taken out of context. A requirement to see through the façade being presented in order to get to the real truth of a matter. Failure to understand the seriousness of a given situation. Seeing the funny side of a situation thus lessening the impact it may have on us otherwise. The not giving or receiving of a direct or straight-forward answer.
The Crown stands for what the asker is aware of consciously.
2 of Clubs
The following a path which appears to have an intangible ‘something’ which makes it feel right at the time. Change of focus away from what is directly ahead to what is directly above guiding you. Following of your own instincts when there is a sense the way forward is no longer clear to you.
The Foundation reveals unconscious driving forces that the querent may not be aware of.
10 of Spades
The feeling of being under intense and unrelenting mental pressure. Believing it is not possible to cope with what is happening, or that it is not possible to deal with any further or additional issues. The need to find an outlet for internal mental anguish so that the heaviness can be eased in some way. The possibility of unresolved past issues resurfacing, which may then give the impression they are haunting us in a way that makes escape seem impossible. Failing to see the light indicating there is a way out from your current mental state.
The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.
Page of Diamonds
Transformation on a spiritual level, leading to an understanding our 'magic' is apparent through what you are and not what you have. Being shielded from the allure of material wealth at the expense of self-realisation. Understanding what you can be, or what you could have is something that you can direct with our own hand. Preparation in readiness to move on from something that is no longer of relevance or is no longer providing anything of value.
The Future depicts that which lies ahead.
Jack of Spades
Dishonest communication, or lack of respect for how words can be twisted and be taken out of context. A requirement to see through the façade being presented in order to get to the real truth of a matter. Failure to understand the seriousness of a given situation. Seeing the funny side of a situation thus lessening the impact it may have on us otherwise. The not giving or receiving of a direct or straight-forward answer.
The Querent represents the asker and their attitude towards the subject of the reading.
4 of Spades
The need for mental release or relaxation. The taking of a 'time out' from situations that may have been the main contributory factors leading to mental fatigue. Acceptance of limitations, as well as acknowledgment of personal weaknesses. The courage to go public and be open regarding mistakes or shortcomings.
External Forces represents the influence of others in your life as well as trends in your relationships with others.
Jack of Hearts
A feeling of vulnerability, or belief we cannot cope with what life is about to throw at us. The release of emotion in either a positive or harmful way. The wearing of the heart on the sleeve. Expansive expression of emotions in balance with how thought processes are portrayed.
Hopes and Fears shows the expectations you have concerning the outcome of your question.
7 of Spades
Being manipulated or being manipulative of others with no sound basis or objective for that manipulation. Turning against another who is actually on your side yet is being treated as a type of enemy. Waiting for an opportune moment to disadvantage another. Breakdown in communication leading to a standoff. Mistrust of another person or their motives.
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.
3 of Hearts
The demonstration of being a true friend in circumstances where others may choose to turn a blind eye. Being with someone and accepting them for what they are and who they are. A state whereby it is possible to feel comfortable with the energies of another, even though both parties may be partaking in different activities. The ability to watch over someone we care about without taking on the role of judge and jury should we disagree with their actions.
