Celtic Cross Spread

Celtic Cross

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 Knight of Cups, Reversed		The Outcome Three of Pentacles Hopes and Fears Ace of Wands External Forces VII – The Chariot, Reversed The Querent Eight of Cups, Reversed
The Recent Past Four of Pentacles	The Crossing Card Knight of Wands, Reversed The Significator XV – The Devil	The Future Seven of Wands, Reversed
	Foundation card Two of Cups, Reversed

The Significator represents what the main theme of the reading deals with, the initial situation.

XV – The Devil

The Devil represents temptation, addiction, materialism, and the shadow self. It embodies the forces that bind us to unhealthy patterns, illusions, and attachments. A powerful, frightening figure symbolises the internal and external forces that trap us in cycles of desire, fear, and self-doubt. This card is about the darker side of human nature—the impulses, obsessions, and habits that may seem alluring at the moment but ultimately prevent growth and freedom. The chains are loosely fitted on the figures, suggesting that the freedom to break free from these constraints is possible, but only when you recognise your own power and the nature of your attachments.

The Devil encourages you to examine where you may be giving away your personal power, whether through unhealthy relationships, addiction, material desires, or limiting beliefs. It calls attention to areas where you may feel stuck or trapped by your own choices, urging you to face these shadow aspects head-on to free yourself from the influence of fear and negative patterns.

In Relationships: The Devil suggests you may be entangled in a toxic or unhealthy relationship dynamic. This could include co-dependency, manipulation, or addiction to the relationship itself. The card warns against staying in situations where attachment or control are the primary forces at play. It may also point to unhealthy patterns in your behaviour, such as fear of intimacy or a reliance on superficial desires rather than deeper emotional connection. The Devil invites you to take a step back and examine your motivations in relationships, encouraging you to break free from unhealthy attachments and embrace healthier, more empowering connections.

In Work: The Devil may indicate that you are trapped in a cycle of materialism, greed, or unhealthy work habits. It could suggest an over-reliance on success or external validation, or feeling bound to a job, career, or ambition that no longer serves your highest good. This card can also point to unhealthy competition, control issues, or toxic environments in the workplace. The Devil encourages you to assess where you are compromising yourself in pursuit of career success or material gain. It suggests that fulfilment comes from aligning with your authentic purpose and breaking free from self-imposed limitations.

Spiritually: The Devil speaks to the shadows within the self—the unresolved fears, ego attachments, and limiting beliefs that keep you from experiencing freedom and enlightenment. This card invites you to confront your inner darkness and the forces that bind you to the lower aspects of your nature. The Devil challenges you to examine your relationship with fear and temptation and recognise how these forces may be blocking your spiritual growth. This card calls for liberation, urging you to break free from whatever is holding you back from experiencing spiritual truth.

The Crossing Card denotes an added impulse that compounds the initial card, whether complimentary or contradictory.

Knight of Wands, Reversed

The Knight of Wands represents boldness, adventure, and pursuing goals with passion and vigour. It embodies the energy of someone fearless, dynamic, and determined to move forward in their pursuits, no matter the obstacles. This card signifies action, enthusiasm, and a fiery drive to achieve one's ambitions. Depicted on horseback, charging forward with a wand in hand, the Knight of Wands is on a quest, eager to conquer challenges and explore new frontiers. His energy is contagious, and his confidence in the face of uncertainty encourages you to act decisively and boldly in your own life.

Reversed, the Knight of Wands can indicate impulsiveness, recklessness, or a lack of focus. You may be acting without thinking through the consequences, rushing into situations without adequate preparation, or pursuing too many projects at once. This card warns against getting swept up in the excitement of new opportunities without considering the long-term impact. The reversed Knight of Wands also suggests a loss of momentum, where you are feeling stuck, lacking the drive and energy needed to move forward. Here, you are encouraged to reassess your goals and reignite your passion with a more grounded approach. It may also indicate frustration from feeling like things are moving too slowly or not at all.

In Relationships: The Knight of Wands indicates a time of passionate energy and adventure. For those in committed relationships, this card suggests a renewed sense of excitement, spontaneity, and enthusiasm. It may represent a period of rekindled passion, where both partners are eager to explore new facets of the relationship or take risks together. For those who are single, the Knight of Wands can signify a fast-moving romantic encounter filled with excitement and intensity. However, the Knight of Wands may also point to a tendency for relationships to be temporary, encouraging you to be mindful of how quickly things progress. This card reminds you to stay true to your desires while seeking a balance between passion and stability.

In Work: The Knight of Wands represents bold action, ambition, and the drive to succeed. This card signifies a time when you should take decisive action towards your career goals. The Knight of Wands is determined, fearless, and ready to face challenges head-on, suggesting that you should embrace new opportunities, take risks, and pursue ventures confidently. It can also indicate a new, exciting job or project that requires energy and enthusiasm. While this card encourages fast movement, it also warns against rushing into things without planning. You are encouraged to harness your energy wisely, balancing excitement with practicality to avoid burnout or missteps.

Spiritually: The Knight of Wands signifies intense growth and spiritual exploration. You may feel a pull to expand your consciousness, take risks in your spiritual practices, or go on a journey of self-discovery. This card encourages you to follow your inner calling with excitement and confidence but approach spiritual exploration with an open mind and a sense of purpose. The Knight of Wands represents a spiritual quest, full of new experiences and insights. It's a time to embrace change, seek new wisdom, and venture beyond your comfort zone while staying true to the heart's deepest desires.

The Crown stands for what the asker is aware of consciously.

Knight of Cups, Reversed

The Knight of Cups represents emotional pursuit, romance, and following one's heart with passion and conviction. This card embodies a figure determined to chase after their dreams, desires, and ideals, often in the realm of love, creativity, or spiritual growth. The Knight of Cups signifies a time when you are feeling inspired, motivated, and driven by your emotions or a sense of purpose. This knight rides a horse while holding a chalice, symbolising a quest for emotional fulfilment, passion, and emotional connection.

Reversed, the Knight of Cups may indicate emotional instability, unrealistic expectations, or being swept away by fantasies or illusions. The reversal suggests you may be acting impulsively or idealistically without considering the consequences, which could lead to disappointment or heartache. It may also signify a lack of emotional direction or a tendency to avoid responsibility in relationships or other emotional matters. The Knight of Cups reversed invites you to ground your emotions and be more discerning in your pursuits, particularly in matters of the heart. It calls for a more balanced approach, ensuring that emotional impulses are aligned with reality and practicality.

In Relationships: The Knight of Cups represents a romantic and idealistic approach. This card suggests you may be on the cusp of experiencing a romantic encounter or a period where emotions are passionate and transformative. The Knight of Cups brings the energy of a romantic adventurer, someone willing to do whatever it takes to express their love, woo a partner, or follow the call of the heart. For those already in relationships, this card may indicate a renewal of passion, a deepening emotional connection, or heightened romance. The Knight of Cups urges you to be open to the emotional flow, allow love to guide you, and take inspired action in love without hesitation.

In Work: The Knight of Cups suggests you may be pursuing a path that aligns with your passions, creativity, or emotional fulfilment. This card represents the pursuit of work that feels meaningful or emotionally rewarding, rather than simply chasing external rewards or recognition. The Knight of Cups may indicate a project or job involving creative expression, emotional intelligence, or helping others, suggesting that you are guided by a calling. This card encourages you to take inspired action in your career, follow your intuition, and stay true to your dreams, even if the path is unconventional.

Spiritually: The Knight of Cups signifies a time of emotional and spiritual exploration, where you are called to trust your intuition. This card suggests you may be on a quest for deeper meaning, inspired by a spiritual ideal. The Knight of Cups invites you to embrace your emotions as a gateway to spiritual growth, encouraging you to follow your heart and intuition. This card can also represent the need for creative or artistic expression as a form of spiritual practice, where you connect with your higher self through imagination, art, or music.

Foundation card reveals unconscious driving forces that the querent may not be aware of.

Two of Cups, Reversed

The Two of Cups represents love, unity, and partnership. As a card that embodies the union of two individuals, this card symbolises the harmonious connection between two people, whether romantic, platonic, or professional. Two individuals exchange a cup, reflecting mutual respect, love, and emotional understanding. The Two of Cups signifies the unity of opposites or complementary forces, creating a harmonious relationship built on mutual trust, affection, and shared values. It is a card of union, where the emotional energy flows freely between two people, fostering partnership and emotional fulfilment.

Reversed, the Two of Cups can indicate disharmony, imbalance, or miscommunication in relationships. You may experience a lack of emotional connection with your partner or feel disconnected from your own feelings or desires. In romantic relationships, the reversal may suggest that one or both individuals are not fully invested or are struggling to find common ground. This card may also indicate that you are having difficulty forming meaningful partnerships or are facing challenges in creating mutual understanding and emotional balance with others. The reversed Two of Cups encourages you to address imbalances, communication issues, or emotional blocks, and work towards healing and restoring harmony.

In Relationships: The Two of Cups signifies a deep, harmonious connection between two people. This card indicates a time of mutual love, respect, and emotional balance. It can point to strengthening the relationship, with both partners working together to deepen their emotional bond and support each other's growth. The Two of Cups can also suggest the beginning of a new, meaningful romantic relationship where both individuals align in their values and desires. For singles, this card signals the potential for meeting someone with whom you share a strong emotional connection, possibly leading to a fulfilling relationship. It reminds you that love is about balance, equality, and the mutual exchange of care and support.

In Work: The Two of Cups represents a successful partnership or collaboration. This card suggests you may enter into a business partnership, project, or team dynamic that fosters cooperation, mutual respect, and shared success. The Two of Cups highlights the potential for fruitful alliances, where both parties bring complementary strengths and work together towards a common goal. This card encourages you to embrace collaboration, communicate openly, and approach your work relationships with empathy and respect. It may also indicate a time when you find emotional satisfaction and fulfilment in your professional life through supportive partnerships or working within a harmonious team.

Spiritually: The Two of Cups symbolises a deep, soul-level connection and the union of the self with a higher power or spiritual truth. This card suggests you are experiencing a period of spiritual alignment where your personal beliefs and practices are in harmony with your inner self. It can also represent a spiritual partnership, where two individuals come together with a shared spiritual purpose or goal, creating a sense of unity and support. The Two of Cups encourages you to cultivate spiritual connections that nurture and elevate your soul, whether through relationships with others or a deepened connection to your spiritual path. It suggests a time of healing and emotional balance, where you are open to receiving divine guidance and embracing love in all its forms.

The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.

Four of Pentacles

The Four of Pentacles represents security, stability, and the need to protect one's material resources. This card embodies the energy of holding on to what has been gained, whether it's financial wealth, possessions, or personal achievements. The figure on the card clutches their pentacles, symbolising the desire to secure material wealth and accomplishments. While this can signify a solid foundation and a sense of security, it can also indicate a fear of loss, possessiveness, or a reluctance to release control.

The Four of Pentacles asks you to examine your relationship with money, possessions, and security. While it's important to create a stable foundation for the future, the card warns against becoming attached or rigid in your approach to wealth. This card may suggest you are holding on too tightly to your material resources out of fear or insecurity, which could prevent you from embracing change or growth. It could represent a fixed mindset that manifests scarcity in the name of conservation, even when there is abundance. The Four of Pentacles encourages you to find a healthy balance between safeguarding your resources and being open to new opportunities, experiences, and possibilities.

In Relationships: The Four of Pentacles may indicate a tendency to be overly protective, possessive, or guarded. You may be holding onto old wounds or fears of abandonment, preventing you from opening up to a partner. Alternatively, the card may suggest a relationship built on security and stability, but lacking emotional depth or growth. You may need to examine whether you are holding onto a relationship out of fear of change or loss, rather than mutual love and growth. The Four of Pentacles encourages you to find a balance between maintaining security and allowing for vulnerability, trust, and emotional intimacy within the relationship.

In Work: The Four of Pentacles suggests you may be focused on maintaining financial stability or securing your position. This card indicates you are likely working hard to protect your material resources or professional achievements, and may be focused on building a solid foundation for the future. While the card encourages you to safeguard your progress, it warns against becoming too rigid, controlling, or attached to the status quo. The Four of Pentacles could indicate a fear of taking risks or embracing change, which could limit your growth and opportunities for advancement. The card invites you to evaluate whether your desire for security prevents you from pursuing new opportunities or adapting to changes in your career.

Spiritually: The Four of Pentacles can represent a need to examine one's attachment to material concerns or the fear of losing control. You may be clinging too tightly to your worldly possessions or financial security, which could hinder your growth. This card suggests that abundance comes not from holding on to material things, but from embracing a mindset of openness, generosity, and trust: a growth mindset. The Four of Pentacles invites you to consider whether you allow your fears or attachment to material wealth to block your spiritual path. It encourages you to release any fear-based attachments and trust in the flow of abundance that can come from letting go.

The Future depicts that which lies ahead.

Knight of Wands, Reversed

The Querent represents the asker and their attitude towards the subject of the reading.

Eight of Cups, Reversed

The Eight of Cups represents emotional withdrawal, leaving behind what no longer serves, and seeking a deeper sense of fulfilment. This card depicts a figure walking away from eight stacked cups, leaving them behind as they venture towards a mountain or distant horizon. The Eight of Cups signals a time when you may feel emotionally dissatisfied, disconnected, or unfulfilled with your current situation, seeking something more meaningful. It suggests that while the material or superficial aspects of life may seem fine on the surface, an inner longing or desire for emotional depth, truth, and purpose is not being met.

Reversed, the Eight of Cups indicates emotional resistance or a reluctance to let go of something that no longer serves you. The reversal may suggest that you are holding onto a relationship, job, or situation out of fear or attachment, even though it is no longer emotionally fulfilling. This card reversed invites you to acknowledge your dissatisfaction and recognise when it is time to move on, even if it feels difficult. It can also indicate a need for emotional healing and a deeper understanding of why you may be clinging to the past or avoiding necessary change. The Eight of Cups reversed encourages you to gather the courage to leave behind what no longer brings you joy.

In Relationships: The Eight of Cups suggests you may experience emotional dissatisfaction or disillusionment. You may be considering leaving a connection that no longer fulfils you, or you may already be ready to leave a relationship that has lost meaning. It can indicate the need for personal growth, reflection, and emotional independence. The Eight of Cups encourages you to be honest with yourself about your feelings and recognise when a relationship is no longer serving your emotional needs. For singles, the card may indicate the need to move on from emotional baggage, letting go of relationships or situations that prevent them from opening up to new, more fulfilling connections.

In Work: The Eight of Cups suggests a desire to leave a job, project, or career path that no longer provides emotional or professional satisfaction. You may feel unfulfilled, disengaged, or disconnected from your work, prompting a search for more meaningful work or a different path altogether. This card calls for the courage to leave behind what is comfortable or familiar to pursue a more fulfilling career, even if the path ahead seems uncertain. The Eight of Cups may also indicate that you seek a new sense of purpose in your professional life, encouraging you to follow your passions or seek deeper meaning in your work.

Spiritually: The Eight of Cups represents the quest for deeper meaning and fulfilment. It may indicate that you feel unfulfilled, disconnected from your spiritual path, or seek something more profound. This card calls for introspection and the willingness to leave behind old beliefs, practices, or habits that no longer support spiritual growth. It suggests a journey of seeking greater truths or wisdom and may involve solitude or reflection to reconnect with the inner self and find greater peace. The Eight of Cups encourages you to follow your inner calling, even if it requires stepping into the unknown or leaving behind old comforts.

External Forces represents the influence of others in your life as well as trends in your relationships with others.

VII – The Chariot, Reversed

The Chariot represents determination, willpower, victory, and control. It embodies the energy of triumph over obstacles, achievement through effort, and the mastery of one's emotions and environment. A strong figure drives a chariot, guided by inner strength and unwavering resolve. The charioteer holds the reins, symbolising the control and discipline needed to direct the forces of will, both within and without. Two sphinxes pull the chariot, looking in opposite directions, representing the balancing of opposing forces that must be harmonised to achieve success.

Reversed, the Chariot can indicate a lack of direction, a loss of control, or an inability to move forward confidently. It may suggest that you are struggling with inner conflict, emotional imbalance, or external challenges that prevent progress. This card reversed warns against being too forceful in trying to achieve goals, as this could lead to setbacks or failure. It also suggests you may need to regain your focus, re-establish your confidence, and find a clearer path forward. The Chariot reversed calls for self-reflection and re-alignment of goals to regain control and momentum.

In Relationships: The Chariot signifies a time of forward movement and decisive action. It suggests you are ready to take control of your romantic life and move past obstacles or doubts. This card can indicate overcoming challenges, gaining clarity about your desires, or taking the lead in matters of the heart. The Chariot encourages you to stay determined and confident, pursuing love with focus and a clear sense of direction. It may also signal a period of growth in a relationship where both partners are moving forward together with shared goals and mutual understanding.

In Work: The Chariot is a powerful card, representing the determination and drive needed to achieve professional goals. It signifies a time to harness your inner strength and take decisive action towards your ambitions. This card encourages you to stay focused on your objectives, overcoming any obstacles or challenges that may arise. The Chariot reminds you that success will be achieved through perseverance, self-discipline, and maintaining control over external distractions. It can also indicate a journey of personal and professional growth, where you can push past your limits to achieve greatness.

Spiritually: The Chariot represents the mastery of one's inner forces and the ability to direct energy towards personal transformation. This card encourages you to use your willpower and focus to overcome spiritual challenges and obstacles, remaining determined on your path of growth and enlightenment. The Chariot invites you to embrace your power, channelling it towards spiritual advancement. It also speaks to the importance of balance and self-control, urging you to stay grounded and focused as you move forward on your spiritual journey.

Hopes and Fears shows the expectations you have concerning the outcome of your question.

Ace of Wands

The Ace of Wands represents inspiration, new beginnings, and the spark of creative energy. As the first card in the suit of Wands, it signifies the start of an exciting journey, filled with potential and the promise of growth. Depicted as a hand emerging from a cloud, holding a wand with leaves sprouting from it, the Ace of Wands symbolises the initial burst of energy and enthusiasm that comes with an idea, a new project, or a burst of creative inspiration. It is a card of action, ambition, and the desire to manifest dreams into reality. The wand itself represents vitality, willpower, and the potential for creation, urging you to take bold steps towards your goals.

The Ace of Wands indicates the arrival of a new opportunity or the ignition of a fresh, exciting idea. It encourages you to embrace this moment of inspiration and channel it into action. This card suggests the time is right to take the first steps towards turning ideas into reality, and the energy and enthusiasm needed to succeed are available. It may also indicate a time of great personal vitality, where you feel ready to take on challenges and pursue your passions with determination.

In Relationships: The Ace of Wands represents the passionate beginning of a new romantic relationship or the renewal of passion in an existing one. It suggests an exciting new connection or attraction that sparks intense emotions and physical chemistry. This card encourages you to follow your heart and explore this newfound energy, whether it's the start of a new relationship or a rekindling of desire in a current one. The Ace of Wands invites you to approach love with excitement and enthusiasm, embracing the potential for growth and connection. It can also indicate the emergence of new opportunities for romantic adventure, encouraging you to take steps towards deepening your love life.

In Work: The Ace of Wands signifies the beginning of a new professional project, creative venture, or entrepreneurial opportunity. It marks the arrival of an idea or inspiration that has the potential to grow into something significant. This card encourages you to take the first steps towards manifesting your goals, whether by starting a new business, pursuing a creative passion, or taking on a leadership role. The Ace of Wands is full of enthusiasm and energy, urging you to act on your ambitions with confidence, creativity, and determination. It may also represent a surge of motivation or a renewed sense of purpose in the workplace, encouraging you to tackle new challenges with fresh energy.

Spiritually: The Ace of Wands represents a new spiritual path or the awakening of creative energy within the soul. It indicates the arrival of inspiration or a moment of spiritual clarity that propels you forward on your journey. This card encourages you to embrace the insights or callings that are emerging, as they have the potential to lead to growth and transformation. The Ace of Wands invites you to take action on your spiritual path, trusting that your energy and passion will guide you towards deeper connection with the divine. It may also signify a time of personal empowerment when you feel aligned with your true purpose and ready to take bold steps in your spiritual evolution.

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.

Three of Pentacles

The Three of Pentacles represents teamwork, collaboration, and the mastery of a craft. This card embodies the energy of building something solid through collective effort, skill, and dedication. It signifies the importance of working with others to achieve a shared goal and highlights the value of bringing different strengths, talents, and perspectives together. The figure on the card is a skilled artisan or worker, either collaborating with others or demonstrating their craftsmanship. This card suggests your efforts are being recognised and you're on the path towards mastery in your field.

The Three of Pentacles is a card of development and progress, indicating that you are in the early stages of building something significant, whether a career, creative project, or relationship. The focus is on creating a solid foundation and working diligently towards long-term goals. This card encourages you to continue honing your skills, paying attention to the details, and remaining committed to the process. It also speaks to the importance of receiving feedback, collaborating with others, and acknowledging that success often requires the contributions of multiple people working together in a unified effort.

In Relationships: The Three of Pentacles suggests you and your partner may be building something solid and long-lasting together. This could be the development of a deeper commitment or the creation of shared goals and values. The card emphasises the importance of teamwork and collaboration. You may need to work with your partner to overcome challenges or to improve the relationship's foundation. Communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to support each other's growth are key themes in the Three of Pentacles. This card can also suggest that your relationship is in a stage of growth and development, where the effort of both parties is needed to ensure a lasting bond.

In Work: The Three of Pentacles signals collaboration, recognition, and progress in one's work. It may indicate that you are working as part of a team or are about to be recognised for your contributions to a project. This card signifies that your skills are being appreciated and that you are moving forward in your professional development. It also points to the importance of learning from others, whether through mentorship, teamwork, or collaboration. The Three of Pentacles reminds you that success is often achieved by working with others and sharing knowledge and expertise. It may also suggest you are at a point in your career where you are refining your craft and preparing to take on more responsibility.

Spiritually: The Three of Pentacles represents growth, mastery, and the development of one's spiritual practice. You may be deepening your understanding and expanding your skills in this area. The card encourages you to continue your spiritual development with dedication, patience, and attention to detail. It also suggests that you may benefit from connecting with others who share similar spiritual goals or values, as collaboration and learning from others are key to growth. The Three of Pentacles invites you to recognise that spiritual mastery, like any other craft, takes time, effort, and the willingness to work with others in the pursuit of a shared understanding.