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 I – The Magician		The Outcome IX – The Hermit Hopes and Fears XVI – The Tower External Forces Seven of Wands The Querent XIV – Temperance
The Recent Past Three of Pentacles	The Crossing Card XIX – The Sun, Reversed The Significator Page of Swords, Reversed	The Future Ace of Cups
	Foundation card King of Swords

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

Page of Swords, Reversed

The Page of Swords represents curiosity, mental agility, and a thirst for knowledge. This card indicates a time of exploring new ideas, seeking the truth, and being inquisitive about the world. The Page of Swords embodies the energy of a young, eager mind, ready to learn and communicate. Holding a sword and looking forward with determination, this figure symbolises a desire to cut through confusion and uncover deeper truths. This card is a call to embrace mental challenges, use logic and intellect, and approach situations with keen observation and a clear perspective.

Reversed, the Page of Swords suggests you may be engaging in gossip, being overly critical, or misinterpreting information. There may be a tendency to jump to conclusions without understanding a situation or communicate in a crude, tactless manner. The reversal warns against using intellect or sharp words to manipulate or undermine others. It encourages you to be more careful with your communication. It can also indicate a lack of focus, leading to confusion or misunderstandings. The Page of Swords reversed suggests the need to slow down, gather more information, and approach situations with greater maturity and understanding.

In Relationships: The Page of Swords suggests a time of intellectual curiosity and communication. This card can indicate that you or your partner are seeking clarity or trying to understand the dynamics of the relationship more deeply. There may be a need for open, honest communication, and the Page of Swords encourages expressing your thoughts clearly, even if the conversation may be uncomfortable. The Page also warns against jumping to conclusions. Take the time to gather information before making assumptions. In some cases, the Page of Swords may indicate someone more focused on mental stimulation than emotional connection, so it's important to balance intellect and emotion in the relationship.

In Work: The Page of Swords signals a time for gathering information, learning, or sharpening skills necessary for success. You may be in the early stages of a new project or endeavour, and this card suggests you should approach it with curiosity, a willingness to learn, and the ability to think critically. It may also point to new developments or challenges on the horizon that require you to adapt quickly. The Page of Swords encourages you to be analytical in your approach to work and be prepared to respond quickly to new opportunities or problems. This card can also suggest that someone in the workplace is observing you, so it's important to be mindful of how your actions or words are perceived.

Spiritually: The Page of Swords represents exploration and a quest for truth. You may seek answers to deeper questions, explore new spiritual practices, or test your beliefs. This card suggests an openness to ideas and a desire to uncover the truth behind mysteries. The Page of Swords invites you to approach your spiritual journey with a clear and discerning mind, seeking knowledge while remaining sceptical of superficial answers. It encourages asking questions, seeking wisdom from various sources, and being open to revelations that challenge preconceived notions. However, it also cautions against rushing to conclusions or getting caught up in distractions that may divert attention from the deeper truths of the spiritual path.

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

XIX – The Sun, Reversed

The Sun represents vitality, success, joy, and clarity. This card embodies the life-giving energy of the sun, symbolising illumination, abundance, and a time of personal growth and flourishing. A radiant sun shining down on a child riding a horse signifies optimism, confidence, and clarity. It invites you to bask in the warmth of positivity, truth, and success, indicating that your path is now clear and full of potential. The child symbolises innocence, pure joy, and the freedom to experience life with openness and enthusiasm, while the horse represents strength and forward movement.

Reversed, the Sun can indicate self-doubt, pessimism, or a lack of clarity. It may suggest that you are struggling to see the positive side of a situation or experiencing a temporary setback in your confidence or energy. The reversed Sun may also indicate a delay in success or feeling disconnected from your true self. This card urges you to confront negative thought patterns, release fears, and seek clarity to move forward. It encourages you to focus on what is going well, rather than dwelling on challenges, and reconnect with your inner light. The reversed Sun can also signal a need for more self-care, reflection, or a break to restore vitality and optimism.

In Relationships: The Sun signifies happiness, clarity, and mutual understanding. It suggests the relationship is in a positive phase, where both partners are experiencing joy, harmony, and fulfilment. This card encourages open communication, playfulness, and celebration and may indicate a time of growth, commitment, or a deepening of the bond. The Sun also highlights the importance of self-love and confidence, suggesting that when you are happy with yourself, your relationship will reflect this positive energy. It can also indicate a new love or a fresh start in a current relationship.

In Work: The Sun signals a time of achievement, recognition, and progress. It indicates that your hard work is paying off, and you are experiencing success in your professional life. This card encourages you to continue pursuing your goals optimistically, as you are on the right path towards fulfilment. The Sun represents a clear direction, signalling that now is an excellent time to take bold action, share ideas, or step into the spotlight. It suggests new opportunities may arise, bringing abundance and growth. This card also highlights the importance of enjoying the journey, finding joy in the work, and celebrating achievements, both big and small.

Spiritually: The Sun represents enlightenment and personal growth. This card signifies a time when your spiritual path is illuminated, offering a clear understanding of your purpose and connection to the divine. The Sun encourages you to embrace your authentic self, shine your light brightly, and approach life with joy, positivity, and openness. It indicates a time of spiritual awakening or a period of growth where you feel connected to your higher self and the universe. The Sun reminds you that the truth is always available and that by embracing it, you can achieve spiritual fulfilment and enlightenment.

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

I – The Magician

The Magician represents the power of manifestation. The first card of the Major Arcana embodies the energy of focused will, where potential is brought into reality through skill, action, and intention. Standing with one arm raised towards the heavens and the other pointing towards the earth, the Magician connects the spiritual and material realms. He bridges the divine and the earthly to bring about change. His tools—the wand, cup, sword, and pentacle—symbolise mastery over the four elements: Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. He channels power through these instruments.

The Magician is the embodiment of self-confidence and resourcefulness. Understanding his abilities and the world around him, he can turn visions into reality. The table in front of him, filled with tools, represents everything he needs to succeed being within reach. His presence signifies the awakening of latent abilities and the realisation that the power to shape one's destiny lies within. This card speaks to the power of focused energy, skill, and determination to manifest your desires.

In Relationships: The Magician suggests the power of intention and communication. It indicates that you can create a fulfilling romantic connection by being clear about your desires and aligning your actions with those intentions. It may also indicate the arrival of someone with powerful charisma or the need to harness your charm and creative energy to foster love. The Magician encourages conscious creation in matters of the heart, a reminder that you are the architect of your romantic life.

In Work: The Magician is a card of opportunity and self-empowerment in the professional realm. It signals that you possess the skills necessary to make your career aspirations a reality. This card encourages taking bold, deliberate action towards career goals and making the most of resources. The Magician suggests that the path to success is one where focus and determination play a vital role, and you have the power to manifest prosperity and recognition.

Spiritually: The Magician represents the mastery of one's inner power and the ability to direct energy with purpose. This card speaks to the harnessing of personal energy for growth, enlightenment, and transformation. It calls you to recognise your power, align your will with your spiritual goals, and work towards awakening your full potential. The Magician reminds us that the divine is not separate from us but exists within. It urges you to use your talents and awareness for higher spiritual development.

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

King of Swords

The King of Swords represents authority and intellectual power. This card embodies a figure who is not just intelligent but also disciplined and fair. As the master of his intellect, the King of Swords is a strategist, someone able to think critically, make logical decisions, and lead with wisdom and integrity. His sword symbolises truth, communication, and rational thought, and he uses these qualities to rule with honesty and justice. This king is known for his ability to detach from emotions and approach situations objectively, making him an effective problem-solver, leader, and advisor.

The King of Swords encourages you to embrace your mental power and use your intellect to navigate difficult situations. This card suggests you may be in a position where clear, strategic thinking and sound decision-making are required. The King of Swords asks you to communicate your ideas with authority and take a leadership role when necessary, grounding your actions in truth and fairness. This card also signifies mastery of your thoughts, the ability to see things from a broad perspective, and the capacity to remain composed in challenging circumstances.

In Relationships: The King of Swords represents clear communication, fairness, and rational decision-making. This card suggests you may need to approach your romantic life maturely, detaching from emotional impulses and focusing on open communication. The King of Swords values honesty and will not tolerate deceit or manipulation. He seeks a partner who can engage in intellectual conversation and mutual respect. While this card may point to a relationship built on solid communication and intellectual connection, it can also indicate a need to avoid being detached or unemotional in love. The King of Swords reminds you to strike a balance between reason and emotional depth in your relationships.

In Work: The King of Swords signifies a position of leadership, decision-making, or authority. You may be in a role where you must lead with intellect, communicate clearly, and make complex decisions. This card suggests your success is tied to your ability to think critically, maintain fairness, and remain objective. The King of Swords also encourages you to embrace your intellectual strengths, whether in a position of power or a field requiring analysis and strategy. It may also indicate the presence of a mentor or advisor who embodies these qualities. The King of Swords could indicate a legal, academic, or advisory role where logic and communication are paramount.

Spiritually: The King of Swords represents wisdom, higher knowledge, and authority. You may be seeking greater understanding or guidance, and this card encourages using your intellect and discernment to find the answers you seek. The King of Swords urges you to be truthful with yourself and seek spiritual growth through disciplined study, meditation, or inner reflection. This card can indicate the need for spiritual leadership, either as you take on a guiding role for others or seek a mentor who can help you navigate your spiritual path. The King of Swords reminds you that spiritual insight comes not just from emotion but from the disciplined and thoughtful exploration of truth.

The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.

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.

The Future depicts that which lies ahead.

XIX – The Sun, Reversed

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

XIV – Temperance

Temperance represents balance, harmony, moderation, and healing. This card embodies the principle of integrating opposites and finding equilibrium within oneself and in the world. An angel or ethereal figure pours water from one cup to another, the imagery of Temperance suggests the blending of two elements to create something harmonious. The flowing water symbolises the steady flow of energy, while the angel's wings and serene expression point to a divine guidance in achieving harmony. This card teaches the importance of moderation, patience, and self-control in all areas of life.

Temperance encourages you to find a middle ground, avoid extremes, and seek moderation in your choices and actions. It invites balance not only in the material world but also in the emotional and spiritual realms. This card speaks to the need to blend various aspects of life—whether work and play, self-care and socialising, or mind and body—into a cohesive whole that nurtures well-being and inner peace. It suggests that patience and a calm, measured approach will lead to the best results.

In Relationships: Temperance suggests that balance and harmony are key in your relationship. It may indicate the need for moderation in how emotions, time, and energy are shared between partners. This card encourages you to avoid extremes—whether in expectations, communication, or attachment—and instead find a balanced approach that fosters mutual respect, understanding, and patience. Temperance speaks to a steady connection, where both partners support each other's growth while maintaining their individuality. It can also indicate healing in relationships, whether overcoming challenges or finding a new sense of balance and understanding between two people.

In Work: Temperance signifies a time for finding balance in one's professional life. This card encourages you to manage your workload, relationships, and responsibilities with grace and moderation, avoiding burnout and stress. It may suggest the need for collaboration or the blending of unique skills or talents to achieve success. Temperance reminds you that steady, thoughtful progress, rather than hasty or extreme actions, is the key to long-term success. This card can also point to a need for healing in the workplace, whether it's resolving conflicts or restoring calm to a stressful environment.

Spiritually: Temperance represents the pursuit of inner balance and integration. This card invites you to align your physical, emotional, and spiritual selves into a harmonious whole, finding peace through moderation, patience, and acceptance. It encourages you to seek spiritual growth through balance rather than extreme practices or rigid beliefs. Temperance suggests that spiritual enlightenment can be achieved when the seeker is in harmony with both the inner self and the external world. It is a reminder that the path to spiritual fulfilment is about maintaining balance and being open to divine guidance.

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

Seven of Wands

The Seven of Wands represents perseverance, defence, and standing your ground in the face of challenges. It indicates a time when you are confronted with competition, opposition, or criticism, but must remain firm and assertive in protecting your position or beliefs. Depicted as a figure standing on higher ground, holding a wand to defend themselves against several others below, the Seven of Wands suggests rising above obstacles and confronting adversity head-on. This card calls for courage and determination, encouraging you to defend what you have achieved or believe in when it feels like others are challenging you.

The Seven of Wands speaks to a moment where you may feel like you are being attacked or overwhelmed by external forces. However, the figure's elevated position suggests that with the right mindset and perseverance, you have the advantage. This card encourages you to remain steadfast in your actions and decisions, knowing you are in a position to succeed despite the opposition. It reminds you to trust in your abilities and be confident that you can overcome any challenges that arise.

In Relationships: The Seven of Wands indicates tension or rivalry. This could manifest as external pressures, such as family or friends interfering, or internal struggles where both partners may experience differing needs or desires. You may need to stand your ground in protecting the relationship or asserting your boundaries. This card encourages you to remain firm and assertive in your beliefs about love and relationships, even if you face opposition from others. It may also suggest that you must fight for your connection, whether confronting misunderstandings or pushing back against external forces that threaten your unity. For single individuals, the Seven of Wands can indicate the need to stay true to your values and not be swayed by external influences in romance.

In Work: The Seven of Wands signals a time when you may be facing competition, criticism, or challenging circumstances. This card suggests you are in a position of advantage, but you must defend your place to maintain your success. The Seven of Wands indicates you will face obstacles, but it encourages you to remain strong, assertive, and confident in your abilities. It may point to the need to stand up for your ideas, work, or career goals, especially when others question or oppose them. This card advises you to avoid complacency and engage with challenges, knowing that overcoming them will only strengthen your position. It is a reminder that success often requires persistence and the ability to rise above opposition.

Spiritually: The Seven of Wands indicates a time of spiritual challenge or inner conflict, where you may feel the need to defend your spiritual beliefs or practices. The card suggests you are on a path that may be difficult to navigate, and you may face external criticism or doubt from others. However, the Seven of Wands encourages you to remain firm in your spiritual convictions and trust that you are on the right path. It also suggests you may need to stand up for your beliefs, even if you feel isolated or misunderstood. This card encourages inner strength and the courage to defend your truth while remaining open to growth and deeper understanding on the spiritual journey.

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

XVI – The Tower

The Tower represents sudden upheaval, destruction, and revelation. This card symbolises the collapse of established structures that were built on unstable foundations. A tall tower being struck by lightning, with people falling from it, signals that something in your life is about to be drastically altered, often through unexpected events or revelations. While the image may appear dramatic, the Tower invites a necessary shake-up or disruption that clears the way for transformation. The destruction is not meant to be detrimental, but to reveal the truth and tear down false beliefs, patterns, or illusions that no longer serve your best interests.

The Tower calls attention to areas of life where change is unavoidable and often uncomfortable. Though it can represent loss, chaos, or vulnerability, it also signals the potential for freedom and growth through the breaking down of illusions. You are encouraged to release your attachment to the old structure and trust that what remains after the dust settles will be stronger and more aligned with your true purpose.

In Relationships: The Tower indicates a sudden and unexpected change—this could be an argument, a breakup, or a moment of shocking revelation that forces both partners to confront underlying issues. While the upheaval may be painful, it offers an opportunity to rebuild the relationship from a more authentic place, free of illusions or false expectations. The Tower urges you to face uncomfortable truths and let go of outdated beliefs or patterns preventing the relationship from developing. This card can also signify a need to release unhealthy attachments to make way for a more genuine connection.

In Work: The Tower suggests an unexpected disruption in your professional life. This could be a sudden job loss, a major shift in a project, or the breakdown of a system that no longer works. The Tower indicates that a structure built on unstable ground is collapsing, and while this may initially seem like a crisis, it is ultimately a catalyst for change and growth. You are encouraged to embrace the chaos as an opportunity to reassess your goals and approach, shedding old methods or beliefs that no longer align with your vision of success. The Tower signals the need for radical change, pushing you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace radical new possibilities.

Spiritually: The Tower represents a profound awakening, where your beliefs or worldview may be shattered to make room for deeper understanding and enlightenment. This card invites you to confront the illusions or false constructs that have kept you from seeing the truth of your spiritual path. The Tower represents the moment of revelation that breaks down the ego, allowing the individual to see things more clearly. It is a reminder that spiritual growth often requires moments of upheaval, where the old self is destroyed to make way for the new. The destruction of the old is essential for the emergence of wisdom and self-awareness.

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.

IX – The Hermit

The Hermit represents solitude, introspection, wisdom, and guidance. It embodies the search for inner truth and deeper understanding through reflection and self-examination. An older figure carrying a lantern and a staff walks alone, symbolising the solitary journey towards enlightenment. The lantern represents the light of wisdom, illuminating the path ahead, while the staff signifies support and the strength gained through life experience. This card suggests a retreat from the external world to seek answers within and find clarity through introspection.

The Hermit invites you to step back from distractions, slow down, and embrace moments of solitude. It encourages personal growth through reflection, spiritual seeking, and the pursuit of knowledge that can only be found within. The Hermit is a guide, showing that wisdom comes not from external sources, but from within one's heart and mind, developed through self-discovery and careful contemplation.

In Relationships: The Hermit signifies a period of introspection, where you may need to take time for yourself before moving forward in a relationship. It suggests a need to step back and reflect on what you seek in love, away from external influences or distractions. This card encourages you to connect with your inner desires and values, understanding yourself better before committing to a romantic relationship. The Hermit also reminds us that love must start from within, and that personal growth and self-awareness are key to building healthy, fulfilling partnerships.

In Work: The Hermit suggests a time of reflection, seeking deeper meaning or purpose in one's professional life. It may indicate the need to step away from daily work life to gain clarity on one's true calling or long-term goals. This card encourages you to trust your intuition and wisdom when making career decisions and not rush into new opportunities until you have reflected on what will bring you true fulfilment. The Hermit can also point to a career in teaching, counselling, or research, where the act of guiding others or seeking knowledge is central to success.

Spiritually: The Hermit represents the pursuit of inner wisdom and enlightenment. This card invites you to withdraw from the noise of the world and focus on your inner spiritual journey. The Hermit encourages you to trust your intuition, meditate, and seek answers through spiritual practices such as prayer or self-reflection. It emphasises the importance of self-discovery and the belief that enlightenment comes from within. The Hermit also suggests that guidance from a spiritual mentor or teacher may be helpful, but the ultimate truth must be found in solitude.