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 Ace of Wands, Reversed		The Outcome Five of Pentacles, Reversed Hopes and Fears Ace of Swords, Reversed External Forces Ten of Pentacles, Reversed The Querent King of Swords, Reversed
The Recent Past XI – Justice, Reversed	The Crossing Card Nine of Cups, Reversed The Significator Two of Cups, Reversed	The Future Five of Cups, Reversed
	Foundation card XX – Judgement, Reversed

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

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

Nine of Cups, Reversed

The Nine of Cups signifies emotional contentment, fulfilment, and the realisation of desires. Depicted as a figure seated in front of nine neatly arranged cups, with a look of satisfaction and pride, this card represents a time when your emotional needs have been met, and your desires have come to fruition. The Nine of Cups indicates a period of emotional success, where you find joy, peace, and gratitude, having achieved personal fulfilment. It suggests you have worked hard to manifest your dreams and are now experiencing the rewards of your efforts.

Reversed, the Nine of Cups indicates that emotional contentment may be elusive or you may feel unfulfilled, despite outward appearances of success. It can suggest dissatisfaction or a longing for something more, even though you have achieved your desires. The reversal of the Nine of Cups may point to excess, indulgence, or taking things for granted. It may also indicate that you are pursuing superficial goals that do not bring true happiness or ignoring deeper emotional needs. The Nine of Cups reversed invites you to reassess your desires and values, to find a more meaningful sense of fulfilment that aligns with your emotional well-being.

In Relationships: The Nine of Cups represents emotional fulfilment and happiness. This card signifies a time when you are content in your romantic life, where wishes and desires related to love and connection have been realised. It may suggest that you have found a partner who meets your emotional needs or are experiencing harmony and mutual satisfaction in a current relationship. For singles, the Nine of Cups indicates that emotional contentment and happiness are within reach and that you may soon find a relationship that aligns with your deepest desires. This card encourages you to enjoy the love you have while remaining open to new emotional experiences.

In Work: The Nine of Cups indicates professional satisfaction and the fulfilment of career goals. It suggests you have achieved success in your work or are on the verge of realising your professional ambitions. This card celebrates the completion of a goal, whether a promotion, project, or recognition, and signals a time to take pride in accomplishments. The Nine of Cups reminds you to appreciate your hard work and acknowledge the rewards that have come from your efforts. However, it also encourages you to reflect on what brings you fulfilment in your career, suggesting that success is measured by emotional satisfaction rather than external validation or material gain.

Spiritually: The Nine of Cups signifies peace, contentment, and alignment with one's higher self. It indicates that you are experiencing spiritual fulfilment, having found a path or practice that brings you emotional and spiritual satisfaction. This card suggests a time of gratitude and inner peace, where you feel connected to your spiritual journey and at ease with who you are. The Nine of Cups encourages you to continue nurturing your spiritual path, acknowledging the spiritual abundance in your life. It is a reminder that happiness comes from within and can be found in the present moment.

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

Ace of Wands, Reversed

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.

Reversed, the Ace of Wands can indicate a delay in starting a new project or difficulty accessing the inspiration and motivation needed to move forward. It may suggest a lack of direction or an inability to harness creative energy, leaving you feeling uninspired or blocked. The reversed Ace of Wands can also represent false starts or wasted energy, urging you to evaluate whether you are pursuing the right goals or allowing fear or uncertainty to prevent you from taking action. It encourages you to refocus, re-energise, and clarify your intentions.

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.

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

XX – Judgement, Reversed

Judgement represents self-reflection, transformation, and the call to a higher purpose. The twentieth card of the Major Arcana signifies a time of awakening, a moment of reckoning where you are invited to confront your actions, decisions, and beliefs. An angel blowing a trumpet with people rising from their graves to meet their divine call symbolises the opportunity for a fresh start or renewal through self-assessment and spiritual awakening. This card encourages you to reflect on your life, learn from mistakes, and answer the call to grow into a higher version of yourself.

Reversed, Judgement can indicate a fear of change, self-doubt, or an unwillingness to confront past actions or mistakes. It may suggest you are avoiding necessary self-reflection, clinging to old habits, or resisting the call to grow. The reversed Judgement card warns against ignoring the lessons of the past and encourages you to face unresolved issues or feelings to move forward. It may also indicate a time when you are struggling to release guilt, shame, or regret, preventing you from experiencing the transformation and renewal necessary for growth. This card urges you to let go of fear, embrace forgiveness, and trust in the process of personal transformation.

In Relationships: Judgement indicates a period of self-reflection, where both partners may need to take stock of their actions and experiences. It encourages healing and growth, suggesting that the relationship may undergo a transformative process through open communication, forgiveness, or a fresh perspective. Judgement invites you to release emotional baggage, forgive yourself and your partner, and move forward with greater understanding. This card can also signify a new beginning or a renewed sense of purpose within a relationship, where both partners answer the call to create a deeper, more fulfilling bond. For those who are single, Judgement may indicate a time of inner awakening that leads to the readiness for a new, transformative relationship.

In Work: Judgement represents a moment of self-assessment, where you may feel called to evaluate your professional life and consider whether you are on the right path. This card suggests a time of transformation, when you can release old habits, attitudes, or ways of working that no longer serve you. It may also indicate a turning point where a decision or action comes to fruition, bringing about an important opportunity or revelation. Judgement calls you to embrace your potential and step into a new phase of your career, free from limiting beliefs or fears. This card may also suggest the need for a radical change in your work life, encouraging you to pursue a career path aligned with your soul's purpose.

Spiritually: Judgement represents a call to awaken to a higher level of consciousness and self-awareness. It signifies a time when you are being invited to reflect on your spiritual journey, reconcile with the past, and embrace the opportunity for rebirth and transformation. This card encourages you to shed old beliefs, let go of guilt or judgement, and move forward with a clear sense of purpose and alignment with your soul's true calling. Judgement is a reminder that spiritual growth often involves moments of reckoning, where one confronts their actions and choices to develop into a more enlightened being. It signals that you are ready to embrace your higher self and live a life that reflects your spiritual path.

The Recent Past represents past events and concerns.

XI – Justice, Reversed

Justice represents fairness, truth, accountability, and the law of cause and effect. It embodies the principle of balance, emphasising the need for integrity, fairness, and impartiality. A figure holding a sword in one hand and scales in the other serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, and that truth will always prevail. The sword symbolises clarity, reason, and decision-making, while the scales represent equilibrium, weighing all sides of a situation before making a judgement. This card reminds us that justice is not just about external laws, but about personal responsibility and moral alignment with the truth.

Reversed, Justice can indicate imbalance, dishonesty, or a lack of accountability. It may suggest that you are facing an unfair situation or avoiding responsibility for your actions. This card reversed warns against injustice, whether self-inflicted or coming from external sources, and encourages you to look at situations objectively. It can also suggest that you are struggling with guilt, denial, or a lack of clarity in making a decision, urging you to align with your moral compass and seek fairness before proceeding. In a reversed position, Justice also points to the possibility of facing consequences for unfair or unjust actions.

In Relationships: Justice speaks to the need for honesty, fairness, and mutual respect. It may indicate a time for evaluating the dynamics of a relationship, ensuring that both partners treat each other with integrity and fairness. This card encourages you to approach romantic situations with clear communication and seek balance, where both partners' needs are considered and respected. If you are dealing with relationship issues, Justice may suggest the need to take responsibility for your actions or make amends. It can also indicate that the truth will determine the outcome of a romantic situation.

In Work: Justice signals a need for fairness in professional matters, including decision-making, disputes, and negotiations. It encourages you to act with integrity in the workplace, ensuring your actions align with ethical standards and legal requirements. This card may also suggest that you are facing a situation where justice will play a role, such as a legal matter or a need to resolve an issue that requires an impartial viewpoint. Justice reminds you that success will come from fair actions and by making decisions in alignment with your values. It also suggests karmic debts in the professional sphere may be settled, either through rewards for integrity or consequences for dishonesty.

Spiritually: Justice represents the principle of cosmic law, the balance between light and dark, and the understanding that everything is connected through universal laws. This card encourages you to reflect on your actions and beliefs, ensuring they are in alignment with higher truth. Justice invites the seeker to embrace personal accountability, recognising that spiritual growth comes from living a life balanced and true to one's values. It is a reminder that truth and fairness are universal principles that guide the spiritual path and that every action has a karmic effect. In the spiritual realm, Justice asks you to seek equilibrium, balance, and the deeper truth that lies beneath surface appearances.

The Future depicts that which lies ahead.

Nine of Cups, Reversed

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

King of Swords, Reversed

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.

Reversed, the King of Swords suggests a misuse of power, poor judgement, or a lack of clarity in communication. You may be struggling to make decisions or acting with manipulation, harshness, or intellectual dishonesty. The reversed King of Swords can indicate someone who is overbearing, cold, or rigid in their thinking, leading to conflict or misunderstanding. Perhaps, you may find it difficult to detach from emotions when objectivity is needed. This card, Reversed, urges you to examine your motives and communication style and bring balance back to your intellect and emotional awareness. It may also indicate a need to seek counsel or guidance from someone with a clearer perspective.

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.

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

Ten of Pentacles, Reversed

The Ten of Pentacles represents long-term stability, legacy, and the culmination of wealth and success. This card embodies the energy of abundance, security, and the establishment of a solid foundation for future generations. A family gathers around a flourishing home, with multiple generations enjoying the fruits of accumulated wealth; the Ten of Pentacles speaks to the culmination of hard work and the creation of a lasting legacy. It signifies the achievement of material and financial success, along with the satisfaction that comes from securing the well-being of both oneself and loved ones.

Reversed, the Ten of Pentacles can indicate a lack of stability, financial insecurity, or difficulties within family dynamics. It may suggest that you are struggling to create long-term security, either in your financial situation, career, or personal life. The reversed Ten of Pentacles can also indicate a disruption in family relationships, an inheritance dispute, or difficulty maintaining long-term commitments. You may feel disconnected from your roots or family traditions, or experience instability or impermanence in your life. The reversed card encourages you to reassess your long-term goals, relationships, and financial situation and focus on rebuilding stability and security where needed.

In Relationships: The Ten of Pentacles represents long-term commitment, family, and the creation of a solid foundation for future generations. This card signifies stability, harmony, and the potential for building a lasting future together. It suggests the relationship is secure and rooted in shared values, and it may even indicate that you and your partner are building something tangible—whether that's a family, a home, or a shared life purpose. For those seeking love, the Ten of Pentacles can indicate the potential for a stable and lasting partnership that will stand the test of time and offer the security and commitment desired. The card also suggests that love, when nurtured over time, can provide fulfilment and lasting abundance.

In Work: The Ten of Pentacles indicates the achievement of a high level of success, financial abundance, and career stability. It suggests your efforts have not only brought financial security but have also created a legacy. The card may indicate the completion of a major project, the establishment of a thriving business, or the successful culmination of a long-term career. It also speaks to the importance of building a career that aligns with your values, creating wealth not only for oneself but for others as well. The Ten of Pentacles encourages you to focus on long-term goals and consider how your current efforts contribute to building a legacy that will endure.

Spiritually: The Ten of Pentacles represents creating a legacy through spiritual growth, family, or community. It can indicate a fulfilment from nurturing relationships, contributing to unity, and creating a lasting impact on others. This card suggests your journey is not only about personal growth but also about how you use your wisdom, resources, and experiences to benefit the greater good. The Ten of Pentacles encourages you to think about the long-term effects of your spiritual practices, teachings, and contributions, and how you can create a legacy for the future.

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

Ace of Swords, Reversed

The Ace of Swords represents clarity, truth, and mental breakthroughs. As the embodiment of raw intellectual power, this card signifies the arrival of new ideas, insights, or a moment of sudden realisation that cuts through the confusion. The sword, as a symbol of intellect and communication, shows that you are being presented with a fresh perspective, the potential for mental clarity, or an opportunity to engage with truth clearly and directly. The Ace of Swords offers the energy of a sharp mind, clear intentions, and the ability to face challenges with a straightforward approach.

Reversed, the Ace of Swords can indicate confusion, dishonesty, or mental blockages. The reversal suggests you may be struggling to see things clearly, either because of internal confusion, miscommunication, or being caught in illusions. It may also indicate that you are avoiding the truth by not speaking up or denying a reality that needs to be addressed. The Ace of Swords reversed encourages you to seek clarity and be honest with yourself and others. It suggests the need to clear away the fog and allow direct communication to guide you towards understanding.

In Relationships: The Ace of Swords represents clear communication, honesty, and truth. This card signals a time when you or your partner may need to have an important conversation that cuts through misunderstandings or brings clarity to a situation. The Ace of Swords encourages you to speak your truth openly and directly, clearing the air and removing any confusion or deception. This card may also indicate a breakthrough in understanding each other's needs or desires, where clarity leads to a stronger emotional connection. The Ace of Swords reminds you that honesty is essential in love and that addressing hard truths with clarity can bring about profound change and growth.

In Work: The Ace of Swords suggests a new intellectual breakthrough or a fresh idea that could lead to success. It may signify the beginning of a new project, endeavour, or direction in the professional realm based on strategic thinking and clear communication. This card encourages you to use your mental abilities to tackle problems, solve challenges, and move forward confidently. The Ace of Swords often indicates the start of something where clarity of purpose and mental focus are key. You may be called to speak up, lead with logic, or bring a new perspective to your career, potentially leading to greater success.

Spiritually: The Ace of Swords signifies clarity of thought and the pursuit of truth on a deeper level. This card indicates you may experience a moment of spiritual awakening or a surge of insight that cuts through confusion or previous misconceptions. The Ace of Swords invites you to seek truth, challenge old beliefs, and engage with spirituality from a place of intellectual clarity and personal integrity. This card also encourages you to embrace the power of your mind in your spiritual practice, suggesting that mental clarity and an open mind are essential for spiritual growth. It represents the potential for enlightenment, where new understanding can lead to profound transformation.

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 Pentacles, Reversed

The Five of Pentacles represents hardship, struggle, and being left out in the cold. This card embodies the energy of material or financial loss, insecurity, and isolation. It depicts two figures walking through a snowy landscape, disconnected from the warmth and comfort of a nearby building, symbolising being excluded, abandoned, or not supported. The Five of Pentacles suggests you may experience difficulty, whether financial instability, health problems, or emotional lack. The card invites you to reflect on how you view scarcity and struggle and recognise that hardship, while challenging, can also present opportunities for growth and resilience.

Reversed, the Five of Pentacles suggests you may be overcoming hardship, financial struggle, or emotional isolation. The reversal indicates a potential for recovery, healing, or a change in circumstances. You may find a way to regain stability or support after a difficult time. However, the reversed Five of Pentacles can also indicate that you still hold onto feelings of insecurity or fear, and may need to work on shifting a fixed mindset to one of growth. The reversal encourages you to seek support, release any lingering feelings of isolation, and trust that your situation will soon improve.

In Relationships: The Five of Pentacles may indicate feelings of isolation or abandonment. You may experience distance from your partner and feel unsupported or misunderstood. This card can also point to financial struggles affecting the relationship, such as job loss or instability, which can lead to feelings of insecurity or worry. The Five of Pentacles advises you to communicate openly with your partner and address any issues causing emotional distance. It encourages you to be open to receiving help or support from your partner, rather than suffering in silence.

In Work: The Five of Pentacles suggests you may be facing financial difficulty, job insecurity, or a lack of recognition in your professional life. This card indicates you may feel disconnected or unsupported in your career or may be struggling to find your footing after a setback. The Five of Pentacles urges you to reach out for support, whether seeking new opportunities, asking for help, or finding ways to strengthen your financial situation. This card also serves as a reminder that difficult times are temporary and that with perseverance and a shift in perspective, you can recover from hardship.

Spiritually: The Five of Pentacles suggests a feeling of spiritual dryness, isolation, or abandonment. You may experience doubts about your faith or disconnection from your spiritual path. This card can also indicate feeling disconnected from the support of a spiritual community or unsupported in your personal beliefs. However, the Five of Pentacles invites you to recognise that even in times of spiritual struggle, help and guidance may be closer than you think. This card encourages you to reach out for support from your spiritual community, mentors, or resources that can help you regain connection, faith, and purpose. The card reminds us that spiritual growth often comes through overcoming difficult periods, and that seeking help or guidance during times of spiritual challenge can lead to deeper understanding and healing.