What is the Celtic Cross spread?

The Celtic Cross is one of the most well-known and widely used tarot spreads. It's a classic and comprehensive spread that provides insights into various aspects of a situation or question. The Celtic Cross spread consists of ten cards, each representing different facets of the querent's (the person receiving the reading) life or inquiry. While there are variations in the interpretation and placement of cards, the general structure of the Celtic Cross includes the following positions:

1. The Significator (Card 1):

   • This card represents the querent or the central theme of the reading. Some readers choose the card based on the querent's gender, age, or a specific question.

2. The Crossing Card (Card 2):

   • Placed over the Significator, this card represents challenges, obstacles, or influences that may impact the querent.

3. The Foundation (Card 3):

   • This card reflects the foundation or underlying influences of the situation. It provides insights into the past or contributing factors.

4. The Recent Past (Card 4):

   • Positioned to the left of the Significator, this card represents recent events or influences that have led to the current situation.

5. The Crowning Card (Card 5):

   • Positioned above the Significator, this card indicates the current influences or energies at play in the querent's life. It represents the best possible outcome or what the querent aspires to achieve.

6. The Immediate Future (Card 6):

   • Positioned to the right of the Significator, this card provides insights into the immediate future and potential developments in the short term.

7. The Querent's Attitude (Card 7):

   • This card reflects the querent's attitude, thoughts, or feelings toward the situation. It offers insights into the querent's mindset.

8. External Influences (Card 8):

   • Positioned to the left of the Significator, this card represents external influences or factors that may impact the situation. It can include people, events, or circumstances.

9. Hopes and Fears (Card 9):

   • This card represents the querent's hopes and fears related to the situation. It provides insights into the emotional aspects of the inquiry.

10. The Outcome (Card 10):

    • Placed at the bottom of the spread, this card represents the likely outcome or resolution of the situation. It synthesizes the influences of the other cards.

Interpreting the Celtic Cross spread requires considering the relationships between the cards, their positions, and the overall narrative they create. Some readers may modify or adapt the spread to suit their preferences, but the general structure remains a popular and versatile choice for tarot readings. Keep in mind that the interpretation of tarot cards is subjective, and readers may develop their own approaches to the Celtic Cross spread over time.