Tarot deck shown is the Rider Waite Smith published by US Games. Photo by Magenta
Welcome to the fascinating world of tarot reading! If you’ve ever been curious about tarot cards and are ready to delve into their mystical depths, then you’ve come to the right place. In this ‘how to read’ guide, we’ll be exploring one of the most popular and powerful tarot spreads – the Celtic Cross.
Our interpretation of the Celtic Cross is one of many; so please bear in mind that everyone has their own approach to reading the cards, but there are universally agreed meanings to each of the cards just to layer on the confusion somewhat!
Understanding the structure of the Celtic Cross spread
The Celtic Cross is a ten-card spread that provides a comprehensive view of a situation or other open question. It is often considered to be quite a challenging spread for beginners due to its structured layout and the depth of information it offers. Understanding how to read the celtic cross tarot card spread is all about how the cards discuss things with each other. So really the trick to the Celtic Cross is not in reading each card by itself, but in understanding the bigger story. This is what is essential to unlocking its wisdom.
The first card, known as the significator, represents the person or situation in question. It sets the tone for the entire reading and provides insight into the energy surrounding the issue at hand. The remaining cards are laid out in a specific pattern, each position representing different aspects of the situation. Together, they paint this holistic picture and can offer guidance on various aspects of life.
How to read the Celtic Cross tarot card spread by interpreting the positions of the cards
To fully grasp the meaning of the Celtic Cross spread, it’s crucial to understand the significance of each position. Let’s explore the positions one by one:
Number One Card – As mentioned earlier, this card represents the person or situation being read. It sets the context for the entire spread. It signifies either the individual who is asking, the topic of inquiry, or the thoughts, emotions, and actions that are taking place at the moment.
Card number 2 – Identifying the Obstacles. This card is placed above the first card. It reveals what is preventing you from reaching your goals. Even positive cards can have a darker side, and it is made clear in this position.
Card number 3 – Subconscious Intuition. Positioned beneath the significator, this card represents the foundation or basis of the situation. It sheds light on the past or underlying influences that have shaped the current circumstances. This means this card reflects any unexpressed needs, values, or sentiments that you may not be aware of, but are still influencing your current behaviour. This card may be a surprise to you because it symbolises the hidden thoughts you are concealing from others.
Card number 4 – The Recent Past. Placed to the left of the significator, card number 1, this card reflects recent events or experiences that have influenced the present situation. It offers a glimpse into the immediate past and its impact. This card’s purpose is to illustrate the elements from the past that are currently influencing your present circumstances. These could be people, events, thoughts, or even ongoing issues. This card is important for understanding the obstacles in your way (shown in Card number 2) or your unconscious beliefs (shown in Card number 3).
So already we are seeing that the cards are already ‘talking to each other’ and each card brings more into the story.
The fifth card – Positioned above the significator, this card symbolises the outward expression of your current ambitions, longings, and what is significant to you. This card basically illustrates your conscious approach, objectives and/or your current priorities and how you are showing up in the world. It may not be in synchronisation with your unconscious ideas as indicated in card three, but it is the means of how you are functioning in your day to day life. Spotting if Card number 5 and Card number 3 are opposites will be interesting, this could mean you’re not being authentic, could this be part of the problem in Card number 2?
Again, see how the story relies on what is going on in the other card’s you’ve interpreted so far. It’s ok to go back and recheck previous card meanings still mean the same things with new context being revealed.
Card Number 6 – What’s Next? Placed to the right of the significator, this card offers insights into what the future holds. It indicates potential outcomes and helps the individual navigate their path forward. So if no action is taken then this card could signify the direction you’re going. This can be interpreted as advice, or it may be a cautionary card.
Number 7 Card – That which you are rejecting. This card indicates the areas of your life which you are actively not addressing, which could be related to cards number 1 and 2. It symbolises the things you are avoiding, keeping away from or even the things you are scared of. It’s always fun to see if this card is one that traditionally means a good thing. It might mean you have a fear of success!
Card 8 – The Exterior. Placed to the left of the significator, this card represents external factors that are affecting the situation. It may indicate people, events, or circumstances that are influencing the outcome that is oftentimes beyond our control. It might be useful to reflect on how Card 8 interacts with the other cards…do other people’s actions have an effect on what is happening?!
Number 9 Card – That which you are attracting. This might be referring to your aspirations, but it also could be about what is being attracted into your life at present, and might even be bad things.
Think of Cards 7 and 9 as magnetic cards, it is true that a magnet draws things in but also magnets retract, or push against things. It’s intriguing to note if Cards 7 and 9 are counteracting one another, as well as how they interact with the other cards.
Card 10 – The Consequential Result. Placed to the right of the significator, this card represents the overall outcome or resolution of the situation. It brings together all the previous cards and offers a final insight into the path ahead. This card is an indication of a potential result based upon the other cards’ interpretations. This means considering how Cards 6, 7, 9, and the earlier cards 1 and 2 intertwine in order to arrive at this conclusion.
Reading the card meanings in the Celtic Cross spread
Now that we understand the structure and positions of the Celtic Cross spread, let’s delve into how to read the individual cards. As we’ve mentioned earlier, each card in the spread carries its own unique universally agreed symbolism and meaning, and now we know that they also interact with one another to provide a holistic understanding of the situation. In other words, they only tell the story when read together.
When interpreting the cards, it’s essential to consider the position they occupy and how they relate to the significator card. Not just the universally agreed interpretation. The cards around the significator offer insights into various aspects of the person’s life or the situation being read.
For example, if Card 2 is a Major Arcana card like the Sun, this suggests actually you are finding success a significant challenge. The cards surrounding Card number 2 can then provide further context and guidance on how to navigate this challenge, even though the Sun card is usually thought of as a good thing, not a challenge.
Common symbols and meanings in the Celtic Cross tarot card spread
Throughout the Celtic Cross spread, certain symbols and meanings frequently appear. Understanding these common symbols can enhance your interpretation of the spread and provide deeper insights into the cards and their interactions.
Wands are associated with ideas, creativity, taking action and self expression through enterprise. These may also be called Staffs, Clubs, Sticks, Rods etc etc in other decks.
Swords are associated with the intellect, logic and seeing things as they really are. These may be called Knives, Blades, Spades, Thorns, Needles etc etc in other decks.
Pentacles are associated with material things, surroundings, wellbeing and what can be gained. These may be called Coins, Diamonds, Discs, Plates, Tiles etc etc in other decks.
Cups are associated with emotions, love, other people and the interplay between relationships. These may be called Chalices, Hearts, Goblets, Vessels, Vases etc etc in other decks.
Understanding the elemental associations and symbolism of the cards can provide deeper insights into the messages they convey in the Celtic Cross spread.
Final tips for how to read the Celtic Cross tarot card spread
Interpreting the Celtic Cross spread can be a complex task, especially for beginners. Here are some tips to help you navigate the spread and gain accurate interpretations:
Trust your intuition: While it’s essential to understand the traditional meanings of the cards, don’t hesitate to rely on your intuition. Allow your instincts to guide you as you interpret the cards and their interactions.
Consider the card’s position: Each position in the Celtic Cross spread has its own significance. Take into account the position of each card and how it relates to the significator and other cards in the spread. This will provide valuable context and insights.
Look for patterns and connections: Pay attention to any patterns or recurring themes that emerge from the cards. Notice how the cards interact with one another and how they reinforce or contradict each other’s messages.
Take note of reversed cards: Reversed cards, when a card appears upside down, may offer a different perspective or energy to the reading if you choose to read the cards this way. Consider what – if anything – the reversed cards might mean in relation to the overall spread before you start.
An example video showing how to read the Celtic Cross tarot card spread
The Celtic Cross spread is a powerful tool for gaining insights and guidance in various areas of life. By understanding the structure, positions, and meanings of the cards, you can unlock the wisdom of the tarot and empower yourself to make informed decisions.
Remember, tarot reading is a deeply personal and intuitive practice. Trust your instincts, connect with the cards on a personal level, and allow the messages of the Celtic Cross spread to guide you on your journey.
As you continue to explore the world of tarot reading, the Celtic Cross spread will serve as a valuable tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and discovering the hidden insights that lie within.
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