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Spread typesStep 1 / 3 · Intention

Set your intention

Write the question on your mind in a few words, or simply focus on the matter. Writing is optional; the deck listens either way.

SpreadEvery layer of the situation: obstacle, subconscious, surroundings and outcome. Best for: In-depth general analysis
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Shuffling takes a few seconds.
Selected layout · Celtic Cross
1.Present situation2.Challenge / obstacle3.Subconscious4.Past5.Near future6.Distant future7.Your attitude8.External influences9.Hopes / fears10.Outcome
  1. 01
    IntentionFocus on your question; write it if you like.
  2. 02
    Shuffle and pickThe deck fans out across the table; you draw your own cards.
  3. 03
    Reveal and readThe cards turn over in the spread's layout; their meanings appear beside them.

Celtic Cross: how this tarot reading works

The Celtic Cross is the best-known and most comprehensive tarot spread. Its ten cards show, each in its own position, the heart of the situation, the challenge that crosses it, the subconscious, the past, the near and distant future, your attitude, external influences, hopes and fears, and the likely outcome. It offers a detailed overall analysis for complex, many-layered questions.

Tips for interpreting

  • Read the cross in the middle (the first six cards) first, then treat the vertical column on the right (cards seven to ten) as a commentary on that cross.
  • The first and second cards are read together: the situation and the force that challenges it are two sides of the same picture.
  • The hopes and fears card often shows the same thing from two sides; think about what you want and why you hesitate.

Positions and their meanings

  1. 01
    Present situationIn the “Present situation” position, this card describes the heart of the matter, the situation you are standing in right now.
  2. 02
    Challenge / obstacleIn the “Challenge / obstacle” position, this card describes the influence that crosses or challenges the situation.
  3. 03
    SubconsciousIn the “Subconscious” position, this card describes the foundation that guides you without your knowing.
  4. 04
    PastIn the “Past” position, this card describes what lies behind you but is still felt.
  5. 05
    Near futureIn the “Near future” position, this card describes the trend that will become clear in the short term ahead.
  6. 06
    Distant futureIn the “Distant future” position, this card describes the direction that may take shape in the longer term.
  7. 07
    Your attitudeIn the “Your attitude” position, this card describes how you are approaching this situation.
  8. 08
    External influencesIn the “External influences” position, this card describes the influence of your surroundings, other people and circumstances.
  9. 09
    Hopes / fearsIn the “Hopes / fears” position, this card describes the expectations and worries you hold inside.
  10. 10
    OutcomeIn the “Outcome” position, this card describes the likely outcome where all the influences come together.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the Celtic Cross tarot spread have ten cards?

The first six cards show the situation itself and its timing, while the last four show your position, your surroundings, your expectations and the outcome; that way the matter is seen from every angle.

Is the Celtic Cross hard for beginners?

With so many positions it can feel dense at first, but since each card comes with a description of its position, you can read it step by step.

Does the outcome card predict a fixed future?

No; it shows where things may lead if all influences continue as they are today. Your decisions and attitude can change that course.