As you are aware, last month marked the conclusion of our series exploring all the Minor Arcana cards. Now, we begin to comprehend how the cards are arranged in a practice known as ‘spreads.’ Today, we commence with one of the most well-known spreads – The Celtic Cross.
Why might you use the Celtic Cross spread?
Readers often choose to start with this spread as it allows the client to gain an overview of a situation, explore the topic in detail, and address both the past and present. If relevant, future readings could use a more expansive spread to develop information further.
This 10-card spread is excellent at revealing the fears, desires, and motivations of one or two people. This is why many readers and clients prefer this spread when working through relationship difficulties.
What do the cards in the spread represent?
In the image, you will notice that 6 cards are arranged in a cross or clock formation. Card 1, positioned at the bottom in the middle, represents your current circumstances. Then, Card 2 is placed horizontally over card 1 and focuses on current events while considering influences. Card 3 is located at 12 o’clock and signifies future influences. Then, Card 4, positioned at 6 o’clock, relates to future events. Card 5 (9 o’clock) reflects past influences, and card 6 (3 o’clock) pertains to past events.
Additionally, there are four extra cards in the spread running from bottom to top as numbers 7-10 on the right side of the cross symbolising “the Staff.” Card 7 explores your feelings, card 8 examines outside influences, card 9 delves into your hopes and fears, and finally, card 10 provides insights into the outcome or resolutions.
It’s worth noting that there may be variations to this layout based on individual reader preferences; for instance, sometimes cards 5 and 3 are reversed.
The outcome of the spread
Put simply, the “cross” section provides you with an overall picture of all the happenings, both internally and externally, in your life. The “staff” section allows you to examine your life outside of the current situation. Through the reading you will understand the context of the situation and if desired – how to change it.
On occasion, the outcome may not be favourable and you may desire to shift the situation. That is when a future reading may come into play. Going into that reading, you know the situation/problem you are facing, and you can then focus in on what your choices are and what would be best for you and your life plan moving forward.
If you are new to Tarot readings, all of this information might seem a little overwhelming at first. But do not worry – when you have a Tarot reading with one of our psychics, they will guide you through the spread and cards seamlessly, without you needing to be concerned about each card’s purpose.
Posted: 29/11/2024
Related Category: Tarot
