| The Celtic Cross spread is one of the most popular Tarot spreads, providing varied insight into many aspects of a complex situation and your role in it. The Renaissance Tarot is a modern deck, with symbolism drawn from the heroic age and rendered in renaissance style. This deck is an excellent choice for exploring questions of passion, mastery, and the inner workings of human reason. If you would like your own copy of the Renaissance Tarot, you can buy it now! |
| The card not shown but at the center of the cross, represents the atmosphere surrounding the central issue. Queen of Swords, when reversed: Consuming fire; the flames of the martyrdom of Joan of Arc, Phaedra's misguided passion, Medea's jealousy, Lady Macbeth's ambition. Fire, if left to burn unchecked, can consume the soul. |
| The card visible at the center of the cross represents the obstacle that stands in your way - it may even be something that sounds good but is not actually to your benefit. Two of Swords (Peace), when reversed: False friendship. Misunderstanding or duplicity, particularly between mentor and student. |
| The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. Five of Staves (Strife), when reversed: A cautious step ahead without the aid of others. |
| The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. King of Coins: A master of the material world. A man of affairs who is successful, expert and pragmatic. One who extracts wealth from its hiding places. A builder. A pillar of family, clan and community. |
| The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. Five of Coins (Worry): Impoverishment and barrenness. Yearning for one absent. |
| The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. Six of Coins (Success), when reversed: Refusal to help others. Pomposity. Stinginess. |
| The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. Nine of Swords (Cruelty): Revenge. Excessive or violent response to a problem. Jealousy. |
| The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. The Moon, when reversed: Gradual clarity. New hope. Light of dawn. |
| The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. Two of Staves (Dominion), when reversed: Wavering in the charge ahead. Victories delayed. Stalemate. |
| The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. Nine of Staves (Strength), when reversed: Barriers, difficulties. |