The Celtic cross tarot spread is the oldest and most-classic of all the tarot spreads.

This tarot spread can feel overwhelming for some, especially new tarot readers, as it involves interpreting 10 tarot card meanings together in a reading. But a structured tarot spread, like the Celtic cross, is actually helpful because it helps systematically frame the querent’s (aka inquirer’s) question. For instance, if you pull the moon tarot card in a position that represents the person asking the question, it will take on a different meaning than if the same card shows up in the position that relates to their environment, which can make it easier to interpret.

How to do a Celtic cross tarot spread

1. Shuffle the cards while focusing on your question

For a Celtic cross tarot spread, start by shuffling the cards while thinking of the question you’d like to focus the tarot reading around. You can either keep the focus general or get into the nitty-gritty with a specific question. For example, a general question could be “how do I bring more abundance into my life,” and a specific question could be “am I going to get this job I’m interviewing for?”

2. Pull 10 cards and lay them out in a Celtic cross

Once you intuitively feel that you’ve shuffled the cards enough, the split the deck in three with your left hand. Then choose one of the three piles and pull ten cards from the top of that pile as you place each of them in the order of the Celtic cross tarot spread as outlined below.

Card 1: The querent Positioned right in the middle of the Celtic cross tarot spread, the first card in the spread always represents the person asking the question, also known as the querent. So whatever card lands in this position, the meaning and interpretation will relate to the querent themselves.

Card 2: The block The second card in the Celtic cross tarot spread is laid out horizontally across the first card. This card, represents the block that is preventing the querent from getting what they want.

Card 3: The root The third card in the spread goes below the centre cards and symbolizes what’s causing the block, the “root of the problem or the unconscious energy grounding it.

Card 4: The recent past This card lives to the left of the centre cards and represents things that have happened recently.

Card 5: Possibilities Positioned above the centre cards, the fifth card in the Celtic cross tarot spread is all about the possibilities available to you now.

Card 6: Where you’re headed The sixth card, located to the right of the centre cards, represents your future and where you’re headed. This card can also reveal the best and most efficient way to achieve your desired outcome.

Cards 7: How you view yourself right now The sixth card position completes the cross shape in the Celtic cross tarot spread. Cards seven through 10, are read together and form a vertical line to the right of the cross, with the seventh card at the bottom and 10th at the top. Card seven, focuses on how you are viewing yourself, whether in a positive or negative light.

Card 8: Your environment Positioned right above the seventh card, this card represents your environment, which encompasses the people around you, such as friends and family, who are either helping or hindering the situation.

Card 9: Hopes and fears The card in the ninth position of the Celtic cross tarot spread, just about the eight card, reveals how the querent is feeling, their hopes and their fears around the situation. It does not represent what actually will happen but more our outlook on it.

Card 10: The outcome Placed above the ninth card, the final card of the Celtic cross tarot spread shows the “outcome.” However, this is not a hard and fast prediction but more to show where the energy is heading. We all have free will, and the beauty of tarot, is that you can change your approach and energy in any given situation, and, in turn, achieve a different outcome.

3. Make the Celtic tarot cross spread your own

Once you’ve laid out all 10 of your cards, you can begin interpreting their meanings based on where they’re positioned in the spread. Although going by the traditional structure and layout of the Celtic cross tarot spread is helpful, try out other variations to find one you resonate with. Don’t be afraid to make it your own. Play around with what each card represents until you find something that feels right. If you don’t vibe with the traditional meaning of the card, give it your own take. Tarot is all about being creative and tapping into our intuitive flow.

4. Pay attention to patterns or repetition

As you’re reading the cards, pay attention to patterns or repetition. For example, repeated cards with the number seven can signify stress and challenges that must be overcome in order to achieve something. Or, if many pentacles cards come up in a spread, that could mean there is an emphasis on security and money.

5. Use your intuition

Aside from the traditional meanings of each card and the positions, your intuition is queen when it comes to deciphering a tarot spread’s messages. For that reason, use your inner wisdom to help you decide what cards to zone in on. The most important card does not always have to be the outcome card, you may be really drawn to a card in another position. Trust what you are drawn to and then using the structure of each particular position; piece together the story the cards are trying to convey.

And lastly, give yourself time with a Celtic cross reading. Writing out your first impressions and then coming back to it later can be helpful.