| 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. Wheel of Fortune: The intrusion of chance into affairs. Unlikely coincidence. "What goes up, must come down." The intercession of good fortune in life. A sudden opportunity that must be exploited deftly and promptly; according to Machiavelli, in The Prince, Fortune is "bald behind", that is, once she runs past, it will be too late to grab her, and so she must be seized as she approaches, "by the forelock". |
 | 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. The Emperor, when reversed: Tyranny. Pomposity. Jove-like self-indulgence. |
 | The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. Ace of Cups: The free reign of the heart in overflowing joy and abundant love. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. Ten of Coins (Wealth): Prosperity. Tranquility. Family affection. |
 | The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. Seven of Cups (Temptation): Living in a world of fantasy and illusion. Unrealistic and vain hopes. Dependence on external and even supernatural aid. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. Queen of Staves, when reversed: A dilettante. An impatient or jaded connoisseur. A superficial or pretentious person. A frustrated artist. |
 | The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. The Chariot, when reversed: Bullying. Grandstanding. Sword rattling. A setback or defeat. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. Seven of Coins (Assessment): A step forward, accomplished with grace and skill. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. Page of Cups, when reversed: Emotional excess. Distraction. Seduction. |
 | The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. The Judgment, when reversed: Delay. Procrastination. Mediocrity. Indecision. |
