| 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. The Hermit: Introspection. Retreat. Pilgrimage. Spiritual quest. The search in oneself and in the world for the "Honest Man" of Diogenes the philosopher. Meditation on the passage of time and the dissolution of matter. |
 | 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. Four of Staves (Completion), when reversed: Preoccupations. Discord in relationships. |
 | The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. The Moon, when reversed: Gradual clarity. New hope. Light of dawn. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. 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 left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. Page of Staves: A young person of faithful countenance who, even unintentionally, helps others. An unofficial Hermes: a carrier of important news, an envoy, a guide, a pleasant stranger. A suave, bring and noble soul. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. Two of Coins (Change): Unusual turn of events. Unexpected difficulties. Untried emotions. Uncharacteristic behavior. |
 | The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. The Lovers: Romantic passion. Amorous attachment. The stages of love: discovery, attraction, pursuit, flirtation, courtship and consummation. The gifts of Aphrodite: beauty, youth, dalliance and delight. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. Ace of Swords, when reversed: The brutal aspect of power. Violence. Consuming heat. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. King of Cups, when reversed: An ineffectual, unsteady person, talented but emotionally at sea. |
 | The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. Seven of Swords (Futility), when reversed: Uncertainty. Disagreements. |
