| 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. Ace of Swords: In the realm of events, the card signifies triumphant power. Whether for good or ill. For the life of the mind it represents the active, passionate impulses. It declares the dominance of the will and zealous, even fanatical, political or religious convictions. It is the sword of righteousness. |
 | 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 Cups (Disappointment): Serious, but not irreversible mistake. A betrayal born of lack of faith. Beauty found and lost, where ugliness was expected. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. Nine of Cups (Happiness), when reversed: Misleading freedom. Refusal to cleave to others. |
 | The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. King of Cups, when reversed: An ineffectual, unsteady person, talented but emotionally at sea. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. The Empress: Feminine fertility and power. Civilization. Domestic tradition. Family and childrearing. The active, fecund aspect of the anima. The mother and the queen, on earth and in heaven. |
 | The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. Ten of Cups (Satiety): The union of love and the soul. Happiness in love. Balance in friendship. Joyful equanimity in oneself. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. Two of Swords (Peace): Friendship, especially between student and teacher or younger and older. The adventure and excitement of childhood and adolescence. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. Strength, when reversed: Weakness. Unresolved conflict. |
 | The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. Ace of Staves, when reversed: A beginning that is faulty from lack of conviction or from an excess of complacency. |
