The Celtic Cross is the most well-known tarot spread and also the largest layouts available here, involving ten tiles. This layout begins with a pair of crossing tiles at the center of the issue, essentially being two significators. When two significators are involved, they may strengthen or oppose each other, which speaks of the nature of the situation. Above and below the initial cross, we have two tiles which are symbolic of the intellectual (top) and emotional (bottom) basis of the issue. The Before and After tiles show the past and immediate future.
At the right, four tiles are laid out, going upward. At the bottom you have a tile representing yourself, and the next tile shows how others may affect the situation. Tile #9 indicates what you may be hoping for, or possibly, what you hope will not happen. Finally at the top is the outcome, meaning the distant or ultimate future.
The Crown |
The Outcome  Bamboo 4
External Forces  Red Dragon
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The Recent Past  Wan 8 |
The Crossing Tile
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The Future  Wan 7 |
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Plum Blossom
The Plum represents spring, youth, innocence, inexperience, and childlike happiness. It may be a sign that you need a fresh perspective on something. Something in your life may need to be re-evaluated.
White Dragon
The White Dragon represents the unknown mysterious influences of the universe at work. Unknown factors may come into play, so be prepared for potential surprises.
Circles 4
The Jade tile is about lasting values and convictions. It indicates strong commitments, longevity, and vibrant health. It sometimes foretells hard work resulting in impressive gains.
Spring
The Fisherman symbolises common sense and the rewards that come with patience. Do not simply sit back and expect things to fall into your lap. Instead, this tile suggests that you bait the hook and cast your line before sitting back. Have a beer if you like.
Wan 8
The Knot tile stands for both tying and setting loose. If this tile appears in the reading with the Sword tile (2 Wan), it suggests that the time to sever your connection to someone or something has arrived. However, if the Duck tile (2 Bamboo) is in this reading, this indicates the strengthening of an existing bond.
Wan 7
The Seven Stars tile indicates imagination, creativity, and inspiration. This is the time to apply your creativity, to let your imagination run wild. You are the creator of your own future.
Wan 9
The Heaven tile signifies achievement, completion, and fulfilment. It suggests perfect contentment and a time you can be free to kick back and feast upon the fruits of your labours.
Red Dragon
The Red Dragon represents the centre or middle, as in the core or bullseye. It foretells success and the skilful fulfilment of your goals.
Wan 2
The Sword stands for an important decision you will need to make. You must be careful to use balance as you weigh your decision, or risk damage to yourself if not others.
Bamboo 4
The Carp signifies peace, contentment, tranquillity, and freedom from the pressures of everyday life. The tile's vibrant colours symbolise a gain of material and/or spiritual wealth.