| 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. Ace of Staves, when reversed: A beginning that is faulty from lack of conviction or from an excess of complacency. |
 | 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. Six of Staves (Victory): Triumph over great difficulties. A glorious victory. "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." |
 | The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. Nine of Coins (Gain), when reversed: Stormy relationships. Unstable circumstances. Unseasonable activity. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. Six of Swords (Science): A daring expedition. An excursion or trip. Courageous act. Show of bravery. |
 | The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. The High Priestess: The abstract, spiritual and intellectual face of the anima, which is the feminine nature of the soul. Primordial feminine wisdom. The cyclic and balancing forces of nature. The ancient underground tradition of healing arts, magic, and spiritual mystery. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. The Star: Blessedness. Tranquility. Beauty. |
 | The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. The Hierophant: The abstract, spiritual and intellectual side of the animus, or masculine nature of the soul. Spiritual authority. Religious tradition. Avuncular wisdom. The old order and the old school. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. Page of Cups: A young person of sensitive and meditative nature, capable of deep loyalty and profound affection. A conscientious worker. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. King of Staves: A renaissance man, practical and imaginative, active and contemplative, forceful and chivalrous. Appreciation of the lessons and pleasures of life. Worldliness in the best sense. An intellectual, an artist or an inventor. |
 | The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. King of Swords, when reversed: Abuse of power. Tyranny. Cruelty. The empty striving for control. A failed attempt at mastery. |
