| 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 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 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. Eight of Staves (Swiftness), when reversed: Bewilderment. Awe. Temporary immobility. |
 | The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. Queen of Staves, when reversed: A dilettante. An impatient or jaded connoisseur. A superficial or pretentious person. A frustrated artist. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. The Empress, when reversed: Stifling domesticity. Bourgeois limitations. High-handed matriarchy. Junoesque jealousy. |
 | The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. The Chariot: Victory. Triumph over opposition. New order. Change by force. The chariot of the soul pulled to one side by the force of vigilance and restraint, or drawn to the other side by the force of passions. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. Four of Staves (Completion): Calm, pleasurable and perhaps amorous interlude. A playful balance of opposites, like the exchange made by Herakles and Queen Omphale. |
 | The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. King of Swords, when reversed: Abuse of power. Tyranny. Cruelty. The empty striving for control. A failed attempt at mastery. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. Four of Coins (Power), when reversed: Equanimity. Suspension of conflict. Balance of power. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. The Hierophant, when reversed: Dogmatic beliefs. Spiritual authoritarianism. Enfeebled philosophizing. |
 | The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. Justice: The vindication of the just and the punishment of the unjust. Rule of reason. Balance of power. |
