| 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. Two of Staves (Dominion): A decisive, perhaps early, accomplishment. Confirmation of boldness and courage. |
 | 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. Page of Coins, when reversed: An unrealistic deluded state of mind. Rationalizations. Pseudoscience. |
 | The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. King of Staves, when reversed: Talent turned to pomposity. Complacency. Egocentricity. Provincial attitude. Sophistry which masks lack of principle of conviction. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. Nine of Cups (Happiness): Difficulties overcome. Favorable agreement. Reconciliation. A new beginning. Renewal of trust. Bestowal of forgiveness. |
 | The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. Eight of Swords (Interference): Emotional disaster. Loss of a beloved person or a valued situation. A sadness that creates a new strength and resolve. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. 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 base of the staff represents your role or attitude. Three of Swords (Sorrow), when reversed: Balance of forces in conflict. Rest from struggle. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. The Magician, when reversed: Mercurial chicanery. Fraudulent activity. Demagoguery. Sophistry. Misused technology. Sideshow thrills. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. Strength: Strength and fortitude. Moral resolve. Triumph over base instincts. Mens sana in corpore sana (Sound mind in a sound body). |
 | 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. |
