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  Summer
External Forces  South Wind
|
||
The Recent Past  Wan 9 |
The Crossing Tile
|
The Future  Bamboo 1 |
|
|
|||
Wan 1
The Entering tile suggests that although doors may be closed to you at the moment, they will soon begin to open. You will soon overcome the ideas that have been blocking you. Opportunities are coming, so be prepared to take advantage of them.
Chrysanthemum
The Chrysanthemum is a symbol of entertainment and leisure time. Social activities will be happy and fulfilling. You might even want to take a vacation and have the time of your life.
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.
Bamboo 2
The Duck symbolises enduring partnerships – long lasting relationships with the strength to overcome all obstacles. It suggests fidelity and trustworthiness, just as ducks are monogamous for life.
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.
Bamboo 1
The first tile of the mah-jong set represents success in general. At the same time the "peacock" also warns that success can lead to egotism and arrogance. A positive change in your life path is foretold.
Circles 8
The White Tiger is a masculine symbol of power, bravery, and authority. It often speaks of a man who is not afraid to stand up for himself or to assert himself.
South Wind
The South Wind tile is a particularly favourable sign. It foretells an end to problems allowing for new progress.
Red, summer, fire, phoenix
Winter
The Scholar represents the cultured mind, prudence, and spiritual development. Some think of this tile more specifically as Confucius. This is the sign of refinement of the intellect and the mastery of intellectually oriented tasks.
Summer
The Woodcutter represents success through activity. The woodcutter puts Fire, Wood and Metal to work for him in his craft. He represents skilled labour, ambition, and creativity.