How To Read And Interpret The Cross Tarot Spread

Last updated by Amy Thomas

In order to interpret Tarot cards, keep in mind that you need to know the meaning of each individual arcana. Also, depending on their position, each card may have a different meaning. Our expert fortune-tellers explain how to interpret a spread by using the cross method.

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In this method of laying the cards of the Tarot Marseille, only the 22 Major Arcana are used in order to give us an immediate and clear answer.

Reading the cross Tarot spread in 4 simple steps

There are four steps to keep in mind when you want to proceed with using the cross method.

  1. Write your question down on a white sheet of paper, make it clear and simple.
  2. Now you can proceed in shuffling the cards as you wish.
  3. Choose 4 cards, randomly and crosswise.
  4. Make the sum of the figures corresponding to the 4 arcana. The result of this addition will allow you to find the digit of the fifth card, which is known as the Synthetic Arcana.

Tarot spread

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How to lay out and set up the cross spread

How to read your Tarot cards using the cross method. Each of the five Arcana has a precise meaning and represents a stage in your life. Here is how to interpret the Tarot with the cross method.

1) First step: Start with the question

The Arcane of synthesis, the fifth arcane is the result of the sum of the four arcane. This chart is analyzed first. During this first phase, the Arcane of synthesis invites you to return to the choice of the question, to reformulate it if you realize that it is not clear or precise.

2) Second stage: You now, in the present

The first Arcane of the deck (top card), helps you to have a clearer idea of your state of mind in the present. It also helps reveal your fears, uncertainties and desires.

3) Third stage: External circumstances and conditioning

According to Tarot card draw (the card on the left), pushes you to take into account external factors that may interfere and affect the situation or problem under consideration. For example, if several people are involved, it’s this Arcane that represents them.

4) Fourth step: The consequences of your actions

Third Arcane of the Spread (bottom card), helps you understand whether your actions from both past or present, are well suited to the situation and the people involved.

5) Fifth stage: Possible evolution of your situation

Fourth Arcane of the draw (card on the right): in the cross method, we don’t talk about conclusions. On the contrary, this fourth arcane shows you the probable, and not certain, evolution of the situation examined.


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Example of Tarot cross method calculation

Arcana spread

My mystery synthesis is 9, the Hermit.

How did we come to this result? Simply by doing two operations: adding up the numbers corresponding to the 4 arcana of the spread.

19 + 20 + 10 + 5 = 54

Since 54 is greater than 22 (which is the maximum number of Major Arcana in the deck), we proceed to the sum of the two numbers that make up the result found.

5 + 4 = 9

9 is the number that corresponds to the Arcanum of the Hermit.

Remember that if the number found by the sum of the 4 arcana is less than or equal to 22, the second operation is not necessary.

For example, with an emperor (4) + the Lovers (6) + Justice (8) + the Wizard (1) = 19. This number corresponds to the nineteenth arcane of the Tarot, i.e. the Sun.

If the arcane of synthesis is already present in the draft, this card will have a double valence.

Now that you know how to use the cross method, discover all of our articles in the section of the card:

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Article presented by
Amy, Thomas

"Tarot expert - I’ve been passionate about Tarot ever since I was a teenager and my love for Tarot hasn’t ever gone away. Reading people’s cards and revealing what lies ahead for them is an absolute joy for me."

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The Meaning Of Tarot Cards

The Chariot Tarot Card Meaning: A Step Towards Deeper Spirituality

The Chariot Tarot card meaning represents determination, control, and victory. As a symbol of persistence and willpower, this powerful Major Arcana card reminds you of your ability to overcome obstacles and steer your life toward success. Whether it relates to love, career, or personal challenges, the Chariot urges you to take charge, balance opposing forces, and move forward with confidence and focus. In this guide, we’ll explore the Chariot’s rich symbolism, upright and reversed meanings, and how it impacts different areas of your life.

The Moon Tarot Card Meaning: Exploring Mystery, Intuition, and Transformation

The Moon Tarot card meaning is a symbol of mystery, intuition, and the hidden depths of the subconscious. Representing uncertainty, illusions, and emotional exploration, it invites us to trust our instincts and uncover hidden truths that lie beneath the surface. Whether you’re seeking clarity in love, career, or personal growth, the Moon guides you through life’s shadows, offering profound insights into the unseen. In this article, we’ll explore the upright and reversed meanings of the Moon, its symbolism, and how it impacts different areas of your life.

The Sun Tarot Card Meaning: Success And Good Fortune Await

The Sun Tarot card radiates pure joy, success, and positive energy in its brightest form. As the nineteenth card of the Major Arcana, it represents enlightenment, triumph, and the happiness that comes from living your truth. Whether you're seeking guidance about relationships, career, or personal growth, The Sun brings powerful messages of optimism, achievement, and the warmth of better days ahead.

Death Tarot Card Meaning: Something Is Coming To A Definitive End

The Death Tarot card meaning represents profound transformation and necessary endings in our lives. As the thirteenth card of the Major Arcana, it symbolizes the natural cycle of endings and beginnings, much like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. Despite its intimidating name and imagery, the Death card rarely predicts physical death - instead, it heralds important life transitions, spiritual transformation, and the release of old patterns to make way for new growth and opportunities.

The Devil: Fight Against Negative Temptations

The Devil Tarot card meaning represents our attachments, dependencies, and the illusions that keep us bound. As the fifteenth card of the Major Arcana, it reflects our relationship with material desires, unhealthy patterns, and self-imposed limitations. While often misunderstood as a negative card, The Devil actually illuminates the path to freedom by helping us recognize where we're trapped - reminding us that we hold the key to our own liberation.

What Does The Justice Tarot Card Mean? The Journey To Self-Discovery

The Justice Tarot card represents balance, truth, and fairness in all aspects of life. As the eleventh card of the Major Arcana, it reminds us that our actions have consequences and that karma plays an important role in our journey. Whether dealing with decisions, relationships, or legal matters, Justice calls for honest reflection and fair judgment.

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