The Tarot deck has 78 cards in total. They are dealt in spreads. The positions of the cards, and their values, are all interpreted according to the skill and philosphy of the card reader. The basic theory rests on a fundamental assumption of magic: the entire universe is connected in a great design or pattern.

Tarot beginnings are obscured in ancient history. Theories of origins include Moroccans designing cards and The Tarot interpretations perhaps around 1200 A.D. Fez, Morrocco was at the time a scientific and literary capital of the world. The Tarot represented a culmination of thoughts and ideas at the time how daily lives were influenced by primary forces and our own attitudes. Another theory holds ancient Egyptians invented The Tarot as a repository of occult lore. The translation of Tarot from ancient Egyptian means Royal Path of Life.

Even earlier is the connection of The Tarot to the Cabala. This is a body of occult doctrine by various anonymous authours. The most important work in the Cabala is the Sepher Yetzirah (Book of Formation). This book was written in Hebrew, probably in Babylonia between the third and sixth centuries A.D. There are many links between the numeric symbolgies in the Cabala and the cards of The Tarot.

Whatever the origin, it is known for certain The Tarot was introduced to Western civilization at the end of the fourteenth century, during the reign of the French King, Charles VI.

Use of The Tarot for fortunetelling continues uninterrupted to this day.

In Tarot, the layout of cards is called the spread. There are many different spreads. Readers often have personal preferences as to which spread or spread serves them well. Also, people experienced in having their Tarot read, may also find a spread that works best for them personally.

Each spread guides where the cards are placed. Each position in the spread has a unique meaning. This meaning affects the interpretation of the card that falls in that spot.

The Celtic Cross is one of the oldest and most popular spreads. The layout is simple but powerful. The Celtic Cross is divided into two sections: the Circle/Cross (six cards on the left) and the Staff (four cards on the right).

The first section simulates the Celtic cross found throughout Ireland. It symbolizes the joining of spirit and matter, and the unity of all events in time. This section, in unison with the masculine energy of the Staff section, reflects the spiritual and physical aspects of reality.

The Celtic Cross is an excellent choice for when you would like to examine current issues. It is used to make you aware of the events leading up to today's options and possibly the consequences surrounding a particular issue or issues.