The seven-card Horse Shoe is a convenient, basic layout that can be used to answer different types of questions, especially concerning questions where insight would be helpful. Like several other layouts, it has tiles representing the past, present, and future.
The pinnacle of the Horse Shoe, looking like the top of the mountain, shows the obstacle or challenge that needs to be addressed and overcome. Tile #6 suggests a course of action to meet this challenge. The final tile shows the outcome or future, should this advice be followed.
Other clues are provided in Tiles #3 and #5, which indicate hidden or outside influences that come into play, affecting the journey to your goal.
Obstacle  Bamboo 7 |
||
Hidden Influences  Circles 7 |
External Influences  Orchid |
|
The Present  West Wind |
Suggestion  Circles 8 |
|
The Past  Bamboo 1 |
The Outcome  Red Dragon |
The Past Tile represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
West Wind
The West Wind tile signifies some kind of obstacle blocking your path that must be overcome before you can make true progress.
White, autumn, metal, tiger
Circles 7
The Insect represents gain in the short term. It suggests temporary work, small projects, and perhaps freelance. There will be short term gains, but don't rely upon this for too long. This is a transitional time when you should be planning for the future.
Bamboo 7
The Tortoise symbolises the world or universe and its consciousness of the self. This may be a time when it is best to move slowly. Patience will be important. This is a symbol of slow and steady progress, prosperity, and longevity.
Orchid
The Orchid represents refinement, luxury, and the attainment of rare and precious things. Enjoy these times, but be careful not to give it to excess.
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.
Red Dragon
The Red Dragon represents the centre or middle, as in the core or bullseye. It foretells success and the skilful fulfilment of your goals.