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 5 |
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Hidden Influences  Wan 6 |
External Influences  Bamboo 6 |
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The Present  Circles 5 |
Suggestion  Wan 4 |
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The Past  Orchid |
The Outcome  White Dragon |
The Past Tile represents past events that are affecting the question.
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 5
The Dragon tile embodies good fortune. It tends to mean a massive and sudden gain not tied to any specific efforts made on your part. This tile suggests that a pleasant surprise may be right around the corner.
Wan 6
The Fire tile stands for inspiration, passion, and intelligence, but also warns of the potential great danger. To not heed the warning from this tile could result in disaster beyond your wildest imagination. Keep an eye on your resources. This tile indicates they may be in jeopardy.
Bamboo 5
The Lotus flower represents fertility and more specifically birth. It may indicate an addition to the family or perhaps a new project to occupy your days. This is also a symbol of healing and constant regeneration, also self-sufficiency.
Bamboo 6
The Water tile is about communication and traveling. You may be looked to for advice on something regarding your unique experience.
Wan 4
The Lute suggests that it would be a great time to take a vacation. Relaxation and a temporary disconnection from the duties of everyday life would be especially beneficial at this time. If you can't get away too long, at least take a break and meditate. The clarity will surprise you.
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.