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 spreads, it has cards 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. Card #6 suggests a course of action to meet this challenge. The final card shows the outcome or future, should this advice be followed.
Other clues are provided in Cards #3 and #5, which indicate hidden or outside influences that come into play, affecting the journey to your goal.
Obstacle  3 of Clubs |
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Hidden Influences  Queen of Clubs |
External Influences  4 of Diamonds |
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The Present  6 of Diamonds |
Suggestion  5 of Spades |
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The Past  7 of Diamonds |
The Outcome  8 of Diamonds |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
7 of Diamonds
This represents an unfortunate time of loss. Losing is indicated – as in bad luck at gambling, fighting and losing, or building towards the construction of a monumental failure. Sometimes it may be better to just give up.
6 of Diamonds
This card embodies success itself. It suggests you will be influential because others will be looking up to you. Share your success and cultivate a cycle of fruitfulness and good fortune.
Queen of Clubs
This queen represents a dark-haired woman. Her traits include strength of character, attractiveness, and helpfulness. She is a nice person but can sometimes be temperamental.
3 of Clubs
Strong, enduring partnerships are indicated by the presence of this card. No matter which type of relationship this card refers to, it suggests a bond with great longevity.
4 of Diamonds
Your place is established and you should feel secure in this. Changes for the better are suggested, perhaps an inheritance or upswing in business. Some of your so-called friends may reveal themselves as secret "haters" instead. Try not be hurt or offended by their shortcomings.
5 of Spades
This represents a situation where you can't win. There is a sense of weakness and loss attached to this symbol. Setbacks, interference, and anxiety are common interpretations of this card.
8 of Diamonds
This card suggests knowledge of construction, agriculture, or material affairs. There is a slow and steady, unwavering progression – perhaps one who is late to bloom or saving the best for last.