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 runes 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. Rune #6 suggests a course of action to meet this challenge. The final rune shows the outcome or future, should this advice be followed.
Other clues are provided in Runes #3 and #5, which indicate hidden or outside influences that come into play, affecting the journey to your goal.
Obstacle  Uruz |
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Hidden Influences  Sowilo |
External Influences  Eihwaz |
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The Present  Dagaz |
Suggestion  Thurisaz |
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The Past  Isa |
The Outcome  Berkano |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
Isa
The Ice Rune represents stagnation and a cold, passionless reality. Your life may seem to be going nowhere at the moment, but if you persevere you will soon move on to better days.
Dagaz
Dagaz represents the first rays of a new dawn. You are on the verge of some kind of breakthrough. You have the will and the ability to change reality. You may experience a period of lucidity that borders on the surreal.
Sowilo
The Sun Rune symbolises power, warmth, growth and stability. Mental clarity in work and added warmth to your relationships is foretold by this rune. You will be able to achieve your objectives boldly.
Uruz
This symbolises a disconnection from one's spiritual source. If you are in a rut, you may need to reconnect with your roots, to rediscover your strengths.
Eihwaz
Do not allow yourself to give in to confusion. That which you have built may be in jeopardy of crumbling. During times of weakness, we often discover what we are made of.
Thurisaz
This rune is about walking the line and holding things in balance. There may be conflict, hardship and obstacles, but be assured that remaining focused and in control of yourself will make these difficulties easy. This rune symbolises protection from one's enemies.
Berkano
Your life may not seem so clear to you during this time. Berkano reversed may mean dissatisfaction and problems with the family. Someone might not be pulling their weight. Be careful to protect that which is yours.