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  Isa |
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Hidden Influences  Uruz |
External Influences  Ansuz |
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The Present  Sowilo |
Suggestion  Laguz |
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The Past  Jera |
The Outcome  Ehwaz |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
Jera
This rune literally means "year" and stands for the harvest of a good year's labours. It represents a permanent change for the better. Jera denotes fruitful, recurring cycles, and strong fertility.
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.
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 see better days.
Ansuz
This signifies communication difficulties. Disconnection with the self may lead to missed opportunities and personal failures. In times of uncertainty, do not give in to rumour.
Laguz
Laguz reversed may mean sensual numbness and lack of creativity. Passivity, weakness, and lack of initiative can lead to stagnation.
Ehwaz
Ehwaz reversed indicates boredom and restlessness. Although you may hunger for something different, do not act in haste. Wait patiently for the right opportunity to present itself.