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  Dagaz |
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Hidden Influences  Hagalaz |
External Influences  Othala |
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The Present  Elhaz |
Suggestion  Gebo |
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The Past  Jera |
The Outcome  Berkano |
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.
Elhaz
It would be wise to watch out for hidden traps. It is a great time to search yourself for weaknesses and fill the gaps where necessary.
Hagalaz
The sign of hail represents massive destruction and devastation. Times of chaos can be difficult to navigate, but there are times when disastrous disruption unfortunately become necessary. Do not allow yourself to get carried away in the storm.
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.
Othala
Othala reversed represents chaos and hopelessness. A general lack of roots can even lead to homelessness. Take care of that which you have, or you could end up losing more than you can imagine.
Gebo
When gifts are given, be careful to consider unseen obligations. This rune suggests strong bonds with others. It often refers to family, deep friendships, and even marriage.
Berkano
The Rune of birth may symbolise a time of great personal insight and development. Naturally this is also a sign of abundance and fertility, so love may very well be in the air.