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  Eihwaz |
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Hidden Influences  Tiwaz |
External Influences  Othala |
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The Present  Uruz |
Suggestion  Berkano |
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The Past  Naudhiz |
The Outcome  Dagaz |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
Naudhiz
This rune warns to tread lightly. There may be friction in relationships and unmet needs. Sometimes hard lessons are necessary in life. Some things we just don't want to learn. Be careful not to burn your bridges.
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.
Tiwaz
The Warrior Rune represents pure, masculine power and the ability to fight for what you want and win it. Be careful to mitigate your aggression, as the cost of attaining your goals can outweigh the gains.
Eihwaz
Eihwaz represents the Yew tree and its incredible strength and flexibility. While the Yew may bend, it does not break. It suggests that you are on the right course and have the strength and ability to meet your goals.
Othala
Othala represents a fortress of prosperity and security. Good character attracts good fortune. Those who have it are the ones who get it. That's simply the way things are. You are fortunate to be one of the lucky ones. At the same time, we all make our own luck.
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.
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.