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  Naudhiz |
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Hidden Influences  Eihwaz |
External Influences  Isa |
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The Present  Berkano |
Suggestion  Laguz |
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The Past  Thurisaz |
The Outcome  Ehwaz |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
Thurisaz
This often represents inability to come to terms with repressed issues. When one is not willing or able to process trauma, one's demons will always need to be kept at bay. This would not be a good time to act impulsively.
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.
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.
Naudhiz
This rune reversed signifies satisfaction, goals met, and harmonious relationships. Feelings are running high. It is safe to let your passions carry you away at this time.
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.
Laguz
Laguz reversed may mean sensual numbness and lack of creativity. Passivity, weakness, and lack of initiative can lead to stagnation.
Ehwaz
The "Horse Rune" is a sign of adaptability, transition, movement and travels. You may be closing in on your goals. Most basically, this rune means progress.