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  Elhaz |
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Hidden Influences  Ehwaz |
External Influences  Isa |
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The Present  Dagaz |
Suggestion  Ansuz |
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The Past  Naudhiz |
The Outcome  Berkano |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ansuz
Ansuz represents one's spiritual connection the universe. Some call it the "God Rune," which embodies reason, truth and justice. This may be a sign of your connection to your higher self-strengthening.
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.