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  Uruz |
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Hidden Influences  Eihwaz |
External Influences  Sowilo |
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The Present  Thurisaz |
Suggestion  Fehu |
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The Past  Jera |
The Outcome  Ansuz |
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.
Thurisaz
This rune is about walking the line and holding things in balance. There may be conflict, hardship and obstacles, but be assured that remaining focused and in control of yourself will make these difficulties easy. This rune symbolises protection from one's enemies.
Eihwaz
Do not allow yourself to give in to confusion. That which you have built may be in jeopardy of crumbling. During times of weakness, we often discover what we are made of.
Uruz
This is often the omen of a transition or new beginning. Uruz represents the rune of harmony, order and personal power. You will be able meet the challenge so effectively that it may surprise you.
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.
Fehu
Fehu reversed represents infertility and stagnation. Don't let sluggishness keep you down. You can force yourself through this writer's block.
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.