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  Othala |
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Hidden Influences  Wunjo |
External Influences  Mannaz |
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The Present  Ansuz |
Suggestion  Tiwaz |
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The Past  Fehu |
The Outcome  Jera |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
Fehu
This is one of the mother stones – the rune of unbridled creative energies. Being associated with Frey, this Rune is a powerful omen of fertility. The presence of this rune in a reading only adds weight to its meaning.
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.
Wunjo
This is a sign of great joy and bliss. It often refers to tremendous satisfaction. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done. This is a symbol of incredible fortune and harmony with others.
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.
Mannaz
Your interpersonal skills are experiencing a peak time. You are connected deeply with your core self and this by extension makes communication with others particularly valuable. Creative thought is flowing inside you and around you, making you especially attractive to others.
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.
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.