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  Mannaz |
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Hidden Influences  Ansuz |
External Influences  Berkano |
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The Present  Wunjo |
Suggestion  Laguz |
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The Past  Othala |
The Outcome  Fehu |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
Wunjo
The reversal of this rune suggests tough times. Everyone hits a slump at some time or another. It speaks to one's strength of character as to how one meets such challenges. You will get through this and become stronger.
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.
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.
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.
Laguz
Laguz reversed may mean sensual numbness and lack of creativity. Passivity, weakness, and lack of initiative can lead to stagnation.
Fehu
Fehu reversed represents infertility and stagnation. Don't let sluggishness keep you down. You can force yourself through this writer's block.