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  Dagaz |
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Hidden Influences  Uruz |
External Influences  Gebo |
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The Present  Isa |
Suggestion  Wyrd |
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The Past  Elhaz |
The Outcome  Othala |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
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 see better days.
Uruz
This symbolises a disconnection from one's spiritual source. If you are in a rut, you may need to reconnect with your roots, to rediscover your strengths.
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.
Gebo
When gifts are given, be careful to consider unseen obligations. This rune suggests strong bonds with others. It often refers to family, deep friendships, and even marriage.
Wyrd
The blank rune is used only in rune casts. Wyrd is not part of the runic alphabet. When this rune appears, it often symbolises a major change. If this rune is drawn in a single-rune cast, it suggests to ask this question again at a later time.
Othala
Othala represents a fortress of prosperity and security. Good character attracts good fortune. Those who have it are the ones who get it. That's simply the way things are. You are fortunate to be one of the lucky ones. At the same time, we all make our own luck.