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  Elhaz |
External Influences  Gebo |
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The Present  Wyrd |
Suggestion  Laguz |
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The Past  Eihwaz |
The Outcome  Raidho |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
Wyrd
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.
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.
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.
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.
Laguz
The feminine rune stands for strong fertility, as in deep sensuality. Laguz represents the life cycle of water in its different forms – constant renewal and rebirth. Femininity and intuition.
Raidho
This indicates there could be delays in reaching your goals. Be careful not to become disassociated from those around you. Remember to stay in touch with people.