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 tiles 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. Tile #6 suggests a course of action to meet this challenge. The final tile shows the outcome or future, should this advice be followed.
Other clues are provided in Tiles #3 and #5, which indicate hidden or outside influences that come into play, affecting the journey to your goal.
Obstacle  West Wind |
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Hidden Influences  Wan 9 |
External Influences  Bamboo 6 |
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The Present  Wan 2 |
Suggestion  Bamboo 7 |
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The Past  Bamboo 8 |
The Outcome  Wan 6 |
The Past Tile represents past events that are affecting the question.
Bamboo 8
The Mushroom represents variety and uniqueness. It reminds that surprises can spring up anyplace at any time and leave lasting impressions. Persistence, progress, and regeneration are strong with this sign.
Wan 2
The Sword stands for an important decision you will need to make. You must be careful to use balance as you weigh your decision, or risk damage to yourself if not others.
Wan 9
The Heaven tile signifies achievement, completion, and fulfilment. It suggests perfect contentment and a time you can be free to kick back and feast upon the fruits of your labours.
West Wind
The West Wind tile signifies some kind of obstacle blocking your path that must be overcome before you can make true progress.
White, autumn, metal, tiger
Bamboo 6
The Water tile is about communication and traveling. You may be looked to for advice on something regarding your unique experience.
Bamboo 7
The Tortoise symbolises the world or universe and its consciousness of the self. This may be a time when it is best to move slowly. Patience will be important. This is a symbol of slow and steady progress, prosperity, and longevity.
Wan 6
The Fire tile stands for inspiration, passion, and intelligence, but also warns of the potential great danger. To not heed the warning from this tile could result in disaster beyond your wildest imagination. Keep an eye on your resources. This tile indicates they may be in jeopardy.