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 spreads, it has cards 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. Card #6 suggests a course of action to meet this challenge. The final card shows the outcome or future, should this advice be followed.
Other clues are provided in Cards #3 and #5, which indicate hidden or outside influences that come into play, affecting the journey to your goal.
Obstacle  Ace of Diamonds |
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Hidden Influences  2 of Spades |
External Influences  King of Spades |
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The Present  Jack of Spades |
Suggestion  Ace of Hearts |
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The Past  4 of Clubs |
The Outcome  2 of Diamonds |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
4 of Clubs
This signifies completion and fulfilment – the satisfaction of relaxation after a job well done. This can also mean the solidification of a bond.
Jack of Spades
This symbolises a dark-haired young man who probably is not certain about what he wants. He may mean well, but his laziness is a hindrance to his team in matters of work. He has a lot of ideas but lacks the initiative to follow through.
2 of Spades
This card represents an end to hostilities and a time of peace. It may represent opposites coming together in a bond that somehow gives both a sense of completion. Harmonious relationships and friendship are indicated by this sign.
Ace of Diamonds
The first card of the Diamonds suit often foretells the arrival of a valuable message or especially meaningful gift. More specifically this can often represent a ring, or more generally can refer to gifts of sustenance or money.
King of Spades
This represents a dark-haired man of great ambition. He is accustomed to success and usually gets what he wants. He is very active, skilful, and clever, but can also be deceitful. At worst, he may be a tyrant in waiting.
Ace of Hearts
The first card of the Hearts suit suggests new attitudes opening one up to friendship, love, and personal contentment that can lead to a shared happiness between like-minded individuals.
2 of Diamonds
This can mean a major change is coming. It is possible that a great love affair may be indicated. If so, it is growing stronger, but opposition from outside sources may be growing just as quickly.