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 Hearts |
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Hidden Influences  4 of Diamonds |
External Influences  9 of Hearts |
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The Present  10 of Spades |
Suggestion  Jack of Diamonds |
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The Past  2 of Diamonds |
The Outcome  5 of Spades |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
10 of Spades
This is regarded as probably the worst symbol in the deck of playing cards. This card means absolute rock bottom, a period of mental breakdown and insanity. There will be an end to misery once the walls of your delusion fall to ruins. On the bright side, there will be a moment of clarity leading to rebirth.
4 of Diamonds
Your place is established and you should feel secure in this. Changes for the better are suggested, perhaps an inheritance or upswing in business. Some of your so-called friends may reveal themselves as secret "haters" instead. Try not be hurt or offended by their shortcomings.
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.
9 of Hearts
This could be thought of as the wish card. It suggests that dreams and desires will come true. Good fortune, happiness, good news, pleasure and satisfaction are traits of this sign.
Jack of Diamonds
This Jack symbolises a relative. This person may be self-interested. Be wary of a selfish, jealous, or unreliable family member's advice. Alternatively, this card could also represent a bearer of bad news.
5 of Spades
This represents a situation where you can't win. There is a sense of weakness and loss attached to this symbol. Setbacks, interference, and anxiety are common interpretations of this card.