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  Bamboo 8 |
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Hidden Influences  Circles 1 |
External Influences  White Dragon |
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The Present  Spring |
Suggestion  Circles 8 |
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The Past  Wan 9 |
The Outcome  Wan 2 |
The Past Tile represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
Spring
The Fisherman symbolises common sense and the rewards that come with patience. Do not simply sit back and expect things to fall into your lap. Instead, this tile suggests that you bait the hook and cast your line before sitting back. Have a beer if you like.
Circles 1
The Pearl symbolises attainment luxury and wealth. It also warns of the need for humility. Do not allow things to go to your head or you may inadvertently squander your blessing and lose the respect of those around you.
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.
White Dragon
The White Dragon represents the unknown mysterious influences of the universe at work. Unknown factors may come into play, so be prepared for potential surprises.
Circles 8
The White Tiger is a masculine symbol of power, bravery, and authority. It often speaks of a man who is not afraid to stand up for himself or to assert himself.
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.