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 ![]() 6 of Diamonds |
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Hidden Influences ![]() 4 of Spades |
External Influences ![]() 10 of Clubs |
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The Present ![]() 9 of Clubs |
Suggestion ![]() 6 of Clubs |
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The Past ![]() 2 of Spades |
The Outcome ![]() King of Clubs |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
9 of Clubs
This suggests great strength and endurance will be necessary. If you face the challenge you will certainly triumph. Health and recovery may also come into play.
4 of Spades
Reconciliation, compromise, and signing deals of different kinds is the meaning of this card in a reading. There will be recovery after a period of struggles. The quarrel is resolved by intellectual means.
6 of Diamonds
This card embodies success itself. It suggests you will be influential because others will be looking up to you. Share your success and cultivate a cycle of fruitfulness and good fortune.
10 of Clubs
This suggests you may have good fortune but at a cost greater than your gain. Be careful of the possibility of abuse. Do not allow malice or cruelty to take root in your soul. This card can mean entrapment, even imprisonment.
6 of Clubs
This card suggests a lucrative business partnership, and opportunities for success in business.
King of Clubs
The king signifies a dark-haired man. He is generous, faithful, open-minded and honest, though he can sometimes let pride go to his head. At his worst, he can unfortunately project his own repressions onto others.