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  8 of Diamonds |
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Hidden Influences  5 of Diamonds |
External Influences  3 of Hearts |
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The Present  Ace of Spades |
Suggestion  8 of Hearts |
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The Past  Ace of Diamonds |
The Outcome  4 of Clubs |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
Ace of Spades
The first card of the Spades suit suggests awakening to a new way of thinking, leading to a new level of personal awareness as well as spiritual awareness. The dawning of a new enlightenment.
5 of Diamonds
This is a symbol of bad mind. Thinking too much about trivial concerns wastes vital energy. To make matters worse, one's thoughts are the basis of their reality, so always keep in mind that worry and fear can actively cause harm in your life if you can't learn to control your thoughts and manifestations.
8 of Diamonds
This card suggests knowledge of construction, agriculture, or material affairs. There is a slow and steady, unwavering progression – perhaps one who is late to bloom or saving the best for last.
3 of Hearts
This is the card of overflowing fertility and abundance. This can even mean addition to the family, as in pregnancy or adoption. Kindness, hospitality, and creativity come with this sign.
8 of Hearts
This card could represent either invitations or partings. Instability and the abandonment of success are indicated. There may be minor victories coupled with setbacks. At least the glass can be filled half way, so try to look on the bright side.
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.