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  King of Spades |
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Hidden Influences  8 of Clubs |
External Influences  5 of Spades |
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The Present  4 of Diamonds |
Suggestion  4 of Clubs |
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The Past  Queen of Diamonds |
The Outcome  2 of Spades |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
Queen of Diamonds
This card symbolises a fair-haired woman who may like to gossip or meddle in other people's business. She is intelligent, charismatic, and practical, and perhaps flirtatious.
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.
8 of Clubs
This card represents surprises that can suddenly appear out of nowhere. It symbolises explosive energy and suddenness. It can also suggest that meditation would be highly conductive at this time.
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.
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.
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.
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.