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 Hearts |
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Hidden Influences  3 of Clubs |
External Influences  Ace of Diamonds |
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The Present  Jack of Spades |
Suggestion  3 of Hearts |
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The Past  Jack of Diamonds |
The Outcome  8 of Clubs |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
Jack of Spades
This symbolises a dark-haired young man who probably is not certain about what he wants. He may mean well, but his laziness is a hindrance to his team in matters of work. He has a lot of ideas but lacks the initiative to follow through.
3 of Clubs
Strong, enduring partnerships are indicated by the presence of this card. No matter which type of relationship this card refers to, it suggests a bond with great longevity.
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.
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.
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 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.