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 runes 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. Rune #6 suggests a course of action to meet this challenge. The final rune shows the outcome or future, should this advice be followed.
Other clues are provided in Runes #3 and #5, which indicate hidden or outside influences that come into play, affecting the journey to your goal.
Obstacle  Berkano |
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Hidden Influences  Laguz |
External Influences  Gebo |
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The Present  Elhaz |
Suggestion  Hagalaz |
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The Past  Uruz |
The Outcome  Fehu |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
Uruz
This symbolises a disconnection from one's spiritual source. If you are in a rut, you may need to reconnect with your roots, to rediscover your strengths.
Elhaz
This rune is about the thrill of the hunt. You have the power and stability to support and protect those near you. You have what it takes to maintain what you have built and reach your current goals.
Laguz
The feminine rune stands for strong fertility, as in deep sensuality. Laguz represents the life cycle of water in its different forms – constant renewal and rebirth. Femininity and intuition.
Berkano
Your life may not seem so clear to you during this time. Berkano reversed may mean dissatisfaction and problems with the family. Someone might not be pulling their weight. Be careful to protect that which is yours.
Gebo
When gifts are given, be careful to consider unseen obligations. This rune suggests strong bonds with others. It often refers to family, deep friendships, and even marriage.
Hagalaz
The sign of hail represents massive destruction and devastation. Times of chaos can be difficult to navigate, but there are times when disastrous disruption unfortunately become necessary. Do not allow yourself to get carried away in the storm.
Fehu
Fehu reversed represents infertility and stagnation. Don't let sluggishness keep you down. You can force yourself through this writer's block.