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  Isa |
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Hidden Influences  Perthro |
External Influences  Hagalaz |
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The Present  Eihwaz |
Suggestion  Kenaz |
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The Past  Berkano |
The Outcome  Uruz |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
Eihwaz
Eihwaz represents the Yew tree and its incredible strength and flexibility. While the Yew may bend, it does not break. It suggests that you are on the right course and have the strength and ability to meet your goals.
Perthro
The "Gambler's Rune" reversal warns that this is not a good time to take risks. Games of chance are not favoured. Do not give in to loneliness and despair.
Isa
The Ice Rune represents stagnation and a cold, passionless reality. Your life may seem to be going nowhere at the moment, but if you persevere you will soon move on to better days.
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.
Kenaz
There will be trouble getting the information you are looking for. The information may or may not be available, but you will need to be open to receiving it if you wish to. You may be pleasantly surprised if you reach out to someone.
Uruz
This is often the omen of a transition or new beginning. Uruz represents the rune of harmony, order and personal power. You will be able meet the challenge so effectively that it may surprise you.