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  Elhaz |
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Hidden Influences  Othala |
External Influences  Eihwaz |
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The Present  Kenaz |
Suggestion  Sowilo |
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The Past  Jera |
The Outcome  Gebo |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
Jera
This rune literally means "year" and stands for the harvest of a good year's labours. It represents a permanent change for the better. Jera denotes fruitful, recurring cycles, and strong fertility.
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.
Othala
Othala reversed represents chaos and hopelessness. A general lack of roots can even lead to homelessness. Take care of that which you have, or you could end up losing more than you can imagine.
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.
Eihwaz
Do not allow yourself to give in to confusion. That which you have built may be in jeopardy of crumbling. During times of weakness, we often discover what we are made of.
Sowilo
The Sun Rune symbolises power, warmth, growth and stability. Mental clarity in work and added warmth to your relationships is foretold by this rune. You will be able to achieve your objectives boldly.
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.