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  Mannaz |
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Hidden Influences  Othala |
External Influences  Isa |
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The Present  Berkano |
Suggestion  Hagalaz |
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The Past  Tiwaz |
The Outcome  Elhaz |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
Tiwaz
The Warrior Rune represents pure, masculine power and the ability to fight for what you want and win it. Be careful to mitigate your aggression, as the cost of attaining your goals can outweigh the gains.
Berkano
The Rune of birth may symbolise a time of great personal insight and development. Naturally this is also a sign of abundance and fertility, so love may very well be in the air.
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.
Mannaz
Your interpersonal skills are experiencing a peak time. You are connected deeply with your core self and this by extension makes communication with others particularly valuable. Creative thought is flowing inside you and around you, making you especially attractive to others.
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 see 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.
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.