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  Kenaz |
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Hidden Influences  Elhaz |
External Influences  Thurisaz |
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The Present  Ehwaz |
Suggestion  Fehu |
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The Past  Berkano |
The Outcome  Jera |
The Past Rune represents past events that are affecting the question.
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.
Ehwaz
Ehwaz reversed indicates boredom and restlessness. Although you may hunger for something different, do not act in haste. Wait patiently for the right opportunity to present itself.
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.
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.
Thurisaz
This rune is about walking the line and holding things in balance. There may be conflict, hardship and obstacles, but be assured that remaining focused and in control of yourself will make these difficulties easy. This rune symbolises protection from one's enemies.
Fehu
Fehu reversed represents infertility and stagnation. Don't let sluggishness keep you down. You can force yourself through this writer's block.
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.