Horse Shoe Layout
Difficulty: Easy
The Horse Shoe is a classic layout. It is more advanced than the three-tile reading, yet simpler than most other spreads. It is a versatile method that can be used for most queries, though there are other spreads which would go into more depth. Like the simple Past, Present, and Future spread, it contains these tiles in positions #1, #2, and #7, but also has four other tarot tiles that help the reader understand how to deal with the future better. The tiles are to be read as follows:
- The Past: Past events affecting the question.
- The Present: The current state or approaching influence.
- Hidden Influences: Things the reader may not be aware of (or barely be aware of).
- Obstacles: This is the challenge: obstacles may be avoided or may have to be dealt with.
- External Influences: Attitudes and thoughts regarding people around the reader.
- Suggestions: Recommended course of action.
- Outcome: The result of following the suggestions.
Your Horse Shoe Reading
Obstacle ![]() Circles 7 |
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Hidden Influences ![]() Wan 7 |
External Influences ![]() Bamboo 1 |
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The Present ![]() Circles 1 |
Suggestion ![]() Chrysanthemum |
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The Past ![]() Wan 3 |
The Outcome ![]() Autumn |

The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
Wan 3
Symbol: Land
The Land tile suggests either a stable setting in which you are already thriving, or one that will exist in the near future. With stability your success and vision will grow.

The Present Card represents the current state or immediately approaching influence.
Circles 1
Symbol: Pearl
The Pearl tile denotes the attainment of wealth and a life of luxury. The task will be to balance the spiritual self with the physical self.

Hidden Influences - Things that you may not be aware of, or barely be aware of.
Wan 7
Symbol: Seven Stars
The Seven Stars tile signifies creative growth and power. Creativity should be applied to the area this tile appears. This is a place to let your imagination run free. The Seven Stars tile also indicates hope for the future.

Obstacle - This is the challenge.
Circles 7
Symbol: Insect
The Insect tile indicates short-term gain through a short flurry of hectic work. It is important to realise that the gains the Insect tile offers are not lasting, or of long-term importance. At best they are a stopgap until more substantial goals come along.

External Influences - Attitudes about this situation from people around the querent.
Bamboo 1
Symbol: Peacock
This is the first tile of the first suit in a Mahjong set. Overall, it represents success. However, it also warns that success sometimes turns to arrogance, which can lead to loss of everything that has been gained. The Peacock tile also suggests a change in your life path is forthcoming.

Suggestion - The recommended course of action.�
Chrysanthemum
Symbol: Pleasure
The Chrysanthemum tile indicates you will enjoy a happy time filled with social activities and leisurely moments untainted by the demands of everyday life.

The Outcome - What will happen if the suggestion is followed.
Autumn
Symbol: The Farmer
The Farmer represents rewards gained through hard work and faith in oneself. He harvests riches from the planting and nurturing of his crops.