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  Bamboo 7 |
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Hidden Influences  Rooster |
External Influences  Circles 2 |
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The Present  Bamboo 4 |
Suggestion  Rat |
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The Past  Spring |
The Outcome  Wan 5 |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
Spring
Symbol: The Fisherman
The tile of The Fisherman suggests success can be attained through the application of common sense and careful management of your time and relationships. The Fisherman is thorough and patient. He knows that while his efforts will be rewarded as long as he does not give up.
The Present Card represents the current state or immediately approaching influence.
Bamboo 4
Symbol: Carp
The Carp tile indicates the attainment of inner-peace, tranquillity, and freedom from the pressures of everyday life. Contentment will be realised. The Carp's vibrant colours suggest a rich life. This may mean the coming of material and/or spiritual wealth.
Hidden Influences - Things that you may not be aware of, or barely be aware of.
Rooster
A proud and dominant animal who likes to strut his stuff. The rooster is the ultimate symbol of reliability and punctuality, as he never misses his morning duty of crowing at the dawn. Naturally this creature symbolises new beginnings. Also, he is a protector of the home domain.
Obstacle - This is the challenge.
Bamboo 7
Symbol: Tortoise
The Tortoise tile suggests impatience with the time certain aspects are taking to play themselves out. It is likely any open issues you may have will need extra attention and patience to resolve properly. The Tortoise also symbolises long life.
External Influences - Attitudes about this situation from people around the querent.
Circles 2
Symbol: Pine Tree
The Pine Tree tile represents strength and resolve. It often refers to a powerful, determined man. While powerful, this person is not violent, but very skilled in attaining his goals through diplomacy.
Suggestion - The recommended course of action.�
Rat
The rat represents industry, hard work, and determination. The rat shrewdly builds up a stockpile during the summer, so that when times get tough it will be well prepared. On the negative side, this creature can be cowardly, cunning, and cruel – and a major pest which spreads disease and destruction.
The Outcome - What will happen if the suggestion is followed.
Wan 5
Symbol: House
The House tile represents a building in which you spend much time. If your reading is positive it may well be that this building has the important function providing you with a stable environment in which you are comfortable. If the reading is negative it may represent a structure in which you are stressed and uncomfortable.
