Horse Shoe Spread

 

 

Difficulty: Easy

The Horse Shoe is a classic tarot spread. It is more advanced than the three-card 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 cards in positions #1, #2, and #7, but also has four other tarot cards that help the reader understand how to deal with the future better. The cards are to be read as follows:

1. The Past: Past events affecting the question.
2. The Present: The current state or approaching influence.
3. Hidden Influences: Things the reader may not be aware of (or barely be aware of).
4. Obstacles: This is the challenge: obstacles may be avoided or may have to be dealt with.
5. External Influences: Attitudes and thoughts regarding people around the reader.
6. Suggestions: Recommended course of action.
7. Outcome: The result of following the suggestions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Horse Shoe Reading

	Obstacle Knight of Coins (artwork from another Visconti deck)
Hidden Influences Six of Staves		External Influences Ace of Swords
The Present Five of Swords		Suggestion IX – The Hermit
The Past XII – The Hanged Man		The Outcome XXI – The World

 

 

 

 

The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.

 

XII – The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man represents a moment of suspension, transformation, and the profound wisdom of surrender. It is the card of acceptance, urging one to release control and embrace a new perspective, even at the cost of discomfort.

Symbolism: The figure's suspended position signifies the state of hanging between worlds, a soul caught in the liminal space between the old and new. The calm expression of surrender contrasts with his precarious state, highlighting the necessity of letting go to gain understanding. The patterns of his tunic, combined with the golden glow, evoke a sacred pause in time, elevating this card to a spiritual level.

In Relationships: A time to step back and reassess your emotional life. Patience, understanding, and self-reflection are required. The card suggests moments of stillness can lead to profound growth in relationships.

In Work: Professional progress comes through rethinking old strategies. The Hanged Man indicates that a temporary pause or a shift in perspective can lead to breakthroughs.

Spiritually: The card speaks to spiritual enlightenment through sacrifice and release. You are called to surrender to the flow of life and gain higher wisdom.

When ill-dignified: Resistance to change, stagnation, and a refusal to let go. This warns against being trapped by fear or obstinance, preventing personal growth.

 

 

 

 

The Present Card represents the current state or immediately approaching influence.

 

Five of Swords

The Five of Swords represents conflict, competition, and mental struggle. It suggests a situation where victory may come at a cost, with tension and discord present. This card can indicate a win achieved through manipulation, dishonesty, or at the expense of others.

Symbolism: The swords are arranged in an unbalanced formation of four-on-one, highlighting the disharmony and imbalance created by conflict. The uneven positioning of the blades reflects the instability caused by mental or emotional discord, while their fine craftsmanship hints at the complexity of the situation.

In Relationships: Conflict or mental challenges. The Five of Swords suggests that a fight or disagreement may have left scars, and one must decide whether to continue fighting or walk away.

In Work: A competitive or combative environment. This card warns that achieving success at the expense of others may lead to resentment or long-term harm.

Spiritually: Mental conflict or inner turmoil that disrupts your peace of mind. The Five of Swords advises resolving spiritual disputes and finding reconciliation within yourself.

When ill-dignified: Deception, defeat, or unnecessary conflict. The Five of Swords warns against manipulative behaviour or unnecessary mental battles that lead to no real resolution.

 

 

 

 

Hidden Influences - Things that you may not be aware of, or barely be aware of.

 

Six of Staves

The Six of Staves is the card of victory, achievement, and recognition. It signifies triumph after struggle and the public acknowledgment of success.

Symbolism: The six staves arranged in two parallel rows crossing evoke order, stability, and success. The balance of the composition suggests victory has been achieved through harmony and diligence. The flowery tan background emphasises the card's formal and celebratory nature, reinforcing the sense of accomplishment and recognition.

In Relationships: A time of public recognition in your relationship. The Six of Staves signifies success and admiration, whether it's the acknowledgment of your bond or a shared accomplishment.

In Work: Achievement and recognition in your professional life. This card signals a moment where your hard work is celebrated, whether through a promotion, award, or public acknowledgment.

Spiritually: Victory in your spiritual practice, where you feel accomplishment and clarity. The Six of Staves invites you to bask in the light of your progress and growth.

When ill-dignified: Overconfidence, arrogance, or an inability to recognise the work of others. This may suggest that victory is being taken for granted, or external recognition is fleeting and shallow.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Obstacle - This is the challenge.

 

Knight of Coins (artwork from another Visconti deck)

The Knight of Coins represents diligence, responsibility, and slow, steady progress. It symbolises a person dedicated to their work, committed to long-term goals, and willing to work hard to achieve success. This card speaks to patience and perseverance.

Symbolism: The steady horse and calm posture reflect the Knight's disciplined nature. The horse's grounded movement contrasts with the dynamic energy of other Knights, highlighting the Knight of Coins' deliberate pace.

In Relationships: Steady, dependable progress. The Knight of Coins represents a relationship based on responsibility, loyalty, and commitment.

In Work: Diligence and hard work towards career goals. The Knight of Coins emphasises patience and consistency in achieving professional success.

Spiritually: A time of steady spiritual progress. The Knight of Coins invites you to commit to your spiritual practices with consistency and patience.

When ill-dignified: Stagnation, stubbornness, or an inability to adapt. The Knight of Coins warns against becoming too rigid or focused on minor details, preventing growth.

 

 

 

 

External Influences - Attitudes about this situation from people around the querent.

 

Ace of Swords

The Ace of Swords symbolises mental clarity, new ideas, and breakthrough moments. It represents the power of the mind to cut through confusion and offer insight, truth, and understanding. This card marks a moment of intellectual clarity, a new beginning for thought processes, and the potential to solve problems or resolve conflicts through logic and sharp perception.

Symbolism: The solitary sword represents a decisive force, a sharp intellect cutting through the fog. The flowery background highlights the clarity that accompanies the realisation or epiphany. This card invites you to embrace your mental power and use it.

In Relationships: A breakthrough in communication or understanding in your relationship. This could signify a moment of honesty or intellectual connection that clears misunderstandings.

In Work: The arrival of new opportunities for intellectual growth or clarity in your professional life. It's a time to make decisions based on logic and rational thinking.

Spiritually: Spiritual clarity or a new insight into your path. The Ace of Swords encourages you to seek the truth in your spiritual journey, embracing the power of clear thought and discernment.

When ill-dignified: Confusion, dishonesty, or unclear thinking. The Ace of Swords warns against impulsive decisions or misinterpretations.

 

 

 

 

Suggestion - The recommended course of action.

 

IX – The Hermit

The Hermit symbolises introspection, solitude, and the search for wisdom. He represents the retreat from worldly distractions to find enlightenment within.

Symbolism: The Hermit's lantern lights the way, symbolising inner guidance. His heavy robes and staff reflect humility and steadfastness, while the muted tones and golden accents emphasise the sacred nature of his solitary journey.

In Relationships: A period of introspection. The Hermit may suggest a need for space or reflection before moving forward.

In Work: Time to step back and assess your goals. The Hermit advises seeking clarity and wisdom before making decisions.

Spiritually: The Hermit represents the inner search for truth and enlightenment through meditation and solitude.

When ill-dignified: Isolation, withdrawal, or a refusal to seek help. It warns against becoming too introspective or disconnected.

 

 

 

 

The Outcome - What will happen if the suggestion is followed.

 

XXI – The World

The World represents completion, wholeness, and the harmonious integration of all aspects of life. It is the last card of the Major Arcana, signalling the end of one journey and the beginning of another.

Symbolism: The two ethereal figures holding the globe or portal represent the union of duality and the achievement of balance. The rolling plains and distant mountains beneath the golden sky symbolise the vast potential of the world, and the figures' gesture of offering suggests a celebration of accomplishment. The card evokes cosmic harmony, completion, and the endless cycles of existence.

In Relationships: The World signifies a complete and fulfilling relationship, one where both partners are in harmony and balanced with each other. It's a time of celebration and unity.

In Work: Completion of a major goal or project. The World indicates the successful culmination of efforts, with new horizons opening up in your professional life.

Spiritually: A time of wholeness. The World signifies a sense of fulfilment and oneness with the universe, representing the final stage of spiritual evolution.

When ill-dignified: Incompletion, being stuck, or an inability to move forward. This card warns of a lack of closure or an unfinished journey that hinders your growth.