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 Five of Swords
Hidden Influences Five of Staves		External Influences Ace of Swords
The Present Four of Swords		Suggestion Two of Swords
The Past Ace of Staves		The Outcome XVIII – The Moon

 

 

 

 

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

 

Ace of Staves

The Ace of Staves represents the spark of creation, vitality, and the raw energy of new beginnings. It embodies the potential of a seed, ready to sprout and grow into something magnificent. This is the card of inspiration, energy, and the initiation of new ventures.

Symbolism: The upright staff, with its textured bark and emerging sprout, symbolises the beginning of a new cycle, full of potential and promise. The plain tan background highlights the purity and simplicity of the elemental energy, inviting you to step forward with enthusiasm and confidence. The sprout near the base reminds you that all growth begins with a single step.

In Relationships: A new beginning or a burst of passion in your romantic life. The Ace invites fresh energy and the excitement of new connections or the rekindling of a relationship.

In Work: The birth of a new project or opportunity. The Ace of Staves signals that now is the time to seize your creative potential and pursue your ambitions.

Spiritually: A call to action. The Ace suggests you are on the verge of spiritual awakening or taking a new path. Trust your instincts and take the first step towards growth.

When ill-dignified: Lack of direction or motivation, possibly feeling uninspired. You may be hesitant to begin, caught in uncertainty or fear of failure.

 

 

 

 

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

 

Four of Swords

The Four of Swords represents rest, recuperation, and mental recovery. It signifies a need to step back and regain mental and emotional energy. This card speaks to the importance of rest and finding peace after a period of mental or emotional exhaustion.

Symbolism: The four swords arranged symmetrically evoke order, rest, and structure. Their placement suggests a time for reflection, calm, and withdrawal. The flowery background enhances the peaceful atmosphere, encouraging a pause for recovery.

In Relationships: A time to take a break from a relationship or to focus on self-care. The Four of Swords invites you to restore emotional equilibrium and reflect on your feelings.

In Work: Rest or reflection in your professional life. This card may suggest taking a break or re-evaluating your career goals to prevent burnout.

Spiritually: A time to retreat from the hustle and bustle of life to reconnect with your spiritual self. The Four of Swords calls for reflection and peace to heal your mind and spirit.

When ill-dignified: Withdrawal, avoidance, or mental stagnation. The Four of Swords warns against becoming detached or disconnected from your emotions or responsibilities.

 

 

 

 

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

 

Five of Staves

The Five of Staves represents conflict, competition, and challenge. It symbolises the tension that arises when different forces or perspectives clash, but also the opportunity for growth through these struggles.

Symbolism: The five staffs crossing at various angles evoke discord, but the composition remains visually balanced. This dynamic tension suggests the conflict is not necessarily destructive, but a part of the process of growth and resolution. The flowers in the background underscore that this challenge is a natural, even necessary part of the journey.

In Relationships: Tension or conflict may arise, but this card suggests that healthy competition or differing viewpoints can lead to growth if managed properly.

In Work: Competition, challenges, or rivalry may be present. The Five of Staves urges you to stay focused and resilient, as this conflict can sharpen your skills and propel you forward.

Spiritually: Conflicts or challenges may arise, but they are opportunities to refine your beliefs and strengthen your character.

When ill-dignified: Escalating conflict or unnecessary competition. This could indicate that the struggle is becoming unproductive, leading to frustration or exhaustion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Obstacle - This is the challenge.

 

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.

 

 

 

 

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.

 

Two of Swords

The Two of Swords represents a choice or decision that requires careful consideration. It speaks to moments of duality, indecision, or conflict where one must weigh their options. The card often appears when you are at a crossroads, and the need for mental balance is urgent.

Symbolism: The crossed swords signify a stalemate or a moment of pause, where no action is being taken yet, but the tension is palpable. The symmetrical composition emphasises balance and the need for equal consideration of both options before deciding.

In Relationships: A tough choice or an emotional conflict where you may avoid making a decision. The Two of Swords urges you to confront your emotions and choose the path that aligns with your desires.

In Work: Facing a critical decision in your professional life. The Two of Swords advises careful evaluation of all options before proceeding.

Spiritually: A moment of inner conflict or uncertainty in your path. This card calls for introspection and a balance between logic and intuition when navigating your spiritual journey.

When ill-dignified: Indecision, avoidance of the truth, or refusal to confront an issue. The Two of Swords suggests that procrastination or ignoring a situation will only prolong the discomfort.

 

 

 

 

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

 

XVIII – The Moon

The Moon is the card of intuition, illusion, and the subconscious. It calls attention to hidden truths, dreams, and the mysterious undercurrents that govern one's emotional landscape.

Symbolism: The barefoot woman holding a crescent moon reflects the card's connection to the primal, intuitive side of the psyche. Her gaze towards the sky suggests an awareness of the mysteries beyond the surface of reality. The wild, untamed landscape beneath her speaks to the untapped and often misunderstood forces of the unconscious mind. The golden background heightens the mystical quality, suggesting the moonlight reveals hidden paths.

In Relationships: The Moon indicates that not everything is as it seems in your romantic life. Trust your intuition, but also be cautious of illusions or deceptions.

In Work: Hidden factors or unclear circumstances may influence your professional life. The Moon calls for careful introspection and a deeper understanding of the forces at play.

Spiritually: This card calls for exploring the subconscious and trusting your intuitive wisdom. There may be deep truths that need to be uncovered.

When ill-dignified: Confusion, illusion, or deception. This warns of misunderstandings or hidden motives that could lead to emotional instability or false perceptions.