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 XIV – Temperance
Hidden Influences XX – Judgement		External Influences IV – The Emperor
The Present I – The Magician		Suggestion XIX – The Sun
The Past V – The Pope		The Outcome VIII – Justice

 

 

 

 

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

 

V – The Pope

The Pope represents tradition, spiritual guidance, and morality. He symbolises the need for structure, passing sacred knowledge, and alignment with established systems or mentors.

Symbolism: Seated on a throne with a triple-cross sceptre and a raised hand in blessing, the Pope embodies divine wisdom. The twin pillars behind him suggest the gateway to higher knowledge and understanding.

In Relationships: A traditional, committed relationship or the need to realign with moral principles.

In Work: Seek guidance from a mentor or adhere to established structures for success.

Spiritually: The Pope calls for a return to faith, ethics, and divine wisdom in all aspects of life.

When ill-dignified: Dogmatism, hypocrisy, or blind adherence to outdated traditions.

 

 

 

 

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

 

I – The Magician

The Magician signifies mastery, skill, and the power to shape reality. This card represents harnessing resources and directing one's energies towards success. The Magician embodies the potential to manifest desires into tangible form.

Symbolism: He stands before a table with tools representing the four elements: a cup (Water), a sword (Air), a coin (Earth), and a wand (Fire). His raised wand symbolises the connection between spirit and matter, and his hat, shaped like an infinity symbol, signifies endless potential.

In Relationships: A time to use charm, wit, and initiative to build or strengthen relationships.

In Work: Opportunity, success, and the power to manifest goals through skill and action.

Spiritually: The Magician teaches the importance of intention, focus, and using one's talents for higher purposes.

When ill-dignified: Deception, manipulation, or scattered energy. Warning against using one's power for selfish gain.

 

 

 

 

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

 

XX – Judgement

Judgement signifies awakening, rebirth, and the call for transformation. It represents a moment of reckoning, where one must confront past actions and make a decisive move towards spiritual renewal.

Symbolism: The card depicts an angel blowing a trumpet, summoning the figures below to rise from their graves. This symbolises resurrection, awakening, and the opportunity to start anew. The figures represent souls being called to accountability and transformation.

In Relationships: A transformative period in relationships, where past actions and decisions must be reconciled.

In Work: A time of reckoning, where decisions from the past may come to fruition, calling for a new direction.

Spiritually: Spiritual awakening and the need to answer a higher call. Transformation and rebirth are key themes.

When ill-dignified: Denial, avoidance of responsibility, or refusal to embrace the transformative potential of change.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Obstacle - This is the challenge.

 

XIV – Temperance

Temperance represents balance, moderation, and the art of harmonising opposites. This card suggests a period of a careful blending of energies, creating harmony between diverse aspects of life.

Symbolism: Temperance is shown pouring liquid between two cups, symbolising the blending of forces or energies. Her wings suggest a spiritual connection, and her alchemical knowledge signifies a harmonious outcome. The card teaches the importance of moderation.

In Relationships: A balanced, harmonious relationship or the need for patience and moderation in love.

In Work: A time to blend different skills or approaches to find success. Collaboration and diplomacy are key.

Spiritually: A call for balance, peace, and alignment between the spiritual and material realms.

When ill-dignified: Excess, imbalance, or an inability to find middle ground.

 

 

 

 

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

 

IV – The Emperor

The Emperor embodies structure, authority, and rational leadership. He embodies the power of order and disciplined action, urging us to establish strong foundations and clear boundaries in all aspects of life.

Symbolism: Adorned with a regal crown and seated on an imposing throne, the Emperor exudes control and stability. His detailed, authoritative attire and the subtle inclusion of esoteric symbols speak to a mastery over both the material and the mystical realms, emphasising the importance of balance between external order and inner wisdom.

In Relationships: The Emperor encourages healthy dynamics marked by protection, responsibility, and mutual respect. His energy suggests that strong leadership and clear boundaries can foster trust and stability within partnerships.

In Work: Success in professional endeavours comes through strategic planning, disciplined execution, and the establishment of order. The Emperor's influence highlights leadership, authority, and the ability to structure one's environment for optimal productivity.

Spiritually: Embodying a union of earthly power and cosmic order, the Emperor invites you to align your will with higher universal principles. His guidance emphasises the importance of self-discipline and integrity on the path to spiritual growth.

When ill-dignified: A misaligned Emperor may indicate an overbearing or inflexible attitude, where authority turns into domination and rigidity stifles creativity and progress.

 

 

 

 

Suggestion - The recommended course of action.

 

XIX – The Sun

The Sun represents clarity, success, and vitality. It signifies moments of joy, abundance, and realising one's potential.

Symbolism: The Sun shines gloriously over a youthful couple, symbolising innocence, energy, and optimism. A multi-coloured brick wall shelters them, representing protection, growth, vitality, and success. The clear sky suggests obstacles are removed and clarity reigns.

In Relationships: Joyful, open-hearted love. The Sun represents happiness, clear communication, and successful partnerships.

In Work: Success, recognition, and the fulfilment of goals. Positive energy surrounds professional endeavours.

Spiritually: Enlightenment and the ability to see the truth clearly.

When ill-dignified: Arrogance, overconfidence, or a tendency to overlook important details in the pursuit of success.

 

 

 

 

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

 

VIII – Justice

Justice represents balance, fairness, and accountability. This card calls for the resolution of disputes and alignment with truth and fairness in all areas of life.

Symbolism: Justice sits with a sword in one hand and scales in the other, symbolising impartiality, truth, and balance. Her crown and steady gaze emphasise her authority over matters of fairness.

In Relationships: A balanced relationship or the need to resolve unresolved issues with fairness and integrity.

In Work: Legal matters, contracts, or decisions that require careful evaluation.

Spiritually: A reminder to live truthfully, aligning actions with higher principles.

When ill-dignified: Dishonesty, imbalance, or the refusal to accept responsibility for one's actions.