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 XVII – The Star
Hidden Influences V – The Pope		External Influences XII – The Hanged Man
The Present XI – Strength		Suggestion XIX – The Sun
The Past VIII – Justice		The Outcome XVIII – The Moon

 

 

 

 

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

 

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.

 

 

 

 

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

 

XI – Strength

Strength symbolises inner strength, courage, and emotional mastery. It represents the power of compassion and grace in overcoming challenges, rather than brute force.

Symbolism: A woman calmly subdues a lion, symbolising the triumph of inner strength over raw power. Her serene expression and gentle hands show mastery through patience and understanding.

In Relationships: Strength to overcome emotional challenges through understanding and patience.

In Work: Success through resilience, determination, and tact, not through force.

Spiritually: Mastery of inner impulses and alignment with higher virtues.

When ill-dignified: Weakness, impatience, or misuse of power in challenging situations.

 

 

 

 

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

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Obstacle - This is the challenge.

 

XVII – The Star

The Star represents hope, inspiration, and divine guidance. This card signifies moments of clarity, healing, and the connection to higher aspirations.

Symbolism: The Star is a nude woman pouring water onto the ground and into a pool, symbolising the flow of spiritual energy. A star shines brightly above her, representing guidance and inspiration. The peaceful, open landscape conveys hope and renewal.

In Relationships: A time of healing, hope, and emotional renewal. This card suggests trust and faith in the potential for deep connection.

In Work: Inspiration, new opportunities, and alignment with your true calling.

Spiritually: A period of spiritual renewal, where divine guidance leads the way towards greater fulfilment.

When ill-dignified: Hopelessness, lack of faith, or feeling disconnected from one's spiritual path.

 

 

 

 

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

 

XII – The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man symbolises suspension, sacrifice, and a shift in perspective. This card represents moments when one must release old beliefs or attachments to gain deeper insight and understanding.

Symbolism: The Hanged Man is depicted hanging upside down, suspended by one foot. His serene expression reflects acceptance and surrender, as he finds wisdom through a change in perspective. His hair resembles a crown symbolising enlightenment and the illumination gained through this pause.

In Relationships: A period of reflection, where relationships may need to be reassessed. It could also suggest a sacrifice for love or personal growth within relationships.

In Work: A time for letting go of old ways of thinking, re-evaluating goals, or waiting patiently for a shift in circumstances.

Spiritually: A time for surrender and spiritual enlightenment, achieved through a different perspective.

When ill-dignified: Stagnation, indecision, or an unwillingness to make necessary sacrifices for growth.

 

 

 

 

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.

 

XVIII – The Moon

The Moon signifies illusion, intuition, and the subconscious mind. It represents the mystery of the unknown, hidden fears, and the need to trust inner guidance while navigating uncertainty.

Symbolism: The Moon is depicted with two dogs howling at the moon, symbolising the pull of primal instincts. A crayfish crawls from the water, representing the subconscious emerging into consciousness. The path leads towards a distant horizon, symbolising the journey through confusion to clarity.

In Relationships: Illusions in relationships, emotional confusion, or hidden feelings. Trust your intuition to navigate these uncertain waters.

In Work: Uncertainty or the need to trust your instincts. Hidden factors may influence the situation.

Spiritually: A time to confront fears, listen to your inner voice, and seek clarity in moments of doubt.

When ill-dignified: Deception, illusion, or being misled by false hopes or unclear situations.