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 VII – The Chariot
Hidden Influences XX – Judgement		External Influences XVI – The Tower
The Present XVIII – The Moon		Suggestion VIII – Justice
The Past III – The Empress		The Outcome XIV – Temperance

 

 

 

 

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

 

III – The Empress

The Empress embodies creativity, fertility, and nurturing energy. She symbolises the fruitful aspects of life, from creativity to personal growth, and encourages abundance in all forms.

Symbolism: Adorned with a crown of stars, she sits in a lush, fertile garden, holding a sceptre and shield. These symbols signify both authority and protection. The crescent moon beneath her feet connects her to cycles of intuition and growth.

In Relationships: Nurturing love, emotional bonds, or the creation of something new in a relationship, such as a family.

In Work: Success in creative ventures, productive work, and harmony.

Spiritually: Connection with natural and cosmic cycles, alignment with divine timing.

When ill-dignified: Stagnation, overindulgence, or the misuse of creative energy.

 

 

 

 

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

 

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.

 

 

 

 

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.

 

VII – The Chariot

The Chariot represents victory, control, and determination. It signifies the ability to overcome obstacles and navigate life's challenges through focus and willpower.

Symbolism: The charioteer rides a chariot drawn by two sphinxes, symbolising opposing forces that must be balanced. The chariot is adorned with symbols of conquest, and the figure wears a crown, signifying authority and triumph.

In Relationships: A relationship driven by effort and mutual determination, or one that requires balance and compromise.

In Work: Triumph through perseverance, conquering challenges with focus.

Spiritually: A journey of self-mastery, overcoming inner struggles, and moving forward with purpose.

When ill-dignified: Recklessness, lack of direction, or being pulled in conflicting directions.

 

 

 

 

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

 

XVI – The Tower

The Tower signifies sudden upheaval, revelation, and the breaking down of false structures. This card represents moments of crisis or dramatic change that lead to profound transformation.

Symbolism: The Tower is struck by lightning, causing it to collapse. Figures fall from the tower, symbolising the suddenness and unexpected nature of the event. The crown-like top falling from the tower suggests that pride or false beliefs are being shattered.

In Relationships: A sudden revelation or event that shatters illusions, leading to change or the breakdown of a relationship.

In Work: Unexpected disruption, the destruction of old structures, or a breakdown of outdated systems.

Spiritually: A wake-up call that challenges beliefs or systems, leading to greater clarity and spiritual growth.

When ill-dignified: Crisis, destruction without transformation, or a refusal to accept change.

 

 

 

 

Suggestion - The recommended course of action.

 

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 Outcome - What will happen if the suggestion is followed.

 

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.