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 The Hierophant (Le Pape)
Hidden Influences Deuce of Batons		External Influences Eight of Swords
The Present The High Priestess (La Papesse)		Suggestion Knight of Cups
The Past Four of Swords		The Outcome Six of Coins

Symbolism:
Four swords are arranged symmetrically, often forming a square or cross-like pattern, symbolising rest and reflection. The imagery suggests a pause for recuperation, stability, and the need for introspection before moving forward.

Meaning:
The Four of Swords symbolises the need for rest, reflection, and recovery. It encourages taking time to recharge after challenges and to prepare for future endeavours. This card highlights the importance of mental clarity through stillness.

In relationships, it may indicate a pause or need for space. Spiritually, it represents retreating into contemplation to find peace.

Keywords:
Rest, recovery, introspection, stillness, clarity, pause, preparation, healing, reflection, mental rejuvenation.

Symbolism:
The High Priestess is shown seated, holding an open book, signifying hidden knowledge and mysteries. She is flanked by two pillars (sometimes black and white), representing duality and balance. Her veil hints at the separation between the conscious and subconscious. Her serene expression reflects her mastery of the inner world and her connection to divine intuition.

Meaning:
The High Priestess embodies mystery, wisdom, and the power of intuition. She encourages stillness and reflection, guiding you to trust your inner voice over external noise. This card often appears when something hidden needs to be uncovered, whether it's a secret, a truth, or a deeper understanding of oneself.

In relationships, the High Priestess may suggest emotional depth or hidden dynamics. Spiritually, she symbolises the gateway to higher knowledge, urging you to explore the realms of dreams and symbols to uncover your truth.

Keywords:
Intuition, mystery, inner wisdom, reflection, subconscious, hidden knowledge, spirituality, patience, introspection, stillness.

Symbolism:
The Deuce of Batons in the Marseille Tarot depicts two crossed wooden batons adorned with leaves, symbolising growth, balance, and potential. The design conveys a sense of stability and duality, reflecting the initial stages of collaboration, decision-making, or planning.

Meaning:
The Two of Batons represents planning, decision-making, and the initial steps toward a goal. It emphasises the need to assess opportunities and weigh options before taking action. This card encourages foresight and a bold approach to achieving your ambitions.

In relationships, it suggests evaluating the potential for growth. Spiritually, it invites you to consider how your actions align with your higher purpose.

Keywords:
Planning, decisions, foresight, potential, ambition, exploration, preparation, boldness, vision, strategy.

Symbolism:
The Hierophant sits between two pillars, with his hand raised in blessing and two followers kneeling before him. He holds a triple cross sceptre, symbolising his spiritual authority. The keys at his feet represent access to higher wisdom and the mysteries of life. His robe and crown emphasise tradition and institutional power.

Meaning:
The Hierophant symbolises tradition, guidance, and spiritual learning. He represents the wisdom passed down through teachings, rituals, and institutions. This card may indicate seeking guidance from a mentor, joining a community, or adhering to established norms. It also encourages you to examine your beliefs and values to ensure they align with your inner truth.

In relationships, the Hierophant suggests shared values and a strong moral foundation. Spiritually, he urges you to connect with divine teachings and the collective wisdom of humanity.

Keywords:
Tradition, guidance, spiritual learning, mentorship, wisdom, community, rituals, institutions, moral alignment, shared values.

Symbolism:
Eight swords form a restrictive and intricate pattern, evoking a sense of entrapment or limitation. The imagery reflects mental constraints, self-imposed boundaries, and the need for clarity to break free.

Meaning:
The Eight of Swords symbolises mental entrapment, self-doubt, or feeling stuck. It suggests that limitations are often self-imposed and can be overcome with clarity and courage. This card encourages you to reclaim your power and break free.

In relationships, it may reflect feelings of being trapped or misunderstood. Spiritually, it invites introspection to break free from limiting beliefs.

Keywords:
Restriction, self-doubt, entrapment, mental barriers, fear, powerlessness, clarity, courage, breaking free, introspection.

Symbolism:
The Cavalier of Cups is shown riding a steady horse, holding a cup as if offering or presenting it, symbolising emotional pursuit and romantic ideals. The card reflects themes of charm, devotion, and the quest for emotional or creative fulfilment.

Meaning:
The Knight of Cups represents romance, charm, and the pursuit of emotional or artistic goals. It suggests taking action based on intuition and feelings, but warns against overidealizing or being overly passive.

In relationships, it indicates a romantic approach or a deepening of emotional bonds. Spiritually, it highlights the importance of aligning your actions with your heart's desires.

Keywords:
Romance, charm, idealism, emotional pursuit, creativity, intuition, action, inspiration, deepening bonds, heartfelt journeys.

Symbolism:
Six coins are symmetrically arranged, often accompanied by flourishing floral motifs, suggesting harmony and generosity. The design reflects themes of giving and receiving, balance in material matters, and acts of kindness.

Meaning:
The Six of Coins represents generosity, charity, and the balance of give and take. It speaks to the distribution of wealth, whether material or spiritual, and suggests that sharing one's resources can bring rewards. This card also highlights the importance of fairness and balance, indicating that help will be returned when it is needed.

In relationships, it emphasises mutual support, equity, and the importance of both giving and receiving. Spiritually, it encourages a generous heart and the understanding that true wealth comes from shared abundance.

Keywords:
Generosity, charity, balance, fairness, reciprocity, wealth, giving, receiving, support, compassion.