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 Fool (Le Mat)
Hidden Influences Seven of Swords		External Influences The Devil (Le Diable)
The Present The Hanged Man (Le Pendu)		Suggestion The Hermit (L'Hermite)
The Past Ten of Batons		The Outcome The Magician (Le Bateleur)

Symbolism:
Ten batons create a complex, interwoven pattern, with leaves pushing through to signify growth under pressure. The imagery conveys burdens, responsibilities, and the weight of achievement, balanced by the promise of fulfilment.

Meaning:
The Ten of Batons represents burdens, responsibility, and the weight of obligations. It signifies a period of hard work or feeling overburdened by tasks and commitments. While this card warns against burnout, it also reminds you that the effort is leading toward a goal or resolution.

In relationships, it reflects shared responsibilities or the strain of unbalanced dynamics. Spiritually, it suggests the need to let go of unnecessary baggage to continue forward.

Keywords:
Burden, responsibility, obligation, hard work, completion, exhaustion, effort, duty, strain, perseverance.

Symbolism:
The Hanged Man is shown suspended upside-down by one foot from a live tree, with his free leg bent to form a cross-like shape. His serene expression suggests surrender rather than distress. This represents enlightenment gained through sacrifice or altered perspective. The tree may symbolise the axis mundi, a bridge between worlds.

Meaning:
The Hanged Man symbolises surrender, letting go, and viewing situations from a different perspective. It suggests a pause or suspension of action, encouraging reflection and patience. This card often appears when you need to relinquish control or embrace sacrifice to gain deeper understanding.

In relationships, it can signal a need for a fresh outlook or willingness to adapt. Spiritually, it points to awakening through non-resistance and the acceptance of higher truths.

Keywords:
Surrender, perspective, patience, sacrifice, reflection, letting go, enlightenment, suspension, adaptation, non-resistance.

Symbolism:
Seven swords are arranged in a slightly chaotic or uneven configuration, emphasising complexity and strategy. The design suggests themes of cunning, deception, and the need for careful planning.

Meaning:
The Seven of Swords represents strategy, deception, or avoiding confrontation. It suggests a need to act carefully, but warns against dishonesty or taking shortcuts. This card encourages cleverness but with integrity.

In relationships, it may indicate secrecy or mistrust. Spiritually, it suggests the importance of facing the truth rather than evading it.

Keywords:
Strategy, cunning, deception, avoidance, stealth, dishonesty, planning, mistrust, cleverness, truth-seeking.

Symbolism:
A carefree figure, often carrying a small bag or bundle, walks toward the unknown with a dog nipping at their heels, symbolising the risks of new beginnings. Their gaze is upward, indicating innocence and trust, while their attire features bright, mismatched colours, emphasising their unconventional nature.

Meaning:
The Fool represents new beginnings, spontaneity, and the embrace of life's uncertainties. This card encourages stepping into the unknown with optimism and trust, even if the path ahead seems uncertain or risky. It speaks to freedom, potential, and the ability to approach life with a beginner's mind.

In relationships, the Fool may suggest a fresh start or a need for openness and vulnerability. Spiritually, it represents a journey of self-discovery and the willingness to trust the universe.

Keywords:
New beginnings, spontaneity, innocence, freedom, potential, adventure, risk, trust, exploration, unconventionality.

Symbolism:
The Devil is portrayed as a horned figure with two chained human figures below, representing bondage to materialism or desires. The chains are loose, suggesting self-imposed limitations. Their animalistic features symbolise the materialism and polarity of nature.

Meaning:
The Devil represents temptation, materialism, and the shadow side of human nature. It highlights unhealthy attachments, addictions, or fears that may be holding you back. This card calls for awareness and the courage to break free from self-imposed limitations.

In relationships, it warns of codependency or power imbalances. Spiritually, the Devil challenges you to confront and integrate your shadow self.

Keywords:
Temptation, bondage, materialism, addiction, fear, control, power, shadow self, self-awareness, liberation.

Symbolism:
The Hermit is an elderly figure carrying a lantern and a staff. The lantern symbolises inner wisdom and guidance, while the staff represents support and stability. His cloak signifies introspection, reflecting the solitude of his journey.

Meaning:
The Hermit represents introspection, wisdom, and solitude. He invites you to step back from external distractions and seek answers within. This card often appears during periods of self-discovery, encouraging you to listen to your inner voice.

In relationships, the Hermit may indicate a need for personal space or reflection. Spiritually, it highlights the quest for enlightenment and the value of solitary contemplation.

Keywords:
Wisdom, introspection, solitude, guidance, reflection, self-discovery, enlightenment, patience, inner truth, retreat.

Symbolism:
The Magician is a youthful figure standing behind a table, holding a wand aloft while other tools lie before him—often a coin, a cup, and a sword. These tools represent mastery over the elements and the power to manifest intentions. His hat, shaped like a lemniscate, symbolises infinite potential, and his posture suggests readiness and action. The vibrant colours of his attire evoke creativity, energy, and a zest for life.

Meaning:
The Magician represents the power of initiative, skill, and resourcefulness. He embodies the ability to turn ideas into reality, combining intellect, action, and willpower. The card often signals the beginning of a new venture or opportunity, where focus and confidence are key. However, it also serves as a warning to avoid manipulation or overconfidence.

The Magician invites you to be aware of your tools and talents, urging you to act with intention. It also reminds you that success depends on your ability to harmonise thought and action.

Keywords:
Initiative, manifestation, skill, potential, confidence, willpower, beginnings, resourcefulness, action, focus.