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:
- The Past: Past events affecting the question.
- The Present: The current state or approaching influence.
- Hidden Influences: Things the reader may not be aware of (or barely be aware of).
- Obstacles: This is the challenge: obstacles may be avoided or may have to be dealt with.
- External Influences: Attitudes and thoughts regarding people around the reader.
- Suggestions: Recommended course of action.
- Outcome: The result of following the suggestions.
Your Horse Shoe Reading
Obstacle![]() Judgement (Le Jugement) |
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Hidden Influences![]() Nine of Coins |
External Influences![]() Deuce of Swords |
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The Present![]() Temperance (Tempérance) |
Suggestion![]() The Wheel of Fortune (La Roue de Fo |
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The Past![]() Knight of Coins |
The Outcome![]() Knight of Cups |
The Past Card represents past events that are affecting the question.
Knight of Coins
Symbolism:
The Cavalier of Coins is a steadfast figure on a sturdy horse, holding a coin firmly in hand, symbolising dedication and determination. The imagery conveys patience, responsibility, and a methodical approach to achieving goals.
Meaning:
The Knight of Coins represents reliability, diligence, and steady progress. He embodies the energy of persistence, ensuring that all tasks are completed with care and attention to detail. This card speaks to the need for patience and hard work in achieving long-term goals and financial stability.
In relationships, it suggests a reliable partner or a steady, consistent approach to commitment. Spiritually, it reflects the importance of persistence in achieving one's goals, whether material or otherwise.
Keywords:
Reliability, diligence, patience, responsibility, steady progress, methodical, persistence, commitment, work ethic, grounded.
The Present Card represents the current state or immediately approaching influence.
Temperance
(Tempérance)
Symbolism:
An angelic figure pours water from one cup to another, symbolising balance and the harmonious blending of opposites. One leg is robed in blue, the other in red, reflecting equilibrium between the conscious and subconscious leading to spiritual enlightenment.
Meaning:
Temperance signifies balance, moderation, and the art of blending opposites to create harmony. It encourages patience, self-restraint, and the ability to adapt fluidly to life's changes. This card often appears when you are finding equilibrium in a challenging situation or working toward a greater sense of peace.
In relationships, it suggests compromise and mutual understanding. Spiritually, Temperance represents alignment with your higher self and a focus on unity and integration.
Keywords:
Balance, harmony, moderation, patience, adaptation, unity, self-restraint, healing, integration, peace.
Hidden Influences - Things that you may not be aware of, or barely be aware of.
Nine of Coins
Symbolism:
Nine coins create a lush and balanced configuration, often surrounded by decorative flourishes or vines, representing abundance and independence. This card evokes themes of self-sufficiency, material comfort, and enjoying the fruits of one's labour.
Meaning:
The Nine of Coins symbolises self-sufficiency, comfort, and the rewards of hard work. It represents a state of contentment and luxury, achieved through independence and personal effort. This card encourages enjoying the fruits of one's labour and finding satisfaction in the material world without becoming overly attached to it.
In relationships, it may suggest a partner who values independence, or a period of solo fulfilment. Spiritually, it reflects the satisfaction that comes from aligning with one's personal goals and being at peace with one's accomplishments.
Keywords:
Self-sufficiency, luxury, abundance, independence, contentment, achievement, comfort, success, personal fulfilment, reward.
Obstacle - This is the challenge.
Judgement
(Le Jugement)
Symbolism:
An angel blows a trumpet as figures rise from coffins below, symbolising resurrection and awakening. The praying hands of the figures reflect surrender and acceptance. The bright light of the angel signifies divine calling and revelation, while the mountains in the background represent challenges overcome.
Meaning:
Judgement represents awakening, self-assessment, and rebirth. It signals a time to evaluate your past and make amends, preparing for a new chapter. This card often appears when you are called to align with your higher purpose and embrace transformation.
In relationships, it suggests healing, forgiveness, or a new beginning. Spiritually, it encourages connection with your true calling.
Keywords:
Awakening, transformation, rebirth, judgement, self-assessment, forgiveness, redemption, clarity, divine calling, renewal.
External Influences - Attitudes about this situation from people around the querent.
Deuce of Swords
Symbolism:
Two crossed swords create a balanced yet tense composition, often adorned with small floral elements to soften the imagery. The card suggests duality, decision-making, and the need to find equilibrium amidst opposing forces.
Meaning:
The Two of Swords represents a choice or dilemma requiring balance and thought. It suggests being caught between opposing forces or avoiding a decision. This card encourages you to confront the truth and rely on logic and intuition to find resolution.
In relationships, it highlights communication blockages or an emotional impasse. Spiritually, it urges you to find balance within opposing energies.
Keywords:
Indecision, stalemate, balance, choice, reflection, mental conflict, neutrality, avoidance, logic, resolution.
Suggestion - The recommended course of action.
The Wheel of Fortune
(La Roue de Fo
Symbolism:
The Wheel of Fortune depicts a large wheel with figures ascending and descending its sides. It symbolises fate, luck, and the cycles of life. The turning motion suggests impermanence and change.
Meaning:
The Wheel of Fortune represents the ever-turning cycles of life, where fortune can rise or fall unexpectedly. This card signals change, opportunity, and the need to adapt. It reminds you to embrace the flow of events and trust in the greater pattern.
In relationships, it can indicate changes or new phases. Spiritually, it highlights the interconnectedness of life and the importance of surrendering to destiny's rhythms while remaining attuned to opportunities that arise.
Keywords:
Change, cycles, destiny, luck, opportunity, karma, adaptability, transition, impermanence, evolution.
The Outcome - What will happen if the suggestion is followed.
Knight of Cups
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.
