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 King of Swords
Hidden Influences Five of Wands		External Influences Nine of Swords
The Present King of Wands		Suggestion Four of Coins
The Past Knight of Swords		The Outcome King of Coins

Being headstrong, argumentative, opinionated, sarcastic or cruel. Having a hero complex. 'Shoot first and ask questions later'. Wanting to win at any cost. Avoiding confrontation. Ill-conceived plans are falling apart.

Someone with a sense of entitlement. Being arrogant, insufferable, or oppressive to others. Megalomania and a desire for power at any price. A charismatic leader who is dictatorial or is acting out of his own self-interest. Someone in authority who takes an unyielding position. Your creativity is being squashed by others.

Feeling beaten down by petty bickering or office politics. Being in a 'no holds barred' situation – 'every man for himself'. Competition is getting ugly. You may be getting swallowed up in contentious rivalry. Your energy is too scattered and unfocused.

Having your mind made up and being closed to new ideas. Guarding your secrets or not sharing your knowledge. Intrusive meddling. Unfair decisions or bad advice. Following the letter of the law may allow you to ignore unfairness and cruelty in yourself and others. Having or exercising 'book learning' but not common sense.

Realisation that fears were blown out of proportion. Things are turning out to be not as bad as expected. Regaining hope or peace of mind. Finding or having someone to comfort you or to help you through difficult times.

Someone who is miserly, possessive, or overly cautious with his / her resources – a 'Scrooge'. Spending money unwisely or having problems saving money. Financial and material concerns are important at this time.

Hospitality and charity. Exhibiting extravagant generosity. Good business or financial advice. Success in business ventures or projects. A philanthropist or benefactor. A 'sugar daddy'.