Tarot Cards: The Horseshoe Tarot Spread

The Horseshoe Spread of the Tarot is a very effective tool for gaining additional insight into a particular question or situation. Though straightforward and easy to learn, it offers the reader a chance to thoroughly examine a particular area of interest. This Tarot spread is very specific, and can be used to answer questions about careers, spirituality, health, or any number of important issues.

Preparing to Lay Out the Horseshoe Spread

Most Tarot readers will keep their deck wrapped in a black cloth, to protect them when not in use. This cloth also has another purpose — it can be used to lay out a Tarot spread. The cloth should be placed upon whatever surface will be used for the reading.

As with most spreads, the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana should be shuffled together. The method and manner of shuffling isn’t important. Typically, the reader simply shuffles until it feels right.

Once shuffled, all seventy-eight Tarot cards should be spread face-down in a fan-shape. Seven cards should be selected and placed face-up on the black cloth in the shape of a horseshoe. These are the seven cards which will be read for the Horseshoe Spread.

Reading the Horseshoe Spread

Each of the seven positions of the Horseshoe Spread has a specific meaning. The positions and their meanings are:

1. Past: This card represents the past influences that may still have some potency in the current situation. These influences may either be the distant or recent past.
2. Present: This card reveals the present influences that are affecting the situation at the moment.
3. Future: In every situation there are hidden factors that you may not be fully aware of. This is the card that reveals those hidden factors that will have some potency in the immediate future.
4. Obstacles: This card focuses on the obstacles or complications which are currently creating difficulties in the present situation.
5. Opinions: Everyone has an opinion, for good or ill. This card reflects the opinions of others in regards to the present situation. This may include the attitudes and behaviors of others that directly affect your current circumstances.
6. Suggestion: This card is linked to the final card in the spread. It indicates a possible suggestion or course of action that can be taken to assist in resolving the current situation.
7. Final Outcome: This final card of the Horseshoe Spread typically represents the outcome of the present situation if the Suggestion card is taken seriously. If the Suggestion card is ignored, this card will bear little resemblance to the resolution of the situation.

The Horseshoe Spread can answer a great many questions. Though often used as an independent spread, it’s perhaps more valuable as a way to gain further insight into a confusing aspect of another spread, such as the Celtic Cross Spread, the Magic Cross Spread, or the Star Spread.