How to hang a horseshoe for good luck
Placing a horseshoe over a door or on a wall to attract good luck is a practice that dates back to the earliest days of blacksmithing. Since iron was a strong metal that accumulated the power of fire, and therefore acquired magical significance. Horseshoes provide protection for horses' hooves, allowing them to travel without injury, which is fortunate for both horse and rider.
What is a horseshoe in the house for?
The main task of the horseshoe as a talisman is to attract or keep good luck in the house, as well as protection from evil spirits. The first legends about the horseshoe as a talisman date back to the 10th century AD. This legend says that one of the saints, who was then a blacksmith, shod the devil himself, but took from him a promise to always respect the horseshoe and never enter the place where it hangs over the door.
Because of this, people believed that a horseshoe could keep evil spirits out of their homes, and thus bring (or keep) good luck.
There are more realistic explanations for the "magical" component of the horseshoe. In ancient times, the profession of a blacksmith was considered very honorable. Therefore, it was considered a great success to become at least an apprentice of a blacksmith. In addition, previously horseshoes were attached to the hooves of horses with seven nails, and the number seven is another symbol of good luck.
The tradition of hanging a horseshoe over the door continued, and over time, new legends began to be added to it. So, in the Middle Ages in Europe, people believed that a horseshoe was able to protect a house and its inhabitants from witches. It was believed that not a single witch could go through a door with a horseshoe hanging over the opening. Horseshoes were even nailed to the coffins of the alleged witches to prevent them from returning.
Important! Believe in legends or not is everyone's business. Nevertheless, it cannot be denied that it has a place in the decor and can create an atmosphere of comfort. And the opportunity to get a drop of luck will not be superfluous.
How to hang a horseshoe correctly
No special knowledge is required to properly hang the horseshoe. The only thing is that it is advisable to observe traditions so that the amulet is not only part of the decor, but can also bring good luck.
- Choose a place for the horseshoe. For example, above the opening of any door (preferably an entrance), above the entrance to a shed or workshop. Hanging outside or inside doesn't make much difference. As long as the horseshoe is above the opening and is securely fastened, everything is done correctly.
- Stand on a sturdy ladder or stand. Attach the horseshoe to your chosen spot, arms up or down, depending on your preference.
- Ask a friend or relative for help to make sure the horseshoe in the selected location is visible from ground level. If not, move it to a more prominent location above the door.
- Use a tape measure and a spirit level to make sure the horseshoe hangs in the center of the opening and that the shackles are level.
- Use a pencil to mark the future bindings through the holes in the horseshoe.Also mark the ends of the temples so you can hang the horseshoe correctly next time without a measuring tool.
- To make the fasteners reliable and not damage the finish, pre-drill the holes with a thin drill, for future nails. This will facilitate the fastening of the horseshoe itself, and will protect it from cracks or chips on the wall.
- Return the horseshoe to the marked place and nail it in through the regular holes.
Note! It is not necessary to make new holes in the wall. You can hang the horseshoe on any existing hook. You can also nail it to a wooden base, and already hang it like a painting in any place you like.
Which horseshoe to choose
The shape of the horseshoe does not really matter. If possible, then choose the one that you like best in appearance. And although there are no special rules, there are two tips to follow to maximize the effect of the horseshoe:
- First, you need to hang the already used horseshoe. Energy from a noble and strong animal will not only enhance the effect of luck, but also be able to convey a piece of vital energy.
- Second, look for horseshoes designed for seven nails, which will also bring extra luck.
Where to hang
As mentioned above, there is no particular meaning where to hang. Usually horseshoes are hung where the whole family most often passes. The front door to the house would be an ideal place. Horseshoes are also often placed over the aisles to barns, workshops, garages and other outbuildings.
Usually the horseshoe hangs outside the door. Previously, it was another sign of the family's wealth, indicating that they can afford a horseshoe as a talisman. However, there is nothing wrong with hanging it inside the house.
How to fix correctly
Above we have already told where and how to place the horseshoe. They also noted that there is not much difference in the method of fastening. But using modern self-tapping screws on a vintage interior detail will look cheap and inappropriate.
It is considered the most correct, beautiful and authentic fastening on forged square nails. In addition, there should be seven of them. In addition to the sacred meaning that enhances good luck, this will add authenticity to the decor and amulet.
How to position the horseshoe horns correctly
Today, there are two diametrically opposed opinions about the correct location of the arches of the horseshoe. We often see that they can be directed either downward or upward.
One opinion says that the bows should be directed upwards so that the cup of luck in this house never runs out and is always full. Those who adhere to the opposite views believe that good luck should be poured out of the bowl on everyone who enters, and therefore the bows should look down.
Note! There is no particular meaning for the directionality of the horseshoe arms. Hang the talisman the way you like.
How to enhance the action of a talisman
Many people want to achieve the maximum effect from the talisman, so they are interested in how to hang the horseshoe correctly, where to place it, how and what to fix it. Above we have already talked about several ways of "strengthening":
- It is necessary to hang a used horseshoe
- It is desirable to fasten on forged nails
- Use seven nails
- Hang over the front door to the house
But it should be added that it is necessary to use the horseshoe only after thorough cleaning. It is categorically impossible to hang a dirty amulet "for good luck".
Output
Horseshoe is one of the most famous symbols of good luck. She has the longest history as a protective symbol. Therefore, do not hesitate, and hang your horseshoe the way you like, and you will definitely get your share of luck and good mood.
VIDEO: How to properly hang a horseshoe over the door.
