#norse runes

[apiswitchcraft]

understanding norse runes: a historical and modern perspective pt. 1

This is going to be a three part series, each one covering a different aett of the Elder Futhark runes. We will not be covering the "reversed" or "murk stave" interpretations, because that is largely up to the reader to discern depending on orientation and arrangement when pulled. I'll make another post about the act of drawing runes for divination, but that isn't what this is. What this is is each rune's respective Anglo-Saxan, Norwegian, and Icelandic word poems (when available), the summarized interpretation, and associated deities.

For part two click here.

ᚠ fehu

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Wealth be by all very much welcomed:

Each man shall deal it out freely,

If he will from the Lord get approval"

NORWEGIAN:

"Wealth causes trouble among relatives

The wolf is raised in the forest"

INTERPRETATION: With the literal meaning being "cattle," this rune can also be wealth or gold. Also more literally, "fehu" is the source of the power of Frigg and Freyja, who are seeresses. Freyja, too, is most often associated with the golden necklace Brisingamen, whereas Freyr is associated with fertility and harvest (which leads to monetary gain). A rune of creation or creativity, this could represent anything from the creation from life or art, to money or social status. Especially when surrounded by runes of caution, however, this stave encourages us not to abuse our power, our money, our knowledge, etc. To avoid conflict (as arises in the Norwegian and Icelandic poems), it must be shared generously and used with wisdom. Often seen as representing raw, untamed power, there is a certain level of risk or effort that must go in to obtaining the metaphorical pot of gold. Regardless, the person is encouraged to take risks, to enter the unknown if available, and be prepared to "tame the wild," so to speak. As the first rune in the Elder Futhark, this rune is more than just "wealth" or "fertility," it's the process, the exchange of energy, that leads to the creation of these aspects. Therefore, in a reading, one might see this as more than just the end goal, but a reminder for seek balance when between prosperity and richness of life when building our future.

ICELANDIC:

"Wealth is trouble among relatives

and fire of the sea

and path of the serpent"

KEY WORDS: abundance, wealth, new beginnings, creation, success

ASSOCIATIONS: Freyr (who may be the "Lord" referred to in the Anglo-Saxan poem), Freyja, and possibly Frigg (especially when you consider that Frigg and Freyja are commonly conflated with one another)

ᚢ uruz

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Aurochs is fearless and greatly horned,

A very fierce beast, it fights with its horns,

A famous roamer of the moor, it is a very courageous animal."

NORWEGIAN:

"Slag comes from poor iron

Often the reindeer runs over the hard-frozen snow."

INTERPRETATION: With the literal meaning of "Aurochs" (or wild cow), "drizzle," or "slag," the uruz rune seems to have some contradiction when it comes to ancient interpretations. However, taking the Norse creation myth as written in the Prose Edda, we can start to make connections. In the Younger Edda, before Midgard was made, Muspelheim and Niflheim already existed. And when the rivers of Niflheim travelled far enough, it's "yeasty venom" hardened like slag, and condensed into a drizzle of rain which cooled into rime. Later, when the giant Ymir and the cow Audhumla thaw out of the frost at the edge of Muspelheim, Audhumla licks away that rime to reveal the first god. Thus we come to the modern interpretation, which is primordial power and manifestation. If fehu is the opportunity to create, uruz is the act of that creation happening. If fehu is cattle, then uruz is those cattle turned to fierce oxen to protect their land. It is the act of going back, or turning inward. Thus, this tells us that we may need to do some introspection, to find the will to go on within ourselves. Empty the page and let it fill again, burn away weakness and leave behind only pure vitality, pure drive. Also, it can be the twin power of shaping and nourishment knowledge, health, or luck.

ICELANDIC:

"Drizzle is weeping of the clouds

and destructions of the hay-harvest

and abhorrence of the herdsman."

KEY WORDS: growth, transformation, endurance,

ASSOCIATIONS: Audhumla

ᚦ thurisaz

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Thorn is most sharp, for every thane

who grasps it, it is harmful, exceeding cruel

To every man who rests among them."

NORWEGIAN:

"Thurs causes illness in women:

few rejoice at bad luck."

INTERPRETATION: The rune of Thor, this rune's literal meaning is in its name as "thurs"--meaning a primordial being, especially a Jotun. In the cases of the above rune poems, thurs represents a more imminent threat, like a disease causing entity. In modernity though, this rune represents action, potency, raw power, and physical strength, of which Thor embodies well. Also representing chaos (and sometimes even conflict) this rune can be one invoked for magic, especially chthonic or dark magic. Furthermore, this rune is one that links the power of the physical and spiritual realms, as Thor often does himself. In this vein, thurisaz can advise a diviner to seek balance in the regions where chaos reigns, whether that be a relationship, job, or otherwise. Be careful, though, and do not wander aimlessly into the dark, this rune forbodes not only a force of protection, but a force of destruction as well. Someone who is unskilled or undereducated may need to wisen up before making use of this rune in a practical manner, like a spell or sigil. It may also be considered a rune that represents sexual potency or pure eroticism, especially as it is a symbol of masculine potency.

ICELANDIC:

"Thurs is the torment of women,

and the dweller in the rocks(/cliffs),

and the man(/husband) of Vardh-runa."

KEY WORDS: strength, courage, eroticism, chaos, magic

ASSOCIATIONS: Thor, the Jotnar

ᚨ ansuz

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Mouth is the chieftain of all speech

mainstay of wisdom, comfort to wise ones

for every noble earl hope and happiness."

NORWEGIAN:

"River mouth is the way of most journeys:

but a scabbard of swords."

INTERPRETATION: The ansuz rune has two literal interpretations seen above: god and mouth. To connect these two you just have to look at the Icelandic rune poem that references Odin: chief of the aesir and creator of language. In this way, ansuz is often seen as representing Odin, but also his many aspects: language, poetry, wisdom, occult mastery, magic. As master of the runes, Odin represents everything the staves do: life, death, and the in-between. Understanding and intellectualism built on the mysteries of these aspects is not only encouraged but embodied by the ansuz rune. It tells us to try to emulate Odin in our everyday way, forcing ourselves into a cycle of forever change (as uncomfortable as it may be) and constant learning. To be clear, in a reading this may not always be some sort of calling from Odin, but a call from his domains. Of course, seek the path that works best for you, but there could be something calling you to use the powers of persuasion, your talent in poetry/song, etc.

ICELANDIC:

"Ase is the olden-father (Odin),

Asgard's chieftain,

and the leader of Valholl (Valhalla)."

KEY WORDS: communication, language, mental power, a message

ASSOCIATIONS: Odin, the Aesir

ᚱ raidho

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Riding is in the hall for a warrior

soft, more strenuous when astride

A great stallion pounding the long mile paths."

NORWEGIAN:

"Riding is said to be worst for horses;

Regin forged the best sword."

INTERPRETATION: Raidho, or "ride"/"riding" is a rune of action and change. Less chaotic than ansuz, raidho emulates the soothing rhythm of a car (chariot/horse if we're being historically accurate) ride, the logician in a nation's leadership, the institutions of our schooling. However, it also calls for plans to be made, a path to be carved before it is walked. In this way, it can also mean the just, moral, or ethical path is being suggested to the reader. Feeling the call to use baneful magic? Perhaps delay it in favor of something more productive for yourself. Or don't, it's up to you. In some ways, this rune also represents the sun, as in its travel across the sky, and the potential and vitality it promises. Either way, action is necessary, and the righteous path is the one to follow.

ICELANDIC:

"Riding is the joy of the rider

and a speedy journey,

and the labor of the horse."

KEY WORDS: order, structure, journey, ethics/morals, progress

ASSOCIATIONS: Sleipnir

ᚲ kenaz

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Torch to the living familiar aflame,

Is blinding and brilliant, it burns most often

Where royal folk within are resting."

NORWEGIAN:

"Sore is fatal to children:

Death makes a corpse pale."

INTERPRETATION: Kenaz, again, has two different meanings in the runic poems: torch and sore (like a blister). This time, though, the difference seems to be for purely etymological reasons, and has little to do with a story. The only slight association I've seen pointed out is that both of these things are warm? Either way, fire is the primary meaning. From from we can discern deeper meanings, like energy and divine inspiration. Fire brings light and clarity, but can also burn and destroy. Perhaps you seek to know the future, but you are only willing to accept it if it's positive. Allow it to burn, to warm you to the deepest depths of your bones, to inspire you to create, like the fire of a forge. Let it fill you with vitality and stamina (especially sexually). Let it purify you as it purifies the dead on a pyre. It may also work to protect you, as a campfire does for the lonesome traveler. If left untended, however, it can cause death, suffering, a malady that will only worsen as it continues to be untended.

ICELANDIC:

"Sore is the bale of children

And a scourge,

And the house of rotten flesh."

KEY WORDS: Knowledge, sexuality, creativity, clarity

ASSOCIATIONS: Freyja

ᚷ gebo

INTERPRETATION: As the letter "G" does not exist in Younger Futhark, we only have to deal with one potential meaning of gebo: "gift." Specifically, the balanced art of giving and receiving. Not only should one receive gifts gracefully, but reciprocate generously to friends, family, ancestors, and the gods. And that doesn't just mean physical gifts: but an exchange of energy, of time. Gifts are not simply bribes or meaningless gestures, but sacrifices and an exchange of loyalty. In a religious context, this does not just imply the act of constant sacrifice with no return from the gods. In Norse culture, the relationship between god and man went both ways. At Ragnarok, heroes would fight for the gods, as in life they would give up their time/energy/resources in offering. In exchange the gods would fight alongside us, and give gifts in return. Because of the sexual/romantic associations with reciprocity, gebo is commonly associated with the Freyr, Freyja, and Frigg. Furthermore, because of Odin's self-sacrifice to receive knowledge and wisdom, it is strongly associated with him as well.

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Giving, to all men, brings credit and honor

help and worthiness--and to every outcast

is the estate and substance, that have naught else."

KEY WORDS: gift, exchange, reciprocity, generosity, sacrifice

ASSOCIATIONS: Freyja, Freyr, Frigg, Odin

ᚹ wunjo

INTERPRETATION: Similar to gebo, since "W" does not appear in the Younger Futhark, wunjo is only given the one meaning: "joy." Now, where to start with this rune. Yes, simply, wunjo means happiness. But how do you define happiness? Is it social fulfillment: familial, platonic, romantic, sexual? Is it the simple things: reading a good book, seeing beautiful scenery, or drawing a picture? Is it ecstasy or is it purely innocent pleasures? What makes your life a blissful one, what do you desire? Or, simply, is it the ability to cope with pain? Does joy exist where suffering is absent? Or, like a good love story, does it have to hurt a little to be true? In some ways, this rune can simply be thought of as a balance between good and bad, our inner and outer selves. Truly knowing oneself, and knowing others; healing from trauma or emotional pain; an end to conflict. With divination, it would be best to look at the surrounding runes in order to interpret where this "joy" could be stemming from. Or, even more, it should be used to comment on other runes. If you pull isa but there is a wunjo next to it, you can assume that the meaning of isa to be more positive.

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Joy is for one who knows little of woe,

pains and sorrows, and to him who has

power and bliss and buildings good enough."

KEY WORDS: joy, harmony, success, celebration, security

ASSOCIATIONS: none, all gods have their joyous sides

SOURCES:

"Taking Up the Runes" by Diana L. Paxson

Labyrinthos

and two unnamed books bc i found out after buying them that the authors are bigots

[the-merry-otter]

Tunic embroidered with old Norse runes around the bottom that read “I joined the SCA and all I got was this stupid t-tunic”

[the-mortuary-witch]

GRIMORE IDEAS

Start a lunar or dream diary. 

Write spells. 

Astrology meanings. 

Write and record rituals 

Tarot meanings. 

Magickal correspondences. 

Your natal chart info. 

Herb names, uses, and/or properties. 

Info about deities and entities. 

Crystals names, uses, and/or properties. 

Magickal food recipes. 

Faeries. 

Meditation techniques. 

Full moon names. 

Sigils.

Runes.

How to use a pendulum.

Wheel of the Year. 

Essential oil uses. 

How to scry.

Maiden, Mother, and Crone. 

The Elements. 

History of witchcraft. 

The difference between jinxes, hexes, and curses. 

Morning and night rituals. 

How to celebrate/info about the Sabbats. 

Types of salt and their properties. 

Moon phases and their corresponding meanings. 

Types of divination. 

Planet correspondences. 

Candle colour meanings. 

How to draw and/or cast a circle, runes, and sigils. 

Tools of the craft. 

[nous-teleios]

The beauty of divination

[bowldrips]

Deny, Defend, Depose runic charm reference

There are so many ways these words could be written with runes! Here are a few using Elder and Younger Futhark that could be written, carved, and sung:

Deny, Defend, Depose

LONG BRANCH

ᛏᚾᛁ᛬ᛏᚠᛏ᛬ᛏᛒᛌ

ᛏᛁᚾᛁ᛬ᛏᛁᚠᛁᚾᛏ᛬ᛏᛁᛒᚢᛌ

ᛏᛁᚾᛁ᛬ᛏᛁᚠᛁᚾᛏ᛬ᛏᛁᛒᚬᛌ

ᛏᛏᛏ

SHORT TWIG

ᛐᚿᛁ᛬ᛐᚠᛐ᛬ᛐᛓᛌ

ᛐᛁᚿᛁ᛬ᛐᛁᚠᛁᚿᛐ᛬ᛐᛁᛓᚭᛌ

ᛐᛁᚿᛁ᛬ᛐᛁᚠᛁᚿᛐ᛬ᛐᛁᛓᚢᛌ

ᛐᛐᛐ

ELDER

ᛏᚾᛁ᛬ᛏᚠᛏ᛬ᛏᛈᛊ

ᛞᚾᛁ᛬ᛞᚠᛞ᛬ᛞᛈᛊ

ᛏᛁᚾᛁ᛬ᛏᛁᚠᛁᚾᛏ᛬ᛏᛁᛈᛟᛊ

ᛞᛁᚾᛁ᛬ᛞᛁᚠᛁᚾᛞ᛬ᛞᛁᛈᛟᛊ

ᛞᛞᛞ

ᛏᛏᛏ

"Victory runes you must know if you will have victory, and carve them on the sword's hilt, some on the grasp and some on the inlay, and name Týr twice." -Sigrdrífumál

Possible ON translation suggested by @buriedpentacles :

Synja, Verja, Reka

LONG BRANCH

ᛌᚾᛅ᛬ᚢᚱᛅ᛬ᚱᚴᛅ

ᛌᛁᚾᛁᛅ᛬ᚢᛁᚱᛁᛅ᛬ᚱᛁᚴᛅ

ᛌᚢᚱ

SHORT TWIG

ᛌᚿᛆ᛬ᚢᚱᛆ᛬ᚱᚴᛆ

ᛌᛁᚿᛁᛆ᛬ᚢᛁᚱᛁᛆ᛬ᚱᛁᚴᛆ

ᛌᚢᚱ

ELDER

ᛊᚾᛃ᛬ᚠᚱᛃ᛬ᚱᚲᚨ

ᛊᛁᚾᛃᚨ᛬ᚠᛖᚱᛃᚨ᛬ᚱᛖᚲᚨ

ᛊᚠᚱ

Feel free to let me know If you have any questions about this or want to share your version~

[jessiarts]

Made another design in my series of pride Norse designs that I'm creating as a fuck you to nazis appropriating the runes and other symbols in hopes that if we can make designs of them that are so blatantly gay they won't want to touch them anymore. (Previous designs: Pride Loki Runes | Be Gay, Do Pride )

It's Yggdrasil (Norse tree of life) with the colors of the original pride flag in the tree/branches surrounded by rings in the colors of the triangle of the progress flag (representing BIPOC, Trans, and Intersex) (Design is transparent. Grey background is for visibility purposes)

Just like the previous designs, I'll be hosting the full-res file of this design as a free download on my Ko-Fi for people to use to make their own apparel/stickers/whatever. And also hosted on Threadless for those who can't print them on stuff themselves (or just don't feel like it) but still want something with this design on it. Each sale will also make an automatic donation to various LGBT+ charities like The Trevor Project and the National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network.

I'll be making more of these designs and also be taking requests for a bit if there are any pride rune/Norse designs anyone might want to see made, feel free to just drop them in my ask box!

[Edit: For some reason linking to the download on Ko-Fi hides this post in tags. No idea why, because the other posts were/are fine, but anyway there's a link to my Ko-Fi in my pinned post. Apologies for the inconvenience.]

[roaenexists]

When I don't ask my runes any specific question they tell me things like, "The breath of God and the primordial water nourish the seed of human creation." When I do the same with my tarot cards they say shit like, "Wash the dishes, whore. One day your parents will die."

[iridescent-witch-life]

📷 handfulsofdust

[deja-vu-esoterica]

The Divination Room at Déjà Vu Esoterica in San Antonio, TX

[ghilliedubh]

I was inspired to design a pro-diversity and inclusivity symbol that I call the Othalwynn, it is a bindrune of Othala and Wunjo with features referencing the progressive pride flag. Wunjo is here representing friendship, kindness, sanctuary, tolerance. Here Othala is representing how we all are part of the same family, we are all branches of the same tree. I carry this further in the second symbol here which is a spin-off, the Othalwynn Yggdrasil, symbolizing the connection between all our different worlds and how we flourish and grow the strongest when diversity is nurtured. We are all branches of the same tree. Please feel free to use it!

[apiswitchcraft]

understanding norse runes: a historical and modern perspective pt. 2

Here's part two! If you need clarification on anything please lmk! <3

For part 1 click here.

ᚺ hagalaz

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Hail is the whitest of grain;

it is whirled from heaven's loft

tossed about by wind gusts,

then melts into water."

NORWEGIAN:

"Hail is the coldest of grains:

Christ created the primaeval world."

(not the Christian Christ, just an epithet for Odin)

INTERPRETATION: Starting out strong, hagalaz thankfully only has one meaning, and that's "hail." Unrelatedly, this rune is also one of the first overtly negative runes (of course, the meaning truly depends on the surrounding staves you pull, but nevertheless), representing uncomfortable change, possibly a crisis. Associated with the goddess Hel, it represents both her aspects: the cold goddess of death, and the plentiful goddess of life. Hagalaz shows us that change is on the horizon, but that it will be a time of learning, of becoming evermore wiser. Similar to The Moon card in tarot, this stave also represents the secrets of the runes, the dark side. A side we nevertheless have to confront in order to overcome great stressors. Doubtlessly, this transformation will cause us some pain, but hail is considered the seed of possibilities. Though in solid form it may hurt or harm us, when melted it may nourish the struggling sapling. It has great potential, especially considering this is the ninth rune, a number that appears repeatedly in Norse Mythology. This stave has us confronting our worst fears and suffering, and telling us to learn from them, to become a better person. We have to create our own inner harmony, despite whatever may get in our way.

ICELANDIC:

"Hail is cold grain

and driving sleet

and sickness of serpents."

KEY WORDS: Disruption, upheaval, catalyst, potential

ASSOCIATIONS: Hel, the Norns (specifically Urdh, the past), Heimdall

ᚾ nauthiz

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Need is nearest to the breast,

yet often proves to children of men

a source of help and healing

if they heed it betimes."

NORWEGIAN:

"Need leaves little choice;

the naked man is chilled by frost."

INTERPRETATION: A rune often associated with the Norns, especially Skuld (the future), nauthiz is all about "necessity" and inevitability. The future is inescapable, but it can be used to our advantage. To understand this rune, we have to understand our own needs and purpose(s) as well. Usually, these are outside of our control. A lack of food caused by war creates a necessity for food. It is outside of the individual sufferer's hands. However, it can spur a person to act in whatever way they can, it's the spark of what is called the "needfire," vital to cause and effect. Need defines action defines life. Yes, this rune can be interpreted as a negative one, no doubt. But, again, runes are not as simple and straightforward as Tarot. If you pulled kenaz with nauthiz, you might look more closely at the "needfire" aspect of this reading, or if you pulled wunjo you might see this as more of a needs to an end. Which, really, that's all this rune represents: the needs to an end. You are not stuck in this state of lack, rather it is the lack that will turn the Norns' bow-drill to usher in a new era. Whereas hagalaz is more of a rigid, set in stone, nauthiz is about moving on from that suffering.

ICELANDIC:

"Need is distress of thrall-woman

and state of oppression

and hard work."

KEY WORDS: Necessity, inevitability, the future, constraint, hardship

ASSOCIATIONS: The Norns (specifically Skuld)

ᛁ isa

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Ice be overcold, unmeasurably slippery,

glisteneth clear as glass, to gems likest;

a floor by frost wrought, fair to be seen."

NORWEGIAN:

"Ice we call the broad bridge;

The blind man must be led."

INTERPRETATION: Isa, true to its similar pronunciation, just means "ice." In this way, it has two divinatory meanings: one as an unmoving, unwavering shield, and one as a static, frozen object/individual. It can help to lessen disturbances and chaos, to soothe the fires of the earlier runes. This stave can mean stasis, but it can also mean clarity, a deep concentration. Stuck in the ice, you would have an awful long time to think, no? Rest is important for all things, but especially so in times of chaos. When the fires of kenaz or thurisaz get too hot, isa is there to cool things down. Furthermore, though, this rune can represent an unwilling stagnation, a frustrating situation or relationship. Stuck quarreling with a lover, this rune would be emblematic of how the reader would be feeling in that moment. Similarly, we can take this rune to represent the present, the Norn Verdandi. As a rune of advice, the reader is being told to watch and wait, to get a lay of the land before continuing onward. As much as a swirling blizzard can freeze you out, an igloo can keep you safe from the perils of frostbite, so it all depends on the adjacent runes in the reading. What do you need before you can continue? What is the crux of what's holding you back? All of these are things you need to consider.

ICELANDIC:

"Ice is bark of rivers

and roof of the wave

and destruction for doomed men."

KEY WORDS: Stagnation, pause, waiting, patience, preservation

ASSOCIATIONS: The Norns (especially Verdandi)

ᛃ jera

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Summer is called joyful, when God lets,

holy heaven's king--shining fruits

be born from earth for rich and poor."

INTERPRETATION: An often encouraging stave to pull in a reading, jera's literal translation is "year." In the harsher climates of the North, it is easy to lose track of the four seasons, and have the warmer and colder months blend together. In this way, jera represents not only summer, but also a good harvest. Every year, as the wheel of the year makes its rounds, crops must be yet again sown, cared for, and yielded. The old is reborn and the young turns to old. A symbol of dance, play, and marriage, this rune can also be associated with Freyja and Freyr, two deities strongly associated with the summertime. In divination, jera advises us to see everything as a constantly moving cycle. As soon as bad things come, they will leave, and good things replace them. Nothing is permanent, not even our most cherished. If blocked or neglected, a poor harvest is almost assured, and suffering is indicated. But when nurtured the right way, it can heal the deepest wounds and give rebirth to the greatest joys. An emphasis is also placed on creating new relationships and strengthening existing ones. Cherish your friends and family whenever possible.

NORWEGIAN:

"Harvest is a blessing to men;

I say that Frodhi was liberal."

ICELANDIC:

"Harvest is a blessing to men

and good summer

and fully ripe crops."

KEY WORDS: Harvest, cycle, repetition, plenty

ASSOCIATIONS: Freyja and Freyr

ᛇ eihwaz

ANGLO-SAXON:

"The yew outside is a rough-barked tree,

but strong and firm, guard of fires,

by deep roots upheld, joy to the home."

NORWEGIAN:

"Yew is the greenest of trees in winter;

when it burns, it sputters."

INTERPRETATION: Eihwaz is known as the "yew," and often represents Yggdrasil, the World Tree that Odin hung himself from over nine days and nine nights for the knowledge of the runes. Because of this, this stave often represents spiritual enlightenment, and connection between the physical and metaphysical realms. As the yew was consistently used for bow-making, this is a rune also associated with hunting and the wild (and furthermore masculinity, but I find that to be a bit sexist). A bridge between life and death, sky and earth, the heavens and the Underworld, eihwaz is a great rune for communing, divination, or necromancy. It is a connection between paradoxes, between opposites, and is also associated with graveyards. But no matter what, these connections have to be made thoughtfully, and with great trepidation. Carelessness has no place in this space, as it could just as easily turn from good to bad. -==32

ICELANDIC:

"Yew is bent bow

and brittle iron

and Farbauti of the arrow."

KEY WORDS: Enlightenment, transformation, connection, paradox

ASSOCIATIONS: Odin, Yggdrasil

ᛈ perthro

INTERPRETATION: Considering it was a letter commonly used, perthro has a fairly ambiguous meaning of "lot cup" or "game piece." Either way, the literal interpretation involves the drawing of lots, and chance. Divination wise, perthro is said to represent both the dice and the mode of throwing the dice, simultaneously mysterious and all-knowing. Considering this wealth of knowledge that perthro is said to contain, it is no wonder that it is heavily associated with Mimir, who is renowned for his wisdom. Furthermore, because of it's association with vessels (odd, I know), this stave also represents with the female womb and childbirth. For this reason, it is also associated with Frigg, a seeress and goddess of childbirth. Frigg, though she is said to know all, she also tells nothing. This doubles down on the mysterious, hidden powers of perthro, being both the runes themselves and their meanings. Additionally, being a rune of fate, it represents the Norns as a whole, and their powers.

ANGLO-SAXON:

"The chess piece means play and laughter

where in the middle, the warriors sit

in beerhall blithely together."

KEY WORDS: Fate, luck, mystery, secrets, feminine energy

ASSOCIATIONS: Mimir, Frigg, Norns

ᛉ algiz

INTERPRETATION: Aha! My favorite rune, how exciting. A rune meaning "elk," algiz is a powerful protective symbol. Considering the imagery of an elk, we can draw connections to god of the hunt, Freyr, who is often depicted with antlers. From Freyr we can then discern meanings of sexual awakening, the fighting spirit, and divine communication. With it's three pronged appearance we can create a number of different interpretations: the elements, a sacred forest grove, masculinity/femininity, the Yggdrasil, and even the Bifrost. I've also seen people consider it as a double-edged sword of a stave, a protective symbol but only as long as you have enough power and discipline to wield it. This is especially pertinent if we consider this as a rune of divine protection, as it would be doubtlessly foolhardy to demand protection from the gods while giving nothing in return. A weapon that can be wielded by you or against you.

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Elk-sedge is found most often in fens,

waxes in water, wounds grimly,

with blood burns whatever warrior

that goes to grasp it."

KEY WORDS: Protection, guardian, sanctuary, the hunt

ASSOCIATIONS: Freyr

ᛊ sowilo

ANGLO-SAXON:

"Sun to seamen is a hope on high

when they ferry over the fishes' bath

until the sea-horse brings them to land."

NORWEGIAN:

"Sun is the light of the lands;

I bow to heaven's doom."

INTERPRETATION: Alright! Last one for this aett, sowilo means "sun." Not only the literal sun, this stave represents the force of the heavens, the wealth that it provides and the harm that it can cause. It brings illumination and clarification, as it also shows us where our path lays--what our goals may be. If we consider a connection between the sun god Apollo (a bright, beautiful youth) and Baldr (also a bright, beautiful youth), then new aspects can be revealed to us such as victory, strength, life force, and energy. It encourages us to have hope in our future, and to look towards the horizon. Just like the wheel of the sun whirls around the cosmos, so too does sowilo encourage us to break our stagnation and act. What we desire is within our grasp, all we have to do it reach out and grab it! This rune is one of great positivity and encouragement, and is a pleasure to see in a reading.

ICELANDIC:

"Sun is shield of the sky

and shining ray

and destroyer of the ice."

KEY WORDS: Success, illumination, achievement, energy

ASSOCIATIONS: Baldr

[astroyongie]

ᛉ ϟϟ ᛒ Runes Introduction: Part One ᛒ ϟϟ ᛉ

Day 5 of October Calendar -> Runes are an ancient alphabet used during the Old Norse times. It is written in the norse mythology (Poetic Edda) that Freyja as the goddess of seidr magic, she used the runes for magical purposes (evocation, invocation, healing, divination, ect). Odin has sacrificed himself by hanging himself from Yggdrasil to gain knowledge of the runes.

-> Today the Elder Futhark are set of 24 symbols used for divination purposes but also for their incubations and evocations during rituals. The first runes were carved into wood, bone, or stone and then painted with various colours to make them more visible.

-> In this Introduction, I will share the meaning of the 24 symbols and how I personally use them for readings and for rituals. This first part, will be revising the 12 first runes.

How To Read Them?

-> Some examples would be these four here:

One single draw, when you have a question that needs an answer

three draw, to represent past, future, present

12 chart: Were you used astrological houses to draw one rune per house to have an insight of your current situation

to use the rune chart while casting the runes:

The Runes: ᚠ - Fehu

-> This runes symbolizes abundance and can take the form in health, wealth, hope and happiness. It is symbolic of fertility and creation, as well as income and material possessions.

Meaning: Cattle, mobile property, abundance, wealth, and material gain

Reserve Meaning: loss, a time of lack or scarcity

ᚢ - Uruz

-> This rune represents speed, strength and unlimited potential. Vibrant health, energy, courage, tenacity and action. It can also be related to sexuality, potency and masculine energy.

Meaning: life force, strength, and a period of good health

Reserve Meaning: misguided force, lust, brutality, defencelessness and vulnerability

ᚦ - Thurisaz

-> This rune represents a force of destruction or defence and indicates some kind of conflict. It can represent a powerful catalyst for change, similar to a purging flame that clears everything in its path to create space for the new. This is not always a pleasant experience, but ultimately it is beneficial.

Meaning: Change, thorn, defensive force, and disruption

Reserve Meaning: evil or malice, danger or betrayal

ᚨ - Ansuz

-> This rune represents some kind of message, signal or communication. Seek advice, wisdom, truth and guidance appearing around this issue.

Meaning: words, honesty, mouth, breath, and communication

Reserve Meaning: miscommunication, manipulation, or deception

ᚱ - Raidho

-> This rune represents travel, which can be physical or metaphorical. A change in location, journey or transformation. A change of perception or revelation.

Meaning: travel by land, momentum, rhythm, and a journey

Reserve Meaning: crisis, stasis or rigidity, injustice, delusion or even death (not necessarily physical death)

ᚲ - Kenaz

-> This rune represents inspiration, revelation, vision and knowledge. The vitality of fire, and the power of light. The ability to forge and create one’s own reality, or the availability of a source of strength, energy or power.

Meaning: Torch, controlled energy, passion, creation & transformation

Reserve Meaning: illusion, vulnerability or false hope

ᚷ - Gebo

-> This rune represents exchanges, contracts, relationships and partnerships. It indicates a balance of interaction, sacrifice and receiving generosity.

Meaning: Gift, gratitude, exchange, receiving through sacrifice/offering

Reserve Meaning: This rune cannot be reversed. In some cases it can be read as loneliness, dependency, obligation or painful sacrifice

ᚹ - Wunjo

-> This rune represents joy, pleasure, comfort, prosperity and harmony, which may come as the result of spiritual commitment or achievement. A recognition of success and worth

Meaning: Joy, fulfillment, well-being, a period of happiness

Reserve Meaning: alienation, intoxication, or over-enthusiasm

ᚺ - Hagalaz

-> This rune represents the destructive wrath of nature, or uncontrolled forces (possibly emotions, or the unconscious mind). This often represents a trial or crisis which, when lead to completion, ultimately promotes harmony.

Meaning: Hail, temporary difficulties, changing of plans, delay

Reserve Meaning: This rune cannot be reversed. In some cases it can be read as a natural disaster, the suffering of hardship, sickness, catastrophe or crisis

ᚾ - Nauthiz

-> This rune represents delays, restrictions and resistance, leading to strength, innovation and self-reliance. This change must be initiated by the querent or persons involved. Endurance, survival, determination, patience and will.

Meaning:  Need, coming through challenge, stepping forth into manifestation

Reserve Meaning: distress, deprivation, laxity, poverty or lack

ᛁ - Isa

-> This rune represents a challenge or frustration. This is a time to turn inward and wait for clarity or progression.

Meaning: Ice, inertia, forced period of pause before renewal

Reserve Meaning: This rune cannot be reversed. In some cases it can be read as egocentrism, blindness, schemes, deceit and treachery

ᛃ - Jera

-> This rune represents the end result, the product of previous efforts. Reaping what you have sown. A time of peace, hope, expectation and prosperity.

Meaning: Harvest, cycle, rewards for past efforts, reap what you have sown

Reserve Meaning: This rune cannot be reversed. In some cases it can be read as a setback, major change, repetition, poor timing or conflict.

[the-mortuary-witch]

WHERE TO DRAW SIGILS AND RUNES

• Spell candles.

• Inside of your phone case.

• Your body (doesn’t need to be tattooed on, you can use a pen or marker).

• Bay leaves in spell work.

• Shoes.

• Lids of spell jars.

• Your Grimore.

• Beauty products.

• Hairbrush.

• Spell oils.

• Lighters.

[nous-teleios]

Remember to honour your local house and nature spirits! It might seem trivial, but forming a connection with the forces that you spend most of your time with will skyrocket the quality of your space and mood.

[maeviuslynn]

Queering the Runes: Reclaiming Ancestral Wisdom in Rune Magic and Mythology by Siri Vincent Plouff is a new edition to my library. I think this is a great, different perspective on the runes. I can't wait to put this to use. I pick runes twice a year amongst other oracles on the equinoxes. Thank you to Weiser Books for sending it my way.

"Queering the Runes is a contemporary, inclusive, and forward-thinking approach to the runes that focuses on finding queer experience, life, and joy in the Elder Futhark. Siri comes to the runes as a queer, nonbinary reader, and presents a path for reclaiming the ancestral wisdom and mystery of the runes in a way that can provide insight and understanding of their sacred nature for masculine, feminine, and nongendered aspects of self. Written as a love letter to the runes, the gods, and the people who follow the Nordic path, Queering the Runes presents an alternative approach to the runes—one that creates a gentle container for those who want to follow this heathen path."

[bowldrips]

So...would any of y'all be interested in learning about runes and making bindrunes? 👉👈