The Ancient Divination Alphabet The History, Uses, and Meaning of Runes
By Kat Ohren, Crystal Inner Circle
What are Runes?
Runes are ancient symbols that have been used for many years for magical and divination purposes. The word rune appropriately means ‘secret’ or ‘something hidden’. They can offer you the meanings and answers you are seeking from within.
Many argue that runes can be used to predict future events. However, another large part of the community believes runes and other various forms of divination are used to find answers within yourself. The idea is that you already have the answers that you seek, you just may need a little intervention and interpretation from the Divine and the Universe to bring them to the surface.
The three best-known runic alphabets are the Elder Futhark (around 150–800 AD), the Anglo-Saxon Futhorc (400–1100 AD), and the Younger Futhark (800–1100 AD). The most widely used and agreed upon seems to be the Elder Futhark set. The Elder Futhark consists of 24 runes that often are arranged in three groups of eight; each group is referred to as an Ætt. The earliest known sequential listing of the full set of 24 runes dates to approximately CE 400 and is found on the Kylver Stone in Gotland, Sweden. (Page, 2005)
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The Legend of Runes
Legend has it that runes were a sacred gift to mortals and were first given to the Norse God Odin after he wounded himself with a spear and then hung himself from Yggdrasill, the World Tree, for nine days. Odin is a widely revered god. In Norse mythology, from which stems most of our information about the god, Odin is associated with healing, death, royalty, the gallows, knowledge, battle, sorcery, poetry, frenzy, and the runic alphabet, and is the husband of the goddess Frigg. Odin’s ordeal is described in full in the epic poem – Hávamál – supposedly Odin’s own words.
Rúnatal or Óðins Rune Song, Rúnatáls-þáttr-Óðins (stanzas 138-146) is a section of the Hávamál where Odin reveals the origins of the runes. In stanzas 138 and 139, Odin describes his sacrifice of himself to himself:
I know that I hung on a windy tree nine long nights, wounded with a spear, dedicated to Odin, myself to myself, on that tree of which no man knows from where its roots run. No bread did they give me nor a drink from a horn, downwards I peered; I took up the runes, screaming I took them, then I fell back from there. (Larrington, 1999)
The stanza 157 of Hávamál attribute to runes the power to bring that which is dead back to life. In this stanza, Odin recounts a spell:
I know a twelfth one if I see, up in a tree, a dangling corpse in a noose, I can so carve and colour the runes, that the man walks And talks with me. (Larrington, 1999)
The Norse God, Odin.
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The History of Runes
The first systems of writing developed and used by the Germanic peoples were runic alphabets. The runes functioned as letters, but they were much more than just letters in the sense in which we today understand the term. Each rune was an ideographic or pictographic symbol of some cosmological principle or power, and to write a rune was to invoke and direct the force for which it stood.
The runic alphabets are called “futharks” after the first six runes (Fehu, Uruz, Thurisaz, Ansuz, Raidho, Kaunan), in much the same way that the word “alphabet” comes from the names of the first two Hebrew letters (Aleph, Beth). There are three principal futharks: the 24-character Elder Futhark, the first fully-formed runic alphabet, whose development had begun by the first century CE and had been completed before the year 400; the 16-character Younger Futhark, which began to diverge from the Elder Futhark around the beginning of the Viking Age (c. 750 CE) and eventually replaced that older alphabet in Scandinavia; and the 33-character Anglo-Saxon Futhorc, which gradually altered and added to the Elder Futhark in England.
While runologists argue over many of the details of the historical origins of runic writing, there is widespread agreement on a general outline. The runes are presumed to have been derived from one of the many Old Italic alphabets in use among the Mediterranean peoples of the first century CE, who lived to the south of the Germanic tribes. Earlier Germanic sacred symbols, such as those preserved in northern European petroglyphs, were also likely influential in the development of the script.
Kylver stone from Gotland, Sweden The earliest possibly runic inscription is found on the Meldorf brooch, which was manufactured in the north of modern-day Germany around 50 CE. The inscription is highly ambiguous, however, and scholars are divided over whether its letters are runic or Roman. The earliest unambiguous runic inscriptions are found on the Vimose comb from Vimose, Denmark and the Øvre Stabu spearhead from southern Norway, both of which date to approximately 160 CE. The earliest known carving of the entire futhark, in order, is that on the Kylver stone from Gotland, Sweden, which dates to roughly 400 CE. (McCoy, n.d.)
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The Meaning of Runes
Name: Fehu, “Money, Cattle, Wealth” Pronunciation: Fay-who Meaning: Reward, Wealth, Nourishment Divinations: Realized ambition. Good health. Wealth. Love fulfilled. Good fortune. But remember - be charitable and show compassion.
Fehu means cattle, a measure of wealth to the ancients. Today Fehu means movable wealth, such as money and possessions. It also implies the energy and hard work that leads to wealth. Fehu can mean emotional and spiritual riches, as well as money.
Fehu is Frey’s rune, and he is the god of fertility, itself a form of wealth. It is a rune of unselfish abundance. Let it shine forth to lighten your path and the paths of others. You will never run out of your spiritual richness, but don’t waste it on those who will abuse it. Discernment is important.
If Cast in Reverse
Failed ambition. Health problems. Poverty. Love unrequited. Bad luck.
If Cast Upside Down
Hidden reward. Undiscovered wealth. Nourishment withheld.
Name: Uruz, “Aurochs - the giant wild ox of Europe” Pronunciation: Oor-ooze Meaning: Physical or mental strength, health. For a man - male virility, manhood. For a woman - fertility, femininity, womanhood. Divinations: Terminations, new beginnings. An opportunity disguised as a threat. Mental agility. Physical development, mental and bodily health. Power.
Uruz means aurochs, the European wild ox that became extinct in 1627. Uruz encompasses physical strength, endurance, courage, and the raw, wild power of freedom. It includes emotional and spiritual strength, male sexual potency, and good health. It can also imply a challenge leading to a major life change.
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You have the strength within you to fulfil all your dreams, but with strength comes responsibility. Strength is not a force to wield over others, but a force to stop others exerting power over you. Use your strength to keep focused on your path and to stop yourself being outmaneuvered. There will always be negative people, but don’t let them upset you. Master your own ego and you will succeed.
If Cast in Reverse
Failure to think clearly. Ill-health or lack of mental fortitude. Beware signs of weakness, or threats to your person or position.
If Cast Upside Down
Hidden strengths must be realized. Shun apparent opportunities, the signs are deceptive.
Name: Thurisaz, “Giant, monster, devil” Pronunciation: Thoor-ee-sawz Meaning: Magical power, the forces of chaos or of evil. Temptation. A Warning. Divinations: Threats from persons of power or position. Resist temptations which offer reward through dishonesty or trickery. Heed the omen of dishonor or physical harm.
The energy of Thurisaz can be used for good or for chaos. It represents the forces of the human psyche, including anger and lust. The thorn is a symbolic weapon. It can pierce, stab or tear. But it can also be protective, like a thorny hedge. Thurisaz may also signify a stroke of luck, but is more often a warning that your luck is running out.
You have the power within you to face anything. Fear nothing, for you have the authority to claim your destiny. Let no one deter you from your search for the truth. Spiritual authority brings power and it is up to you to use that power in an unselfish and loving way. Power can corrupt if you do not have a true and honest heart.
If Cast in Reverse
Evil may be overcome. An omen of good. An exhortation to proceed. The danger is slight.
If Cast Upside Down
The Evil will be hidden or may appear disguised as good.
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Name: Ansuz, “A god. Odin.” Pronunciation: Awn-sooze Meaning: Knowledge. Wisdom. Communication. The mouth. A message. Divinations: It also encompasses the ideas of wisdom, knowledge, reason, and therefore of instruction and good advice. It might also refer to a test, examination, or perhaps an interview. It can mean a letter, book, paper, message or other information.
Ansuz is primarily Odin's rune and represents communication, creativity, controlled and divine power. Spiritually, it is the rune of prophecy and revelation. The answers to questions are available but not yet recognized. Look for signs and confirmations which are all around. Everything has significance and appreciation of this will lead to understanding. Ensure you don't ignore the message because you don't like the content. All experience is a lesson that teaches by acknowledging the truth knowledge and wisdom will increase.
If Cast in Reverse
Take care not to misinterpret information. Something you read is more important than it appears. Beware pranks.
If Cast Upside Down
Failed communication. Lack of clarity or awareness. Hidden messages. Secrets. Information disguised. What appears to be a trick is genuine.
Name: Raidho, “Riding, a vehicle.” Pronunciation: Rye-doh Meaning: A journey, arrival, departure. Union or re-union. Events concerning travel or vehicles. Divinations: Travel is indicated. New friends or old friends return. Jobs connected with transport or overseas locations.
Raido can mean wheel, ride, or travel, but it also has a deeper meaning. Riding a horse includes both movement and direction. A journey can be long and arduous, requiring planning, foresight, determination, and fortitude. Raido can therefore refer to the journey of life (the wheel of life), or to a spiritual quest. Raido might also mean transport or communication, such as delivering or receiving a message.
Recognize that everything comes in cycles and that by following them you will progress quickly and efficiently. Align your lifestyle to the seasons and honor the turning of the year. Embrace hard times
6 | P a g e Crystal Inner Circle knowing that the harder it is now, the easier it will get in the future. Everything has its opposite, and challenges bring equal and opposite rewards.
If Cast in Reverse
Stagnation, lack of movement or change. Isolation. Mechanical breakdown or failure to arrive. A missed deadline.
If Cast Upside Down
Meetings take an unexpected course. A secret mission. Home-based jobs. An enemy disguised as a friend.
Name: Kaunan, “A firebrand or torch.” Pronunciation: Cow-noh Meaning: Heat, light, enlightenment. Divinations: Related to fire, light, warmth, enlightenment and knowledge. It sheds light on the path, dispels the dark shadows of ignorance, and helps us to see with true discernment.
Kaunan suggests that understanding must lead to action, and light in the darkness implies spiritual illumination. It also represents the natural warmth and companionship of the home fire and thus, good health. It could also be taken as a warning to beware sources of heat or light, or of physical danger.
You are coming into a new understanding of life and its meaning. New insights await, but don’t be complacent. Use this new understanding or it will be worthless. Look for ways to use your insights for the good of yourself and others. Enlightenment is replenishable. The more you use, the more knowledge you gain. Enlightenment itself is not the goal, it is just the starting point of a great adventure that will show you great wisdom and understanding if you proceed with truth and honesty.
If Cast in Reverse
Cold, darkness, lack of knowledge or insight. For the wound-ulcer interpretation: healing, improvement in health.
If Cast Upside Down
Beware hidden danger. What appears to be the true path may be a false trail. Something dark or cold may conceal great energy. For the wound-ulcer interpretation: treat a minor medical condition before it worsens.
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Name: Gebo, “Gift.” Pronunciation: Ghay-bow Meaning: Love, partnership. Forgiveness, gift, talent, skill, or ability. Divinations: Ask forgiveness and it will be given. A gift, present or windfall is foretold. Discovery or development of a skill or talent. Artistic or musical ability. Show compassion. Be not afraid to declare love. Good fortune in partnerships.
Gebo - rune number 7 - is the origin of our "lucky seven" superstition. It represents a gift, whether it is a present, an attribute, a certain skill or ability. To the ancients, a gift always called for another in return. So accepting a gift places you under an obligation to the giver - the gods, destiny, or another person. Gebo can also mean a partnership or union, in business or in love. Or it can mean forgiveness - perhaps the greatest gift of all - to give or to receive. Gebo is commonly used as the sign of a kiss -the symbol of affection.
A gift presents you with the choice of acceptance or rejection. If you accept you must be prepared to give in return. Everything has its price, but with spiritual gifts the cost is always worth it in the end.
You must find the balance between giving and receiving and learn to give responsibly. This means deciding when to give and who to give to as it is not appropriate to give to everyone indiscriminately.
If Cast in Reverse
Gebo has no reverse.
If Cast Upside Down
Personal animosity, particularly from partners. Hidden talents need uncovering. Think again about romance.
Name: Wunjo, “Joy.” Pronunciation: Vun-yoh Meaning: Happiness, light, emotional satisfaction. Divinations: Understanding, realization of ambition, success in romance and good health. Partnerships flourish. New beginnings are blessed with joyfulness. Your eyes are opened to the truth.
Wunjo is linked to a reward, a feeling of goodness and satisfaction, peaceful winning, and ultimate achievement. It contains the idea of everything going well because you are in total harmony with life. Wunjo also implies close co-operation and companionship with other people, because joy is not usually
8 | P a g e Crystal Inner Circle a solitary emotion. When so much of life can be negative, it is important to allow Wunjo’s joy to reach into every part of your life.
Happiness is yours if you are willing to work for it. You must strive for balance and harmony in your life. Always look for solutions rather than dwell on problems. For happiness to last, it must be founded on truth and honesty. Hide from the truth and you hide from true happiness. Seek only what is good and right, and good fortune cannot fail to follow.
If Cast in Reverse
Misunderstanding. Ambition stalled. Romantic or partnership difficulties. Not a good time for new ventures.
If Cast Upside Down
The truth is hidden from you. Success is elusive - work hard. Imagined love is false. Partnerships under strain through secretive behavior.
Name: Hagalaz, “Hail.” Pronunciation: Har-ghawl-arz Meaning: Weather, damaging natural forces. Disruption. Interference. Divinations: The weather is a significant factor. Insure against damage from storm, flood or lightning. Prepare for disruptive influences. A third party interferes with relationships.
Hagalaz represents hail and it’s portent may be likened to an unexpected hailstorm, an elemental disruption of your life. When Hagalaz is linked with other runes, it can suggest limitation, interruption, or delay, and imply a complete change in direction. Hagalaz can also mean suffering, hardship, illness, or injury.
Challenges are occurring in your life. These are not to be feared, but faced. A hailstorm is daunting, but if you catch a hailstone you will see that it is only water, nothing to be feared. So it is with challenges. Fire up your determination, and face the challenges head-on knowing they are just stepping stones on the way to your goal. The greater the challenge, the more you gain by overcoming it.
If Cast in Reverse
Hagalaz has no reverse
If Cast Upside Down
Hidden dangers from the natural world. Apparently easy tasks hide unexpected dangers. A lover or partner is hiding something.
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Name: Naudhiz, “Need.” Pronunciation: Now-dthiz Meaning: Need, want, craving. Demand, deprivation, compulsion, desire. Divinations: Control your emotions. Do not give in to cravings. Your health is at risk especially from dietary aberrations. Ensure your love is not misplaced. Beware extraordinary demands on your time or generosity.
Naudiz represents need, hardship, or adversity. Luckily, it includes the perseverance to endure, and reserves of inner strength. It counsels patience. However unpleasant the hardship it is a learning experience that will ultimately benefit you. Naudiz can also warn against taking a risky path. In conjunction with other runes, Naudiz tends to have a delaying influence.
You are getting exactly what you need right now to make the best progress on your spiritual path. It may appear to be the very opposite of what you want, but this state is not permanent, it is merely a series of lessons that must be learnt so that you can make the transition from negative to positive.
Accept your past, keep your mind fixed on your goal, and learn from your present situation. The past is just a memory, the future just a dream, the present is where the action is, the only place you have influence.
If Cast in Reverse
Naudiz reversed is not obvious - be careful. A sufficiency, something unwanted, or superfluous. Have more fun with your food. Give freely of your emotions.
If Cast Upside Down
Your desires have hidden dangers. Demands may be misleading. Someone secretly admires you.
Name: Isaz, “Ice.” Pronunciation: Ee-saw Meaning: Ice, cold, freezing. Lack of change. Stagnation. Lack of emotion. Storing binding. Bridge across danger. Divinations: Isa means ice. Although ice can be beautiful, it is also dangerous. It can be slippery or treacherously thin, or block your progress.
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Isa means that you may have to delay your plans until a more favorable season. But it can take the heat out of a confrontation, or protect against magical attack. Emotionally, Isa implies a cooling of affection, or frigidity. It has a freezing, delaying, or preserving effect on other runes around it.
A period of non-action is indicated. Do not let yourself get into a rut. Do not take anyone for granted. Be not afraid to show your feelings. Crossing water will be beneficial. Things appear to be at a standstill and this is not a time to try to force movement. Patience and wisdom are called for. This is not the time to abandon goals, but an opportunity to reaffirm them. This is a time for contemplation and preparation, not despondency or regrets. Things will change as surely as winter changes to spring and then summer.
If Cast in Reverse
Isa has no reverse.
If Cast Upside Down
Coolness hides emotion. An impending change will not be of benefit. Smiles mask evil intentions.
Name: Jera, “Year. Harvest.” Pronunciation: Year-ah Meaning: Harvest. The agricultural year. Fertility, fruition. Divinations: Success in endeavors, fruition of plans. Good spirits. Just rewards for past efforts. Inventiveness, talent or skill. Great reward to those who work with their hands or on the land.
Jera as Rune No. 12 represents the 12 months of the year. It implies fruitfulness, profit or achievement of a goal. It also means the cycle of seasons implying movement, change, and natural development. .It is usually very positive, but as a symbol of cause-and-effect it may portend the end-result of past actions. Jera may therefore represent justice, which can be positive or negative, a reward or a punishment.
This is a time of reaping rewards from seeds sown in the past. It is a time of plenty, of joy and celebration. But it is also a time to work with no time for complacency. The harvest is followed by winter so you should make sure you have stored enough wisdom to face your next challenge. This is another turning point in life, not a goal. There are greater harvests ahead, but like the farmer, you must prepare the land, sow the seed, tend the seedlings and feed the fruit.
If Cast in Reverse
Jera has no reverse.
If Cast Upside Down
Success or reward must be rooted out. You have latent talents or abilities which must be discovered.
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Name: Eihwaz, “Yew Tree.” Pronunciation: Eye-warz Meaning: Yew tree, archer's bow, weapon. Magic, deflection, prevention. Divinations: Ihwaz is the symbol of rune magic. Aversive, deflective, or defensive power is yours. Patience, perseverance, foresight, and protection against unexpected attack. Wisdom in adversity.
The Yew tree has mistakenly been linked with death because of the ancient practice of planting yew hedges around graveyards. Because Eihwaz is rune number 13, that is the origin of the "unlucky thirteen" superstition of Anglo-Saxon culture.
But the real reason the Yew was planted was to keep out unwanted scavenging animals - the evergreen Yew is both poisonous and impenetrable year-round. These Yews - now grown to huge gnarled old trees - are still to be found in many early British churchyards.
Eihwaz should not be feared, because it also means continuity and endurance. The best longbows were always made from yew trees. As well as being strong, long-lasting, and flexible, they contained protective magic. Thus, Eihwaz also represents safety from attack and a weapon of defense.
This is a time of transformation, a time to let go of the old and embrace the new, new beginnings, new life and new dreams. The only constant is change, and quick progress requires an acceptance of change, not resistance to it. Don’t be afraid. Change is scary, but if you remain true to yourself and stick to your path, you will soon achieve your goal.
If Cast in Reverse
Eihwaz has no reverse.
If Cast Upside Down
Your defensive abilities are dormant and must be realized. What appears as a danger will be easily averted through patience and concentrated effort.
Name: Perth Pronunciation: Pair-dth Meaning: Mystery, chance, a gamble, pot luck. In modern usage - science and technology. Divinations: A gamble, a mystery, an unknown outcome. Mathematical odds. Make the best of your lot. Employ common sense and moderation to succeed.
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Spiritually, Perth suggests the disclosure of a secret. It could also refer to pregnancy and birth. Perth is linked with the sensible and moderate enjoyment of sexuality. Because of the mystery surrounding it, common sense and prudence are called for in the interpretation of Perth.
You always have a choice in everything. No-one can upset you, you can only choose to be upset. No-one can exert power over you unless you choose to subject yourself to it. Claim your right to choice. Don’t allow others to compromise your truth or prevent you from doing what you need to do. The only danger here is not to make a choice, to leave things to fate and have no say in your own future.
If Cast in Reverse
Take no chances - failure is likely. What appears clear-cut hides a deeper meaning. You are tempted to be rash - but do not succumb.
If Cast Upside Down
A proposition has hidden depth. Take nothing for granted. Trust only your loved ones.
Name: Algiz, “Pine woods.” Pronunciation: Awl-gh-eeze Meaning: Protection. Safe refuge. Opportunity for growth. Rapid development. Divinations: Algiz illustrates both the antlers of the elk, and the shape of the sedge-grass herb. To some it suggests the spread fingers of a hand raised in a protective gesture. It is a powerful rune of protection and, spiritually, it symbolizes reaching up to the divine.
Algiz also represents success through endeavor in a search, quest, or other enterprise. Like the fast-growing pine tree, schemes will develop quickly. Like sharp sedge, you are protected from attack. Alertness and awareness will be your guide. Wisdom, vision and clarity of mind will aid your cause.
Although the path ahead is fraught with danger, you need have no fear, for you have the power of protection within you. You will be safe as long as you are not reckless.
Algiz indicates a favorable time for risky ventures, although all things must be built on firm foundations. Do not become complacent.
If Cast in Reverse
Slow growth or decline. You may be unprotected, open to attack. Beware being pig-headed or short- sighted.
If Cast Upside Down
Growth or development opportunities are disguised. Insurance may not be as effective as you believe.
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Name: Sowilo, “Sun.” Pronunciation: Soh-veal-oh Meaning: Wholeness, light, energy. Victory. Discovery, disclosure. Divinations: The spirit of life, the energy of the sun. Completeness. Spiritual awareness. Boundless energy, strength of character. The capacity to learn, the gift of understanding. Good health and fitness.
Although Sowilo is well known as a victory symbol, it can also be used as a force of attack. It is a positive force, because it is the natural power of the sun. Spiritually, Sowilo symbolizes clear vision, and the victories of light over darkness, good over evil. It admonishes one to use the powers of good to vanquish evil.
You have the power to bring things to fruition. Good fortune awaits you and there is a positive feel to everything. This is not a time to rest and relax, but to examine the darker aspects of your nature. The power of the sun will enable you to face them without fear and to overcome them. Seek solutions to problems, they are all within your grasp.
If Cast in Reverse
Sowilo has no reverse.
If Cast Upside Down
Eclipse of light or energy. Hidden information. Misunderstanding. Health worries are unfounded.
Name: Tiwaz, “the god Tiw.” Pronunciation: Tee-wahz Meaning: Tiwaz, the god of battles and legislation. Protector of warriors and mariners. Courage, compassion. Divinations: Tactical genius, courage, bravery, dedication, daring. Protection on sea voyages. Negotiating and legislative ability.
Tiwaz is named for the Norse god Tiw, after whom Tuesday is named. Tiw is the Norse equivalent of Zeus or Jupiter. He was the god of war and justice, fair law and regulation, and success through sacrifice. He was courageous, fearless, the master tactician and a consummate diplomat. He allowed a wolf to bite off his right hand in order to bind the wolf's chaotic force and thus protects warriors (both physical & spiritual), the disabled and the left-handed. Tiwaz also represents determination and male sexuality. It symbolizes new challenges and initiations into new understandings.
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There is a need for courage now, as your victory is already assured if your heart remains true. Make use of all the skill and wisdom you have acquired so far. Protect your faith, as it will be challenged. But truth, honesty and justice will always win through.
If Cast in Reverse
Naiveté, shyness. You must overcome a tendency to cowardice. Loss of concentration. Beware of left- handed people.
If Cast Upside Down
Uncover your hidden talents of leadership. One who appears a fool is in fact courageous.
Name: Berkanan, “Birch twig.” Pronunciation: Bear-khan-awn Meaning: Growth. Fertility. Re-birth. New life. A new broom. Physical beauty or stature. Divinations: Physical or mental growth. Increased business, investment or profit. Bumper crops. Lost causes may be redeemed. New beginnings will flourish.
Berkanan refers to renewal, regeneration, purification, healing, and recovery. It is the rune of the family and the home, and represents the enjoyment of sexual relations, fertility, and birth. Birth in this context can be literal or symbolic, such as the successful start of any new idea or enterprise.
An exciting time for new beginnings, fresh adventures. Activity and energy. Sow seeds, but the harvest is yet to come so don’t expect immediate reward for your effort. Put the past in its place, learn from experience. A good time for spiritual renewal - clear away misconceptions and accept new ideas.
If Cast in Reverse
Lack of growth or reduction in stature. Decline or loss in business, profits, or crops. A bad time for new ventures.
If Cast Upside Down
Increased size or profit is being hidden, or dishonestly withheld. You may suffer a theft. An investment that looks risky may well be safe.
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Name: Ehwaz, “Horse.” Pronunciation: Ay-wahz Meaning: Horse, beast of burden, steed or mount. Momentum, Speed. Divinations: Speed of thought or deed. Quick-wittedness. Forward progress, purposeful motion. Willingness. Sure-footed, confident, loyal.
Ehwaz represents the horse. The speed, strength, and beauty of a horse makes it much more than a means of transport. It is a sacred animal, a vehicle for material and spiritual advancement. Ehwaz implies controlled change, progress, and sometimes a journey. It also represents partnership, trust, loyalty, and faithfulness, such as that between horse and rider, brother and sister, two halves of the whole.
You have the support you need to make swift progress towards your goal. But you must be loyal and supportive to those around you, as they are to you. The horse is proud, but that does not impede its purpose. So while you can be proud of your achievements, you must remain humble to ensure your journey reaches a successful conclusion.
If Cast in Reverse
Lethargy, retrograde motion, regression. Muddled thinking. Reluctance. Diffidence. Becoming lost or bemused.
If Cast Upside Down
That which appears stagnant will suddenly move. Someone willing or confident will be up to no good.
Name: Mannaz, “Mankind.” Pronunciation: Mah-nawz Meaning: Mankind, humanity. The self, inner being, soul. Manhood, or womanhood. Divinations: Yourself, your mind and ego, your body. People in general, the world. Friends or family or associates. Clarity of thought. Tolerance, broad-mindedness. Devotion, kindness, consideration and charity. Willingness to change.
Mannaz represents the human race, humanity, the shared human nature within each individual. We are all members of the human family, yet alone in life and in the final journey into death. Mannaz symbolizes creativity, intelligence, forward planning, and speech and implies co-operation between individuals for the common good.
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Destiny awaits you, so claim it. But to be a spiritual being, you must balance body, mind and spirit. Embrace everything, good and bad alike, with total acceptance, knowing that each new experience will teach more of life. By learning each lesson you will go onwards and upwards.
If Cast in Reverse
Refers the same portents to a person of the opposite sex to yourself, e.g. a husband, wife, partner, mother, father etc.
If Cast Upside Down
The person referred to is being covert or dishonest.
Name: Laguz, “Water.” Pronunciation: Lah-gooze Meaning: Water, sea, ocean, river or lake. Cleansing, tide. Divinations: Associations with water in all its forms. Cleansing action. Tidal movement - ebb and flow. Fortuitous omen for overseas travel, fishing or other aquatic activities.
Laguz means water, a vital part of life, but a constant danger, just as our journey through life encounters risks. Laguz contains elements of fluidity, changeability, and a lack of control. It represents the sensual madness of sexuality, the unconscious, intuitive, and psychic abilities. Its deceptive elements come from its variety, rather than from any menace. Traditionally, Laguz is the ultimate female rune.
Only by attunement to creation will your life truly flow as it is meant to. Emotional balance comes from harmony with creation around you. For example, natural foods lead to natural flow, whereas unnatural foods lead to disharmony and stagnation.
The sea is always fluid and moving, so it should be with your life. Embrace change itself, for it is the only true constant in life.
If Cast in Reverse
Storm, flood, waves, corrosion or other destructive action of water. Danger of sinking or drowning.
If Cast Upside Down
Beware mariners or others associated with water who may be trying to trick you.
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Name: Ingwaz, “the god Ing.” Pronunciation: Ing-wahz Meaning: Harmony. Approval. Unity, agreement. Love. Peace. Divinations: Symbolizes peace, unity, harmony, agreement, togetherness and undying love between romantic partners.
Ingwaz is named for the Norse hero-god Ing, who came from across the sea to unite his people of Viking Jutland, and returned whence he came leaving peace and harmony.
It portends completion, the certainty of a conclusion. This could include the male orgasmic force, or birth as the conclusion to pregnancy. Ingwaz is associated with healthy, wholesome sexuality, a strong, affectionate family, and a safe, secure hearth and home. It also symbolizes protection, and contains the idea of a beacon, a light shining in the darkness, and therefore, spiritual inspiration.
On your spiritual path you may feel isolated, but within you burns the fire of inspiration urging you onward and upward. Feed the fire by perseverance. Seek answers but don't get encumbered with irrelevant questions. Live one day at a time, knowing that the past is just a memory, the future just a dream, and the here and now is what matters.
If Cast in Reverse
Ingwaz has no reverse.
If Cast Upside Down
Love, harmony or peace may be hard to achieve, but persevere. A lover may be shy - help them to declare.
Name: Othalan, “Inheritance.” Pronunciation: Oh-thee-law Meaning: Home or homeland. Hearth, family, inheritance, estate, possessions. Divinations: Acquisition. Benefit through inheritance or birthright. Fair play. Great mental capacity. Adventurous nature. Cultural maturity. Personal skill, adaptability. Love of family, home and homeland, patriotism. The honest and just are destined for great wealth.
Othalan means the ancestral country or home, property, and fixed wealth or inheritance. This can include your inherited characteristics from past generations that you will also pass on to your children – or it can represent a united family's strength. Othalan can be seen as everything that you have accumulated during your lifetime, and can also represent your spiritual home. 18 | P a g e Crystal Inner Circle
At this time of re-focusing, fix your goal firmly in your mind and let your thoughts attract the energy you need to reach it. You must concentrate to read all the signs, but don't try to force the issues. Your objective is like a wild bird in the palm of your hand. If you grip too tightly, you risk killing it.
If Cast in Reverse
A valueless inheritance. Lack of forethought, immaturity or dullness. Failure to take a calculated risk would be costly.
If Cast Upside Down
An apparently worthless inheritance has hidden treasures. The honest or just way may be hidden from you.
Name: Dagaz, “Day.” Pronunciation: Daw-ghawz Meaning: Day. Daylight. Dawn. Breakthrough. Radical change. Divinations: A breakthrough. A new dawn or a major change of direction. Achievement and prosperity, a successful conclusion to a passage. Darkness is behind you because a new day has begun.
Dagaz means day, and in the Nordic lands of long nights and winters, the day is strongly associated with light and life. Dagaz is the essence of natural daylight, the new light of dawn, and the strength of the sun. Spiritually, it is the divine light, the high point of the natural cycle of darkness-light-darkness. It signifies brightness, growth, progress, development, and sometimes fundamental change.
The divine light is guiding you towards your goal. Remain true, and good fortune will be with you. You are well protected by the power of the light. It will give you clear vision to avoid dangers, but don't be blinded by your ego. Remain humble and thankful for all the good things that come to you.
If Cast in Reverse
Dagaz has no reverse.
If Cast Upside Down
A false dawn. The time is not right for change. The daylight is yet to come. Persevere and trust in your strength and ability. (Runemaker, n.d.)
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Reading Runes
Much like the Tarot, Runes are placed in a spread or pattern of several tiles, and then read. Each symbol has a particular meaning and is interpreted as part of the spread. Inverted symbols also have reverse meanings much like Tarot cards.
Some popular spreads include the Single Rune, The Norns (past, present, future), the Diamond, the Cross, the Circle and the Well of Wyrd. Each spread focuses on a different type of reading or insight.
The Single Rune reading helps to answer a simple question. The Norns refer to three sisters in Norse mythology that decided mankind’s fate. This reading focuses on past, present and future. The Diamond reading refers to the shape of the spread and is good for gaining insight into immediate outcomes.
The Cross spread is also named for its shape and is more of a life path reading. The Circle reading tells about romantic energies between two people. Finally, the Well of Wyrd comes from Norse mythology. The Tree of Life receives its water from this well and it was said that Odin discovered the Runes here. This reading is quite complex giving insight into many questions and possible fates. (Hamilton, 2013)
As we have discussed, there are various different types of rune castings you can do. They are often seen to be similar in idea to tarot layouts. On your very first attempt though, you may want to start by picking out one rune and analyzing its significance. This is also quite a useful method to use if you’re feeling unsure or uncertain – picking out one single rune (referred to as “Odin’s Rune”) can give you something to focus on.
Once you are ready to move on, here are some popular spreads and instructions on how to set them up.
The Three Rune Layout
The three rune layout is a simple cast that’s ideal for beginners. With this cast, you should randomly select three runes from your rune bag and place them on the table in front of you.
Rune one should be on the right, rune two in the middle and rune three on the left hand side (so they should be in the order 3, 2, 1).
Rune 1 represents the overview, or your situation or query.
Rune 2, in the middle, represents a challenge.
Rune 3 represents a possible course of action that could be taken.
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The Five Rune Layout
With the five rune cast, or five rune layout, the aim is to select five runes, one at a time, and lay them down on the cloth in specific places.
The first rune should go in the middle, with the subsequent runes forming a cross shape around it. Rune two should go on the left of the center (west), rune three on the top (north), rune four at the bottom (south) and rune five to the right (east). You can both lay them face down and turn them over as you read them, or put them face up straightway.
The idea of this layout is that three runes in a horizontal position (rune 2, 1 and 5) represent your past, present and future. The rune below the central rune (4) shows what elements of the problem or issue need to be accepted, whilst the rune to the right of the center (3) shows what help you could receive in relation to your problem or issue.
The Nine Rune Cast
In Norse mythology, nine is a magical number, so it’s appropriate to have a nine rune cast. This cast is best used if you’re trying to determine where you are in your spiritual path and what the next stages or opportunities could be and it’s a cast where you can really put your intuition to good use.
When you’re trying this casting method, you need to think about your spiritual yearnings, randomly pick nine runes out of your rune bag and hold them for a moment or two. Then scatter them onto your rune cloth.
It’s generally regarded that the runes nearer the center relate most to the current situation, whereas those lying on the edges are less important. If runes are close together or touching each other, then they may be complementing influences, whereas runes that are on opposite sides of the cloth represent opposing influences.
Your attention should first go to the runes that have landed face up – it may help to note these down, so you can refer to them and study them in detail later. Then turn around the ones that landed upside down and read them, keeping them in their same position. These latter runes are believed to represent outside or future influences and could highlight potential new possibilities.
When you’re interpreting the runes and what they might mean, make good use of your intuition. This is one ruin casting where there aren’t hard and fast rules and it’s very much down to your own interpretation. (Newcombe, n.d.)
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References Hamilton, L. (2013, December 24). What are Runes? Retrieved from Psychics Universe: http://www.psychicsuniverse.com/articles/spirituality/psychic-abilities/what-are-runes-their- history
Larrington, C. (1999). The Poetic Edda. In Oxford World's Classics (p. 34).
McCoy, D. (n.d.). Runes. Retrieved from Norse Mythology for Smart People: http://norse- mythology.org/runes/
Newcombe, R. (n.d.). An Introduction to using the Runes. Retrieved from Holistic Shop: http://www.holisticshop.co.uk/articles/guide-runes
Page, R. I. (2005). Runes. The British Museum Press.
Runemaker. (n.d.). Introduction to Reading the Runes. Retrieved from Runemaker: http://www.runemaker.com/futhark/reading.shtml
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