Runes are ancient symbols steeped in history and mysticism. These symbols have been used by cultures all over the world for centuries, and their meanings and uses have evolved over time. In this article, I will take you on a journey through the history of runes, their significance in Norse culture, the types of runes, and the magical and divinatory uses of runes.
Introduction to Runes
Runes are a set of symbols that were used to write various Germanic languages before the adoption of the Latin alphabet. The word “rune” comes from the Old Norse word “rún,” which means “secret” or “mystery.” Runes were carved into wood, stone, or metal, and were often used for magical purposes.
Runes were not just used for writing, but also for divination and magic. The symbols were believed to have magical properties and were used in rituals to bring good luck, protect against evil spirits, and communicate with the gods. Today, runes are still used for divination and magic and have become a popular form of spiritual practice.
A Brief History of Runes
Nordic runes are an ancient writing system that developed in areas populated by Germanic tribes, including the Norse Vikings, as early as AD 100. The earliest runic inscriptions were used for various purposes, such as identification, inscription, and talismans, and were carved on stones, antlers, wood, and weapons. The runes were not used for manuscripts but were used for runestones, memorials, religious objects, and everyday use.
There are three forms of the alphabet: Elder Futhark, Younger Futhark, and Anglo-Saxon Futhorc. Some scholars believe the runes were derived from an Old Italic alphabet or from an Etruscan script, while Norse myth suggests that Odin discovered the runes while fasting and staring into the Well of Urd for nine days.
The oldest known runic inscription dates back to around 150 AD and was found on a comb in Denmark. The use of runes spread throughout Europe and the British Isles, and they were used for writing until the adoption of the Latin alphabet.
The Significance of Runes in Norse Culture
Runes were an important part of Norse culture and were often used in divination and magic. The Norse god Odin was said to have discovered the runes after hanging from the world tree Yggdrasil for nine days and nine nights. He then passed on the knowledge of the runes to humans.
The Norse also used runes for writing, and many runic inscriptions have been found on artifacts such as weapons, jewelry, and runestones. The inscriptions often contained messages of love, honor, and remembrance.
Types of Runes
There are three main types of runes: Nordic, Viking, and Anglo-Saxon. The Nordic runes were used in Scandinavia and Iceland, while the Viking runes were used in Scandinavia, England, and Ireland. The Anglo-Saxon runes were used in England.
Each type of rune has its own unique set of symbols and meanings. The Nordic runes, for example, were predominantly used for divination and magic, while the Viking runes were primarily used for writing and inscriptions. The Anglo-Saxon runes were used for writing, divination, and magic.
Understanding the Runic Alphabet
The runic alphabet is made up of 24 symbols, known as “futhark.” The word “futhark” comes from the first six symbols of the runic alphabet: F, U, TH, A, R, and K. The order of the symbols in the runic alphabet is different from that of the Latin alphabet.
Each symbol in the runic alphabet has its own unique meaning. The meanings of the symbols vary depending on the culture and time period in which they were used.
The Magical and Divinatory Uses of Runes
Runes were often used for divination and magic. The symbols were believed to have magical properties and other than communicating with the gods, they were also used for protection, healing, and to bring good luck.
To use runes for divination, a set of runes is typically chosen at random and laid out in a specific pattern, such as a three-rune spread or a nine-rune spread. The runes are then interpreted based on their position in the spread and their individual meanings.
How to Read and Interpret Runes
Reading and interpreting runes takes practice and patience. It is important to understand the meanings of the symbols and their context within the spread. It is also important to trust your intuition and let the symbols speak to you.
To read runes, it is important to first cleanse and consecrate the runes. This can be done with water, incense, or by leaving the runes out in the moonlight. The runes are then shuffled and drawn, and the symbols are interpreted based on their position in the spread and their individual meanings.
Nordic runes consist of 24 symbols known as the Elder Futhark. Each rune has a name, sound, and meaning. The runes are divided into three groups of eight called aettir, and each aett is associated with a specific deity and a specific aspect of life.
Now that we have a basic understanding of Nordic runes, let’s explore the step-by-step process of reading them.
Step 1: Prepare the Runes
Once you have your runes, it’s essential to cleanse and charge them. You can do this by holding them under running water, smudging them with sage or palo santo, or leaving them outside under the moonlight. You can also use your breath to infuse them with your energy.
Step 2: Set Your Intention
Before you start the reading, it’s important to set your intention and focus your mind. Take a few deep breaths and clear your thoughts. You can also light candles or incense to create a sacred space. State your intention out loud or in your mind, such as, “I seek guidance and clarity on a specific issue in my life.” It’s essential to be clear and specific about your intention.
Step 3: Shuffle the Runes
Hold the runes in your hand and shuffle them while focusing on your intention. You can also ask a specific question if you have one in mind. Shuffle the runes until you feel ready to stop.
Step 4: Lay Out the Runes
Once you have shuffled the runes, it’s time to lay them out. You can use a cloth or a piece of paper to create a grid. The most common layout is the three-rune spread, which represents the past, present, and future. You can also use a larger grid for more complex readings.
Start by drawing one rune and placing it in the center of the grid. This rune represents the present moment and the main issue or challenge you are facing. Then, draw one rune and place it to the left of the center rune, representing the past. Finally, draw one rune and place it to the right of the center rune, representing the future.
Step 5: Interpret the Runes
Now that the runes are laid out, it’s time to interpret their meanings. Each rune has a specific meaning and can be read upright or reversed. You can refer to a rune guidebook or use your intuition to interpret the runes.
Here is a brief overview of the meanings of the Nordic runes:
Fehu: wealth, prosperity, abundance
Uruz: strength, vitality, endurance
Thurisaz: conflict, challenge, protection
Ansuz: communication, wisdom, divine inspiration
Raidho: journey, travel, movement
Kenaz: creativity, transformation, enlightenment
Gebo: partnership, generosity, balance
Wunjo: joy, happiness, fulfillment
Hagalaz: disruption, chaos, change
Nauthiz: need, restriction, endurance
Isa: stillness, stagnation, patience
Jera: harvest, reward, cycle
Eihwaz: defense, protection, resilience
Perthro: mystery, fate, secrets
Algiz: protection, defense, guidance
Sowilo: success, victory, enlightenment
Tiwaz: justice, victory, courage
Berkano: growth, fertility, nurturing
Ehwaz: partnership, teamwork, progress
Mannaz: humanity, community, self-awareness
Laguz: intuition, emotions, fluidity
Ingwaz: fertility, new beginnings, potential
Dagaz: transformation, breakthrough, enlightenment
Othala: ancestry, heritage, home
When interpreting the runes, consider their position in the grid, their relationship to each other, and the question or issue you are seeking guidance on. Trust your intuition and allow the runes to speak to you.
Step 6: Take Action Once you have interpreted the runes, it’s essential to take action based on the guidance you received. The runes can offer valuable insights and perspectives, but it’s up to you to make the necessary changes in your life.
Modern Uses of Runes
Today, runes are still used for divination and magic, but they have also become a popular form of spiritual practice. Many people use runes to connect with their ancestors, to find guidance and inspiration, and to deepen their spiritual practice.
Runes have also become a popular form of jewelry and home decor. Rune sets can be found in many metaphysical shops and online stores.
Where to Find Rune Sets and How to Care for Them
Rune sets can be found in many online stores, from your standard hobby shops to the more mystical-oriented ones. Wherever you get them, it is important to choose a set that speaks to you and feels right. It is also important to care for your rune set by cleansing and consecrating it regularly.
To cleanse your rune set, you can use water, incense, or leave it out in the moonlight. To consecrate your rune set, you can hold it in your hands and visualize it being filled with positive energy.
Conclusion – The Enduring Legacy of Runes
The history of runes is rich and fascinating, and their significance in Norse culture cannot be overstated. Runes have been used for writing, divination, and magic for centuries, and their meanings and uses continue to evolve today.
Whether you are drawn to runes for their historical significance, their magical properties, or their spiritual significance, they have something to offer everyone. So take some time to explore the world of runes and unlock the secrets of these ancient symbols.
If you’re interested in learning more about runes, I recommend checking out Runes for Beginners by Lisa Chamberlain, Taking Up the Runes by Diana Paxson, or The Book of Runes by Ralph Blum.
