The Runes : A Brief Introduction
The Runes : A Brief Introduction
The subject of our next Moot Friday 18th August
The Runes - A brief history
Dating back thousands of years, the runes hold a special place in history.
These ancient symbols have been used by various cultures for both practical and mystical purposes, leaving behind a rich tapestry of knowledge and symbolism. In this article, we will explore the origins and significance of the runes, shedding light on their enduring legacy.
The runes are a system of writing that originated among the Germanic peoples of northern Europe, most notably the Scandinavians, during the 1st or 2nd century AD.
Consisting of 24 symbols known as "Elder Futhark," the runic alphabet was primarily used to communicate in written form. However, the runes held a deeper significance beyond their practical use.
Early runic inscriptions were often found on stones, jewelry, and everyday objects, providing a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of those who used them. It is believed that the runes were also used for divination and magical purposes. Many runic inscriptions have been found on amulets or talismans, hinting at their connection to protective or mystical properties.
One of the most famous examples of runic inscriptions is the "Einang stone," discovered in Norway. The stone dates back to the 4th century AD and features a runic inscription that reads, "I, Harjulf, carved these runes."
This inscription not only demonstrates the early use of runes but also preserves the name of an individual from the past, allowing glimpses into their life and identity.
The runes' significance extends beyond their written form.
Each rune symbolizes a concept or idea, with many connecting to natural phenomena or objects. For example, the rune "Fehu" represents wealth and cattle, emphasizing the importance of livestock in ancient societies. Likewise, the rune "Ansuz" signifies the divine breath or spiritual insights, reflecting the belief system of those who used the runes.
The runic alphabet underwent several transformations over the centuries.
The initial Elder Futhark consisted of 24 symbols, but as the Germanic tribes expanded and came into contact with different cultures, variations emerged.
The Younger Futhark, for instance, consisted of only 16 symbols and was used in Scandinavia during the Viking Age.
With the spread of Christianity in northern Europe, the use of the runes began to decline. The church viewed the runes as symbols of paganism and superstition, leading to their suppression. However, the knowledge and symbolism associatedwith the runes did not disappear entirely. Some runic inscriptions can still be found on artifacts and historical sites, offering glimpses into the culture and beliefs of the past.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the runes.
People are once again drawn to their ancient wisdom and mystical allure. Many individuals study the runic alphabet, seeking to unlock its secrets and harness its power. The runes are now commonly used as divination tools, with each symbol holding its own unique meaning and interpretation.
It is important to approach the runes with respect and understanding. They are not mere decorative symbols, but rather a sacred language that holds a connection to the past. By delving into their history and meanings, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the runes and the cultures that used them.
In conclusion, the runes are more than just a system of writing. They are a window into the past, offering insights into ancient societies and their beliefs. Whether used for communication, divination, or spiritual purposes, the runes continue to captivate and inspire people today. Their enduring legacy serves as a reminder of the power of symbols and the rich tapestry of human history.
The Meaning of the Runes in the Elder Futhark
The Elder Futhark, consisting of 24 symbols, each with its own unique meaning and interpretation, holds a profound significance in the runic alphabet.
Understanding the meaning behind these symbols allows us to delve deeper into the mystical world of the runes.
The first rune, Fehu, symbolizes wealth, abundance, and material possessions. It represents cattle, emphasizing their importance in ancient societies as a source of wealth and sustenance.
The second rune, Uruz, embodies strength, primal energy, and vitality. It represents the wild ox, symbolizing untamed power and a connection to nature's raw forces.
The third rune, Thurisaz, represents the thorn, signifying defense, protection, and potential danger. It serves as a reminder to be cautious of external threats and to stand strong in the face of adversity.
The fourth rune, Ansuz, is linked to the divine breath or spiritual insights. It represents communication, wisdom, and divine inspiration, reminding us to listen to our inner voice and seek higher knowledge.
The fifth rune, Raido, symbolizes travel, journeys, and movement. It represents physical and spiritual progress, reminding us to embrace change and embrace new experiences.
The sixth rune, Kenaz, embodies the torch, signifying illumination, knowledge, and creativity. It represents enlightenment and inspiration, encouraging us to seek understanding and express our true selves.
The seventh rune, Gebo, represents the gift, symbolizing balance, harmony, and partnerships. It serves as a reminder to give and receive with an open heart, fostering connections and maintaining equilibrium.
The eighth rune, Wunjo, embodies joy, happiness, and fulfillment. It represents a state of bliss and contentment, encouraging us to embrace positivity and find joy in our lives.
The ninth rune, Hagalaz, symbolizes the hailstorm, signifying disruption, upheaval, and transformation. It represents the destructive forces of nature, urging us to embrace change and find growth in the midst of chaos.
The tenth rune, Nauthiz, represents constraint, necessity, and challenges. It embodies the concept of "need-fire," reminding us that through adversity, we can find strength and resilience.
The eleventh rune, Isa, symbolizes ice, representing stillness, patience, and self-reflection. It serves as a reminder to slow down, go within, and find inner peace.
The twelfth rune, Jera, embodies the harvest, signifying cycles, abundance, and rewards. It represents the fruits of our labor and the importance of patience and perseverance in achieving success.
The thirteenth rune, Eihwaz, symbolizes the yew tree, signifying endurance, resilience, and protection. It represents the ability to overcome obstacles and navigate through challenging times.
The fourteenth rune, Perthro, represents the dice cup, symbolizing mystery, fate, and hidden knowledge. It reminds us that not everything is within our control and encourages us to trust in the unknown.
The fifteenth rune, Algiz, embodies the elk, signifying protection, defense, and connection to the divine. It represents the guiding hand of higher powers and the need to listen to our intuition.
The sixteenth rune, Sowilo, symbolizes the sun, representing energy, vitality, and success. It embodies the power of light and serves as a reminder to harness our inner strength and shine brightly.
The seventeenth rune, Tiwaz, embodies the god Tyr, representing justice, sacrifice, and courage. It symbolizes the need to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
The eighteenth rune, Berkano, represents the birch tree, symbolizing growth, fertility, and nurturing. It represents the cycles of life and the importance of self-care and nurturing our relationships.
The nineteenth rune, Ehwaz, embodies the horse, signifying partnership, teamwork, and trust. It represents the need to work together towards a common goal and to rely on the support of others.
The twentieth rune, Mannaz, represents humanity, symbolizing human connection, community, and social interaction. It reminds us of the importance of cooperation and empathy in our relationships.
The twenty-first rune, Laguz, symbolizes water, representing emotions, intuition, and deep subconscious. It serves as a reminder to trust our instincts and dive into the depths of our emotions.
The twenty-second rune, Ingwaz, embodies the god Ing, signifying fertility, growth, and new beginnings. It represents the potential for transformation and the birth of new ideas and possibilities.
The twenty-third rune, Dagaz, represents the day, symbolizing breakthroughs, enlightenment, and new perspectives. It serves as a reminder to embrace change and find the light in the darkness.
The twenty-fourth rune, Othala, embodies the ancestral home, representing heritage, family, and traditions. It symbolizes the importance of roots and connection to our past, reminding us of our place in the world and the significance of our ancestors.
By understanding the meaning of each rune in the Elder Futhark, we can tap into their power and wisdom. The runes act as a guide, offering insights and guidance in times of uncertainty or when seeking answers. They provide a framework for self-reflection, personal growth, and spiritual development.
It is important to note that the interpretation of the runes may vary among individuals. One's personal experiences, beliefs, and intuition play a significant role in understanding and applying the meanings of the runes. Therefore, it is essential to develop a personal connection with the runes and trust in one's own intuitive abilities.
Moreover the ‘Key' words and phrases described as the “meaning” of each Rune needs to be considered in a broader cultureal context. What we cll “wealth” today may not have been what the ancients saw as wealth.
The name Fehu means '(mobile) wealth', cognate to English fee with the original meaning of 'sheep' or 'cattle' (Dutch Vee, GermanVieh, Latin pecū, Sanskrit pashu). This means that the Proto-Germanic name *fehu has been reconstructed, with the meaning of "money, cattle, wealth".
The meaning of the individual runes depends as much on personal connections as it does the “traditionl” definitions. Consider for example what “wealth” means to you. Are we talking about material wealth, wellbeing. spirituality?
Whether used for divination, meditation, or simply as a source of inspiration, the runes hold a wealth of knowledge and symbolism. They serve as a reminder of our connection to the past and the rich tapestry of human history. By embracing the wisdom of the runes, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
The Runic Cycle of Transformation
The Runic Cycle of Transformation is a concept that stems from the belief that the runes represent not only individual meanings, but also a journey of personal growth and spiritual development. This cycle is often depicted as a circular pattern, with each rune representing a stage or phase in the transformational process.
The Runic Cycle of Transformation begins with the rune Fehu, symbolizing wealth and abundance. This first stage represents the initial spark or potential for growth and prosperity. It signifies the fertile soil from which all aspects of life can flourish.
As the cycle progresses, the rune Uruz comes into play, representing strength and primal energy. This stage is characterized by a sense of empowerment and the harnessing of one's inner power. It signifies the need to tap into one's raw energy and vitality to overcome challenges and push forward.
Thurisaz, the third rune in the cycle, embodies defense and protection. This stage represents a time of evaluating and fortifying one's boundaries. It signifies the need to be cautious of external threats and to establish a strong foundation of security and stability.
The fourth stage in the Runic Cycle of Transformation is represented by the rune Ansuz, symbolizing communication and divine inspiration. This stage is characterized by introspection and seeking higher knowledge. It signifies the need to listen to one's inner voice and embrace wisdom and spiritual insights.
The fifth stage is embodied by the rune Raido, representing travel and movement. This stage signifies a time of growth and progress, both physically and spiritually. It signifies the need to embrace change, embark on new journeys, and expand one's horizons.
Kenaz, the sixth rune, symbolizes illumination and creativity. This stage represents a time of self-discovery and self-expression. It signifies the need to seek enlightenment, unlock one's hidden talents, and embrace one's true self.
The seventh stage in the Runic Cycle of Transformation is depicted by the rune Gebo, representing balance and partnerships. This stage signifies the importance of harmonious relationships and the exchange of energies. It represents the need to give and receive with an open heart, fostering connections and maintaining equilibrium.
Wunjo, the eighth rune, embodies joy and fulfillment. This stage represents a state of bliss and contentment. It signifies the need to embrace positivity, find happiness in the present moment, and celebrate one's achievements and blessings.
The ninth stage is represented by the rune Hagalaz, symbolizing disruption and transformation. This stage signifies a time of upheaval and change. It represents the need to embrace the destructive forces of nature and find growth and transformation within chaos. It signifies the breaking down of old patterns and the emergence of new possibilities.
The tenth stage in the Runic Cycle of Transformation is embodied by the rune Nauthiz, representing constraint and challenges. This stage signifies a time of adversity and struggle. It represents the need to find strength and resilience in the face of obstacles and to navigate through difficult times with determination and perseverance.
Isa, the eleventh rune, symbolizes stillness and self-reflection. This stage represents a time of slowing down and going within. It signifies the need to find inner peace, practice patience, and gain clarity through self-reflection and meditation.
The twelfth stage is represented by the rune Jera, symbolizing the harvest and cycles. This stage signifies a time of reaping the rewards of hard work and patience. It represents the need to embrace the natural cycles of life, understanding that success comes from consistent effort and perseverance over time.
Eihwaz, the thirteenth rune, embodies endurance and protection. This stage represents a time of facing and overcoming challenges. It signifies the need to navigate through difficult times with resilience and strength, trusting in one's ability to overcome obstacles and find protection along the way.
The fourteenth stage in the Runic Cycle of Transformation is depicted by the rune Perthro, representing mystery and hidden knowledge. This stage signifies a time of introspection and seeking guidance from the unknown. It represents the need to trust in the unseen forces and embrace the mysteries of life.
The fifteenth stage is embodied by the rune Algiz, symbolizing protection and connection to the divine. This stage represents a time of spiritual awakening and heightened intuition. It signifies the need to listen to one's inner guidance, trust in higher powers, and seek protection and guidance from the divine.
Sowilo, the sixteenth rune, represents the sun and success. This stage signifies a time of harnessing one's inner light and power. It represents the need to shine brightly, to embrace one's true potential, and to achieve success through determination and self-belief.
The seventeenth stage in the Runic Cycle of Transformation is depicted by the rune Tiwaz, symbolizing justice and courage. This stage signifies a time of standing up for what is right and facing challenges with bravery. It represents the need to act with integrity, to defend one's beliefs, and to find inner courage.
The eighteenth stage in the Runic Cycle of Transformation is embodied by the rune Berkano, representing growth, fertility, and nurturing. This stage signifies a time of new beginnings and nurturing one's own personal growth. It represents the need to cultivate relationships, embrace self-care, and foster a sense of nurturing and support in one's life.
The nineteenth stage is represented by the rune Ehwaz, symbolizing partnership, teamwork, and trust. This stage signifies a time of collaboration and cooperation. It represents the need to work together towards a common goal, rely on the support of others, and trust in the power of partnerships.
The twentieth stage in the Runic Cycle of Transformation is depicted by the rune Mannaz, representing humanity and social interaction. This stage signifies a time of connection and community. It represents the need to foster meaningful relationships, embrace empathy and understanding, and contribute positively to the world around us.
The twenty-first stage is embodied by the rune Laguz, symbolizing water and emotions. This stage represents a time of deep emotional connection and intuitive understanding. It signifies the need to trust our instincts and explore our emotions to gain insight and wisdom.
Ingwaz, the twenty-second rune, represents fertility, growth, and new beginnings. This stage signifies a time of transformation and rebirth. It represents the potential for personal growth, the birth of new ideas, and the emergence of new possibilities.
The twenty-third stage in the Runic Cycle of Transformation is depicted by the rune Dagaz, representing breakthroughs and new perspectives. This stage signifies a time of enlightenment and clarity. It represents the need to embrace change, find the light in the darkness, and seek new perspectives to navigate through life's challenges.
The twenty-fourth and final stage is embodied by the rune Othala, symbolizing the ancestral home and traditions. This stage represents a time of reflection and connection to our roots. It signifies the importance of honoring our heritage, embracing our past, and recognizing the influence of our ancestors on our journey.
The Runic Cycle of Transformation is a powerful framework for personal growth and spiritual development. By understanding and embracing the meanings of each rune in the cycle, we can navigate through life's challenges, embrace change, and foster personal transformation. It serves as a reminder that life is a journey of continual growth and self-discovery.
Rune Lore
Rune Lore is far from simple although many ‘readers’ tend to oversimplify the system by using one-dimensional definitions of each of the symbols, the same of course is true in terms of many Tarot readers.
The simplisitic idea that Wunjo means “Joy” and, in the case of the Tarot, the Chariot means ‘Journey” really trivialises the deeper symbolic langauge and metaphor.
Like ALL divintataory systems I beleive that their priamry value is not about giving readings to and for others, but by providing insights for the ‘self’.
In the next Moot we will explore the Runes in a little more detail.
Considering the Aett’s…
The runes of the Elder Futhark are divided into three groups of eight runes each. Each group is called an Aett.
The first group, aett, is associated with the Goddess Freyja. This aett symbolizes the creation of the universe, order out of chaos, and the creation of all things.
The second aett is named after the God Heimdall. This aett is about the disruptive forces that cause great change in the energies established in the first aett.
The third aett is called Tiwaz’s aett after the God Tyr. This aett is essentially about the gods and divinity.
And, Rune Magick
Bind Runes are representations of two or more runes joined or combined similr to the way Sigils are created (see the Moot on Sigil Magick). Such runes can be seen to have a “coded” meaning as well as a “talismanic” or “magical” meaning.
The aim of the Moot will be to enocurage you to re-examine the use of The Runes and possibly encourage you to study them in a little more detail.
Please NOTE the change of regular date, This Moot will be on the THIRD FRIDAY of the month and not the Second as it usually is.
Blessed Be
Alan /|\
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