Tag: #ElderFuthark

#TuesdayRunes – WYRD

Published on by Jan Sikes32 Comments

Photo by Jan Sikes

As we wind up this journey through the individual runes, because this rune is included in my personal set, I want to include it here, but WYRD is not a part of the original Elder Futhark script.

Photo by Jan Sikes

The blank rune known as WYRD, is a totally modern addition to the Futhark system, although the concept it represents was certainly well known to the rune-using peoples.

This is a rune of total trust and should be taken as exciting evidence of your most immediate contact with your own true destiny.

WYRD is the cosmic power of fate and is closely akin to the idea expressed by the Sanskrit word, Karma. We must always accept responsibility for our own actions, be they good or bad.

When this rune appears in a reading, you may be certain that something unexpected is going to come to you. Whether this is something is positive or negative depends on what you warrant by virtue of your past behavior.

Having no number and no symbol makes WYRD in effect a non-rune. The concept expressed by it is neither concrete nor of this world. WYRD operates through a completely separate dimension than that of the other runes and can often indicate the matter in question is in the lap of the gods.

The blank Rune is said to represent the highest possibilities of human endeavor. 

Always look to the runes around WYRD for clues to its meaning, especially the ones following it.

And that’s a wrap. I will slowly start exploring doing rune readings, but that will change the Tarot Readings on Mondays, so we’ll see how this comes together.

I sincerely appreciate everyone who has tagged along on this Rune journey!

If you’d like to look back on any of the rune posts, here is a list.

Introduction to the Runes

Fehu

Uruz

Thurisaz

Ansuz

Raidho

Kenaz

Gebo

Wunjo

Hagalaz

Nauthiz

Isa

Jera

Eihwaz

Perthro

Elhaz

Sowilo

Tiwaz

Berkana

Ehwaz

Mannaz

Laguz

Ingwaz

Dagaz

Othala

#TuesdayRunes – Othala

Published on by Jan Sikes32 Comments

Today’s Rune is the last one in the Elder Futhark Script. There is one more that is considered a modern addition and even though some of the rune sets don’t include it, mine does. So, I will cover it next week.

Anyway, today’s Rune is Othala (oh-thee-lah).

Photo by Jan Sikes

As the final rune of the Elder Futhark, Othala is the rune of heritage and speaks to what we come into this world with, in terms of who we are born to and raised by. This rune may refer to the literal inheritance of land or other property, but most often it is about the intangible things we inherit from our family origin. No matter how we may resemble or differ from the rest of our family, and no matter how far from home we have traveled or how independently we have established ourselves, all of us carry traits, beliefs, habits, and influences from our family of origin.

When Othala comes up in a reading, it may indicate that the aspect of your current situation is related to your background, perhaps unconscious beliefs you absorbed as a child, or some other element that shaped your upbringing.

Othala is often associated with wealth, not moveable wealth, such as cattle, but ancestral wealth in the form of land. In some cultures, land may not be sold, but instead, is always passed down, keeping a strong foundation of community, families, clans, and cultural traditions rooted in place.

If you live close to your extended family, Othala may suggest that you lean on them for emotional or material support in a challenging matter, or you could be called upon to provide support to a family member in need. Of course, this can also apply if you live further away, although in this case, the rune could be nudging you to check in with your people back home.

In many readings, Othala points to a tension between the traditions you inherited and the current way you’re approaching your life.

It can also represent maintaining a status quo – the way things have always been done. In an ever-changing world, it’s up to you to distinguish between what is useful to hold on to and what needs to be discarded so that you can live and grow in your own authenticity on the physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

Reversed, Othala often points to conflict and disharmony with family. Patience and careful observance are recommended with as much emotional detachment as possible. Othala in the reversed position can also indicate feeling alone, isolated from family or community.

The birthdates associated with this rune are May 29th to June 14th.

#TuesdayRunes – Dagaz

Published on by Jan Sikes34 Comments

It’s time for another rune exploration!

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We are just two away from finishing the study of each rune in The Elder Futhark Script. This rune, Dagaz (dah-gahz) symbolizes daylight, success, hope, breakthrough, transformation, and balance.

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Dagaz is considered to be a very beneficial sign in any reading. It is associated with the contrasting blessing of midsummer when days are long and the sun is at its height of power.

Increase, growth, prosperity, strength, good health, and general well-being are indicated by this rune. You may experience an unexpected successful outcome concerning a problem or project you’ve been working on. You are encouraged to remain optimistic and to keep your focus on the light as positive new developments unfold.

Dagaz is also known as the “dawn” rune and as such represents new hope and an emerging from darkness into light. There is a related aspect of protection to Dagaz, as daylight is considered a protective force, guiding us out of danger and onto the right path. In a reading, the message from this rune can be that you are out of harm’s way now, so you can rejoice in safety and look forward to new openings and opportunities.

As the first light of dawn breaks through the dark of night, this rune also represents a breakthrough of insight or inspiration, whether on an artistic, creative level or in terms of spiritual enlightenment. Divine light is guiding you along your path and you are making steady progress.

The symmetrical shape of Dagaz represents a balance between opposing energies – light and dark, up and down, movement and stagnation. Depending on how it is placed in a reading, it can be a reminder to seek more balance in life in general.

Alternatively, Dagaz can point to a major transformation or fundamental change in your life. Some have compared the rune’s shape to the wings of a butterfly. The rune can be a reminder of the positive results of necessary transformation.

Dagaz has no reversed meaning.

The birthdates associated with Dagaz are June 14th to June 29th.

#TuesdayRunes – Ingwaz

Published on by Jan Sikes31 Comments

Welcome to another segment of our journey through the ElderFuthark Runes!

Today’s rune is Ingwaz (eeng-wahz). Ingwaz is the rune of the fertility god, Ing, and is associated with masculine sexuality and male potency.

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This rune is the springtime energy of plant life emerging after the depths of winter, and the procreation of all life on Earth. Depending on the context of a reading, drawing Ingwaz may indicate a healthy and hearty sexual relationship.

However, it can also refer more generally to a procreative energy being channeled through specific means, such as a project, a business endeavor, or a journey. Whatever is propelling you forward in a positive way at the moment, Ingwaz is acknowledging and confirming that the energy behind it is potent and heading for substantial results.

As a related meaning, Ingwaz also symbolizes completion. An old phase of your life is coming to an end, freeing up the energy for the new phenomena to enter your experience. Problems are resolved or about to be solved and great relief follows.

It may also be signaling that you are reaching your full potential in the matter at hand and that it’s time to let go and let the situation play itself out. Trust that you have done the necessary work – the energy you’re feeling around this is ultimately positive and relief is in sight.

Ingwaz is widely considered a highly auspicious rune, signaling a major event or turning point in your life that leads to satisfying results. A dream may very well be coming true.

Ingwaz indicates safety and a loving family environment. Your home and everyone in it are protected.

Ingwaz has no reverse meaning.

The birthdates related to this rune are May 14 to May 29.

#TuesdayRunes – Mannaz

Published on by Jan Sikes30 Comments
Photo by Jan Sikes January 2021

Welcome to another exploration into the Elder Futhark Script Runes! The rune we are taking a look at today is Mannaz (mah-nahz).

Photo taken by Jan Sikes

Mannaz is the rune of humankind and symbolizes the characteristics that set humans apart from the rest of the Earth’s living creatures. This rune reminds us that we are part of a shared experience among all humans, no matter our specific language, physical appearance, or beliefs. At the same time, Mannaz represents the self with particular emphasis on one’s inner being.

Often, this rune points to some aspect of tension in the relationship between your inner self and your perceived place in the outer world. You may feel at odds with the attitudes and expectations of society. If this is the case, be sure you are listening to your intuition rather than your ego to determine the best course of action.

Mannaz reminds you to maintain self-awareness, checking in with yourself physically, emotionally and spiritually as you choose how to respond to your circumstances.

This rune can also indicate assistance provided from others. Its shape evokes a sense of mutual support as in two individuals coming together to stabilize each other, creating a stronger structure as a result. Be sure to remain open to help from others, but also be willing to lend a hand where needed.

Mannaz also symbolizes human intelligence and creativity (hmmm, sounds a lot like the Ace of Swords from yesterday’s reading). It is considered a rune of the mind and indicates success in academic studies as well as success in matters related to language or law.

In a reversed position, Mannaz can indicate isolation, low self-esteem and/or self-preoccupation. Take some time to examine the role you’ve played and be honest with yourself. It can also indicate that no one is on their way to help you.

The birthdates associated with this rune are April 14th – April 29th.

#TuesdayRunes – Berkana

Published on by Jan Sikes33 Comments

Welcome back for a look at another rune!

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As we continue exploring the runes, the next one up in The Elder Futhark Script is Berkana (bair-kah-nah).

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The keywords associated with this rune are: Birth, new beginnings, family, growth, regeneration.

A very positive rune, Berkana symbolizes new beginnings. This makes me think of the Aces in the tarot deck. New beginnings can take the form of a new project, a new relationship, a new phase of spiritual development, or a new idea that leads to successful outcomes. This rune indicates that the Universal energies are fertile and lined up for bringing forth new manifestations. This puts you in an excellent position to begin your next adventure.

Berkana is the rune of female energy and is also known as the birth rune. It can indicate an actual birth of a child, a wedding or other happy family occasion. It is a very good sign for women who are trying to conceive.

Depending on the context of a reading, Berkana may be asking you to look at where your own caretaking energy is being directed. While you’re nurturing others, your dreams and goals, don’t forget to nurture yourself.

This rune reminds us to not be afraid to accept loving assistance from others.

Berkana’s translation is “birch,” a highly revered tree associated with renewal and regeneration. The birth was among the first trees that returned to reforest the land after the last Ice Age, and is one of the first to leaf out in the spring.

If you are struggling with difficulties, drawing Berkana is a reminder that no matter how cold or dark things may seem, warmth and light will return. Often we are in a dormant phase that precedes a spiritual awakening. Soon enough we will bloom again.

The birth sign associated with Berkana is March 14 – March 30.

This is definitely a rune I would love to see turn up in a reading!

#TuesdayRunes – Tiwaz

Published on by Jan Sikes42 Comments
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It’s time to continue our journey through the runes! The next segment of the Elder Futhark runes is Tyr’s Aett. These runes speak to the aspects of the dance between the visible and invisible realms, with runes directly connected to the ancient deities, natural forces, and humanity itself. The first rune in this segment is Tiwaz (tee-wahz).

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As the first rune in Tyr’s Aett, Tiwaz represents the qualities of the god Tyr. It is associated with courage, strength, and the forward-moving nature of masculine energy.

Tiwaz speaks of the need to put our causes above personal desires if the greater good requires it. If you are facing a decision that involves potential discomfort in order to achieve a positive outcome, Tiwaz is signaling that you possess the courage and ability to withstand the sacrifice and emerge victorious. You are ready for the challenge, provided you act with integrity and remain true to your inner knowledge.

Victory is another primary interpretation of Tiwaz, particularly when it comes to competitions of all kinds. Harness the enthusiastic energy and motivation to achieve your goals and you will succeed. This rune is also a positive sign for success in legal matters, providing that you are being honest and just in your actions.

The shape of Tiwaz resembles a spear and the upward pointing arrow symbolizes the force of masculine energy. Action is indicated. However, you are cautioned not to act impulsively.

Another aspect of the masculine energy of Tiwaz is passion and sexual energy, so romance is indicated by this rune, depending on the context of a reading. It could refer to a new romance or a reinvigoration of an existing relationship.

If Tiwaz is reversed in a reading (downward pointing arrow), it signifies a lack of courage or motivation when it comes to achieving your goals.

The birthdate associated with this rune is February 27 to March 14.

Thanks for coming along on this journey and I hope you enjoyed learning about this rune!

#TuesdayRunes – Sowilo

Published on by Jan Sikes46 Comments

Welcome back for another look at the mystical and magical runes from the Elder Futhark Script.

Photo by Jan Sikes

Today’s Rune is Sowilo (so-we-lah).

The keywords associated with this rune are: light, energy, good health and success. What a great rune to get in any reading at any time!

Sowilo is the rune of the Sun and the life-sustaining light it provides. It represents the light of day where all is illuminated and there is no darkness to obscure our vision. It is the rune of the light’s victory over the dark and can bring much needed clarity and healing to a situation.

Sowilo’s verse in the Anglo-Saxon rune poem describes the sun as “a joy in the hopes of seafarers,” keeping the sailors’ spirits up as they move across the water toward a safe landing. This rune is telling you that you are surrounded by warmth and light. Success, good health and joy are yours if you allow yourself to have them, as are good luck and prosperity.

Depending on your situation, you may need to open yourself up more and clear out your own inner shadows to let more light into your experience.

While the sun is crucial to life on Earth, its power can also be harmful if its intensity is not balanced with other forms of energy. You may be asked to look at how you are directing your vitality. Are you scattered over too many activities and commitments? (I think we can all probably answer ‘yes’ to that question!) Do you find that you are neglecting your health or at risk of burning out? If so, it’s time to ground yourself and possibly re-prioritize.

Use the Sun’s power to illuminate the issue with rational clarity rather than through the lens of emotions. Be honest with yourself and with others, as deceit keeps everyone in the shadows.

The birthdates associated with Sowilo are February 13-27.

Thank you for stopping by and continuing this journey with me!

#TuesdayRunes – Elhaz

Published on by Jan Sikes23 Comments

Welcome back to another segment of the journey through the runes! We are more than halfway through the Elder Futhark Alphabet.

Photo courtesy Jan Sikes

The rune we are exploring today is Elhaz (el-hahz) also known as Algiz.

The keywords associated with this rune are: Protection, Defense and Opportunity.

Sounds uncannily like our Tarot Reading yesterday. 🙂

Elhaz is the rune of defense and protection and its shape is said to represent both the elk, with its imposing antlers, and the sedge plant, whose sharp leaves act as a natural protection from would-be predators. Both images illustrate the power represented by this rune.

Drawing Elhaz in a reading indicates that you are safe from danger, and there is no need to fear. However, don’t take the protective energy for granted by being reckless with your actions. As long as you remain alert and clear-minded, in touch with your intuition, you are headed for a positive outcome.

Elhaz has also been associated with reaching up to connect with the divine for support. It can refer to an upcoming opportunity or quest. Usually this involves one or more other people who may bring an offer or an invitation to join in a venture of some kind. As long as your intuition agrees, go for it. This is a favorable time for a new endeavor, and it is likely to produce positive results at a rapid pace.

Elhaz indicates protection from negative energy and people, protection of property, strengthened friendships, and possible astral communication.

The birthdates associated with this rune are January 28th – February 13th.

Thanks for stopping by!

#TuesdayRunes – Perthro

Published on by Jan Sikes35 Comments

Welcome to another segment of our study of the Elder Futhark Runes!

Photo by Jan Sikes

Today’s rune is Perthro (pair-throh).

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Of all the runes, Perthro is the most mysterious. Its meaning has never been agreed upon by scholars but the symbol is often interpreted as a receptacle used for casting lots, such as a modern-day dice cup. It is most commonly used as a means of discovering hidden knowledge.

Perthro can indicate that things are not quite as they seem, and that something previously unknown is about to be revealed. This could be a secret someone has been keeping, or it could be a spiritual truth that has been hidden from you until now. If this rune appears in a reading, you are advised to pay attention to the signs and signals that your intuition is picking up on.

If you’ve been wrestling with a stubborn conundrum, Perthro can be signaling a need to go within to find the answers you seek. Clearing your mind allows the enlightenment you need to arise naturally, without effort. This rune encourages you to trust in the mysteries of the unknown, and rest assured all will be revealed in due time.

Perthro can also be interpreted as “chance,” in the sense of a surprise or unexpected development. Depending on the other runes around it in a reading, it can also indicate a pregnancy and/or birth, as the receptive shape of the symbol has been associated with the womb.

It can offer good luck in gambling, protect business investments, health and healing as well as foster spiritual clarity.

In a reading, this rune can either be upright or reversed. If it is reversed, it can point to a secret you are holding onto, which is becoming harder to keep, or an unhealthy focus on something from the past. It also could indicate a disappointment in which case you would be well-advised to avoid taking risks at this time.

The birthdates associated with this rune are January 13 – January 28.

Thanks for stopping by!