Tag: #RunicSymbols

#TuesdayRunes – Dagaz

Published on by Jan Sikes34 Comments

It’s time for another rune exploration!

Photo by Jan Sikes

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.

Photo by Jan Sikes

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.

Photo by Jan Sikes

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 – Tiwaz

Published on by Jan Sikes42 Comments
Photo by Jan Sikes

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).

Photo by Jan Sikes

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 – 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).

Photo by Jan Sikes

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!

#TuesdayRunes – Eihwaz

Published on by Jan Sikes30 Comments

Welcome to another segment of our study of the runes! Today we take a look at Eihwaz (eeh-wahz).

Eihwaz Rune photo by Jan Sikes

The keywords for this rune are death, regeneration, rebirth, changes, and magic. While those words may not sound like they have much in common, they truly do. This rune represents the Yew tree, making it symbolic of both death and regeneration. The Yew is a highly toxic plant to humans and livestock. In ancient times, poisons from the tree were used for murder and suicide. However, on the other hand, the yew tree is also considered a tree of life, due to its evergreen nature and extreme longevity. A wild Yew can live for thousands of years and when they do begin to die, they can be regenerated by their own daughter trees that grow inside their decaying trunks.

Yew Tree courtesy of geograph.ore.uk

Eihwaz is an extremely powerful symbol of the cycle of death and life.

Eihwaz does not indicate literal death, but much like the Death card in the Tarot deck, indicates an ending that will lead to a new beginning. If things seem to be at a halt (Wow! That makes me think of the Hangman card we got in yesterday’s tarot reading), be patient. You are being asked to allow an old situation to fall away so that new developments can enter your life.

It can also symbolize leaving behind old ways, allowing old aspects of yourself to die away now that they are no longer serving you. Don’t resist the changes that are underway. Instead, learn to go with the flow and be flexible. You may not be able to see it now, but what you are currently dealing with is paving the way for a new and improved situation.

Another interesting comparison of this rune and the Death card in the Tarot deck is that even though runes precede tarot cards by at least a thousand years, both carry the number 13. The Death card is the thirteenth card in the Major Arcana, and Eihwaz is the thirteenth rune in the Elder Futhark.

My take away from this rune, if it were to show up in a reading would be: Death is only the end of a cycle and NEVER the end of the story!

Other meanings of this rune include an association with magical work, particularly of a protective nature in dealing with transformation. It has been called a symbol of the gateway to the underworld and of deliberate journeys to the non-physical realm in search of knowledge or understanding. This rune can offer protection, overcoming obstacles, spiritual development, strengthening of physical and magical powers.

Again, I want to remind you this is not a reading, simply a study of this rune.

The birthdates associated with this rune are December 28th to January 13th.

#TuesdayRunes – Jera

Published on by Jan Sikes28 Comments

Welcome back as we continue our study of the Elder Futhark Script Runes!

Photo by Jan Sikes

Today, we continue on in the Hagal’s Aett Runes with Jera (Yair-ah)

Jera is the rune of harvest and of the seasonal year, which is ever turning. Jera signifies that each season of a cycle has its purpose, and so it also reminds us that the attainment of goals often takes time. A seed planted in spring must be given time to grow, and the resulting plant can only be harvested in its proper time. But provided you have put the necessary work into preparing the soil, tending the crops, and reaping the harvest, Jera indicates that your efforts will be successful.

As the fourth rune in Hagal’s Aett, Jera follows the series of three runes that focused on obstacles. If you have been dealing with adversity, Jera emerges as a positive sign that troubles are receding, and you are moving into a fortuitous time of forward activity. This is a rune for reaping rewards for hard work and perseverance.

It can indicate prosperity and abundance, success in business, or some other form of payoff for your efforts. Celebrate your good fortune, appreciate the joys of your current circumstances and strengthen your hopes and plans for the future.

Don’t rest on your laurels too long, however. Just as the work of preparing for winter must follow close on the heels of the harvest celebrations, the need for careful resourcefulness and quiet patience will come around again in due time. This is simply the natural cyclical order of life. Understanding this helps you to flow with circumstances rather than resisting them.

It can also represent a wedding and fertility.

At any rate, Jera symbolizes the union of opposites. The sun rises. The sun goes down – the meeting points of night and day. In this context, you are advised to acknowledge any adversity you are, or have been experiencing, will ultimately contribute to your growth – you are who you are because of the lessons life has taught you.

Birthdates associated with Jera – December 13 to December 28.

#TuesdayRunes – Isa

Published on by Jan Sikes37 Comments

Welcome to another segment of our journey through the Elder Futhark script runes!

Set of Wooden Runes made by Jan Sikes

Today’s Runic Symbol is Isa (ee-sah).

The Isa Rune handmade by Jan Sikes

The word, Isa, translates to ice. The keywords associated with the rune are: obstacles, standstill, stagnation, delay and coldness.

This is the exact opposite of our Tarot Reading yesterday, but remember this is not a reading. It’s simply a study of each rune from start to finish.

Isa is the third rune in the Hagal’s Aett, and the third in a row to carry a predominantly negative meaning.

As a representation of frozen water, Isa signifies a lack of movement, which is likely frustrating. There may be physical circumstances blocking our progress, a loss of energy, or mental blocks that you cannot see past in order to move forward.

It can also indicate a delay, and it is best to accept this as a reality in your current situation, instead of pushing against it. Know that the sun will eventually return to melt the block of ice and allow water to flow freely again.

In the meantime, take advantage of this still, static energy to practice focusing on the present moment. Meditation is highly useful now as it can help dissipate frustration and take your focus off of things you can’t control.

The main thing to remember when this rune shows up is that you don’t give up on your ambition or assume that a delay won’t work out. If there’s anything you can do to prepare for making progress once it becomes possible, put your energy there.

So, as always, there is a positive spin on what could be perceived as negative.

In the context of relationships, Isa can point to emotional coldness between people. Affection may be lacking and communication may have come to a standstill. I passionate romance may be cooling off.

One other aspect of this rune to note: The transparency of ice can also signify clarity. Evaluating your circumstances from a cool, emotionally detached viewpoint may prove helpful, which is another positive aspect of Isa.

The birthdays associated with Isa are November 28th – December 13th.

#Tuesday Runes – Nauthiz

Published on by Jan Sikes43 Comments

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

Today’s Runic Symbol is Nauthiz (Now-theez).

The keywords associated with this rune are: Need, necessity, scarcity, absence, restriction and have patience.

Nauthiz signifies hardship in the form of one’s needs not being met. This could indicate poverty, hunger, unemployment, lack of good health or lack of emotional support.

The rune stave represents the “need-fire” ritual fire lit from two large beams of wood that ancient Northern Europeans would light in times of extreme hardship or disaster, such as a famine or outbreak of fatal disease.

When this rune shows up in a reading, it can indicate that you may be experiencing a hardship that limits your ability to move forward or live comfortably, or a strong desire that appears impossible to fulfill. It could be that the possibilities are restricted due to your lack of resources and you are likely chafing at the constraints and/or becoming disheartened

The advice of this rune is to treat the situation as a period of learning. and an opportunity to strengthen your resilience. No one enjoys a hardship while it’s happening but when we look back on the experiences that made us who we are, generally at least a few of them were unpleasant.

Never allow bitterness, worry or despair to get the best of you, but rather use your gifts and talents to find ways to get your needs met. Remember that needs and limitations are necessary for growth, as we would never learn or accomplish anything significant if we always had everything we needed or wanted all the time.

Nauthiz may also be a warning not to get too greedy or obsessed with an unhealthy desire, which can lead to destructive behaviors and negative consequences. If you have been focusing too heavily on the material world, this is a sign to go within and tend to your spiritual development.

This rune can serve as a protection symbol. It can also help you maintain equanimity in difficult circumstances or activate magical workings focused on attraction or increase.

Again, this rune can be viewed in a positive light in that it can serve as a warning and offer protection.

The birthdates associated with this rune are November 13th to November 28th.