Complete Guide to Runes: Meanings, History and How to Use Them

The term “rune,” derived from the Old Norse word “rún,” meaning “secret” or “mystery,” reflects the profound and sacred nature of these symbols.

More than mere letters, runes are imbued with potent meanings and magical properties, serving as carriers of divine wisdom and cosmic principles.

From the ancient Elder Futhark to the more recent Anglo-Saxon Futhorc, the runic alphabets have adapted to different linguistic and cultural contexts, demonstrating their enduring relevance.

This article explores the origins, development, and multifaceted uses of runes, delving into their symbolism and meanings, as well as how to read them and create your own.

Viking Symbols: Powerful Meanings from Norse Mythology

History and Origin of Runes

The history of runes stretches back to the early centuries of the Common Era, with the first known inscriptions appearing around 150 AD. They are believed to have evolved from earlier alphabets used by Mediterranean peoples, such as the Etruscans or the Romans.

The oldest runic inscriptions have been found in Denmark and Northern Germany, regions where the Germanic tribes resided. These inscriptions often appeared on everyday objects, including weapons, jewelry, and tools, indicating their use in both mundane and ceremonial contexts.

Runes were not merely letters but carriers of potent meanings and magical properties.

The Svingerud Runestone

The Svingerud Runestone, was found in a grave near Tyrifjorden, west of Oslo, Norway.

This sandstone object features Elder Futhark inscriptions and has been radiocarbon dated to between 1 and 250 CE, during the Roman Iron Age.

This makes it the oldest datable runestone known in the world and potentially the oldest known runic inscription​

The Rune Alphabets

Elder Futhark

The Elder Futhark, the oldest and most universally recognized runic system, comprises 24 characters.

It is divided into three groups of eight runes, known as aettir, each associated with different deities and cosmic principles.

The Elder Futhark is known for its balanced and symmetrical design, reflecting the natural order and harmony sought by the ancient Germanic tribes.

Younger Futhark

Developing around the 9th century, the Younger Futhark is a simplified version of the Elder Futhark, containing only 16 characters.

This reduction in characters mirrors the phonetic changes in the Old Norse language.

The Younger Futhark was predominantly used during the Viking Age in Scandinavia for inscriptions on runestones, weapons, and other artifacts.

Anglo-Saxon Futhorc

The Anglo-Saxon Futhorc expanded upon the Elder Futhark, adjusting to the phonetic requirements of Old English.

This alphabet, used primarily in England, contained between 26 and 33 characters.

It reflects the adaptability of runes to different linguistic and cultural contexts, demonstrating their versatility and enduring relevance.

Symbolic and Phonetic Aspects of Runes

Runes were not merely letters but symbols imbued with profound meanings.

Each rune’s form, name, and sound (phoneme) contributed to its overall significance. For example:

• Form: The shape of each rune is simple and angular, making it easy to carve into hard materials like wood and stone. The forms often reflect the natural world, such as the flowing lines of water or the jagged peaks of mountains.
• Name: Each rune has a name that encapsulates its essence. For instance, the rune Gebo (ᚷ) means “gift,” representing generosity, exchange, and partnership.
• Sound: The phonetic value of each rune connects it to specific words and concepts. For example, the rune Raidho (ᚱ), which represents travel and journeying, is phonetically linked to the sound “R,” found in words related to movement and travel in various Germanic languages.

Interpretation and Uses of Runes

Runes have been employed for a variety of purposes throughout history, ranging from practical uses in writing and communication to mystical applications in divination and magic.

Writing and Inscriptions

Runes were initially developed as a writing system.

They were carved into a wide array of materials such as stone, wood, metal, and bone, making them highly versatile. Inscriptions often commemorated significant events, such as battles, treaties, and the lives of notable individuals.

Runestones, monumental stones inscribed with runes, were common in Scandinavia and served both as memorials and markers of territory.

Memorial Stones

Runestones were particularly significant as memorial stones, honoring deceased loved ones and notable figures within the community.

These stones often featured intricate carvings, combining runic text with symbolic imagery to convey complex messages of remembrance and respect.

Divination

One of the most intriguing uses of runes was in divination, a practice believed to unlock insights into the past, present, and future.

Each rune symbol carries specific meanings and energies, which can provide guidance and predictions when cast or drawn in a reading.

The practice of rune casting involves throwing rune stones onto a cloth or surface and interpreting the symbols that appear, much like reading tarot cards.

Magic and Rituals

Runes were also used in magical practices and rituals, believed to hold inherent power that could influence the physical and spiritual realms.

They were often inscribed on amulets, talismans, and other objects to invoke protection, prosperity, and healing.

Runes were sometimes incorporated into spells and charms, with practitioners chanting or inscribing runes to achieve desired outcomes.

Rune Divination

Rune divination, also known as rune casting, is a powerful method for gaining insights into various aspects of life. Understanding how to cast and interpret runes can unlock deeper wisdom and personal revelations.

Methods of Rune Casting and Reading

Single Rune Draw

One of the simplest forms of rune divination involves drawing a single rune from a bag or container.

This method is often used for daily guidance or to gain clarity on a specific question.

The rune drawn is interpreted based on its traditional meanings and its relevance to the question or situation at hand.

Three-Rune Spread

A more complex method is the three-rune spread, which provides a broader perspective on a situation.

Typically, the runes are drawn and placed in a line, each representing different aspects:

• Past: The first rune provides insight into past influences or events that shape the current situation.
• Present: The second rune reflects the current state of affairs or the querent’s immediate circumstances.
• Future: The third rune offers a glimpse into future possibilities or outcomes.

The Cross Spread

In the Cross Spread, five runes are drawn and placed in the shape of a cross.

Each position in this layout has a specific meaning, providing a comprehensive look at the querent’s situation from various perspectives.

1. Center: Represents the heart of the matter or the core issue at hand.
2. Top: Indicates the spiritual or higher influences at play, offering insight into the more esoteric or divine aspects affecting the situation.
3. Bottom: Reflects the foundational or grounding aspects, showing the base upon which the current situation rests.
4. Left: Signifies past influences or obstacles that have shaped the present circumstances.
5. Right: Suggests future possibilities or outcomes, pointing towards what may come as a result of the current path or decisions made.

The Circle Spread

The Circle Spread involves drawing nine runes and arranging them in a circular pattern.

Each rune in this spread represents a different aspect of life, providing a holistic view of the querent’s circumstances and influences.

1. North: Health and physical well-being, highlighting the querent’s physical state and vitality.
2. Northeast: Career and ambitions, focusing on professional life and aspirations.
3. East: New beginnings and opportunities, pointing to potential starts and fresh chances.
4. Southeast: Creativity and personal growth, indicating areas of personal development and creative expression.
5. South: Relationships and emotional connections, emphasizing the querent’s interactions and emotional bonds with others.
6. Southwest: Challenges and conflicts, identifying obstacles and struggles.
7. West: Intuition and inner wisdom, reflecting the querent’s inner guidance and subconscious insights.
8. Northwest: Spiritual path and higher purpose, relating to the querent’s spiritual journey and overarching life goals.
9. Center: Overall guidance or the querent’s central concern, providing a summary or key focus of the reading.

The Well Spread

The Well Spread is a seven-rune layout that focuses on deeper spiritual insights and guidance, drawing from the metaphor of a well as a source of wisdom and clarity.

Each position in the Well Spread corresponds to specific aspects of the querent’s spiritual and personal journey.

1. Top: Represents the querent’s higher self or spiritual goal, offering insight into the ultimate aspirations and spiritual targets.
2. Upper Left: Indicates the hidden influences or subconscious forces at play, shedding light on what lies beneath the surface.
3. Upper Right: Signifies the querent’s conscious mind or current thoughts, reflecting the present state of mind and focus.
4. Center Left: Relates to past experiences or influences that are impacting the current situation, providing context and background.
5. Center Right: Represents the near future or immediate possibilities, showing what is on the horizon based on current actions and circumstances.
6. Bottom Left: Reflects the querent’s inner strengths or resources, identifying personal qualities and assets that can be relied upon.
7. Bottom Right: Indicates external influences or support, highlighting the impact of outside forces and allies on the querent’s path.

Interpretation of Rune Combinations

The meanings of runes are multifaceted and can vary depending on their combinations and positions in a spread. When interpreting rune combinations, consider the following:

• Context: The question or situation being addressed.
• Proximity: How the runes interact with each other based on their positions.
• Repetition: The appearance of similar or complementary runes, which can emphasize certain themes or messages.

For example, drawing Fehu (ᚠ), which represents wealth and prosperity, alongside Uruz (ᚢ), symbolizing strength and vitality, might indicate financial strength or robust health in a specific context.

Elder Futhark Rune Meanings and Symbols

Each rune in the Elder Futhark alphabet carries a unique meaning, symbolizing various aspects of life, nature, and spirituality.

Fehu (ᚠ)

Meaning: Wealth, prosperity, abundance

Symbol: Cattle, which were a measure of wealth in ancient times

Interpretation: Fehu represents material wealth, success, and financial gain. It signifies the beginning of a prosperous period and the importance of nurturing and protecting one’s resources.

Uruz (ᚢ)

Meaning: Strength, health, power

Symbol: Aurochs, an extinct species of wild ox

Interpretation: Uruz symbolizes physical strength, vitality, and raw power. It encourages harnessing inner strength and resilience to overcome challenges.

Thurisaz (ᚦ)

Meaning: Protection, conflict, reaction

Symbol: Thor’s hammer, a symbol of protection and destructive power

Interpretation: Thurisaz represents defense and protection against adversaries. It can also indicate a time of conflict or confrontation, urging caution and strategic action.

Ansuz (ᚨ)

Meaning: Communication, wisdom, divine inspiration

Symbol: Odin, the chief god associated with wisdom and knowledge

Interpretation: Ansuz signifies divine communication, insight, and inspiration. It highlights the importance of listening to inner guidance and seeking wisdom from higher sources.

Raidho (ᚱ)

Meaning: Journey, travel, movement

Symbol: A chariot or wagon, representing movement and travel

Interpretation: Raidho indicates a journey, both physical and metaphorical. It suggests progress, change, and the importance of following one’s path with purpose and direction.

Kenaz (ᚲ)

Meaning: Knowledge, creativity, illumination

Symbol: A torch, symbolizing light and knowledge

Interpretation: Kenaz represents enlightenment, creativity, and intellectual pursuits. It encourages exploring new ideas, gaining knowledge, and expressing creativity.

Gebo (ᚷ)

Meaning: Gift, partnership, exchange

Symbol: An “X” shape, representing the exchange of gifts

Interpretation: Gebo symbolizes generosity, balance, and partnerships. It emphasizes the importance of giving and receiving, as well as the value of harmonious relationships.

Wunjo (ᚹ)

Meaning: Joy, happiness, harmony

Symbol: A flag or banner, often associated with victory and celebration

Interpretation: Wunjo signifies joy, harmony, and contentment. It heralds a period of happiness and well-being, urging appreciation for the positive aspects of life.

Hagalaz (ᚺ)

Meaning: Disruption, hail, transformation

Symbol: Hail, which can be both destructive and transformative

Interpretation: Hagalaz represents sudden disruption and transformative forces. It can indicate challenges and upheaval, but also the potential for growth and renewal.

Nauthiz (ᚾ)

Meaning: Necessity, constraint, endurance

Symbol: A need-fire, lit by friction in times of necessity

Interpretation: Nauthiz signifies need, constraint, and perseverance. It highlights the importance of endurance and resourcefulness in overcoming difficulties.

Isa (ᛁ)

Meaning: Ice, stillness, introspection

Symbol: Ice, representing stillness and preservation

Interpretation: Isa represents stillness, introspection, and focus. It suggests a period of pause and reflection, urging patience and careful consideration.

Jera (ᛃ)

Meaning: Harvest, cycle, reward

Symbol: A year’s cycle, often represented by the harvest

Interpretation: Jera symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and the rewards of hard work. It encourages patience, highlighting the importance of timing and natural cycles.

Eihwaz (ᛇ)

Meaning: Endurance, protection, mystery

Symbol: The yew tree, known for its strength and longevity

Interpretation: Eihwaz represents resilience, protection, and the mysteries of life and death. It encourages strength in the face of adversity and trust in the unknown.

Perthro (ᛈ)

Meaning: Fate, mystery, chance

Symbol: A dice cup, representing the element of chance

Interpretation: Perthro symbolizes fate, destiny, and the unknown. It suggests an element of mystery and the unfolding of hidden truths.

Algiz (ᛉ)

Meaning: Protection, defense, connection to the divine

Symbol: An elk, associated with protection and higher consciousness

Interpretation: Algiz signifies protection, defense, and spiritual connection. It encourages seeking higher guidance and safeguarding oneself from harm.

Sowilo (ᛊ)

Meaning: Sun, success, vitality

Symbol: The sun, representing light, success, and energy

Interpretation: Sowilo represents success, vitality, and positive energy. It heralds a time of achievement and renewed vigor.

Tiwaz (ᛏ)

Meaning: Justice, leadership, authority

Symbol: The god Tyr, associated with justice and sacrifice

Interpretation: Tiwaz signifies justice, leadership, and moral integrity. It encourages taking responsibility and making fair decisions.

Berkana (ᛒ)

Meaning: Growth, fertility, renewal

Symbol: A birch tree, symbolizing new beginnings and growth

Interpretation: Berkana represents growth, fertility, and renewal. It heralds new beginnings and the nurturing of new ideas or ventures.

Ehwaz (ᛖ)

Meaning: Movement, progress, trust

Symbol: A horse, representing partnership and progress

Interpretation: Ehwaz signifies movement, progress, and trust. It highlights the importance of cooperation and mutual support.

Mannaz (ᛗ)

Meaning: Humanity, self, relationships

Symbol: A human figure, representing mankind and the self

Interpretation: Mannaz represents humanity, the self, and interpersonal relationships. It encourages self-awareness and harmonious connections with others.

Laguz (ᛚ)

Meaning: Water, intuition, flow

Symbol: Water, symbolizing intuition and the flow of emotions

Interpretation: Laguz signifies intuition, emotions, and the subconscious. It encourages going with the flow and trusting one’s inner guidance.

Ingwaz (ᛜ)

Meaning: Fertility, potential, inner growth

Symbol: The god Ing, associated with fertility and potential

Interpretation: Ingwaz represents fertility, potential, and inner growth. It highlights the importance of nurturing one’s inner potential and preparing for future achievements.

Dagaz (ᛞ)

Meaning: Day, breakthrough, transformation

Symbol: Daylight, representing clarity and transformation

Interpretation: Dagaz signifies breakthrough, clarity, and transformation. It heralds a new beginning and the dawning of new insights.

Othala (ᛟ)

Meaning: Heritage, home, inheritance

Symbol: An estate or ancestral property, representing heritage

Interpretation: Othala represents heritage, home, and inheritance. It emphasizes the importance of roots, family, and the legacies passed down through generations.

Crafting and Using Runes

Creating and using your own set of runes can be a deeply personal and rewarding experience. This process involves selecting materials, crafting the runes, and performing rituals to consecrate and empower them.

Here, we provide practical guidance on making your own rune set and using them respectfully and effectively in your spiritual practice.

Making Your Own Rune Set

1. Choosing Materials

The material you choose for your rune set can significantly impact your connection to them. Common materials include:

• Wood: Traditional and easily accessible, wood runes connect you to nature and have a warm, organic feel. Different types of wood carry their own symbolic meanings and energies.
• Stone: Stone runes are durable and grounding, often chosen for their natural beauty and permanence. Each type of stone has unique metaphysical properties that can enhance your readings.
• Crystal: Crystals add a layer of energetic properties to your rune set. Specific crystals, such as amethyst for intuition or rose quartz for love, can amplify the meanings of the runes.
• Bone or Antler: These materials connect to the ancestral and primal aspects of the runes, adding a deep, earthy quality to your practice.

2. Crafting the Runes

Once you’ve selected your material, follow these steps to craft your rune set:

1. Gather Tools: You will need carving tools, sandpaper, and paint or a wood-burning tool, depending on your chosen material and method.
2. Cut or Find Pieces: Cut the material into uniform pieces, typically small enough to fit comfortably in your hand. For wood, use branches of a similar diameter; for stones, select flat, smooth pieces.
3. Carve or Draw Symbols: Carefully carve or draw the runic symbols onto each piece. Focus on the meanings and energies of each rune as you work.
4. Sand and Finish: Smooth the edges and surfaces with sandpaper. If desired, seal the runes with a natural finish or paint to protect and preserve them.

Rituals and Consecration

3. Cleansing the Runes

Before using your runes, it is essential to cleanse them to remove any residual energies. Common methods include:

• Smudging: Use sage, cedar, or other sacred herbs to smudge the runes, passing them through the smoke.
• Moonlight: Place the runes under the moonlight overnight, especially during a full moon, to cleanse and recharge them.
• Salt: Bury the runes in a bowl of sea salt for several hours to purify them.

4. Consecrating the Runes

Consecration is the process of dedicating your runes to their intended purpose and imbuing them with your personal energy. Follow these steps:

1. Create Sacred Space: Set up an altar or a quiet, sacred space where you won’t be disturbed. Light candles, incense, or play soft music to create a focused atmosphere.
2. Set Intentions: Hold each rune in your hands, close your eyes, and set your intentions for its use. Visualize the rune glowing with energy and purpose.
3. Invocation: Call upon your deities, spirit guides, or ancestors to bless and empower the runes. Speak words of dedication, asking for their guidance and protection.
4. Charge the Runes: Place the runes on your altar and leave them there for a designated period, such as a full day or night, to absorb the energies of your sacred space.

Using Runes Respectfully

Using runes respectfully involves honoring their historical and cultural significance. Here are some key points to consider:

• Cultural Respect: Acknowledge the origins of the runes and the traditions of the Germanic and Nordic peoples. Avoid cultural appropriation by educating yourself about their history and significance.
• Intentions: Use runes with positive intentions and respect for their power. Avoid using them for harmful purposes or manipulative practices.
• Sharing Knowledge: When teaching or sharing rune practices with others, do so with respect and accuracy, ensuring you convey their true meanings and significance.

Daily Practices and Integration

Incorporating runes into your daily life can deepen your connection to their wisdom. Consider the following practices:

• Daily Draw: Draw a rune each morning and reflect on its meaning throughout the day. Use it as a guide for your actions and decisions.
• Meditation: Meditate on a specific rune, visualizing its symbol and contemplating its deeper meanings. Allow its energy to influence your thoughts and emotions.
• Ritual Use: Integrate runes into your rituals and ceremonies, using them to mark significant events, set intentions, or seek guidance from the divine.

Final Thoughts from A Higher View

Despite their ancient origins, runes remain relevant today, offering timeless wisdom and guidance.

In modern times we can still find value in the runes’ ability to provide clarity, insight, and direction, making them a versatile and enduring tool for spiritual practice.

Embrace the journey of exploring runes, and allow their wisdom to guide you on your path. Create your own rune set, incorporate daily practices, and engage with the rich tapestry of meanings that runes offer.

By doing so, you can deepen your connection to these ancient symbols and uncover new layers of understanding and insight.