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PAGANISM
Norse Runes, Viking Symbols, and How
To Use These Magic Runes in 2021
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You may have come across Norse Runes on Pinterest, in the Marvel
movies with Thor and Loki, or maybe you’ve seen them on the Goblet of
Fire in Harry Potter. If you’re a fan of Tolkien, you may have seen them in
his novel “The Hobbit.”

These magic runes are incredibly fascinating! I’ll be speaking about the
Elder Futhark (pronounced foo-th-ark) runes, the oldest known Norse
Rune Alphabet and comprised of 24 unique symbols.

Remember there is a LOT of information to learn about Norse Runes and

this is an overview for beginners. I did my best to try to keep it very
informative but as simple as possible.

IF YOU’D LIKE TO HAVE YOUR OWN PDF OF ALL THIS

INFORMATION WITH BEAUTIFUL PRINTER-FRIENDLY PAGES AND
IMAGES, CONSIDER PURCHASING MY ELDER FUTHARK RUNES
PRINTABLE HERE. PERFECT FOR YOUR GRIMOIRE, BOOK OF
SHADOWS, JOURNAL OR TO ADD TO YOUR DIGITAL LIBRARY!
Table of Contents
 What Are Runes?
 History of the Ancient Norse Runes
  What’s the difference between Norse Runes and Tarot?
 What’s the Difference Between the Norse Runes and the Ogham Alphabet?
 Nordic Runes in Norse Mythology
 How To Use Elder Futhark Norse Runes
 How To Cast Norse Runes For Divination
 Elder Futhark Norse Runes Inscription Uses
 Elder Futhark Norse Bind Runes
 How To Activate Your Runes
 Elder Futhark Norse Runes Meanings
o Fehu Norse Runes Meaning
o Uruz Norse Runes Meaning
o Thurisaz Norse Protection Rune
o Ansuz Norse Odin Rune Meaning
o Raidho Norse Runes Meaning
o Kenanz Norse Runes Meaning
o Gebo Norse Love Rune Meaning
o Wunjo Norse Runes Meaning
o Hagalaz Nordic Runes Meaning
o Nauthiz Norse Runes Meaning
o Isa Norse Runes Meaning
o Jera Norse Runes Meaning
o Eihwaz Norse Runes Meaning
o Perthro Nordic Runes Meaning
o Algiz Nordic Protection Rune
o Sowilo Nordic Runes Meaning
o Tiwaz Nordic Runes Meaning
o Berkana Nordic Runes Meaning
o Ehwaz Nordic Runes Meaning
o Mannaz Nordic Runes Meaning
o Laguz Nordic Runes Meaning
o Inguz Nordic Runes Meaning
o Dagaz Norse Runes Meaning
o Othala (Odal) Norse Runes Meaning

What Are Runes?

Norse runes are extremely old symbols that have been found inscribed
onto stones in various parts of Northern Europe.

Runes are a group of symbols that make up the written alphabet and
diverse spoken languages by the Germanic people of Europe. It is believed
that Norse runes date back to at least around 150 AD, but this may be a
little bit too conservative.
 A likely theory is that the runic alphabet was developed by the Goths, a
Germanic people, from the Etruscan alphabet of northern Italy and was
perhaps also influenced by the Latin alphabet in the 1st or 2nd century BC.
Two inscriptions, the Negau and the Maria Saalerberg inscriptions, written
in Etruscan script in a Germanic language and dating from the 2nd and 1st
centuries BC, respectively, give credence to the theory of Etruscan origins
for runic.

Britannica –  Runic alphabet writing system

The word ‘rune’ is derived from an early Anglo-Saxon word

meaning ‘mystery‘ or ‘secret‘. It’s also important to mention that the Rowan
tree was spiritually revered, and runa is the root word used to identify the
Rowan tree.

The Norse runic alphabet consists of 24 letters divided into three

categories of 8 runes each, called Aetts.

History of the Ancient Norse Runes

As Christianity began to spread, the Runic alphabet was changed to the
Latin alphabet we know today. Yet, runes never wholly vanished, even
when they were banned by the Christian church. Why? Runic symbols
were used for magical intentions before they were ever used for writing.

Some pre-runic symbols(like the sun wheel) have been found on rock
carvings dating back 17,000 years. Some of these pre-runic symbols were
later incorporated into the runic alphabet.

Many Norse rune engravings were added to rocks, weaponry, jewelry, and
graves to ensure a departed loved one’s safe journey to the afterlife.

What’s the difference between Norse Runes and

Tarot?
A frequently asked question is the difference between runes and Tarot.
The most significant difference is that runes are very simple and can have
a much broader answer or meaning than a Tarot card, where the reader
can rely on images or pictures.

With Runes, it’s all about your intuition and what message you feel is
being conveyed. Although Runes predate the Tarot by at least a thousand
years, there are some similarities. One example is the runic symbol of
Eihwaz ((debated) either ay-wahz or eee-wahz), the Death card in Tarot,
and the number 13. The Death card is the 13th in the Major Arcana, and
the 13th runic symbol is Eihwaz. Similarly, they also symbolize
transformation, endings, new beginnings, and that “death” is just the end
of an era or cycle, but never the end of the story.
What’s the Difference Between the Norse Runes
and the Ogham Alphabet?
Since the Ogham alphabet is sometimes referred to as Celtic runes, there
is often confusion between these and Norse runes.

The Elder Futhark Rune symbols have no direct relation connection to

Oghams, but there are some similarities between the gods that created
them (Ogma and Odin).

However, interestingly the Irish wordrùn also means secret or mystery,

just like the Norse word runa.

The Theban alphabet, also known as the witches ’ alphabet or the

Honorian script, is also sometimes confused with Norse runes. However,
they are quite complex symbols and would not work well if trying to carve
into stone or wood. The Theban alphabet is most often used by Wiccans,
although these symbols are not exclusive to their practice.

Nordic Runes in Norse Mythology

It all starts with a vast Ash tree called Yggdrasill (pronounced igg-dra-sil)
located at the center of the Universe and contains the nine worlds of the
Norse realms collectively in its branches and roots. Beneath is the Well of
Fate (a bottomless pool) and the Norns (female spirits who protect the
roots of Yggdrasill by watering it with the divine waters of the Well of
Fate). The Norns also manipulate human lives as they twist, spin, and
intertwine the threads of fate and destiny. The Norns are said to be three
sisters named Urd (pronounced oo-rd), representing “What was”;
Verdandi  (pronounced Ver-dahn-di), meaning “What is coming”); and
Skuld (pronounced Skoo -ld), representing “What shall be.”

It’s important to mention that fate was not viewed in the same way it is
today in Norse mythology. Fate is not concrete, and although it is woven
into a person’s destiny, it is entirely within their power to change it. This
makes sense when translating runes; there would be no point if you
couldn’t change the outcome. Why bother?

So how does one read and interpret magical symbols that only Norns
could read? In Norse mythology, both gods and humans were unable to
read runes. Enter Odin, who had a reputation as a very wise and
intelligent god who was always seeking further knowledge. However, The
Norns wouldn’t reveal their secrets and mysteries to just anyone without a
great sacrifice. So Odin stabbed himself with his own sword and hung
upside down from a branch of the Yggdrasill tree so that he was able to
view the Well of Fate beneath him. There he stayed suspended for 9 days
rejecting food and water. Finally, the secrets and mysteries of the runes
appeared to him in the water of the Well of Fate beneath him.

There is also another story where Odin wishes to drink from Mimir’s “Well
of Wisdom” (pronounced Mee-mir, counselor to the gods and very wise
because he drank from the well of “Well of Wisdom” every day). So Mimir
allowed Odin to drink from the well, but only if he gave up his eye, which
he did and gained much knowledge from the loss.
How To Use Elder Futhark Norse Runes
When translating runes, it’s crucial to understand that meanings are not
literal and tend to be metaphors. For example, drawing an Uruz
(pronunciation “ooo-rooze”), which means Ox, doesn’t necessarily refer to
the animal but might symbolize strength or endurance.

When learning runes and their meanings, I’d recommend picking up a new
rune each day and keeping it with you or meditating with it. Focus
exclusively on one rune per day, and in just over three weeks, you’ll have
spent a day with each rune. It’s essential to pay attention to how you feel
with each rune and let your intuition play a part as well. You may also start
to notice rune symbols in your everyday life. This is a good thing! The
universe is trying to communicate with you! Don’t worry if you need to
repeat this process a few times. Be patient with yourself while you’re still
learning; it should be fun!

How To Cast Norse Runes For Divination

Those searchingfor an explanation or guidance from the spiritual world
can consult a set of Norse runes, the can be strips of wood or rune stones.

Runes hold the secrets or mysteries of the Universe and can be

interpreted by those who understand their meaning. However, runes will
never expose all knowledge in its entirety despite how vigorously we learn
and analyze them.

Divination is typically done on an 18” by 18” white cloth precisely for rune
casting, but whatever works best for you is fine. Take time to meditate
with your runes before casting and focus on your questions or goals.
When asking a question, it’s easier to ask for an outcome or help seeing
the big picture versus a yes or no answer.

For example, you could ask what the outcome of interviewing for a
specific job looks like. This allows for the possibility of more information to
come through your reading. Do not be concerned about reversed
symbols. Some folks don’t acknowledge them, and others see them as a
signal to slow down and wait a moment before proceeding. Don’t forget
to record your sessions in a journal, grimoire, or Wiccan book of
shadows for later insights.

Sometimes the same rune shows up frequently, and it’s essential to pay
attention. The universe may be directing you to a specific goal or speaking
about your life overall. It’s also important to pay attention to a rune that
may seem unconnected to your question. Don’t disregard it, as the
universe could be sending what it feels is a more critical message. Overall
the rune readings are deeply personal, and you must consider your
interpretations to be more accurate than anything you may read in a book
or online.

When you’re ready to cast your runes, lightly toss them onto your rune
cloth. Be sure to look upward, so you don’t see runes as they land. While
your eyes are raised, choose three runes at random. Consider them each
individually, and then contemplate any meanings they may have as a
whole. Some choose to read them as past, present, and future,
respectively.

Another exciting form of divination and a great way to connect spiritually

with nature is by tossing a small handful of twigs and identify any runic
symbols that appear.  

BEAUTIFUL GREEN JADE RUNE SET

Elder Futhark Norse Runes Inscription Uses
Runes aren’t just for divination and can also be used for jewelry or carved
into talismans for a magical goal. Feel free to use your creativity and
imagination when deciding what to carve or paint a rune onto. Rune
talismans are considered conscious and full of life, so they’re either kept
permanently or released once their purpose has come into fruition by
burying them in the Earth. Therefore, when using runes for inscriptions,
there’s no need to worry about choosing the “wrong” one. It’s more likely
it will simply be ineffective rather than hurtful or harmful.

Traditionally carved runes were pigmented with blood to empower them,

but you can use watercolor or acrylic paints. However, this is not required,
so please don’t feel this is necessary.

If you’re interested in the timing of creating a rune, consider the moon.

Runes representing growth or goals are best made during the waxing
moon, and those representing dispelling, or eliminating, are best created
during the waning moon.
When choosing inscriptions, the most straightforward and uncomplicated
way is writing them in a horizontal row. Traditionally this was done in odd
numbers of 3, 5, 7, or 9. However, as a peculiar, I’m not a fan of tradition
and believe you should choose any number you feel drawn to. Also,
remember that sometimes less is more, and don’t create confusion by
adding additional symbols. Sometimes simple is best. Think of it as
narrating a story and describing what you’d like the outcome to be. Some
even enjoy chanting or singing each rune’s name during creation but
remember it’s vital that you visualize and focus on charging it with your
intention.

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Elder Futhark Norse Bind Runes

A more complicated but beautiful way to inscribe runes is by using a “bind
rune.” This means adding two or more runes on top of each other to
create a unique symbol that can fuse and intensify magical energies.  It’s
also a great way to keep them secret, but in plain sight, and to someone
unfamiliar, it will just look like a pretty sketch. A bind rune symbol can be
placed in any direction (backwards, forwards, upside down, etc.) So don’t
worry about keeping them in a “straight-up” position, and feel free to
repeat a rune more than once. Have fun and get creative!

There is often some confusion about the difference between bind runes
and sigil creation. While these are two different techniques and magical
practices, you can absolutely use bind runes to create powerful sigils.

Check out this post if you’d like to know more about other Pagan, Witch,
or Wiccan symbols.
How To Activate Your Runes
Once you’ve created your rune, it’s time to activate it. This can be as
simple or as complicated as you prefer. The simplest way to activate your
rune is to meditate with it and visualize your goal. It’s recommended to
wrap it in cloth and leave it in darkness for some time while its power
develops and amplifies. When you unwrap it, you can blow on it to give it
life, and anoint it with essential oils, place it overnight beneath the light of
the moon or within incense smoke. It’s now activated, and you can close
the ritual however you choose. Place it somewhere you’ll see frequently.
Elder Futhark Norse Runes Meanings
Fehu Norse Runes Meaning
Pronunciation – Fey-who

Meanings – domestic cattle, money, prosperity

Interpretations – Money and credit or non-monetary well-being such as

success, luck, financial prosperity, fertility, or creation/destruction
(beginnings). Fehu is a great reminder to be grateful for what we have in
our lives and to share that with loved ones or your community.

If reversed – it can mean to slow down your plans or abandon them

altogether; you may experience disappointment, burnout, or make a
wrong decision. But, on the other hand, it may be a hint to regroup or be
more practical by budgeting, self-care, or reassessing your priorities.

Inscriptions – to increase financial strength or to manifest goals and

dreams.
Uruz Norse Runes Meaning
Pronunciation – oo-rooze

Meanings – Wild Ox, strength (physical, emotional, spiritual), untapped

potential, health, sudden or unexpected changes (usually for the better).

Interpretations – Wild Ox were honored for their power and strength,

but they were also untamed and feral with deadly horns, as you can see in
the rune symbol. It’s a reminder to have the strength to persist and keep
going despite adversaries or roadblocks. Use caution with your reactions
and attitude so that your spirit and power can be used to everyone’s
advantage.

If reversed – it can mean you missed or neglected an opportunity and

now lack determination or self-motivation. Instead, find a way to build up
and improve yourself and avoid holding yourself back, or you may miss
something truly remarkable.

Inscriptions – to enhance your self ambition and inspiration, healing

(physically, emotionally, or spiritually), or to discover a profound
knowledge of yourself and your motivations.
Thurisaz Norse Protection Rune
Pronunciation – thoo-ree-sahz

Meanings – protection, caution, ponder, observe, purging and the god

Thor

Interpretations – This rune symbolizes a thorn on a branch. It implies the

intelligence and foresight of choosing to be protective and watchful
instead of being hasty with an ambush or attack on a foe.  Be attentive
and cautious of your surroundings and attitude. This will protect you from
being taken advantage of or hurt. You should be in full cautionary and
alert mode. Be mindful. Calculate and assess every move you make. Do
not make decisions based on emotions.

If reversed –  defenselessness, vulnerability, or betrayal. You may be in

refusing to believe in your current circumstance.

Inscriptions – Protection, decisions, guidance, good fortune

Ansuz Norse Odin Rune Meaning
Pronunciation – ahn -sooze

Meanings – Communication, spiritual growth, signals or prophecies from

the universe or an ancestral god (occasionally Odin)

Interpretations – Advice may come in any form of communication, be it

through correspondence, orally – maybe through music. Pay attention to
information brought to you from an ancestor, the universe, or your higher
self. Now is the time to notice synchronicity in your surroundings:
numbers, clouds, songs, animal spirits, or phrases. If you are asking about
a new job or developing knowledge in any way, this is a good sign. Some
believe that this represents Yggdrasil and that it represents the spirituality
of the Universe in all its balance, no matter how confusing it may seem to
us. The Universe is everywhere and always within us.

If reversed –  Deception from yourself or Odin who always has his own
agenda. Be careful not to misconstrue signs and your vision may be
clouding at this time. It can also mean that you need to spend more time
connecting with yourself spiritually and with the Universe.

Inscriptions – divine communication, knowledge, spiritual awakening,

inspiration
Raidho Norse Runes Meaning
Pronunciation – rye-though

Meanings – journey (physical or spiritually), seeing the bigger picture,

change, reunions, travel, represents the wagon wheel

Interpretations – If your trip is physical, this is a good sign. However, if

your journey is spiritual, you need to be adaptable, see the right move for
you to make, and do it. Focus on the experience, not the destination.
Some interpretations reference the return of old friends or the
appearance of those you made a soul pact with before coming to this life.
Other variations believe the wagon wheel is representing the seasonality
of nature or the Wheel of the Year. Recognize that seasons can be
abundant or can wane. If you are feeling low, remember that you will not
feel this way forever, and beautiful, joyous days are ahead of you.

If reversed – Physical journey can mean disruption or delays. Plans may

go off course but remember, sometimes this can lead you to new
opportunities and lessons. It’s essential to remain open-minded.
Spiritually it can also mean stagnation, so it’s time to push through any
agitation or delusion you may be avoiding so you can flourish. Regarding
reunions, it can tell you are obstructing, and you need to re-evaluate your
attitude and behaviors.  

Inscriptions – Safe travel, intuition assistance or spiritual guidance

Kenanz Norse Runes Meaning
Pronunciation – kane- awze

Meanings – fire, torch, beacon, openings

Interpretations – This rune represents the banishing of darkness and

bringing forth the illumination of energy and creativity. This is a sign that
you are in harmony with the universe and that you are making progress
and development on something that was once holding you back. Be aware
this guidance has intense potential and allow it to open your mind to new
possibilities and assist you in progressing further.

If reversed – lack of fire or light. This indicates you may live in murky
darkness when it comes to your intuition or the universe. This can also
mean the closure of something, maybe a connection, friendship, job, or
intentions. This is an excellent time to reassess your priorities and work to
ground or stabilize before proceeding in any decision-making.

Inscriptions – restoration, creativity, inspiration, perception, revelation,

can add strength and power to your talisman.
Gebo Norse Love Rune Meaning
Pronunciation – gay-boh

Meanings – Unity, kindness or gifts – indicating balance and harmony

through generosity, forgiveness or self-sacrifice.

Interpretations – can indicate or symbolize a connection between two

people – the giver and the recipient. Gebo can mean that you are about to
receive a gift physically or emotionally, depending on context and
circumstances. It can also mean that you should contemplate your
contributions and self-sacrifice. Are you holding back or giving too freely
to those who may be taking advantage? With Gebo, it’s crucial to be
mindful of balance in relationships, whether it’s romantic, friendship or
business.

If reversed – cannot be reversed

Inscriptions – Love (physically or emotionally) and all types of

relationships
Wunjo Norse Runes Meaning
Pronunciation – woon-yo

Meanings – joy, pleasure, hope, euphoria

Interpretations – Wunjo’s exact interpretation is joy. It’s essential to let

go of ego and become harmonious with your higher self or the universe.
Always be present and mindful. Wunjo’s meaning is similar to the Law of
Attraction. Suppose you continue to have a pessimistic mindset. In that
case, you will attract negativity, but if you practice gratitude and
acknowledge all the good you have received, you will attract more positive
outcomes. If you’ve been gloomy or irritable, the Wunjo rune can be a
reminder to adjust your way of thinking to the brighter side. This sign is
also very positive for relationships – romantic or otherwise.

If reversed – a depressing time where you may be experiencing many

troubles