Quick Answer
Runes are an ancient Germanic alphabet used for writing, divination, and magic. The most common set, the Elder Futhark, consists of 24 symbols, each representing a phonetic sound and a deep cosmological concept (like "Wealth," "Joy," or "Ice"). To use a Runes Guide effectively, you do not "predict the future"; rather, you cast the stones to reveal the hidden currents shaping your present moment. By interpreting the symbols that land face up, you gain direct guidance from the subconscious and the divine.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- More than an Alphabet: Each rune is a key to a specific energy in the universe.
- Odin's Sacrifice: Legend says Odin hung from the World Tree for nine days to discover the runes.
- Materials Matter: Runes are traditionally carved into wood, bone, or stone.
- Wyrd: Runes tap into the web of fate (Wyrd), showing probability, not certainty.
- Respect: This is a sacred system; approach it with reverence, not as a party trick.
Before Tarot cards captured the imagination of the mystic world, the Northern Europeans consulted the Runes. The word "Rune" translates to "whisper," "mystery," or "secret." Unlike cards, which are rich with visual imagery, runes are stark, angular symbols carved into hard surfaces. They are direct, blunt, and powerful.
Reading runes is not about fortune-telling. It is about analyzing the threads of "Wyrd" (fate) that are currently active in your life. The runes do not tell you what will happen; they tell you what is happening beneath the surface and what the likely outcome will be if you do not change your course. They are tools of warrior wisdom, demanding courage and honesty from the seeker.
The Magic of the North: A Brief History
The Elder Futhark is the oldest form of the runic alphabets, used by Germanic tribes from the 2nd to 8th centuries. In Norse mythology, the god Odin sacrificed himself to himself, hanging upside down from Yggdrasil (the World Tree) for nine stormy nights to gain the wisdom of the runes. This myth underscores the intensity of the system: wisdom comes through sacrifice and changing one's perspective.
The Three Aetts: Structuring the Universe
The 24 runes are divided into three families or "Aetts" of 8 runes each.
Freya's Aett (1-8): Deals with the physical plane, survival, creation, and worldly forces (cattle, strength, protection).
Heimdall's Aett (9-16): Deals with the psychological plane, crisis, change, and the development of the self (hail, need, ice).
Tyr's Aett (17-24): Deals with the spiritual plane, synthesis, and the transformation of the soul (sun, horse, inheritance).
Key Runes to Know
Here are three foundational runes to start your journey:
Meaning
- Fehu (F): "Cattle." Represents liquid wealth, new beginnings, abundance, and earned income. It is the fire of creation.
- Uruz (U): "Aurochs" (Wild Ox). Represents raw physical strength, health, vitality, and untamed potential.
- Ansuz (A): "God/Mouth." Represents communication, wisdom, divine inspiration, and truth. The rune of Odin.
How to Cast Runes
There are two main ways to consult the stones.
The Blind Pull: Keep your runes in a pouch. Focus on your question. Reach in and pull one or more stones.
The Cast: Hold all the runes in your cupped hands. Shake them while focusing on your question. Gently toss them onto a white cloth. Read only the ones that land face up.
Tip: Pay attention to orientation. Some readers interpret "Merkstave" (reversed) runes as having the opposite or blocked meaning. Others read them as internal challenges.
Simple Spreads for Beginners
The Single Rune (Odin's Draw): Best for a "Yes/No" or a daily focus. Ask: "What do I need to know right now?" Pull one stone.
The Norns (Three Rune Spread):
1. Urd (Past): The situation that led to the current problem.
2. Verdandi (Present): The current challenge or action required.
3. Skuld (Future): The likely outcome if the current path is followed.
Making vs. Buying Your Set
Traditionally, a runemaster carved their own runes to imbue them with their "Önd" (breath/spirit). If you are crafty, find a branch of ash, oak, or birch. Slice it into discs. Carve the symbols and stain them red (traditionally blood, but red ochre or paint is fine).
If you buy them, cleanse them immediately. Bury them in salt or smudge them to reset their energy.
Practice: The Daily Draw
The best way to learn 24 symbols is one at a time.
Try This Exercise
- Each morning, pull one rune.
- Don't just read the book definition. Look at the shape. Does Isa (Ice) look like an icicle? Does Sowilo (Sun) look like a lightning bolt?
- Carry the stone in your pocket all day.
- At night, journal: How did the energy of that rune show up in your day? Did Thurisaz (Thorn) manifest as a prickly conflict? Did Wunjo (Joy) manifest as a good meal?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "Blank Rune"?
Also called the "Wyrd Rune." It was added in the 1980s by Ralph Blum. Traditionalists reject it, arguing the ancients didn't use it. Modernists use it to mean "Fate/Unknown." Use your intuition.
Can I read runes for myself?
Yes, runes are excellent for self-reflection. However, be honest. Don't re-cast just because you didn't like the answer. The runes are notoriously blunt.
Are runes dangerous?
No. They are just symbols. However, they connect to powerful archetypes. Treat them with respect. Do not ask frivolous questions or try to manipulate others with them.
Do I need to be Norse/Viking?
No. While they are a Germanic heritage, wisdom is universal. Anyone can learn to read runes, just as anyone can learn Yoga or Kabbalah.
Cast Your Fate
Begin your journey with the Elder Futhark. Our hand-carved Amethyst Rune Sets combine the wisdom of the north with the intuition of the violet ray.
Shop Rune SetsYour Journey Continues
Runes are more than a divination tool; they are a language of the soul. They teach us that we are the weavers of our own web. By consulting the stones, you are not giving up your power to fate; you are asking for the wisdom to shape it. Listen to their whisper.