Runic alphabet

The 24 Runes of the Elder Futhark are separated into 3 different Aettir or Aesir (the Ace of the card deck).

Freya's Aett:
The runes of Freyr’s Aett speak to what is needed for basic existence on Earth, for experiencing and interacting with other humans as well as the divine, and for living a fulfilling life.

Hagal’s Aett:
The runes of Hagal’s Aett speak to the unavoidable experiences of life— disruption, change, stalled progress, and even unexpected luck. They help us navigate the more difficult aspects of our life’s path and remind us that nothing lasts forever.

Tyr’s Aett:
The runes of Tyr’s Aett speak to aspects of the dance between the visible and invisible realms, with runes directly connected to ancient deities, natural forces, and humanity itself.

 

The first eight runes belong to the Aett of Fehu (Goddess Freya)

Beginning and Prosperity

 

This group brings together symbols that represent the flow of creative energy, wealth and balance at the beginning of a cycle. The runes that compose it stand out for their connection with the materialization of ideas, stability and harmony. Here is a breakdown of their meaning:

  • Fehu (wealth): Symbolizes prosperity, abundance and success in projects. It represents the energy of resources in motion, reminding us that sharing and managing well what we have is key to maintaining balance.
  • Uruz (strength): Represents vitality and inner power to overcome challenges. This rune is also associated with renewal and personal transformation.
  • Thurisaz (the giant): It is a rune of protection and defense against adversity. It also invites us to reflect before making important decisions, helping us to act wisely.
  • Ansuz (communication): Related to divine knowledge and clear expression, this rune symbolizes the importance of listening and sharing ideas. It also favors the reception of intuitive and spiritual messages.
  • Raidho (the journey): Represents movement, both physical and spiritual, and progress on our life path. It reminds us that each experience is part of a larger journey towards personal growth.
  • Kenaz (the torch): Symbolizes enlightenment, creativity and knowledge. It is a rune that guides us in the search for hidden truths and the expression of our passion.
  • Gebo (the gift): Associated with generosity and balance in relationships, this rune represents reciprocity and fair exchange. It teaches us the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship between giving and receiving.
  • Wunjo (joy): Represents satisfaction, happiness and harmony. This rune indicates that, after the challenges, comes a period of success and well-being.

 

The second eight runes belong to the Aett of Hagalaz (God Heimdall)

Transformation and Challenges

 

The runes of this group are associated with overcoming trials, profound change and cycles of destruction and renewal. They represent uncontrollable forces of nature and life that push us to adapt and grow. These runes remind us that, although the road may be difficult, challenges prepare us for a stronger rebirth.

  • Hagalaz (the hailstorm): Symbolizes the destruction that gives way to renewal. It teaches us that difficulties, although painful, are necessary to eliminate the old and make room for the new.
  • Nauthiz (the need): Represents perseverance in the face of obstacles and the importance of facing limitations with patience. It reminds us that, even in times of scarcity, overcoming is possible if we work hard.
  • Isa (ice): Symbolizes stagnation and the trials associated with immobility. It invites us to reflect and avoid paralysis due to fear or indecision, while waiting for the right moment to come.
  • Jera (the annual cycle): Represents the fruits of our actions, which come at the right time. This rune reminds us that every effort has its reward, but only when the time is propitious.
  • Eihwaz (endurance): Symbolizes strength in the face of adversity and the ability to transform fears into personal growth. It is a rune that inspires us to resist even in the most difficult moments.
  • Perthro (destiny): Represents the unknown, the mysteries and the acceptance of what we cannot control. It teaches us to adapt to the unexpected and to trust the flow of life.
  • Algiz (protection): This is a rune of defense and protection against negative forces. It reminds us that the connection with our intuition and spiritual guidance can protect us in difficult times.
  • Sowilo (the sun): Symbolizes the clarity and success that comes after overcoming the shadows. It is a rune that encourages us to seek the light and inner strength to move forward with confidence.

 

The last eight runes belong to the Aett of Tiwaz (God Tyr)

Honor and Strength

 

This group is associated with sacrifice, justice and the courage needed to stand up for what is right. Tiwaz runes represent virtues such as integrity, leadership and determination, reminding us that success often requires perseverance and a deep commitment to our values.

  • Tiwaz (justice): Associated with the god Tyr, it symbolizes sacrifice for the common good and the search for truth. It inspires us to act with honor and courage, even in the face of difficult challenges.
  • Berkano (rebirth): Represents new beginnings, fertility and personal growth. This rune teaches us that change and regeneration are essential for progress.
  • Ehwaz (the horse): Symbolizes mutual trust and collaboration in relationships or projects. It reminds us of the importance of moving forward as a team towards a common goal.
  • Mannaz (humanity): Represents connection with others, cooperation and mutual support. This rune reminds us that our strength lies in our relationships and community.
  • Laguz (water): Symbolizes intuition, emotions and the power of the unconscious. It teaches us to flow with circumstances and to trust our inner wisdom.
  • Ingwaz (fertility): Represents the latent potential and the development of new ideas or projects. It is a rune of incubation that invites us to wait for the right moment to act.
  • Dagaz (dawn): Symbolizes enlightenment and transformation that leads to new beginnings. It reminds us that after darkness always comes light.
  • Othala (heritage): Represents roots, family and ancestral legacy. It teaches us to honor our traditions while using that knowledge to build our future.

History and Origin of the Nordic Runes

Norse runes emerged in ancient Germanic and Scandinavian cultures around the 2nd century AD. This writing system, known as ancient Futhark, was engraved on stones, weapons and tools, serving both practical and ceremonial functions. Each symbol had a profound meaning and was seen as a bridge between the earthly world and spiritual forces.

The design of the runes was deeply linked to the beliefs of the time, which venerated the forces of nature and the Norse gods. According to mythology, Odin, the god of wisdom, obtained the knowledge of the runes through an extreme sacrifice, hanging himself from the World Tree, Yggdrasil, for nine days and nights. This mythological account highlights the sacredness of the runes and their connection to the divine, giving them an essential role in the spiritual life of these cultures.

  • Runes as a Divination Tool

In ancient times, runes were used to interpret destiny and receive guidance in times of uncertainty. Practitioners would cast them on a surface and analyze their disposition to decipher messages about the present and possible futures. This method was based on the belief that runes could connect those who used them with higher energies, offering clarity and wisdom.

Today, runes continue to be a spiritual resource for many people. They are used in both personal readings and group ceremonies, where the meaning of each rune is interpreted according to the overall context. Their purpose is not limited to foreseeing the future, but also helps to explore inner issues and make decisions in harmony with one’s life purpose.

  • Runes in Rituals and Spiritual Practices

In addition to their divinatory use, runes have a prominent place in spiritual rituals. Each symbol is considered to carry a specific energy, and is used in talismans, amulets or even meditations to channel its strength. These practices seek to harmonize people with the energies represented by the runes, allowing a deeper connection with nature and the cosmos.