 Feuh |
 Uruz |
 Thurisaz |
 Ansuz |
 Raido |
 Kenaz |
 Gebo |
 Wunjo |
 Hagalaz |
 Nauthiz |
 Isa |
 Jera |
 Eihwaz |
 Pertho |
 Algiz |
 Sowulo |
 Teiwaz |
 Berkana |
 Ehwaz |
 Mannaz |
 Laguz |
 Inguz |
 Dagaz |
 Othila |
 Odin |
Receiving Feuh is an indication that the material fulfillment
and satisfaction of what one has worked so hard to attain is
at hand. Enjoy the rewards this rune offers, while at the
same time, share with others, and give careful thought to the
new responsibilities involved.
If upright Feuh is surrounded by reversed runes, one is being
counseled to maintain one's current endeavor. Delay and
obstacles may be difficult, but success will eventually follow
if patience is practiced (Peschel, 35).
Reversed:Feuh reversed usually indicates that
unless one alters current actions or attitudes, one will likely
experience a material or emotional loss. The surrounding
runes will offer more information, for instance, if reversed
Feuh is surrounded by positive runes, one is likely dealing
with short term obstacles and delays and the loss may be
only temporary. A full negative reading (all runes reversed),
however, is more serious, and may indicate that the
emotional or material loss is for good.
Take heart when Feuh is reversed. One should be careful
not to make matters worse by making further financial
commitments at this time. Patience will heal the frustrations,
and help lower the obstacles in one's path (Peschel, 36).
Uruz embodies one's vital impulse "to be." The ultimate
primitive instinct that overcomes all forces of destruction by
reforming itself into new patterns. It teaches one how to
survive and endure against all odds through its energy of
courage, perseverance and timely aggression.
Exhibiting the aggressive energy of the aurochs is extremely
powerful and can become destructive very quickly. Bringing
these forces under the control of the will is the goal, for then,
that energy can be transformed into an undiluted source of
creative power (Aswynn, 15-16).
Uruz usually expresses a major change in one's spiritual or
physical process. One may experience, for instance, an
emotional upheaval that brings out aggression, yet makes an
emotional cleansing and healing possible, or one may
experience a resurgence in physical health.
Reversed:When Uruz is reversed, one may be
experiencing a lack of motivation, or weakness in one's own
will power. Other times, Uruz reversed indicates that good
opportunities have been passed by because one has not had
the courage or self-confidence to deal with the risks
involved. In a mainly negative rune cast, it would be wise to
pass up new opportunities. One does not contain the
necessary energy to move forward at this time (Peschel,
39).
Thurisaz stands on the borderline of the subconscious and
conscious, and in it's negative form, the shadow of the
subconscious. If its energy can be tapped and brought into
the conscious, Thurisaz can be very helpful. If repressed and
left unacknowledged, it can become very negative by
manifesting itself into destructive behavioral patterns
(Aswynn, 19).
The difficulty with upright Thurisaz in a reading is
understanding whether it's positive or negative forces are in
action. One should try to identify if its active forces are
being directed outward or if its passive forces are being
directed inward. Look to the surrounding runes for
assistance at this time. (Aswynn, 18).
Reversed:As mentioned above, Thurisaz upright
embodies both positive and negative energy. This Rune does
not have clear cut upright and reversal meanings. A possible
meaning of Thurisaz reversed is that of blocked creative
energy or inhibiting forces within the unconscious that serve
to constrain or restrict the individual (Aswynn, 20).
It may also indicate an unwillingness of heeding another's
advice. Moving forward now may result in worse
repercussions than when in an upright position. One is quite
possibly deceiving oneself at this time. Use great caution and
be careful not to make a current situation worse (Peschel,
42).
Preceding Ansuz in the Futhark is Thurisaz, and the two
forces work in opposition as well as conjunction, much like
Yin and Yang. For Ansuz represents the release of the
individual from the restrictive barriers of the subconscious
while Thurisaz represents the perpetuation and agitation of
these barriers (Aswynn 24-25).
When Ansuz appears in a reading, one can expect to acquire
wisdom, either through advice from an outside source or by
acquiring it oneself. Ansuz is the messenger rune, and it asks
that one pay attention to the signals being received at this
time. Chance and trickery may play a role here, such as a
message delivered by an unsuspecting person. More likely
however, the message will be delivered within the work
place, such as during a meeting, or by someone wise, such
as an elder. Watch all types of interactions carefully at this
time. The advice given now will be wise and honest, bearing
much weight on one's current situation. Heed it, it may help
solve one's dilemma (Peschel, 43-43).
Reversed:Ansuz reversed means much the
opposite. One may be subjected to many sorts of failed
communications at this time, whether of a relationship or
business nature. It counsels one to be careful when listening
to outside sources for advice. Outside sources may in fact
be the source of interference at this time. It also may imply
a misuse of knowledge on a personal or academic level, or
the refusal on one's part to learn from past lessons (Peschel,
44-45).
Ideas inherent in Raido are freedom, moral consciousness,
and the ability to distinguish right from wrong and act with
courage. For one to be in charge of one's own life by
exercising control over external and internal forces and by
directing one's own path, is a mark of "riding" as opposed to
being ridden (Aswynn, 26-28).
If Raido is found amongst negative runes, one should be
careful about following the counsel of others or embarking
on the new path without the correct preparation. In
particular, if found near reversed Algiz, Raido may indicate
that the one is about to become the "ridden one" (Peschel,
47).
Reversed: Reversed Raido may be seen as a
warning. It indicates "this is the wrong path" and counsels
one to not move down it. Outside forces may be dominating
one at this time, and the more one gives them leverage and
control, the more one loses one's own power (Aswynn, 28).
Reversed Raido may also indicate that one must undertake a
journey for unexpected reasons, such as to visit a sick
relative. Delays and confusion may characterize travels at
this time. One's passage may not be safe, and postponing
plans until a later time may be wise (Peschel, 48).
On a psychological level, insight into one's consciousness
and trusting one's intuition is represented by Kenaz. In
combination with Raido, which is the Rune that directs one's
path, Kenaz will shed light on the path, showing the
individual the way (Aswynn, 33-34).
When found in a rune cast, Kenaz may indicate that things
are "lighting or opening up." What was previously dark, is
lighted by Kenaz. One may experience a renewed sense of
clarity and concentrative determination. New endeavors are
ready to be taken on as well as new relationships.
Reversed:Kenaz reversed indicates a shroud
has fallen or that the light has darkened around a situation or
relationship. One's vision may be unfocused or lost
altogether. Reversed Kenaz calls on one to let go of that
past, for that way of being is no longer valid and the penalty
of not facing up consciously will result in a lost opportunity
(Blum, 119).
If found amongst delay runes, Kenaz reversed may act to
block all forms of progress and create much personal
anxiety. If found with Nauthiz or reversed Nauthiz, reversed
Kenaz may reveal that a partnership is coming to and end,
especially if this partnership is of a romantic nature (Peschel,
51).
In matters of romance, Gebo may indicate the beginning of a
new partnership or a further commitment in an already
established partnership, such as marriage. It may also
appear to remind those in established relationships that the
union "is the gift". It is delicately held together by each
individual's unique identity, sense of sacredness and potential
growth. The recognition and honoring of this separateness is
of utter importance in keeping the energies joined and
balanced.
Gebo works similarly in matters of business by indicating
that new partnerships may be forming or that established
partnerships may be cemented further by legal agreements
or contracts (Peschel, 52).
In both instances, the drawing of boundaries in some respect
is usually at issue as well. The honoring of these the
agreements and boundaries are critical in keeping the forces
in equilibrium.
On a spiritual level, Gebo represents the mystical union of
the Self and the higher consciousness. Through complete
giving and complete surrendering of one's own ego to the
higher Self, the greatest gift of all may be achieved, the unity
of the Self (Aswynn 38).
Receiving Wunjo in a rune cast is a positive omen that often
brings great emotional joy, the fulfillment of wishes and new
energy. Wunjo is a Rune of well-being and indicates that the
shifts that needed to take place have occurred and one is
now free to receive its blessings. This realignment within the
self may call one to renounce existing plans or ambitions and
Wunjo counsels that it is timely to do so (Blum, 115-116).
Wunjo also holds a relationship with creative abilities, as
does Kenaz. To artists and others that hold creative abilities
as key, Wunjo often expresses a time of great joy in their
work (Peschel, 55).
Reversed: A reversed Wunjo usually indicates
the inaccessibility to desired outcomes or one's emotional
well-being. One may be experiencing a difficult crisis that is
characterized by much unhappiness (Peschel, 55).
The surrounding runes show offer some help in discovering
the problem areas. If reversed Wunjo is found with Raido,
for instance, it may indicate a difficult or unsafe journey
(Peschel, 55).
Reversed Wunjo counsels one to be cautious at this time and
avoid important decision making. Consideration and
Deliberation are called for instead.
In a psychological sense, Hagalaz represents the disruptive
forces happening in one's unconscious. These forces stem
from the past and take the form of unresolved problems,
unlearned lessons or repressed memories, that continue to
influence one's current behavior patterns. They are likely to
cause discomfort and act as a precursor to change
(Aswynn, 49-52).
When Hagalaz appears in a Rune cast, it indicates
disruptions on many levels, and although there is no reversed
position, Hagalaz always acts through reversal. It is the
"Great Awakener." In one fatal swoop, Hagalaz may act by
ripping away one's current understanding and perception of
one's reality. At other times, Hagalaz may act by awakening
one from a deep slumber, gradually bring one to one's
senses.
During this time, one's relationships and partnerships may
fail. Plans may go awry, and money supplies may become
emptied. The only power one can hope to utilize at this time,
is one's own inner strength and will (Blum, 128-129).
As another Rune of delay, Hagalaz is a solid indication to
avoid new starts. Limitations and delays are often imposed
by nature and therefore not completely negative. Thus it is
important at times to recognize that one does have
limitations. The counsel of Hagalaz is to ease back and try to
remain content. Attempting to fight against Fate at this time
will likely lead to more anguish (Peschel, 58).
The need that comes from the past may very well place
restrictions on the present and future. Nauthiz represents the
needs which gnaw on one's sense of self. It is the place
where fear and fears of failure reside. If left unattended, the
fears will act to constrict one from doing something
constructive. This may take the form of constricting one's
creativity or one's relationships to others. (Aswynn 54-55).
It often indicates a delay, or the passing through a difficult
situation. It counsels one to have patience and identify the
source of the need. Is it an emotional one that stems from
the fear of failure? Or is it a material one, such as the
necessity for money? Nauthiz may be indicating that it is
time to face up to this fear. One clearly won't be able to
enjoy beneficial outcomes until the need has been carefully
tended. Taking the time to heal the self is at issue here.
Reversed:A reversed Nauthiz is even more
devastating. One is warned to postpone any current plans,
for it is likely that one will be setting off the wrong course of
action. Continuing forward at this time will likely lead to
failure, despair and quite possibly disaster.
If paired with Jera, it may be indicating that one is being
called on to make up for past misdeeds. If paired with
Hagalaz, the past has really come back to haunt, for a very
powerful outside force, such as God, may step in and
demand that one does indeed pay (Peschel, 61).
On a psychological level, Isa may represent areas in the
unconscious that reveal one's deeply ingrained attitudes or
patterns or one's genetic imprint from birth. Changing them
may not be possible and attempting to bring them to light isn't
really advisable. It is a frustrating influence and usually
means that a period of time (or a season) may be involved
before moving on is possible (Aswynn, 59).
Few things can actively grow in Isa's bleak environment, and
one is often called on to perform a personal sacrifice by
letting go of old ideas or associations that are perpetuating
this situation. During these times, one needs to look inward,
for there may be no outside help available.
There is nothing wrong with halting at times, Isa is a warning
that in this state of "spiritual winter" one is often about to
make the wrong choice or has overestimated the amount of
energy it will require to move forward. One may only be
capable of maintaining at this point.
Look carefully at the runes surrounding Isa. Unconscious
energies are at work. If the reading is otherwise positive, Isa
may indicate only be a short delay. If surrounded by very
negative runes, it would be wise to completely stop, for one's
efforts will not be rewarded at this time.
Jera is a gentle and hopeful Rune. It is encouraging and
implies beneficial outcomes when the cycle has been
completed. One may assume that the careful planting has
been done and that through careful cultivation, one will
succeed. During long periods of cultivation, Jera offers one
perseverance and encouragement (Blum, 117).
Quick outcomes are not characterized by this Rune, for
there is always a period of time involved before the reaping
the harvest. One's patience and hard work will be rewarded
in the end.
If Jera falls within a negative rune cast, it may be indicating
that careful cultivation was not done and that delays and
difficulties may characterize one's endeavors. Depending
upon the runes involved, it may be asking one to traverse
back and begin again or to become more diligent in one's
current efforts.
If paired with Nauthiz or Hagalaz, Jera may be indicating
that one's current path is not suited for the individual. It
serves as a warning that one may continue ending up back in
this same place until the right path has been chosen.
As Jera's symbol indicates, what comes around, goes
around. It cautions one against speaking ill or acting poorly
of others at this time, for that energy may in turn come back
in a similar negative fashion (Peschel, 65).
In its symbol, the vertical axis in Eihwaz represents the
vertical axis of the world tree that connects the three realms
of heaven, earth and the underworld. By connecting these
three worlds, Eihwaz acts as the communicator and
supporting backbone force between them (Thorsson, 44).
In historic times, Eihwaz was associated with hunting and its
daring nature. It is a Rune of strong assertive and defensive
powers, possibly giving one the necessary drive to take a
blind leap of faith into the void. Action, endurance and
persistence are also characteristics of Eihwaz. If in response
to a question about a new venture, Eihwaz counsels one to
take the risk now. One has the necessary courage and
protection to act swiftly and move forward successfully
(Aswynn, 63-65).
Eihwaz also informs one that through foresight and right
action, difficulties may be avoidable. If doubtful situations
are on the forefront, it may be wise to anticipate problems
now that may occur in the future. The ability to foresee
consequences is definitely a sign of a defensive and
powerful thinker. At this time, Eihwaz puts one on notice
that problems can be turned into victories if caught in time.
If paired with delay runes, Eihwaz counsels to hold firm, for
one's influences may not be felt at this time. Enduring a
delay might even prove beneficial. If paired with Ansuz or
Jera, Eihwaz may help lead to the uncovering of a matter
that has remained hidden for some time (Peschel, 66-67).
Its essence is water, which represents areas beneath the
conscious, beneath our knowing, yet possibly not beneath our
feeling. Pertho represents the hidden potentials within
oneself, talents which have not yet manifested.
In a reading Pertho may reveal a hidden aspect of oneself,
or signify a secret finally coming to light. Look to the
surrounding runes for assistance at this time. Receiving
Pertho in response to a direction question, however,
indicates that what is hidden should remain so. It is not
timely, leave it alone (Aswynn, 69-70).
Reversed:
A reversed Pertho may indicate just
the opposite. A death of some sort, as opposed to a birth.
Energy flowing backwards and becoming blocked, instead of
forwards into free space (Aswynn, 69).
Its usually a sign of congestion in both an emotional and
relationship sense. Disappointments on all levels may arise at
this time and one is cautioned not to expect too much.
Reversed Pertho indicates a testing of one's character, for
not all obstructions are negative, they can be seen as
challenges as well (Blum, 104).
As a symbol of protection, Algiz may represent a time when
unwanted influences venture into one's newly marked
territory. With this rune comes challenges and new
opportunities, always leading one into new territories. Watch
for the rustle in the sedge grass Algiz warns, it is on your
side, serving as a shelter or shield while entering into new
ventures (Blum, 111).
On a spiritual level, Algiz acts as one's guide towards a
higher level of consciousness. One may experience a
cleansing of the soul at this time, for Algiz acts by clearing
out old energies, creating a space so that new energies may
flow in its place (Gundarsson, 115).
Reversed:
Algiz reversed shows signs of
personal vulnerability and sacrifices without gain. It is likely
that one is being misled or taken advantage of by others. It
also may indicate that one is being deceived by oneself.
Through built up subconscious fears, one's clarity and
rational is blocked. Decisions made now, will likely be based
on fear or lack of experience instead of honesty, and Algiz
reversed warns against making important decisions at this
time.
Failing health may also be indicated by reversed Algiz, on
both emotional and physical levels. Care and thoughtfulness
is called for now. One should not attempt to take on more
burdens or add to the burdens others are carrying (Blum,
112).
Found complementary to Raido on the Rune-ring, Sowulo
represents the higher spiritual force that directs an individual
along one's path, while Raido represents the act of directing
or controlling. By acting as the higher will, Sowulo has
associations with spiritual guidance and leadership. It is the
essence of one's sense of self and self worth (Aswynn,
74-76).
Sowulo also represents the wholeness one achieves by
integrating the self with the higher Self. Therefore, the
impulse towards self-realization is introduced by this Rune,
the particular "life path" that one must follow. Becoming
conscious of one's own true essence and bringing it into
form is at issue here, for after all, what one is striving to
become, is by nature what one already is.
Sowulo's combination of both introverted and extroverted
energies act to supply an abundant source of energy at this
time. If one finds oneself retreating in the face of pressing
external demands, however, know that it is a timely journey
inward to gather strength (Blum, 139-140).
There is no reversed position for Sowulo but there is danger
in its power to strike suddenly, as its shape also represents
lightening. Usually this "leveling" occurs in Sowulo's effort to
sweep away the old in preparation for something greater
(Aswynn, 76).
Symbolized by a spear, the weapon of the sky god, Teiwaz
represents the principals of justice, bravery and victory over
competitors. The shape also illustrates the "single course of
action" embodied in Teiwaz, giving one the power to be
extremely focused and make decisive, strategic decisions
(Gundarsson, 123).
Receiving an upright Teiwaz is a very good sign to one who
may be faced with a difficult conflict. It indicates that the
directive energy necessary to fight the battle, whether it's a
legal or personal one, is ready and available (Aswynn, 81).
In response to relationship questions, Teiwaz indicates that
the relationship and timing are beneficial and likely to
succeed. One should move forward, for the bond is real and
there is much work to be done together (Blum, 121).
Reversed:
A reversed Teiwaz may indicate
failures on a competitive level and a loss of trust or lack of
fidelity on a relationship level. Energy has been impeded in
some way through ill-timed action or otherwise, and one's
life force may feel torn down or exposed. Issues of trust,
loyalty and authenticity are usually at stake here, and the
ability to honestly examine one's motives is critical.
In relationship matters, reversed Teiwaz may indicate
powerful misunderstandings and difficulties in
communications. The possibility of resolution can usually be
found in the surrounding runes (Blum, 121-122).
Receiving Berkana in a reading indicates the creation of
energy into new forms. Berkana holds the promise of "what
will come to be." This could be as literal as the birth of a
child or the birth of a creative idea. Growth is occurring and
new beginnings are often being formed at this time.
Upright and surrounded by positive runes, Berkana is very
positive and usually leads to very tangible results. If
surrounded by negative runes, is may indicate that the
success will be short lived (Peschel, 80).
Reversed:
A reversed Berkana usually signifies
domestic problems or problems with a person that one
considers very close. Its presence frequently indicates
anxiety about that close person. Alone in an otherwise
positive rune cast, Berkana does not represent irreconcilable
differences, but merely serves as warning (Peschel,80).
The warning may be that the ground has not been carefully
cultivated. The growth, therefore, can not take place or will
be delayed until proper cultivation occurs. New beginnings
now will not prove beneficial, in fact if one attempts one at
this time, it is likely that the current situation will continue to
recycle itself until the careful cultivation occurs.
Receiving Ehwaz indicates change, one that often involves
travel or even a physical change in one's dwelling place. It is
a Rune of shifts and adjustments that leads one to steady
growth and gradual development. Relationships and
Businesses must undergo these shifts and adjustments in an
effort to grow and prosper. Ehwaz will provide the
adaptation and cooperation necessary at this time of growth
(Blum, 125).
Reversed:
Reversed Ehwaz alone in a rune cast
doesn't carry a significant negative weight. In fact it may
continue to hold its upright meaning, for instance if paired
with Laguz, reversed Ehwaz may indicate a very far
journey. If paired with Raido, the journey may be short, but
one of pleasure (Peschel, 83).
If found amongst negative runes, Ehwaz reversed often
indicates a loss of some sort. It may be that a relationship or
partnership has ended, or that one feels an opportunity has
been missed.
The opportunity may not have been right, for not all
possibilities are appropriate. Ehwaz counsels one to remain
steadfast and not implement any new changes at this time.
What is timely to one's nature needs consideration here, as
does the belief that the right opportunities will at the right
time (Blum, 126).
The nature of human interdependency is key in Mannaz.
People that share the same environments are connected and
dependent on one another. This rune symbolizes the
cooperative effort people share in exerting the common good
of the tribe (Aswynn, 89-90).
Often this rune indicates that one may receive cooperative
aid or good advise in dealing with the problem at hand. If
Mannaz is referring to an individual, it may indicate that one
is too absorbed by the problem and has made it seem much
larger than necessary. If that is the case, the time to seek
honest outside advice is now (Peschel, 84).
Modesty, devotion and patience is counseled here.
Demanding merit or focusing on outcomes is unlikely to be
beneficial at this time. Instead, attempt to experience the
true presence by doing the task for the task's sake (Blum
93-94).
Reversed:
Mannaz reversed usually indicates
that one is alone in the current situation, that cooperative aid
from others is unavailable. This interference may have come
from an individual, a group, or from within oneself. Mannaz
calls on one to turn within and discover the true enemy of
one's progress at this time. For the outside enemy is often a
reflection of what one may be unable or unwilling to accept
as coming from within (Blum, 94).
When Laguz appears in a rune cast, it usually indicates that
unseen powers are actively working to shape and connect.
Careers, partnerships and emotions are all subject to the
natural ebb and flow which allows new shapes to take form.
Laguz draws one towards union and merging, and a
closeness to one's own intuition. Attuning to one's own
rhythms is important here, and Laguz often signals that it is
time to realign, revalue and reorganize the self (Blum, 127).
If seen with Pertho, Laguz may indicate that one is being
guided by a higher conscious or psychic abilities, which may
come in the form of a prophetic dream to warn one of a
potentially dangerous situation or bad offer. Listening to
one's intuition now is both timely and beneficial (Peschel,
87).
Reversed:
Receiving Laguz reversed indicates
that one has been or will be mislead by one's own intuition.
This failure to draw upon one's own instinct may have
placed one in a situation that is beyond one's aptitude.
It is a rune that signifies a temptation into doing the wrong
thing, or "taking the easy way out" of a situation. Either way,
it will lead to trouble and likely leave one feeling much
anguish. Unless paired with delay runes, Laguz counsels one
to get out of these situations immediately (Peschel 88-89).
Inguz often appears in reading to indicate the completion of
a cycle and a progression to the next. It signifies the need
for one to complete a cycle, and offers one the strength
required to do so. Completing projects or clarifying one's
state of mind is absolutely necessary now, for the ground
must be fertilized before new growth can occur. When a
cycle ends, a new beginning always follows and Inguz marks
a time of joyful deliverance into a new life (Blum, 107).
If obstructions have characterized one's past, Inguz
represents an emergence from these obstructions, and one
may experience a release of old burdens, such as anxiety or
tension.
Inguz may also indicate that the time has come to outgrow
the past. Old behaviors and beliefs may not have a place in
this new life and Inguz counsels that it is time to leave them
behind (Blum, 108).
Overall, however, Inguz is a positive rune, and receiving it is
a sign of good fortuitous outcomes. It often acts as a
precursor to a very important event in one's life, like the birth
of a child, a new job or a new love interest. Its presence
signifies one is on the verge of new beginnings...(Peschel,
91).
Expect a dramatic transformation when receiving Dagaz.
This may come in the form of an attitude or circumstances
within a situation taking a giant u-turn. Whether internal or
external, the transition will be radical and force one into a
new way of living or seeing one's life.
Complete trust is at issue here, and one may be asked to
leap into the abyss blinded and empty handed. The time for
one's initiation into the next cycle is now (Blum, 135).
Although complex and powerful in its nature by its
association with the radical exchange of forces, Dagaz is
positive and often introduces a time of success and
prosperity. It has no reversed position, and is usually a sign
of great strength and increased growth.
If found in a negative reading, the fire of Dagaz may
dissolve the negative aspects, especially when found
amongst delay runes. One will be able to overcome the
obstacles and move towards victory. In response to a
problematic situation, Dagaz amongst negative runes may be
trying to pointing out that one has the ability to turn the
situation around (Peschel, 92-93).
As the rune of inheritance and possessions, one must look to
understand both concepts: Inherited powers and inherited
possessions.
Inherited powers may be the wisdom passed down from
one's ancestors, that center that binds an individual in a soul
sense. These powers are mysterious and Othila serves to
strengthen them. It may call one back to one's homeland or
roots, or cause one to experience that feeling of "coming to
know" one's identity. When found in conjunction with
Mannaz and Ansuz, this is especially true. (Gundarsson,
157).
Inherited possessions usually take the form of property rights
or if representing money, the form of a pension. Othila also
helps solve legal questions that may surround the
possessions being passed down (Peschel, 94).
Reversed:
On a spiritual level, Othila reversed
signals a detachment to one's roots or inherited powers, or
that they have been left unattended and are now weak. On a
physical level, it may mean a delay in gaining immobile
wealth, and that outside help is unavailable. If surrounded by
reversed runes, a continued rush may cause irreparable
damage to the situation. Thoroughness is called for here, and
the examination of one's current motives and attitudes
(Peschel, 95).Feuh: Posessions, Worldly Matters
Feuh
symbolizes one's mobile wealth and material gain. It's
traditional meaning of cattle, stems from how the primitive
Northern Europeans represented wealth. Feuh's influences
are positive and usually indicates prosperous opportunities
arriving or the ability for one to create prosperous
opportunities (Aswynn, 10). Uruz:Passions, Energy
Uruz is a vital untamed
source of energy. Its traditional meaning, the Aurochs, was
a species of ferocious wild oxen that once roamed the
moorlands. Uruz's energy is raw, uninhibited and wild,
differing greatly to the domesticated energy found in it
neighbor Feuh (cattle). Thurisaz:Thor,the Thorn
Thurisaz has references
to the mighty Hammer of Thor and as the name implies, the
piercing sting of the thorn. Its traditional association to "the
giants" and the god Thor represents its two fold meaning: the
forces of chaos and the keeper of those forces (Aswynn,
17). Ansuz:Communication, Language
Ansuz embodies the
principals of order, reason, consciousness, and
communication. Language is vital here, yet is only one
expression of communication. Its traditional meaning of "a
god," implies the ruler over these conscious principals. Raido:A Journey, Change, Progress
The traditional meaning of
Raido is riding or journey. Riding indicates the creating or
directing of movement, such as taking charge of a new
situation or being able to direct a course of action. Journey,
indicates travel in both a literal and allegorical sense. A
journey for pleasure or education, or a journey into the soul.
As the rune that symbolizes both leadership and guidance,
Raido offers sound advice in a reading. Kenaz:Enlightenment, Wisdom
The traditional meaning
of Kenaz is torch or light, symbolizing intellectual knowledge
and consciousness. "To know" or "to be able to know" is the
essence in Kenaz, as well the ability "to pass" the knowledge
on to others. Also symbolized in the torch of Kenaz is
creative inspiration and the ability maintain a concentrative
effort. Gebo:Partnerships,Giving,Gifts
The traditional meaning of
Gebo is "gift." The equal and opposite forces joined in Gebo
represent the reconciliation or integration of these forces.
Giving, receiving and preserving the equilibrium is at issue
here. Receiving Gebo in a reading usually heralds a time of
fortuitous outcomes, and one should be grateful, yet remain
mindful of the responsibilities involved (Aswynn, 40). Wunjo:Joy,Wish,Hope
The primary god
associated to this rune is Wodan/Odin and Wunjo represents
his nature as the fulfiller of wishes. Its traditional meaning is
perfection, although many associations have been derived
from the German word "wonne," which means joy (Aswynn,
41). Hagalaz:Hail, Elemental Disruption
The traditional
meaning of Hagalaz is hail, and like hail, Hagalaz symbolizes
a disruptive element in nature. The disruptive elements of
nature are beyond one's control...as is often the case when
Hagalaz appears. Nauthiz:Need, Necessity
The traditional meaning
of Nauthiz is need or necessity, and its shape resembles the
form of two sticks being rubbed together in an effort to
create fire. Isa:Ice, Stillness
The traditional
meaning of Isa is ice. It is the element of water in its densest
state, which has been molded to a shape, as opposed to
being fluid. The principals represented here are preservation
and the resistance of change. It is a necessary force in
nature, one that slows the evolutionary process, disabling
uninhibited growth (Aswynn, 57). Jera:Year, Season, Harvest
The traditional meaning
of Jera is year or harvest. It has associations to the divisions
of time and of seasons or cycles leading into one another.
As the 12th Rune in the Futhark, Jera divides the Futhark
and represents the time of one year (Aswynn, 60). Eihwaz:Yew Tree
The traditional meaning
of Eihwaz is yew, and as the yew tree, Eihwaz represents
the Yggdrasil, which contains the melding of life and
death...the life giving force that sustains life eternally. Pertho:Womb, Hidden
The traditional
meaning of Pertho is relatively undeterminable, "dice cup"
and "secret" have been offered up, yet most feel that
Pertho's nature is of something secret, something hidden.
Earlier, it was stated the Pertho is the opening of Berkana,
the birth of what Berkana holds as a promise...The process
of birth is mysterious, as are the mysteries that surround the
protective layers of the womb. In either case, Pertho
resembles a container of sorts. Both embody the concepts of
remaining secret only to be thrust out at a later time...and
that of fate (Aswynn, 66). Algiz:Protection, Elk Sedge
The traditional meaning of
Algiz is protection, and its shape resembles that of the elk
sedge or splayed hand. It also resembles the branches of the
Yggdrasil stretching into the sky, or man reaching up in an
attempt to communicate with a higher consciousness. Sowulo:Sun, Wholeness
The traditional meaning of
Sowulo is sun, which was regarded as a life-giving, feminine
force in ancient times. Its symbol of two equal halves
represents the progress of the sun's movement throughout
the year by the division of the summer and winter solstices. Teiwaz:Sky God, The Warrior
Teiwaz, its traditional
meaning, the sky god Tyr, who was a god motivated by a
sense of justice, governing over legal and social issues
(Aswynn, 80). Berkana:Birch Tree, Fertility
Berkana has long been
associated with the birch tree. The birch tree does not bear
fruit, yet its branches touch the heavens...The significance
of not bearing, yet touching divinity are important here, for it
is the "processes" of gestation and creativity that are
represented within Berkana, as well as their association to
the divine (Aswynn, 82). Ehwaz:Horse, Movement
The traditional meaning
of Ehwaz is horse and most runologists agree that it
represents a pair of horses. Like Raido, Ehwaz deals with
movement and travel, but more specifically to the vehicle of
travel, and as Raido represents the ability to take control of
situations, Ehwaz represents the ability to adapt to new
situations (Aswynn, 85). Mannaz:Humankind, The Self
The traditional meaning of
Mannaz is mankind or humankind. It is being within the self,
it is knowing thyself, it is from the point from which all other
relationships flow. And at the same time, this rune speaks of
mankind's ancestors and progenitors, the inheritance we all
can share. Laguz:Lake, Sea, Intuition
The traditional
meaning of Laguz is lake, water or sea. It embodies the
conducting & mediating principles of water, as well as the
principles of the concentrative imagination and intuitive
knowledge.The forces of mutual attractions have also been
attributed to this rune, most likely due to the association of
the seas ebbing and flowing tides (Aswynn,93-94). Inguz:The God Ing, New Beginnings
The
traditional meaning of Inguz is the god Ing or the Hero god.
It is a rune of fertility, and if one were to add an upright and
reversed "v" to the top and bottom of Inguz, as it sometimes
is depicted, one would see a resemblance to the DNA chain.
In this sense, Inguz is also regarded as a rune of progeny,
representing the "son of" and "inherited genes" (Aswynn,
96). Dagaz:Day, Transformation
The traditional meaning
of Dagaz is day, and is usually associated with the dawning
of the new day, when dark leads into light; when the sun is
at its zenith; or twilight, when light leads into dark. It
indicates the end of a cycle and the beginning of the next,
and this change will be explosive, which contrasts greatly
with Jera, for Jera indicates a gentle change that usually
involves a long period of time or season (Aswynn, 102-103). Othila:Inheritance, Homeland
Othila's literal meaning
can be traced back to the German word "adel" and Dutch
word "edel," both meaning nobel. It appears as the
combination of Gebo and Inguz, and can be interpreted as
the "gift of Ing." (Aswynn, 99).