The Ancient Magic Of The Runes

The casting of runes is a fascinating divination practice dating back to the ancient Germanic and Scandinavian peoples. The rune symbols originally served as an alphabet for written communication in various Germanic languages until the Latin alphabet was later adopted.

But the runes retained their archetypal symbolism and time evolved into a powerful tool for divination, magic, and meditation. The origin of word ‘rune’ actually stems from the old Germanic word for ‘secret’ or ‘mystery.’ The modern mystique of the runes lies in how it connects us to the wisdom of the ancients.

The runes are a set of 24 symbols, each with its own unique symbolic meaning and energy signature. Traditionally it is made of natural materials, such as stone, wood, or bone. The most common use of runes is for divination purposes, where the symbols are cast, or drawn, and then interpreted to gain insight into a particular situation or question.

Like other divination tools, the runes offer a gateway to tapping into the collective unconscious. These symbols have been used for centuries by countless people, each leaving their own energy imprint on the universal interpretation of each. When we work with the runes, we therefore tap into the collective wisdom it represents and gain access to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

A charming aspect of the runes is their connection to nature. Many of these ancient symbols were derived from natural elements, such as trees, animals, and weather patterns. By engaging with the runes, we also connect with the natural world and its rhythms, which empowers us with greater balance and harmony in our lives and aligns us with the flow of the universe.

In Norse legend, the runic alphabet was discovered by Odin himself, and so the runes are more than just a collection of handy symbols one could carve on a stick. Instead, they are symbols of great universal forces, and of the gods themselves ~ Patti Wigington

In addition to divination, runes can also be used for manifestation and meditation. Each symbol has its own unique energy signature, which can be harnessed for various purposes. For example, the rune Fehu represents wealth and abundance, while Isa represents stillness and introspection. By meditating on these symbols, or incorporating them into our intention-setting and manifesting practices, we can tap into their energy and manifest our goals, wishes and desires.

However, it’s important to remember that the power of the runes are not contained in the symbols themselves, but in our own spiritual connection to them. We must therefore aways approach the runes with respect and humility, recognizing that they are a tool for channeling spiritual growth and self-discovery. By working with the runes in a mindful and intentional way, we can unlock their magic and tap into the eternal wisdom of the universe.

Apart from rune casting for divination purposes, there are many other ways to use the runes in one’s daily spiritual routine and other metaphysical practices. The most important aspect, no matter how you may choose to use it, is to ensure that it is tailored to your unique needs in a way that resonates with you.

For example, I cannot meditate with typical mainstream meditation music. In fact, it makes me more tense and restless, instead of calming my mind! Believe it or not, a few years ago, I discovered that playing rock music helps me much more to center and ground my energy, clear my mind of intrusive thoughts, and achieve a mindful, calm state.

There is no correct or wrong in how we meditate, because there is only one best way – your way. if you feel guided to use a particular rune as your meditation symbol, then simply go for it!

Those who used them for magic took the supernatural powers of the runes seriously. As one Viking poet put it, “Let no man carve runes to cast a spell, save first he learns to read them well ~ Nicole Sanderson

Below is a brief list of the runes and the symbolic meaning and metaphysical application of each:

Fehu: Symbolizes wealth and abundance. It can be used to attract material and financial success.

Uruz: Represents strength, courage, and vitality. It can help us overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

Thurisaz: Symbolizes protection, defense, and boundaries. It can be used to ward off negative energy and defend against attacks.

Ansuz: Represents communication and wisdom. It can help us speak our truth and connect with our inner guidance.

Raido: Symbolizes journeys, both physical and spiritual. It can be used to facilitate travel or to guide us on our spiritual path.

Kenaz: Represents creativity and transformation. It can help us tap into our creative energy and bring about positive change in our lives.

Gebo: Symbolizes partnerships, generosity, and gifts. It can be used to strengthen relationships or attract abundance.

Wunjo: Represents joy, happiness, and fulfillment. It can be used to attract positive energy and manifest our desires.

Hagalaz: Symbolizes disruption, change, and transformation. It can be used to break old patterns and bring about new beginnings.

Nauthiz: Represents need, struggle, and hardship. It can be used to overcome challenges and develop resilience.

Isa: Symbolizes stillness, introspection, and self-discipline. It can be used to quiet the mind and connect with our inner wisdom.

Jera: Represents harvest, fertility, and abundance. It can be used to manifest prosperity and success.

Eihwaz: Symbolizes endurance, perseverance, and inner strength. It can be used to develop resilience and overcome obstacles.

Perthro: Represents mysteries, fate, and hidden knowledge. It can be used to gain insight into the unknown and to navigate through uncertainty.

Algiz: Symbolizes protection, safety, and higher consciousness. It can be used to connect with our spiritual guides and protect us from harm.

Sowilo: Represents the sun, light, and clarity. It can be used to bring about illumination and clarity of purpose

Tiwaz: Symbolizes justice, balance, and victory. It can be used to bring about fairness and success in legal or moral matters.

Berkano: Represents birth, growth, and nurturing. It can be used to facilitate new beginnings and promote healing.

Ehwaz: Symbolizes partnership, teamwork, and trust. It can be used to strengthen relationships and facilitate cooperation.

Mannaz: Represents humanity, community, and self-awareness. It can be used to foster social connections and develop self-knowledge.

Laguz: Symbolizes water, intuition, and the unconscious. It can be used to connect with our emotions and access deeper levels of understanding.

Inguz: Represents fertility, new beginnings, and potential. It can be used to bring about creative growth and manifest our desires.

Dagaz: Symbolizes transformation, awakening, and enlightenment. It can be used to facilitate spiritual growth and bring about profound change.

Othala: Associated with ancestral heritage, inheritance, and traditions. It can also represent the concept of home and the physical and emotional sense of belonging to a particular place or community. In some interpretations, the Othala rune is seen as representing wealth and prosperity that is inherited from one’s ancestor. In the north of Germany, where I come from, one can still see the Othala symbol on the rooftops of old farmhouses, often together with the Algiz symbol.