How to read the runes

This guide is for the runes of the elder futhark, which are the basic runes you'll get if you buy a set of them (If you don't want to buy them, I haven't heard that making them is a problem. If you have the tools to carve them, in stone or wood, go ahead. Also have a small bag to keep them in and draw out of).
This is a pretty simple guide, but it should give you what you need. I can't guarantee it tho...

First are the methods used for reading the runes (the meanings of the runes are below)
These are two nice easy ones...get your bag of runes and pull one rune out at a time, placing it on the number you're up to (i.e. The first you pull out in place one, the second in place two, etc). While you do this think of the question you wish to ask the runes. If a rune is placed upside down, leave it-this has a different meaning.
The Square of the nine
1-The past and its bearings on present events.
2-Your future state of mind and attitude to the outcome
3-Influences on the matter in hand that you may not be aware of.
4-How these hidden influences will affect the outcome
5-Present circumstances
6-Your memories of, and attitude to past events
7-Your present viewpoint
8-Hidden influences on past events
9-The best possible outcome

The Five Directions
1-The past and its influences on the query
2-Problems and potential obstacles in your path
3-Strokes of luck and other beneficial influences working in your favour
4-The immediate outcome
5-This rune represents both the eventual outcome and the lesson you should've learned from the experience.

This is a slightly different way of reading the runes called the method of Tacitus, an ancient Roman author. It was in general use amongst the Teutonic peoples of his time. The method employed today involves cutting nine straight, short twigs, preferably from a fruit-bearing tree, but any nine straight sticks (matchsticks even) can be used. These are called staves.
First, lay down a white cloth. Then hold the staves and allow your mind to become passive. Think of the question you want to ask, then cast the staves onto the cloth.
Examine the shapes made by the sticks-if you see an obvious shape, take note of it. This is the first rune.
Repeat the process twice more for the second and third runes. You may not spot any runes in the casting-don't recast, this is your reading for that casting. You may also notice more that one rune-write them down in the order you saw them. The three casts represent Past, Present and Future.

The meanings of the runes

Fehu (F)

The rune of fulfillment, ambitions satisfied, rewards received and nourishment. Be mindful of what has been achieved in you life and use it wisely. Be open and willing to share with and nourish others.
Reversed-You may be experiencing excessive disappointment and irritation at the present. Observe what is happening with an open mind. Fehu reversed shows an opportunity to see where your true nourishment lies

Uruz (U)

This rune heralds radical life changes. A passage from stagnancy to new growth. Events may occur which prompt you to undergo a death within yourself. Your new growth is supported by the universe
Reversed-You may not have the capacity to recognize an opportunity at present. You may also feel that your own strength is being used against you. Uruz reversed calls for a deep examination of the state of you relationship with yourself

Thurisaz (TH)

The symbol of the gateway between the heavenly and the mundane. Events and issues at this time may be mirroring hidden aspects of yourself, recognize and examine them. This is not a time to make decisions, but a time to be still and contemplate.
Reversed-An acceleration of your development is indicated here. But even now there may be need to pause along the way and consider what has come to pass and to integrate the new. Contemplation is called for at this time.

Ansuz (A)

The messenger rune. The receiving of messages, signals gifts. Expect the unexpected, a calling toward a new life.
Reversed-A feeling of frustration and futility may overcome you at present, particularly in matters of communication. Keep in mind that this is growth. Clear out the old to make way for the new.

Raido (R)

The rune of union, reunion and communication. Raido is an indicator of the journey of the self toward the Self. the journey of self transformation. Your guide here is yourself, answers will come from within.
Reverse-Personal relationships are at issue here. Altercations are more likely now than appeasement. Maintain a good humour and remember what may appear to be inconvenience is simply a detour towards a new beginning.

Kaunaz (K)

The rune of opening and renewed clarity. The darkness which has been obscuring an aspect of your life has now passed. There is a mutual opening up in relationships indicated by this rune.
Reversed-The death of part of your life that is no longer legitimate is indicated here. Let go of the old with ease and prepare to leave empty for awhile in order for newness to emerge.

Gebo (G)

The rune of partnership, the gift. With Gebo comes the caution not to loose yourself in the union of that partnership but rather, maintain independence. This applies to relationships of every level be it love, business of other.
NO REVERSE

Wunjo (W)

Joy and light are the blessing of Wunjo. The term of hard effort has ended. This is a moment in which understanding is transmuted from knowledge. This new clarity calls for you to reassess existing plans, ambitions and goals.
Reversed-A slow and laborious period in which the fruits of your labours are not realized. Patience and perseverance are your allies at present.

Hagalaz (H)

This rune indicates events of a disruptive nature. What you have up until now taken for granted is being challenged. Your own inner strength is your companion and guide at this time
NO REVERSE

Nauthiz (N)

The need to come to terms with severe constraint is at issue here. Determine areas of you life that are under developed, weaknesses that may be projected onto others. This is a time to mend and restore.
Reversed-Pain and limitation are indicated here. Weed out your own weaknesses for this is a time of cleansing. When we disown what is within we cause a great deal of pain for ourselves. As you undergo this journey control your anger, restrain your impulses and keep you faith firm.

Isa (I)

This rune heralds the winter of your spiritual life, a stand still. Be patient for you have entered the period of gestation which precedes a new birth.
NO REVERSE

Jera (J or Y)

The rune of harvest, beneficial outcome applying to any project to which you are committed.  A passage of time is necessary however, so patience and perseverance are called for. Jera offers encouragement for success.
NO REVERSE

Eihwaz (E)

 This is the rune of defence and avertive powers.  A period of transition, time to be patient. Eihwaz warns not to hanker after ideal outcomes. Go about your business with a still, clear mind and wait on the will of heaven.
NO REVERSE

Pertho (P)

Something hidden, a secret matter, that which is attributed to a higher power than your own. Going above and beyond  the mundane. The rune of question, a psychic death may be experienced here.. Renewal of the spirit is at stake at this time.
Reversed-Perth reversed heralds an end to old ways. You are forewarned not to expect too much or in the ordinary way. Concentrate on your own life at present. Now is the time for true self change.

Algiz (Z)

This rune of protection alerts you to keep your emotions in check, do not allow yourself to be overcome by emotion of any kind. New opportunities and challenges may arise for you now. Just and appropriate action is you protection at this time.
Reversed-Your health may be an issue at present. Be mindful of associations formed at this time if you are allowing yourself to be used by others, take full responsibility for your situation. Self restraint and benevolence will protect you here.

Sowelo (S)

This rune indicates desire for wholeness. Become aware of your essence and use creativity as its expression. Now is the time in which energy on every level may take place.
NO REVERSE

Tiwaz (T)

Tiwaz indicates victory. Your battle is with yourself. the shaping of character is at issue here. Courage, dedication, patience and discrimination are all virtues required at this time.
Reversed-A loss of energy due to impetuous action could be evident here. Examine your motives and attitudes. Are you in the moment or hankering after outcomes? You yourself have the answer.

Berkano (B)

Fertility which cultivates growth both physically and spiritually is marked by this rune. It relates to the transformation of beings into their new form. With awareness look deeply. Overcome any resistance and then carry out your tasks. Diligence, modesty, patience, fairness and generosity are called for now.
Reversed-You may be experiencing great difficulty in taking appropriate action at present. It is most likely that certain aspects of your character are interfering with new growth. Begin again. Correct preparation insures growth.

Ehwaz (E)

The rune of transit, transition and movement. Movement in the sense of improving or bettering any situation is indicated.  This may be in the form physical shifts, new abodes, new outlooks, new life. Remember to share your good fortune.
Reversed-Movement which appears to be hindered is likely at present. Be sure that what you are doing is appropriate and timely. It may be that inactivity is called for. Consider what is timely to your nature.

Mannaz (M)

The self. This is time of major growth and rectification. Clarity and a willingness to change are called for here.
Reversed-If your progress is hindered, do not seek the answers from others. Look within in silence. Any outer opposition is simply a reflection of what lies within.

Laguz (L)

Powers which sustain, mould and connect are the attributes of this rune. It symbolizes water and flow. A time of cleansing is at hand. Tune into your own 'intuitive knowing' and rhythms. Laguz may be altering you to study spiritual matters in preparation for self transformation.
Reversed-Laguz reversed counsels against exceeding your own strength. Go within and be receptive to your own intuitive nature.

Inguz (NG)

The rune of new beginnings. You now have the power to achieve liberation out of which will come new life. Complete your tasks for in so doing your future path will open to you.
NO REVERSE

Dagaz (D)

This rune indicates major breakthroughs in the process of self change. Have a complete trust even though you may be required to leap into the unknown empty handed. A major period of attainment and good fortune is indicated by Dagaz.
NO REVERSE

Othila (O)

The rune of separation, retreat, inheritance. A time to relinquish outmoded relationships. You may be called upon to abandon any aspect of your behaivour. This shedding away will enable you to see your true self more clearly.
Reversed-There is need to consider not only yourself but others at this time. Rather than remain under the influence of old conditioning, act according to the wisdom you have acquired in your life to date.

Wyrd

This is the rune of the unknowable. Total trust is called for here. The unknowable is in operation in your life, you must have faith. Progress and self change are assured.

It should be noted that Wyrd was added to the Elder Futhark recently, and as the runes all have a corresponding letter, there is no reason for this to exist and it can be left out if you want.

Runes can be inscribed or etched onto a weapon or tool to give it power (ie Tiwaz and Algiz on a sword-victory and protection).
They can also be used as amulets, on necklaces and the like.

Sources-The booklet in a  rune set by 'Round World Huang PTY LTD'
    -The Runes, Jonathon Dee, 2001 (I recommend you read this great book on runes if you want to know more)

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