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
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. |
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 |
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. |
The messenger rune. The receiving of messages, signals gifts. Expect
the unexpected, a calling toward a new life. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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 |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
The self. This is time of major growth and rectification. Clarity and a
willingness to change are called for here. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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)