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Understanding Runes: Meanings & Uses

The document provides information about runes - an ancient Germanic alphabet used for divination and magic. It discusses the history and origins of runes, how they were used for writing in many European languages. It also explains that each rune has esoteric meanings and spiritual properties related to nature and Norse gods. The document then gives instructions on several traditional methods for using runes, such as drawing runes from a bag to get answers to past, present and future situations. It provides detailed descriptions and interpretations of the meanings of individual runes like Algiz, Ansuz, Berkanan and Dagaz.
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100% found this document useful (1 vote)
2K views26 pages

Understanding Runes: Meanings & Uses

The document provides information about runes - an ancient Germanic alphabet used for divination and magic. It discusses the history and origins of runes, how they were used for writing in many European languages. It also explains that each rune has esoteric meanings and spiritual properties related to nature and Norse gods. The document then gives instructions on several traditional methods for using runes, such as drawing runes from a bag to get answers to past, present and future situations. It provides detailed descriptions and interpretations of the meanings of individual runes like Algiz, Ansuz, Berkanan and Dagaz.
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
  • Runes Overview and Interpretations
  • Algiz Rune
  • Ansuz Rune
  • Berkana Rune
  • Dagaz Rune
  • Ehwaz Rune
  • Fehu Rune
  • Gebo Rune
  • Hagalaz Rune
  • Ihwaz Rune
  • Ingwaz Rune
  • Isa Rune
  • Jera Rune
  • Kauno Rune
  • Laguz Rune
  • Mannaz Rune
  • Naudiz Rune
  • Othila Rune
  • Perth Rune
  • Raido Rune
  • Sowilo Rune
  • Thurisaz Rune
  • Tiwaz Rune
  • Uruz Rune
  • Wunjo Rune

Runes Reading, Meaning and Interpretation

Runes: What They Are?


Runes are probably one of the oldest, pagan methods used for divination, magic, and
future prediction the Ancient people were using to answer questions that were above
their comprehensions. Technically, runes are written symbols, an old Germanic
alphabet used also for writing, and they were widely used across the northern Europe,
the British Isles, Scandinavia, and Iceland from about 100 B.C.E. Some runic
inscriptions are also found in America, supporting the claims that Vikings were the first
Europeans to discover America. Runes are used in a way that is connected with the
reader’s intuition and the esoteric knowledge of their meaning.
Runes were used for writing in many languages, including German, Gothic, English,
Frisian, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Lithuanian, Icelandic, Hebrew, Russian and other
Semitic languages. They might be read from left to right or from right to left, even on a
same artifact. This is why the translation of runic inscriptions is sometimes very difficult
by the fact that some rune masters have been using cryptic puzzles or secret scripts.
The meaning of the Anglo-Saxon word “rune” is secret, mystery or whisper. Beyond
their mundane meaning and alphabetic/phonetic values, each rune has esoteric
meanings, spiritual/divine properties, and strong relation to the nature forces and human
mind. Each rune is a story related to a Norse God.
Runes oracles from which one seeks advice. They are most useful if you detail your
current state and then ask your specific question. Their reading can sometimes be
obscure: they give answers, but a reader has to figure out the details, which is the very
reason why the intuition is so important in interpreting runes.
The rune casting or runic divination isn’t fortunetelling in the sense to see the future;
they rather give a possibility to analyze your path and a likely outcome. The future is not
a fixed phenomenon – it is changing with your actions. If you don’t like the prediction,
you can always change your paths.
The oldest and most used Runic alphabet is the Anglo-Saxon Elder Futhorc, containing
24 runes and it is the model we are using here too, with all its meanings. The set of
runes is divided into three so-called “Aettir” or groups of eight. You can make your own
set of runes, following some specific rituals, but it is another topic.

How to Use Runes?


All runes have names that were significant to the Ancient German, Anglo-Saxon, and
Norsemen pagans who used them. Some are names for gods, animals, plants, features,
everyday objects, and concepts. Traditionally, the runes are associated with crystals,
gemstones, plants, trees, colors, and the elements. The associations are sometimes
very obvious. For instance, The Rune of Fertility and Growth is named Berkanan and is
associated with the rapidly growing birch tree, the rune’s color is dark green as the three
leaves, while its element is Earth from which the tree grows.
The one who aspire to be a rune reader has to have some knowledge of history, culture,
and especially the mythology of Ancient Europe and Scandinavia. The understanding of
answers the runes give to you is inextricably dependent upon these. To help you, we
will give you all possible meanings for each rune in their separate interpretations bellow.
The rest is up to you. For a beginning, here are the four common traditional methods to
use runes:

1. While your runes are in the pouch, close your eyes, concentrate on what you
need an answer for (present, past or future situation) and simply choose a rune
as your answer.
2. Carefully and gently toss your rune set onto a soft surface while focusing on what
you need an answer for (present, past or future situation). The rune(s) that get
aside of the most to you will be your answer.
3. Lay your runes out in grid and slowly pass over them with your hand while
concentrating on your question. If you are right-handed use your left hand, and if
you are left-handed use your right hand. The point is to intuitively SENSE the
rune that will answer your question.
4. Close your eyes trying to be relaxed in a neutral state of mind and then draw
three runes from the bag. Line them up. The first rune will answer a past
situation, the second is an answer to a present situation, and the last one will
give you an answer to a future situation.

Don’t forget to follow your intuition. Runes can give truly amazing and correct answers if
you are prepared well. The most important is to know their full meanings and the way to
interpret them, which is what we will give you, bellow.

Algiz Rune
ALGIZ, The Rune of Protection and Opportunity
Runic Number: 15
Meaning: Opportunity to growth, Safe refuge. Protection. Rapid development.
Translation: Sedge Grass reeds or possibly Pine woods
Gemstone: Aquamarine
Color: Gold
Polarity: Male
Element: Air
Gods: Heimdall
Astrology correspondence: Cancer
Tree: Spruce
Plant: Sedge Grass
Characteristics: Algiz is a symbol for both the sedge grass herb and the antlers of the
elk. Some interpret it to be a symbol of the spread fingers of hand in a protective
gesture. Algiz manifests powerful energies of protection. Spiritually, it signifies the
reaching of the divine. The rune also means success through quest, search or other
enterprise. Schemes develop quickly, like a fast growing pine tree. You are protected
from any attack, while awareness and alertness guide you. Vision, clarity of mind and
wisdom will support your cause.
Interpretation: It is possible that your path is fraught with danger, but don’t be afraid,
for you have a great power of protection within. You are safe as much as you are not
reckless. Algiz implies a good period for risky ventures build on firm foundations.
Escape being complacent.
Reverse meaning: Decline or slow improvement. You may be open to an attack.
Beware being short-sighted and pig-headed.
Converse meaning: Development and growth opportunities are disguised. Your
insurance isn’t as affective as you believe.

Ansuz Rune
ANSUZ, The Messenger’s or Odin’s Rune
Runic Number: 4
Meaning: Wisdom, Knowledge, Message, Communication, Mouth.
Translation: God Odin. In reverse, it is Loki, the messenger of gods and a trickster.
Gemstone: Emerald
Color: Dark Blue
Polarity: Male
Element: Air
Gods: Odin, Eostre, Loki
Astrology correspondence: Venus
Tree: Ash
Characteristics: Primarily, Ansuz is the rune of Odin, representing creativity,
communication, and controlled divine power. Spiritually, it is connected with revelation
and prophecy, but it is also the rune of reason, knowledge, wisdom, and therefore a
good adviser. It can also be related to some tests, examinations, or even an interview.
Other meanings include a book, letter, message and other information. As Loki is known
as a renowned trickster, the Ansuz rune also refers to a trick, surprise or subterfuge.
Interpretation: The answers you need are available, but not yet recognized as such.
Take a look around you -- signs and confirmations are available all around. Everything
may have significance and consideration of this significance may lead to full
understanding. Remember not to ignore the message just because you don’t like the
content. Any experience can be a lesson to teach you see the truth and your knowledge
and wisdom
Reverse meaning: Be careful not to misunderstand/misinterpret information.
Something you see or read is more important than it seems. Beware joke(r)s.
Converse meaning: Unsuccessful communication. Hidden messages. Secrets. Lack of
awareness or clarity. What seems to be a trick is genuine.

Berkanan Rune
BERKANAN (or Berkana), The Rune of Fertility and Growth
Runic Number: 18
Meaning: New Life. Growth. Fertility. Physical beauty or stature. A new broom.
Translation: Birch Twig
Gemstone: Moonstone
Color: Dark Green
Polarity: Female
Element: Earth
Gods: Nerthus, Holda
Astrology correspondence: Virgo
Tree: Birch
Plant: Lady’s Mantle
Characteristics: Physical and mental growth. Investment, increased business, profit.
Flourishing new beginnings. Bumper crops. Lost causes may be renewed. The
Berkanan rune symbolizes regeneration, renewal, healing, purification, and recovery. It
is the rune of home and family, representing the pleasure of sexual relations, fertility,
and birth. In this approach, birth can be symbolic or literal, but always a positive start of
any new activity or idea.
Interpretation: This is an exciting period for new beginnings. Fresh adventures. Energy
and activity. God seeds have been sow, but the harvest is yet to come. Don’t expect
instant reward for your efforts. Learn from experience. Let the past into the past. This is
also a good period for spiritual renewal. Eliminate all misconceptions. Accept new ideas.
Reverse meaning: Reduction in stature and lack of growth. Decline in crops, business
or profits. Bad time for new actions.
Converse meaning: You may suffer a theft. Profit being hidden. Dishonesty around. A
risky investment may well be safe and profitable.

Dagaz Rune
DAGAZ (or Degaz), The Rune of Transformation
Runic Number: 14
Meaning: Dawn. Daylight. Day. Radical change. Breakthrough.
Translation: Day.
Gemstone: Chrysolite
Color: Light Blue
Polarity: Male
Element: Fire and Air
Gods: Heimdall
Astrology correspondence: Full Moon
Tree: Spruce
Plant: Clary Sage
Characteristics: A new dawn. A breakthrough. A major change of direction. Prosperity
and achievement. A successful end of a passage. The new has just begun, the
darkness is behind you. As the Nordic countries have long nights and winters, they
consider they associate the day with light and life. Dagaz represents the very essence
of the natural daylight and the power of the sun. It is the highest point of the natural
darkness-light cycle, and therefore it is the divine light in spirituality. Dagaz is
brightness, progress, development, growth, and fundamental change.
Interpretation: Your goal is supported by the divine light. Be honest and true, and
fortune will help you. You are protected by the light and it gives you clearest vision to
avoid any danger, just don’t be blinded by your ego. Stay humble, good things are on
your way.
Reverse meaning: None
Converse meaning: Not right time for change. A false down. Trust your abilities and
strength. The daylight is still far.

Ehwaz Rune
EHWAZ, The Rune of Momentum
Runic Number: 19
Meaning: Momentum. Horse. Speed. Steed or mount. Beast of burden.
Translation: Horse
Gemstone: Iceland Spar
Color: White
Polarity: Male and Female
Element: Earth
Gods: Frey, Freuya
Astrology correspondence: Gemini
Tree: Ash
Plant: Ragwort
Characteristics: Forward progress. Speed of thought or deed. Purposeful motion.
Quick-wittedness. Confident, loyal, sure-footed. Willingness. Ehwaz symbolizes the
horse and its strength, speed, and beauty make it much more than a transporting
animal. Horse is a sacred animal, a vehicle for material, but also for spiritual prevalence.
The rune represents progress, controlled change and sometimes a travel. It is also
connected with partnership, loyalty, trust, and faithfulness like the one between rider
and horse, brother and sister. Two halves of a whole.
Interpretation: You are strongly supported to make a strong progress towards your
goal, but keep in mind to stay supportive and loyal to those around you. The horse is
proud, but it is not its purpose. You can be proud of your success, but remain humble
during your journey to a successful finish.
Reverse meaning: Regression, lethargy, retrograde motion. Reluctance and diffidence.
Muddled thinking. Being lost or bemused.
Converse meaning: Something appears stagnant, but it suddenly moves. Someone
confident or willing will express bad intentions.

Fehu Rune
FEHU, The Rune of Wealth and Fulfillment
Runic Number: 1
Meaning: Wealth. Reward. Nourishment
Translation: Money. Wealth. Cattle.
Gemstone: Moss Agate
Color: Light Red
Polarity: Female
Element: Earth and Fire
Gods: Frey, Freuya
Astrology correspondence: Aries
Tree: Elder
Plant: Nettle
Characteristics: Good health, wealth, realized ambition, good fortune, love fulfilled.
Remember to show compassion and be charitable. Fehu means cattle as it was the
measure of wealth to the Ancient people. Today, it signifies dynamic wealth, i.e. money
and possessions. Fehu also associates the energy of the hard and honest work as a
way to earn wealth. It can also be interpreted as spiritual, emotional, and moral wealth.
Interpretation: Frey is the god of fertility, being itself a great wealth. Fehu is the rune of
unselfish abundance, so let it shine and help you and others around. With Fehu, you will
always be spiritually rich, but don’t misuse it and give to those who can abuse it.
Discernment is very important.
Reverse meaning: Poverty, health problems, failed ambition, bad luck, love unrequited.
Converse meaning: Undiscovered wealth, hidden reward, nourishment withheld.

Gebo Rune
GEBO, The Rune of Love and Forgiveness
Runic Number: 7
Meaning: Love and partnership. Forgiveness, gift, skill, ability or talent.
Translation: Gift
Gemstone: Opal
Color: Dark Blue
Polarity: Male and Female
Element: Air
Gods: Odin, Gefn
Astrology correspondence: Pisces
Tree: Pine
Plant: Elm
Characteristics: Sincerely ask for forgiveness and it will be given to you. A gift is
present or incoming. Development or discovery of some talent or skill. Artistic, musical
potentials. Declare love openly. Fortune in partnership. Show compassion. Gebo is the
very origin of the “lucky seven” superstition, so the “gift” meaning comes out of it.
Ancients were accepting gifts ready to give one in return, so keep in mind that receiving
gifts places you under obligation to the giver, being it another person, destiny or gods.
Except in love, Gebo also means a partnership and union in business. Forgiveness is
the greatest of all gifts – to receive or to give. This rune is widely used as a sign of the
kiss, i.e. a symbol of great affection.
Interpretation: A gift represents your choice to accept or reject. Everything has its
price, so if you accept, you have to be ready to give in return. Spiritual gifts are
priceless. Find the balance between receiving and giving and learn to receive and give
responsibly, meaning to decide when and whom to give; it is not very smart to give to
everyone.
Reverse meaning: This rune has no reverse meaning.
Converse meaning: Animosity from partners. Think about a new romance. Your hidden
talents should be uncovered.

Hagalaz Rune
HAGALAZ, The Rune of Disruption
Runic Number: 9
Meaning: Interference. Disruption. Weather. Damaging forces of nature.
Translation: Hail
Gemstone: Onyx
Color: Light Blue
Polarity: Female
Element: Ice (Water)
Gods: Urd, Heimdall
Astrology correspondence: Aquarius
Tree: Ash
Plant: Bryony
Characteristics: The weather is important aspect, so make sure to prepare against
storm, lightening or flood. Disruptive influences may appear. A third party interferes. The
Hagalaz rune represents hail and could relate to some unexpected hailstorm or even an
elemental disruption concerning your life. When linked with other runes, Hagalaz can
suggest limitation, delay or interruption, causing a total change in direction. The rune
also means hardship, suffering, injury or illness.
Interpretation: Challenges in your life. Not to fear, but to face them. A hailstorm is
daunting and you need to catch a hailstone to see that it’s only water. Do the same with
challenges: strengthen you determination and face these challenges with bravery,
understanding that they are just stepping stones on your path to your goals. Ask for
greater challenges, as you will gain more by overcoming them.
Reverse meaning: Hagalaz has no reverse meaning.
Converse meaning: Unexpected dangers under apparently easy tasks. Some hidden
dangers from the natural world. Your partner or lover is hiding something from you.

Ihwaz Rune
IHWAZ, The Rune of Defense
Runic Number: 13
Meaning: Archer’s bow. Weapon. Yew tree. Prevention. Deflection. Magic.
Translation: Yew tree
Gemstone: Topaz
Color: Magenta
Polarity: Male
Element: Earth, Fire, Air, Water
Gods: Ullr
Astrology correspondence: Scorpio
Tree: Yew
Plant: Lilac
Characteristics: Ihwaz is the symbol of the runes’ magic powers. Wisdom in adversity.
You have defensive, deflective and aversive powers. Protection, patience, and foresight
stand against sudden attack. As Rune number 13, Ihwaz is the origin of the “unlucky 13”
Anglo-Saxon superstition. Yew trees are planted to keep out unwanted animals. The
best longbows were made from Yew trees. This rune shouldn’t be feared as it also
implies endurance and continuity. It contains protective magic, so Ihwaz generally
represents safety from attacks and a great defense weapon.
Interpretation: A time of transformation, a time to leave the old and enter the new; new
life, new dreams, new beginnings. Change is the only constant. A quick progress
requires not resistance, but an acceptance of changes. No fear should be involved.
Changes could be scary, but you are stick to your path, remaining true to yourself.
Soon, you will achieve your goal.
Reverse meaning: None.
Converse meaning: You have to express your dormant defensive potentials. What
may seem dangerous could easily be overcome through concentrated effort and
patience.

Ingwaz Rune
INGWAZ, The Rune of Peace and Harmony
Runic Number: 22
Meaning: Love. Peace. Harmony. Approval. Unity. Agreement.
Translation: Angel. The god Ing.
Gemstone: Amber
Color: Yellow
Polarity: Male
Element: Earth and Water
Gods: Ing, Frey
Astrology correspondence: Cancer, the New Moon
Tree: Apple
Plant: Selfheal
Characteristics: The rune is named after the Norse heroic god Ing, who came to unite
the people of Viking Jutland, and then he left them in peace and harmony. Therefore,
Ingwaz is unity, peace, agreement and harmony, but it also symbolizes the undying love
between romantic partners. Indwaz also represents completion and certainty of
conclusion. This may includes the male orgasmic power or the birth as the end of the
pregnancy. The rune is related with wholesome, healthy sexuality and strong and
affectionate family. It gives a secure, safe home and heart. Ingwaz is protective,
containing the idea of a beacon; it is a light in the darkness and, consequently, a
spiritual inspiration.
Interpretation: You may feel isolated on your spiritual journey, but there is a fire of
inspiration within you, supporting you to go upward and onward. Feed that noble fire by
perservance, seek answers, but escape irrelevant questions. Live only in your present.
Reverse meaning: None
Converse meaning: Peace, love and harmony are hard to achieve, but available. The
lover is shy – help him/her to declare.

Isa Rune
ISA, The Ice Rune
Runic Number: 11
Meaning: Cold. Freezing. Ice. Lack of [Link] of emotion. Stagnation. Bridge
across danger. Storing binding.
Translation: Ice
Gemstone: Cat’s eye
Color: Black
Polarity: Female
Element: Ice (Water)
Gods: Verdandi
Astrology correspondence: The Moon
Tree: Alder
Plant: Henbane
Characteristics: Isa is ice. Ice can be beautiful appearance, but also a dangerous
situation – it can be treacherously thin, it can make you slip and fall down, and it can
block your progress. The Isa rune suggests you to delay your plans and wait for better
conditions, but it will protect you against magical attacks. It can take the heat out of
confrontations. On emotional level, Isa is able of cooling affections or frigidity. It has a
delaying, preserving and freezing influence on other runes.
Interpretation: Indications for a period of non-action. Don’t take anything for granted
and don’t get into a rut. Things are at a standstill and this isn’t appropriate time to force
movement. Crossing some water could be beneficial to you. Feel free to release your
feelings. You should not abandon your goals, this is a good situation to reconsider and
reaffirm them. You are called to be patient and wise. Contemplate and prepare yourself.
Leave no place for regrets or despondency. Things will surely change, ice is a
temporary phenomenon, winter will be replaced with the spring, and the summer will
come.
Reverse meaning: None
Converse meaning: Hidden emotions under the coolness. Impending changes will not
be good for you. Some smiles cover bad evil intentions.

Jera Rune
JERA (or Zera), The Rune of Success and Continuity
Runic Number: 12
Meaning: Harvest. Fertility. Fruition. Agricultural year.
Translation: Year. Harvest.
Gemstone: Camelian
Color: Light Blue
Polarity: Male and Female
Element: Earth
Gods: Freu, Freuya
Astrology correspondence: The Sun
Tree: Oak
Plant: Rosemary
Characteristics: Good spirits, fruition of your plans, success in endeavors, rewards for
past efforts. Greatest reward is for those who work on their land with their hands.
Inventiveness, skill or talent. As Rune 12, Jera symbolizes the 12 months of the year.
Implications are fruitfulness, achievement of goal or profit, but also cycles of seasons
implying natural development, change, movement. Usually, Jera is highly positive, but
being a symbol of cause-effect relation it could portend the end-result of some actins
from the past. Therefore, Jera can mean justice, while the justice itself implies a reward
or a punishment.
Interpretation: You have sown seeds in the past and now you will harvest fruits of
rewards. This is a time for celebration, joy and abundance. Enjoy, but keep in mind that
you should still work without complacency. After the harvest, the winter follows, so make
sure to store enough wisdom for the next challenges. This period isn’t a goal, but a
turning point in life. More and greater harvests are waiting ahead, but first you have to
prepare the land and sow new seeds as real farmers do.
Reverse meaning: Jera has no reverse meaning.
Converse meaning: Rewards and success have to be rooted out. Your latent abilities
and talents must be discovered.

Kauno Rune
KAUNO (or Kano), the Rune of Fire and the Torch of
Enlightenment
Runic Number: 6
Meaning: Light, Enlightenment, Heat. Possible variation: Burning, Injury, Mental
anguish.
Translation: A torch or firebrand. In some translations, Kauno also means a wound,
ulcer or opening.
Gemstone: Bloodstone
Color: Light Red
Polarity: Female
Element: Fire
Gods: Heimdal, Frey, Freuya
Astrology correspondence: Venus
Tree: Pine
Plant: Cowslip
Characteristics: This rune is related to light, warmth, fire, enlightenment and
knowledge. It lightens the path, dispelling the dark shadows of ignorance. Kauno helps
people to see with true discernment. It suggests you that understanding must lead you
to take action. A light in the darkness symbolizes spiritual illumination. It also represents
the pleasurable warmth of the home fire, implying good health. In the variable “ulcer”
translation, Kauno signifies a portal or doorway leading from darkness to light. It could
also represent a warning related to sources of heat, light or even a physical danger.
Interpretation: You are about to find out a new understanding of the meaning of life.
New insights are here, but don’t be complacent. Use this new knowledge before it gets
worthless. Find out ways to use your new insights not only for your own good, but for
others’ too. Enlightenment is always replenishable and the more you use, the more
insights you gain. It isn’t the main goal, but an initial point of a great adventure, and if
you proceed with honesty and truth, you will gain great wisdom and understanding of
life.
Reverse meaning: Darkness, cold, lack of knowledge. Concerning wound-ulcer
translation: healing and improvement of health.
Converse meaning: Hidden danger. What seems to be the true direction may be a
false path. A great dark and cold energy could arise. Wound-ulcer translation: take care
of minor medical problems before they get worse.

Laguz Rune
LAGUZ, The Rune of Water
Runic Number: 21
Meaning: Water, Ocean, Sea, Lake, River. Tide. Cleansing.
Translation: Water, Lagoon, Lake.
Gemstone: Pearl
Color: Deep Green
Polarity: Female
Element: Water
Gods: Njord, Nerthus
Astrology correspondence: The Moon
Tree: Osier Villow
Plant: Leek
Characteristics: Relation with water in all its forms. The rune suggests a cleansing
action. It also represents a tidal movement – flow and ebb. Fortunate oversea travel,
fishing and different aquatic activities. The water is a vital part of existence, but a latent,
constant danger, similarly to our life journey with many risks. The Laguz rune contains
aspects of changeability, fluidity, and even a lack of control. It is the unconscious, the
intuition, it has psychic abilities, and it is the sensual madness of sexual game. Laguz
has deceptive elements that come from its variety, rather than for any menace. It is the
ultimate female rune.
Interpretation: The understanding of the creation will help your life flow as you want.
Emotional balance is built upon the harmony of the creation around you. Natural food
leads to natural flow, non-natural food leads to stagnation and disharmony. The water is
constantly fluid and moving – arrange your life according to it. Accept the changes
themselves as they are the only real constant in life.
Reverse meaning: Flood, storm, corrosion, waves or other destructive force of water.
Danger of sinking.
Converse meaning: Keep away of mariners or other people associated with water, for
they could try to trick you.

Mannaz Rune
MANNAZ (or Manaz), The Humanity’s Rune
Runic Number: 20
Meaning: Humanity, mankind. The inner being, soul, self. Manhood or womanhood.
Translation: Human, mankind.
Gemstone: Garnet
Color: Deep Red
Polarity: Male and Female
Element: Air
Gods: Odin, Heimdall, Frigg
Astrology correspondence: Jupiter
Tree: Holly
Plant: Madder
Characteristics: You, yourself, your body, your mind, and your ego. The world, people
in general. Family, friends, associates. Broad-mindedness, tolerance. Charity, devotion,
consideration, and kindness. Devotion. Mannaz is the symbol of humanity, of human
race; it is the common human nature within each man and woman. We are human
family, but still alone in life and in our journey into death. Mannaz is intelligence,
creativity, speech, and forward planning, implying collaboration between humans for
common good and better world.
Interpretation: Don’t wait to claim your destiny. To be a spiritual being, you must
harmonize and balance your mind, body, and spirit. Accept everything, good and bad
alike, for each new experience will teach you of life. Learn all lessons and you will move
onwards and upwards.
Reverse meaning: Refers the same portents to a person of the opposite sex to yourself
– wife, husband, partner, father, mother, etc.
Converse meaning: The individual referred to is being dishonest and convert.

Naudiz Rune
NAUDIZ (or Nautiz), The Rune of Necessity
Runic Number: 10
Meaning: Demand. Need. Craving. Want. Desire. Compulsion. Deprivation.
Translation: Extremity. Need.
Gemstone: Lapis Lazuli
Color: Black
Polarity: Female
Element: Fire
Gods: Skuld
Astrology correspondence: Capricorn
Tree: Rowan
Plant: Snakeroot
Characteristics: You have to control your emotions and not to give in to cravings.
There are some risks for your health, especially from dietary aberrations. Escape
extraordinary demands on your generosity or time. Make sure your love flows in the
right direction. The Naudiz rune represents hardship, need or adversity. The good side
is that it also includes the perseverance to endure, and reserves of inner strength.
Naudiz also means patience and learning experience that will bring you ultimate
benefits no matter how unpleasant the hardship is. The rune warns against taking a
risky action. When in conjunction with other runes, Naudiz could have a delaying
influence.
Interpretation: Presently, you are getting exactly what you need in order to grow
spiritually. Perhaps it appears to be an opposite of what you want, but this situation isn’t
long lasting -- mostly a series of lessons you have to learn to move from negative to
positive. Don’t escape from your past and stay focused on your goal, learning from your
actual situation. The past is a memory, the future a dream, but the present remains as
the only place where you have real influence and possibility to act.
Reverse meaning: Be careful as reversed Naudiz isn’t obvious. Something unwanted
may happen. Have some fun with your food and release your emotions.
Converse meaning: Your demands may mislead you. Your desires may have hidden
danger. But someone secretly admires you.

Othila Rune
OTHILA, The Rune of Home, Family and Acquisition
Runic Number: 23
Meaning: Family. Home or Homeland. Heart. Inheritance. Possesions. Estate.
Translation: Possesion. Hereditary land.
Gemstone: Spinel
Color: Deep Yellow
Polarity: Male
Element: Earth
Gods: Odin
Astrology correspondence: Full Moon
Tree: Hawthorn
Plant: Clover
Characteristics: Acquisition. Fair play. Benefit through birthright or inheritance.
Adventurous nature and great mental capacity. Adaptability and cultural maturity.
Personal skill. Home, family, homeland, patriotism. Othila rune symbolizes the ancestral
country, property, and fixed wealth that is passed from generation to generation. United
family is strength. Othila is everything you have earned during your life, but also your
spiritual home.
Interpretation: You are in re-focusing state and fixing your goal will attract energies to
reach it. Concentrate and read all possible signs, but don’t push the issues. Your goal is
a wild bird in your palm, so if you press it tightly you can kill it.
Reverse meaning: Immaturity or dullness. Lack of forethought. A valueless inheritance.
Take calculated risk.
Converse meaning: A seemingly worthless inheritance has secret wealth.

Perth Rune
PERTH, The Rune of Mystery, Chance and Science
Runic Number: 14
Meaning: Mystery. Gamble. Chance. Pot luck. In modern interpretation: Science and
Technology.
Translation: There is not certain literal translation. It is usually a name of a dice cup,
i.e. a gambling game that includes such a cup.
Gemstone: Aquamarine
Color: Black
Polarity: Female
Element: Water
Gods: Frigg
Astrology correspondence: Saturn
Tree: Aspen
Plant: Aconite
Characteristics: An unknown outcome, a mystery, a gamble. Mathematical odds. In
order to succeed, you have to employ moderation and common sense. Take the best of
your lot. Perth implies a spiritual disclosure of a secret. It also refers to pregnancy and
birth. It is linked to moderate and sensible sexual enjoyment. Mystery, prudence and
common sense should to be used in order to interpret Perth.
Interpretation: There is always a choice for you in everything. Nothing and nobody can
upset you, unless you choose to be upset. Nobody and no power can influence you
unless you choose to be influenced. You shouldn’t allow anything to compromise your
truth or block you doing what you want to do. Clearly claim your right to choice. The
greatest danger for you is not to make a choice and leave things moving by themselves.
Shape your future.
Reverse meaning: A failure is likely, take no chances. What seems clear hides deeper
aspects and meanings. Don’t rush. Don’t succumb.
Converse meaning: Trust only your loved ones. Take nothing for granted. A
proposition could have a hidden depth.

Raido Rune
RAIDO, The Rune of Travelers
Runic Number: 5
Meaning: Journey, Departure, Arrival. Events related to travels and vehicles. Union and
re-union.
Translation: Riding, Vehicle.
Gemstone: Chrysophase
Color: Bright Red
Polarity: Male
Element: Air
Gods: Ing, Nethus
Astrology correspondence: Sagittarius
Tree: Oak
Plant: Mugwort
Characteristics: A travel is indicated. Jobs connected with distant locations and
transport. Earning new friends or returning old ones. Raido rune can mean ride, travel,
wheel, but it also implicates some deeper meanings: the journey can be arduous and
long, requiring lots of foresight, planning, fortitude, and determination. Metaphysically, it
refers to the “journey of life”, i.e. the wheel of life, or to a deep spiritual quest.
Considering mentioned notions of communication or transport, Raido might also mean
receiving or delivering a message.
Interpretation: Everything comes in cycles. By recognizing and following them you will
have a quick and efficient success. You should align your lifestyle to the seasons,
honoring their turning. Don’t be afraid of hard times – know that the harder something is
now, the easier will get in the future. Everything has an opposite side. Challenges will
lead you to equal and opposite rewards.
Reverse meaning: Isolation. Lack of change or movement. Stagnation. A missed
deadline. Failure to arrive. A mechanical breakdown.
Converse meaning: Home-based job. Secret mission. An enemy presenting his/her
self as a friend. Meetings get some unexpected, unpleasant course.

Sowilo Rune
SOWILO (or Sowelu), The Rune of Energy and Revelation
Runic Number: 16
Meaning: Wholeness. Energy. Light. Disclosure. Discovery. Victory.
Translation: The Sun
Gemstone: Ruby
Color: White
Polarity: Male
Element: Air
Gods: Baldur
Astrology correspondence: The Sun
Tree: Juniper
Plant: Mistletoe
Characteristics: The energy of sun. The spirit of life. Strength of character, boundless
energy. Completeness. The gift of understanding, the capacity to learn. Fitness and
good health. Although Sowilo is widely known as a symbol of victory, it also implies a
force of attack, which is a positive force, being the sun’s natural power. In spirituality,
the rune is read as a clear vision, the victory of good over evil, of light over darkness.
Sowilo warns for using the powers of good to defeat evil.
Interpretation: You are powerful enough to bring things to fruition. Good fortune is
ahead and everything is positive. However, this is not a relaxing and resting time – you
need to analyze the darker sides of your nature. The enormous power of the sun will
give you strength to face and overcome them without fear. The solution for your
problems is within your grasp.
Reverse meaning: Sowilo has no reverse meaning.
Converse meaning: Hidden information. Eclipse of energy or light. No reasons for
health worries. Misunderstanding.

Thurisaz Rune
THURISAZ, The Rune of Chaos, Temptation and Evil
Runic Number: 3
Meaning: A warning. Forces of evil and chaos. Magical power. Temptation.
Translation: A thorn. Devil. Monster. Giant. The hammer of Thor.
Gemstone: Sapphire
Color: Bright Red
Polarity: Male
Element: Fire
Gods: Thor
Astrology correspondence: Mars
Tree: Blackthorn
Plant: Houseleek
Characteristics: Threats from individuals of position and power. One should resist
temptations to get rewarded through trickery or dishonesty. Heed the omen of physical
harm or dishonor. The Thurisaz’s energy can be used for chaos or for good – it
represents the hidden forces of the human psyche, such as lust and anger. The thorn is
a symbolic weapon – it can tear, pierce or stab, but it also has a protective role, like a
thorny hedge. Paradoxically, Thurisaz could also symbolize a stroke of luck, but most
often it is a warning that your luck is leaving you.
Interpretation: You have the inner power to face any challenge and you have the
authority to claim your destiny and control your life. Fear nothing and let no other person
distract you from your quest for truth. Your spiritual strength gives empowers and it is up
to you how you will use it. Recommendation: use it in a loving, compassionate, and
unselfish way. Power will corrupt you if you don’t direct it with honest and true heart.
Reverse meaning: An omen of goodness. Evil can be overcome. The danger isn’t big.
Proceed an exhortation.
Converse meaning: The evil is hidden.

Tiwaz Rune
TIWAZ (or Teiwaz), The Warrior’s Rune
Runic Number: 17
Meaning: Tiw, the protector of warriors and mariners, the god of battles and legislation.
Courage and compassion.
Translation: The god Tiw.
Gemstone: Coral
Color: Bright Red
Polarity: Male
Element: Air
Gods: Tiw
Astrology correspondence: Libra
Tree: Oak
Plant: Aconite
Characteristics: Bravery. Courage. Daring. Dedication. Tactical genius. Protection for
sea travelers. Legislative and negotiating ability. Tuesday is named after the god Tiw
who is the Norse equivalent of Jupiter or Zeus. Tiw was the god of war and justice,
regulation and fair law. Success through sacrifice. Fearless and courageous, he was a
master tactician and a clever diplomat. Mythology says that he allowed a wolf to bit off
his right hand so to bind the wolf’s chaotic strength and thus protect his warriors, left-
handed and disabled both physically and spiritually. This rune also represents male
sexuality and determination. Also: new initiations, new challenges, and new
understandings.
Interpretation: If you show courage and if your heart is honest and true, your victory
will surely come. Use all of your skills and wisdom. Your faith will be challenged and you
have to protect it. Truth, justice and honesty will always win.
Reverse meaning: Shyness, naivety. You have to overcome the cowardice. Beware of
left-handed persons. Loss of concentration.
Converse meaning: Uncover your hidden leadership and talents. One who seems to
be treated as a fool is actually courageous.

Uruz Rune
URUZ, The Rune of Strength
Runic Number: 2
Meaning: Physical and mental strength and health. For males – virility and manhood;
for females – femininity, womanhood, fertility.
Translation: Auroch, i.e. the European giant ox.
Gemstone: Carbuncle
Color: Dark Green
Polarity: Male
Element: Earth
Gods: Thor, Urdl
Astrology correspondence: Taurus
Tree: Birch
Plant: Iceland Moss
Characteristics: Power, physical development, bodily and mental health, terminations
and new beginnings, an opportunity disguised as a treat, mental agility. The European
giant ox (extinct in 1627) is full of courage, physical strength, endurance, male sexual
potency, great health, and wild, raw power of personal freedom. Uruz also include
spiritual and emotional strength. A great implication of this rune is a challenge leading to
a great life change.
Interpretation: You have the physical and inner strength to fulfill all your dreams, but
don’t forget that with strength the responsibility comes. Your strength isn’t a force to be
implied to others, but a force to prevent others implying power over you. Use that noble
power to stay focused on your goals and don’t allow being outmaneuvered. Don’t let
negative people upset you. Pay attention to your ego: master and control it and you will
succeed.
Reverse meaning: Inability to think clearly, lack of mental fortitude, ill-health. Beware
signs of your weakness, or treats to your position and personality.
Converse meaning: Your hidden strengths have to be realized. Shun apparent
possibilities. Signs can be very deceptive.

Wunjo Rune
WUNJO, The Rune of Joy
Runic Number: 8
Meaning: Emotional satisfaction. Happiness. Light.
Translation: Joy
Gemstone: Diamond
Color: Light Blue
Polarity: Male
Element: Ice (Water)
Gods: Odin, Frig
Astrology correspondence: Leo
Tree: Ash
Plant: Flax
Characteristics: Realization of ambition. Understanding. Good health. Flourishing
partnership. Success in romance. Your eyes are widely open to the truth. Prosperous
new beginnings blessed with joyfulness. The Wunjo rune is connected with a reward, a
feeling of satisfaction and goodness, peaceful winning and ultimate achievements.
Everything is going well because you are in absolute harmony with life itself. The rune
also signifies close collaboration and companionship with other people as the joy isn’t a
solitary emotion. When things in life go down, allow Wunjo’s joy to touch every part of
your existence.
Interpretation: You will experience happiness if you work for it. Strive for harmony and
balance and always look for solutions instead of dwell on problems. In order to last,
happiness must be founded on honesty and truth. If you hide from truth, you hide from
happiness. Remember to seek only what is right and good and the fortune will follow.
Reverse meaning: Stalled ambition. Missunderstanding. Partnership or romantic
problems.
Converse meaning: Imagined love is false. The truth is hidden from you. Partnership
under secretive behavior. Success is elusive. Work hard.

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