Origin of the Viking Runes and their meaning

It is one of the oldest alphabets in the world, used primarily as a means of expression by the Nordic peoples, as well as a predictive method for decision-making or guidance in the development of life; this is how the Viking Runes They have managed to take on great significance and in this article you will learn about them.

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What are Viking runes?

Viking runes are symbols that were used by the ancient Nordic civilizations, to somehow leave historical record of all their deeds and exploits during their history; In addition to being used as a form of communication, they have also been used as a predictive oracle or guide to the future, and as a way of capturing energy and power.

These symbols were carved in stone, clay, or carved from pieces of wood, and over the years have been used by people with the intention of being a guide or compass when making difficult decisions. It is believed that the Viking runes have been consulted as an oracle since the times of the Bronze Age; however, some historians dare to say that they may have been used for thousands of years.

It is important to point out that we usually believe that the rune is the stone or piece of wood with the symbol; however, the essence of the rune itself is the sign engraved on it.

runic alphabets

The first runic epitaphs have their origin around 150 AD Then, around 700 AD, the symbols were replaced by the Latin alphabet, since the civilizations that had used the Viking runes were Christianized in central parts of Europe and already around 1100 d. C. north of this territory. However, the use of these remained in rural Germanic areas that were not compatible with Roman civilization and its beliefs.

The Viking runes are also part of the oldest set of writings in the world, these have been conglomerated in a kind of "alphabet", but it must be pointed out that the elements that compose it are much more than simple letters; each one of these symbols keep in itself a great meaning.

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There are several Nordic alphabets in the world, which have evolved through the adhesion of the base alphabet in various ancient communities of ancient Europe; the main alphabets are:

Ancient alphabet "Futhark"

This is the original alphabet made up of twenty-four signs, which in turn are divided into three «Aetir» (set) of eight symbols each. This over the years, evolved giving rise to the other alphabets.

Anglo-Saxon alphabet "Futhorc"

This is an evolution of the old “Futhark” alphabet. It is elaborated just like the «Futhark», but in contrast to it, one more symbol is added, giving rise to this alphabet.

Scandinavian alphabet "Futhark"

This alphabet has sixteen symbols as a whole, arranged as follows: an «ateir» of six symbols and two of five symbols each.

Each symbol that makes up the runic alphabet has a meaning that makes it exceptional and exclusive. The symbols are particularly concerned with love, strength and fortune; still others lead to keeping the family together, their properties vary according to the symbol and are linked to a significant aspect of human life.

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The origin of the Viking runes

At present, the origin of the runes is not yet clarified, however, there are two types of hypotheses about the origin of the Viking runes, one is historical and the other mythological (related to the legend of the god Odin), both are will detail below:

historical origin

Based on much research on this culture, some researchers have suggested that the Old Futhark is a derivation of the Latin or Roman alphabet. This may have come about through early Norse contact with Germanic peoples, which led the latter to develop their own alphabet. Therefore, it is very feasible that this alphabet was started based on the Latin alphabet, according to the similarities that are evident in its 24 runes, where there are characters almost identical to the Latin letters: r, i, bo t, among others.

Origin mitologic

According to the ancient accounts of the Nordic civilizations to the present, it is referred to that the Viking runes had their origin from the god Odin, and it is as through the events of his legend that his creation is attributed, and this It starts like this:

Odin god of the gods, visualized from his kingdom in Asgard the 9 worlds, he could see everything and everyone; but he lacked something: visualize the future. He wanted to have at all costs, all the strength of wisdom and erudition, and not having this afflicted him; This is the reason why one day he decided to descend to the base of the Yggdrasil, to visit the Norns who were at the roots of it.

The norns (Verdandi, Urd and Skuld), were responsible for the tool of the fabric of life and destiny, they were aware of the future of all the gods and all the people who inhabited the earth. Therefore, Odin approached them to ask them to give him the gift of seeing the future; but they refused and told him that if that was what he wanted, he should go to the giant Mimir, the protector of the source of wisdom, and be the wisest of the 9 worlds.

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However, they warned him to be careful what he wished for, as wishes when granted are often not all that is hoped for. Shortly before his arrival, Odin took the form of a very wise tired hermit, he was not fooled and told Odin that whoever drank from his source must pay the highest price, his left eye.

This is how Odin lost the eye that he never managed to recover, by accepting Mimir's pact; who would immediately take his eye and throw it deep into the fountain, where legend says it still remains. In consecuense. Odin was able to drink water from the fountain, and as soon as the water touched his lips, he visualized all the misfortune and horror that both men and gods would have to endure; the end of the world and his own destiny.

After this event, Odin decided to return to Asgard. But the further he went on his way back home, the more disappointed he was with the knowledge he had gained, upon reflection he realized that to obtain scholarship and wisdom it was necessary to make a sacrifice, and if he wanted to obtain all the wisdom, the sacrifice would have to be made. be huge

In this way, Odin decided to self-sacrifice; flogging himself first with his own spear, then finally hanging himself upside down from the great Yggdrasil tree, thus he remained for 9 days and 9 nights. At this time, he fully practiced fasting; the only thing he could do was to know himself and already on the verge of anguish, observing his interior, Odin discovered the runes. When this happened, he screamed with great force, grabbed them and then he fell to the ground. According to mythology, the runes are the poetry and magic that made Odin the wisest of the 9 worlds.

In conclusion, the true origin of the Viking runes is not fully known, what is verifiable is that the runes have been used for at least 1800 years, since we can see them engraved on a multitude of ancient objects. Among the examples of such representations left to us by these Norse civilizations were engraved on rings, important warrior swords, coins, and even on rocks that served to convey simple messages.

Characteristics of the runes

In general, these can be seen carved or sculpted on surfaces of rigid and durable materials. The most used materials for its elaboration and design are stone and wood. However, the conservation and preservation of wood is unstable over time, if it is not protected in the right conditions. Because of this, objects engraved with this type of material have disappeared. Additionally, these used to be kept in a cloth bag that also served as a mat to read and interpret the runes.

What were runes used for?

Currently, these symbols are used for esoteric and loving purposes, and are carved or sculpted in all kinds of materials such as wood, stone or epoxy resin. Sometimes the rune divination method is compared to astrology or tarot and approaches problems in a different way.

The name of the rune is derived from a root rune (Gothic rune), which means "secret" or "whisper". The root can also be found in Baltic languages ​​meaning "tongue". In Lithuanian, Ruoti has two meanings: "to cut (with a knife)" or "to speak".

Ancient runic epigrams of objects have been found indicating the name of the craftsman or owner of a place, as well as linguistic puzzles. Because of this, it is possible that the earliest runes were used less as a simple writing method and more as magical symbols for protective spells. In addition, runes have been found carved in the tombs of men and women recognized in these times, which relate important events in which they were involved before their death.

The enigmatic 25 Viking or Nordic runes

Although Norse grammar is full of allusions to Viking runes, it has no exact indications of their correct use. Viking runes are clearly one of the most fantastic and oldest known alphabets in the world. And for its interpretation, there are only three prediction principles with quite imprecise details that may allude to the use of runes as a Viking oracle:

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Tacitus Germany

It describes 'characters' arranged in groups of three and separated by 'a nut', although the runes do not seem to have been used at the time of Tacitus's writings; he, however, describes them and that is why they were known.

Ynglinga Saga

A second basis arises in this writing, in which he describes how Granmar, the king of Södermanland, goes to Uppsala via Blót. It is said that in this place they threw pieces with runes that "were left in such a way that they predicted that this king would not live long".

Rimbert's Vita Ansgari

It appears in this biographical writing, where it manifests in three texts what some consider runes, but Rimbert calls it "casting lots". One of these texts is a description of how a renegade Swedish king, Anund Uppsala, first brought a Danish fleet to Birka, but then changed his mind and asked the Danes to "fill it by lot." Historically, this "link" was pretty self-explanatory, telling them that an attack on Birka would bring them bad luck and that they should attack a Slavic city instead.

«The lack of a deep understanding of the historical use of the runes has not prevented contemporary writers from generating conclusive data on the prediction system of which there are few specific references, generally based on the reformed designs of the runes and their added external attribution.

Recent study of runic magic has suggested that runes are employed to craft magical items such as amulets” - MacLeod & Mees, 2006.

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In short, the Vikings used the runes to gain powerful powers and to reflect, to heal the wounded faster and to ward off diseases and opponents, as well as being an oracle of predictions and omens.

Viking rune books

The books that we will show you next, contain a lot of information about the runes and their uses as a means of prediction, these are:

The Book of Runes. A Manual for the Use of an Ancient Oracle: The Viking Runes – Commentary by Ralph Blum

This book is a contemporary classic and is the best-selling book on this subject, for over 35 years. Cultural anthropologist Ralph H. Blum's Book of Runes is the most famous volume for learning how to consult this ancient Viking alphabet for personal advice.

Drawing on a tradition spanning more than two millennia, the author presents contemporary interpretations of the Rune version for spiritual warriors as well as people seeking wisdom and guidance to make positive changes in their lives and thus build a better future. This book is usually given as a gift with a set of 25 runes.

Runes. A Personal Study – Hermes Saucedo

This text provides an overview of the author's own research and interpretations, as well as the main meanings and characteristics of the runes, based on their idyllic presentation, grammatical techniques, and their cultural analogy within Old Germanic.

The Book of Runes – Karl Hans Welz

This book contains important information about the runes. It teaches you the meaning of rune symbolism and individual runes, as well as an overview of their application. In addition, it serves as a guide in case you want to apply to be a rune master and start making the most of this ancient technique, taking advantage of its psychological and spiritual powers.

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The Magic of the Runes. Theory and Practice – Jean-Paul Ronecker

The runes are the ancient alphabet that Odin gave to the peoples of Northern Europe. They are also a magical tool that the Vikings used as an oracle to see the future and direct hidden forces. Behind each of these signs there is a meaning that intertwines natural and mythological elements: a wave, the primitive ocean, Thor's hammer, the hierarchy between heaven and earth.

The runes also express the principles that the Vikings had to follow in order to gain knowledge and be able to use it. Each of them represents a stage in your initiation journey. Therefore, it is not possible to do evil with it, which would inevitably turn against those who invoke it.

In this book, Ronecker takes the reader through the various values ​​of these distant and suggestive signs, shows their power, and teaches the combination of these signs, and cryptograms that must be engraved or painted to determine destiny.

Runes and the Path of Initiation – Juan Ricardo Céspedes

The intention of this book is to look at the study and practice of runic magical symbols, from a Gnostic and initiatory perspective. This particularly requires the understanding of one who possesses the quality of a Kshatriya, the initiated warrior magician, governed by values ​​such as fearlessness and honesty in the midst of an ever exhilarating cause and transformation.

This book approaches runic knowledge and practice with an esoteric science approach, which gradually produces an internal and transcendental transformation, similar to alchemy and Shivaite Tantrism. Therefore, it will be common to find references and analogies of the runic kingdom, to terms and symbols typical of other initiation practices.

The Great Book of Runes – Fabiana Daversa

This book is a pleasure for anyone who wants to walk the path of self-knowledge. Humanity challenges itself for a gift of continual transformation; Inaccuracy and fear of the future are a source of fear and anxiety, and many prefer some form of personal exploration to improve their lives. Messengers from a distant past, voices reaching back in time, the runes bring the teachings of the ancients to the present day.

This ancient wisdom can be your compass on the path of knowledge. The runes, which form the predictive arts and differ between esoteric practices, make it possible to link the sensitivity of the interpreter with the history of the person requesting interpretation. They are enormously attractive because of their symbolism, their history and, above all, because of the riddles contained in this ancient alphabet.

Meanings of the Viking runes

There are some examples of the runes consulted by kings, nobles and representatives of the people to make decisions that they considered of great importance, long before the Christian era. On other occasions they were used to decorate statues of their gods, or as reinforcement in ritual instruments to anticipate the results of the battles that would take place. Clerics or wizards used them to create talismans or charms.

For this reason, with the arrival of the Inquisition in the Middle Ages, they were prohibited and their use was qualified as pagan rites and sacrileges against the Church.

As we have already mentioned, the runes used in the oracles are those of the original Norse alphabet, the old Futhark, which has 24 letters; these also include the 16 runes of the Scandinavian Futhark. Below we describe the meaning of each:

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Fehu rune

It represents wealth, material resources, fertility, motherhood and honesty. However, badly aspected means that the soul is weak, very gentle and submissive, which leads to its exploitation of those who have these qualities or who are gullible.

Rune Uruz

This leads us to the beginning of a new stage different from the current one. In addition, it marks a new life cycle as a necessary personal transformation since sometimes we tend to reject change. However, this new stage will force us to reinvent ourselves and live better than before.

Rune Thurisaz

It represents the physical illness associated with child development. On the other hand, it refers to ailments of a mental nature that occur in adulthood. Its true point of reference, however, is the polarity between good and evil, or more precisely between life and death, which means renewal.

Rune Ansuz

This rune means "mouth" or "wisdom" or simply a spoken term. On the one hand, it embodies knowledge and the dissemination of messages; In addition, everything related to the word is attributed to this, from training to writing and reading. On the other hand, when it appears in the readings, the consultee will be asked to renew, change or open new paths.

Raid Rune

It is the path of a journey, the changes to come or all kinds of transition phases. On the one hand, it symbolizes the battle and the exploration of the progressive path of each one. Also, it is the inner drive that exists in the maturity phase from puberty to adulthood. In short, the rune is closely related to the processes of change and transformation.

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Kano Rune

It is related to knowledge and reason. Therefore, it symbolizes a flame or a light that eliminates ineptitude or lack of ideas and brings wisdom. Also, to bring new directions and be a slight orientation of renewal, restoration and understanding between two people. However, the inverted rune indicates a loss of relationship and understanding between people or the appearance of dark feelings.

Gebo Rune

It is the connection or the meeting point of two parts. Its X shape constitutes the geometric point, where two fractions of straight lines or paths of different origin meet. In fact, the appearance of this rune creates alliances, groups, contracts or unions of love. Therefore, it is a favorable character rune that signals the arrival of periods of success and abundance.

rune rune

It is victory, triumph and glory; In other words, it can be defined as the success achieved after overcoming difficult challenges, times or difficulties. In addition, it usually involves personal development and the realization of dreams after a period of internal growth until reaching the top. However, achieving this level of satisfaction means having traveled a difficult path by taking risky actions.

Hagalaz Rune

These are the events that did not happen and that can be detrimental in some way. Therefore, it is linked to the storm that devastates collections and groves, alluding to difficult times and times of need. That is, in a runic consultation, it reports the arrival of material or spiritual disadvantages, either involuntarily or through premeditated reassignments.

Nauthiz Rune

Indicates a deficiency or hazard condition; That is, if it appears in a runic query, it insists that a shadow appears in your life. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out a self-analysis to identify and accept your weaknesses in order to strengthen them in the face of these viable adversities. In general, this rune is associated with betrayal, oppression, suffering, and rebellion.

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Isa Rune

It is associated with parking in a certain context, so as not to risk anything at the moment. That said, it encourages you to take a period of downtime on your goals in order to create time for events to unfold freely. So since this is the rune of ice and it warns you not to "move" at this point, and wait for cover like an ice and frost storm.

Jera Rune

It embodies everything that food brings us, especially the harvests that are stored after a year of vigor and resistance. This rune is not related to speed, but it does require time for periods to fully hone. On the other hand, Jera is telling us that the work is already done, and that we must be patient now to get the results.

Rune Eihwaz

It is firmness, maturity, effort and patience. Taken together, it expresses the extent of triumphs in recognition of patience and decision-making with conviction; that is to say, it is equivalent to proceeding with maturity, recognizing what has happened in our life and visualizing the times to come. On the other hand, in a consultation it announces the weight of possible attacks and defeats.

Perth Rune

It interprets the beginning of something different in your life or the beginning of a plan, which can be achieved by a desired wish or by surprise. In addition, it is also the discovery of lost things, the arrival of unexpected messages, the manifestation of pleasant surprises or the confession of love. In conclusion, the rune anticipates a secret that will soon be revealed.

Rune Algiz

It embodies the spirit of safeguarding and preserving positive values ​​close to the original and pure. Therefore, it is about safeguarding life in all its forms, especially in everything that concerns nature and the environment. Also, the rune is related to the protection of friendship, fortune, success, health and family.

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Sowelu Rune

It tells us that everything is ready for decision-making to finally undertake the tasks that we had pending. For this reason, it is important to have courage, use all your strength and start acting on the same day if possible. Furthermore, it inspires and leads you to accept what you have continually denied and to enter a new period of mental transformation.

Rune Teiwaz

It is the equivalent of courage, stimulation, perseverance and equanimity. In addition, if it appears in a consultation, it announces times to come full of triumphs or victories due to the constant effort of constant and worthy work. Therefore, this figure is a spear symbol of strength, courage and success.

Berkana Rune

It is related to the conception and birth of a baby, or to emotional conditions such as friendship or romantic relationships. In other words, it is linked to motherhood, the family environment, the protection of the home and the beginning of friendships or deep romantic relationships.

Rune Ehwaz

It is linked to physical or psychological transformations, which make us go to different places or opportunities. It is sometimes identified as the rune of the new dawn, in which great opportunities await you. In turn, it represents transformations and changes of all kinds, such as eliminations or improvements in attitude, new relationships or business redefinitions.

Rune Mannaz

It is associated with humility and prudence in action. In other words, the rune asks you to proceed thoughtfully without expecting anything in return. In addition, it tells us that it must become a life ethic in which expectations and vanity are no longer part of its fundamental values.

Rune Laguz

It is linked to the world of the unconscious, of intuition and of the feelings that are hidden within us; In addition, it expresses our aversion to the unexplored and to the lag with which we face everything that does not inspire confidence. However, it encourages us to work within ourselves, to improve the deepest and most spiritual aspects.

Rune Inguz

This rune shows that you are entering a period of creativity, joy and well-being towards a new stage in your life. In other words, it proposes the way out of a blocked stage towards a new path of entrepreneurship and social openness. Therefore, the appearance of this in a consultation confirms that you have the motivation and ability to undertake a new project or solve a problem from the past.

Rune Dagaz

This rune is characterized by being revealing, frank and educational. It is related to daylight or sunlight, which radiates naturally and warmly. In general, it is linked to processes of transformation or evolution in which a different period of life begins, full of prosperity and achievements.

Rune Othila

It is linked to the cycle of human life, to its most specific values ​​and desires. For this reason, well-being, family, place of origin, ancestry and good social status stand out in their representation. However, it does not only speak of material prosperity, but also refers to mental and mental well-being; in addition, to represent the tangible and intangible heritage.

rune of Odin

Also recognized as a white rune, it represents everything that is unimaginable and unexplored for us. It is important to remember that when doing a rune query, this should be considered a reading center, as it is the most significant of all.

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Viking rune of love

Over time, love has become an idealized notion as romantic love has evolved. It is important to note that at the beginning there was no spread that referred to the love between two people. However, two runes were linked to the notion of the idea of ​​family love and deep love, these are:

  • Rune Algiz, linked to the shelter of the family and nature.
  • Berkana Rune, which connects with reproduction and connections, be it friendship or love.

It is believed that the connection and fusion of these runes can represent love; the reading of these two runes together is believed to have originated already in contemporary time, since this description was never mentioned or taken into account in the original alphabet. The rune of love is represented as a trident with a circle on top. Others believe that it is the schematic layout of the genitalia for men and women.

The fascinating 34 Celtic runes

The Celts were a population that completely dominated the north of England, this existed in harmony with nature because they had a lot of respect for it; as part of their religious beliefs, they had a polytheistic and egalitarian religion. They often used oracles and divination methods to predict the future and help them in their battles.

Today we have the runes that were also their alphabet, and that were not only used to make epigraphs but also with a magical component. More importantly, the Celtic runes come directly from the Vikings, as the two share their beginnings in the god Odin, cherished as an oracle after being enlightened, thanks to his survival of 9 days in total fast.

Meaning of Celtic runes

During the early Middle Ages, the Vikings had great ambitions to expand their scholarship as well as to gain dominion over new territories. According to this statement, they arrived in northern Europe, instructing each community in their path, everything they knew about the runes and their use.

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This was how several modifications of what they manifested were successfully established, which is why the Celtic runes were established, which still have the same name as the original Viking ones. The most important Celtic runes were made of pebbles with a golden medium and in them they outlined the symbols; these also share their meaning with that of the Vikings, except in the case of:

Os Rune

It is considered the sacred expression that comes from nature. In other words, when we feel close to mother earth, when we enter places surrounded by nature, we find our essence.

Ac Rune

This embodies the oak and the symbolism that the Celts gave to this tree. This is a gift that the gods gave to the people; this in turn provided them with food and derivatives.

Rune Yr

This rune is shrouded in a mysterious tone. It is also seen as a powerful combat instrument (weapon and bowl); these two instruments affirm courage and nobility, both for themselves and to inspire those around us.

Ear Rune

This rune as a pre-Gaelic concept is derived from the word "earth". The concept of this goes beyond death itself, it extends death; In other words, it is the destructive act, the return of chaos, with which everything is predestined to die, and in the end what is created becomes the earth.

rune ior

It refers to an animal that can adapt to live both in water and on land, something like an amphibian; it also represents the adaptation and the ability to walk between two very different worlds, almost opposite; than man and the spiritual.

Rune Calc

It is related to limestone in the sense that it is used to bury the deceased, because when it is poured on the bodies of the deceased, it facilitates the discoloration of the flesh and bad odors.

Kalk Rune

This also means lime, but it is said to be a sacrifice, like chalk, lime. The rune can specify different related impressions, such as: drawing graphic ideas (chalk), so the writing itself can be a significant concept.

Gar Rune

This has to do with the symbolism of the spear; they even mention that it could be the same one used by the god Odin; additionally, it refers to the power it has to affect the normal cycle of life and death, thus connected with the power of knowledge and magic, which shows and reveals secrets.

Cweort Rune

This represents the fire that consumes the body of the devotee, the funeral fire. Its effect is to purify fire itself, which is closely related to Myspell, which is also known as the primeval fire of creation.

Stan Rune

Its meaning is associated with rock or stone, and it is the ancestor of the English word "stone". This expresses the concept of condensation, indicating that it is the dense rock that compresses the matter and even at the same time.

What differences are there between Celtic runes and Viking runes? 

On many occasions, people tend to mix the Celts with the Vikings. Some even say that the Vikings never really lived. It is true that many cultures such as the Celtic, the Viking or the Greek have the same base, however each one is individual, and they are duly identified by their very marked cultures.

The main difference between these two tribes is that the Celts have absorbed everything that the Vikings taught them, that includes even predicting the future and knowing the situations of the past to adapt them in their own way, including part of the Norse culture that already existed. in their customs. The fundamentals of the divination rituals that they learned were what led them to create a form of writing that, although similar, had its own meaning and peculiarities.

The runes have their own grammatical merit, and although their specific use did not reveal great philosophical histories. Each of the derivatives present in them had the objective of achieving changes that were adapted to their own cultures.

Finally we can conclude that the Viking runes were the original ones, that is, they were created first and the Celtic runes were derived from them; however, the Celtic runes have been characterized by being deeper and more complex, more numerous and with more precise conceptions.

 medieval magic runes

As Major Germanic morphed into its later language groups, the words attributed to the runes and the sounds they symbolized began to differ somewhat, and each tribe began to create new ones, rename them, or easily arrange their rune names. runes or even obsolete runes have been discontinued to accommodate these changes. All languages ​​develop over time and are influenced by neighboring peoples who corrupt and enrich each other.

Some later runic discoveries are found on monuments, often containing subtle stitches of people who have died or performed great deeds. For some time, it was believed that this type of large epigram was the main use of runes, and that their use was associated with a particular social class of architects or artisan sculptors; that is, a kind of secret guild language that is not suitable for laymen.

In the mid-1950s, around 600 epigrams known as the Bryggen inscriptions were found in Bergen, Norway. These were made of wood and bone, often in the form of sticks of various sizes, and contained inscriptions of an everyday nature ranging from name tags, prayers (usually in Latin), personal messages, business letters and declarations of love, and even obscene writing. profane and even vulgar.

After this discovery, it is now generally accepted that writing with runes was a widespread and widely used system of communication among the Germanic peoples. At the end of the Middle Ages, runes were also used in almanacs (sometimes called rune staves, prim or Scandinavian calendar) in Sweden and Estonia.

Likewise, we can observe this type of manifestation with the runes in the Saleeby church in Västergötland – Sweden, where there is a bell that contains a runic inscription from 1228. The medieval runes were used until the fifteenth century when the Catholic Inquisition believed that the runes they were not within the bounds of his morality; Most of the Norwegian runic inscriptions that are still extant are medieval runes.

 runology

The contemporary practice of runes was started in the Renaissance by Johannes Bureus (1568-1652). Bureus thought that the runes were consecrated and magical objects in the kabbalistic sense. Later, this research and practice of the runes was extended by Olof Rudbeck Sr (1630-1702), and exhibited in his Atlantic repertory.

Later, Anders Celsius (1701-44), spread the science of runes and traveled throughout Sweden to examine runestones (rune stones). Since the times of the "golden age of philology" in the XNUMXth century, runology has formed a specialized branch of Germanic linguistics.

Modern use of Viking runes

Runic alphabets have had many uses at different times in history, such as the ones we will show you below:

  • In the Viking revival of the XNUMXth century.
  • Scandinavian romantic (Gothic) nationalism and Germanic occult art, both from the XNUMXth century.
  • The context of the fantastic genre and Germanic neopaganism in the XNUMXth century.

occult arts

Since 1933, the emblem of the Schutzstaffel team showed two Sig runes. The pioneer of the armanist branch of ariosophy and one of the most important models of esotericism in Germany and Austria, in the late XNUMXth and early XNUMXth centuries he was the author of the art occult, mystic and Austrian folklore, Guido von List.

In 1908 he published "The Secret of the Runes", a set of 18 so-called "Armanen Runes" based on the Futhark and the runes from List's own introduction, which were apparently revealed to him in a stage of temporary blindness after he died. a medical procedure, for cataracts in both eyes in 1902.

Another contemporary runic class is the Uthark, which is generally known from the work of Swedish scholar and occultist Thomas Karlsson, forerunner of the Ordo Draconis and Atri Adamantis (Red Dragon), and defined as "the shadow side of runes". However, this argument, and the rune theory, was the subject of an earlier study by the Swedish philologist Sigurd Agrell.

Runes of Nazi Germany

SSRunes runes were used by Nazi and neo-Nazi societies as signs associated with Germanic traditions, mainly the runes: Sig, Eihwaz, Teiwaz, Othila and Algiz. The fascination that the Nazis seem to have had for runes has something to do with Guido von List.

However, his rune set was later rejected by the Nazis, favoring the Wiligut runes created by official Nazi runologist Karl Maria Wiligut. In the Nazi plot, the rune is known as "Sig" (later from List, possibly from Anglo-Saxon Sigel).

The "Wolfsangel", although historically not a rune, is in the form of List's "Jera" rune; according to von List, the form of the Armanen rune "Jera" differs considerably from that currently in use. It is questionable who exactly changed Jera's form, but she appeared in her "new form" in the early 1930s; However, if you look at the original Von List papers, you'll find a slightly different design that bears little resemblance to "Wolfsangel."

These runes were part of the SS skull ring worn by members of the SS. However, on the SS skull ring, several runes could be seen on the outside of their insignia. Two «Sig» runes (one submerged in a triangle), «Hagal» (within a hexagon), a «Swastika» rune (within a square) and a «Double» rune (within a circle).

Modern runes in literature and film

In JRR Tolkien's novel The Hobbit (1937), Anglo-Saxon runes were used on a map to highlight their connection to hobbits. They were also used in early versions of The Lord of the Rings, but were later replaced by the Cirth runic alphabet, invented by Tolkien.

Post-Tolkien, fictional and historical runes appear frequently in modern popular culture, especially in fantasy literature, video games, and other media. As an example in JK Rowling's popular Harry Potter series, where the character of Hermione Granger studies ancient runes

On television, specifically the science fiction television series Stargate SG-1; it seems that the runes are used as a method of writing by the alien Asgard race.

The influence of runes in music can also be seen in the rock and roll group Led Zeppelin. Where according to the story of the members of this band, they decided to use an English adaptation of a runic font in the common representation of the name of their group; The members of this group were fans of Tolkien's books "The Lord of the Rings".

You can also see the influence of the runes in the bluetooth logo. This underlines the combination of two Futhark runes: Hagalaz and Berkana, which correspond to the letters "H" and "B". These are the initials of the name of Harald Blatand (called "Bluetooth" in English), who was King of Denmark in the Viking Age.

Runes in neopaganism and the new age

Since the forms of neopaganism can be very different and have different origins, the dogma and the use of runes can vary considerably.

As with common Germanic paganism, runes are often an essential component in this model of neopaganism, and can be applied for a wide variety of purposes in many orientations of Reconstructionism, depending on the group ideal.

Some of these groupings may contain more current inventions, such as the use of positions resembling runes as a form of rune yoga-type exercise; while the more academic followers of Germanic neopaganism dispense with the use of runes in writing and the occult arts.

New Agers and some Wiccans may also use runes in different circumstances, such as: prediction, often combining stand-alone sources, such as those involving the occult or tarot.

How to do a rune roll well?

Once you are introduced to the world of runes, you will find that many people have perfected their own way of reading them. It is extremely important to emphasize that the spread is a consultation with an oracle rather than reading your future.

This does not provide guidance on what the person should be doing, nor does it predict future events. What an oracle does is draw her attention to hidden fears and motivations, which will shape her future through their unseen presence, in every present moment. Once these elements have been visualized and recognized, they will fit in the selection area.

That's right, how the Viking runes work as an oracle, to find answers to our questions and concerns; it is important to emphasize that your answers should not be seen as opinions, but rather as a guide to behavior in specific situations; To achieve this, it is important to use your judgment and intuition well.

To start a run and reading of Viking runes, it is important to follow the procedures that we will detail in the following points.

activate runes

In order to consecrate and associate these stones with you, you must have a special bond with them. To generate this link we recommend:

  • First, find a quiet place to relax and meditate. This will allow you to get rid of loads or interruptions that can make it difficult to read Viking runes. Once you reach the point of complete relaxation, the ideal is to take the Viking runes and meditate with them.

  • After this initial process, the ideal is to say a few words or prayers of thanks and ask the gods and the universe for guidance and guidance, so that the act that will be carried out.
  • If you like, after completing your requests or prayers, you can turn on a light and prepare the place where the Viking runes will be cast, placing the canvas or reading tapestry on a table. Around it you can place amulets or attractive objects that increase good energy such as stones, plants, among others.
  • Also light an incense, before, during and after each throw as it is a good depurative object of energies, and also allows relaxation in the environment.
  • Viking runes can also be cleaned after each run by dipping them in sea salt and placing them under the light of the moon, especially the full one.
  • After finishing the Viking runes reading, the ideal is that you give a few words of thanks or prayers for the messages received.

It is important to emphasize that the more you use your Viking runes, the more personal they will become and they will create a deeper connection with you as they absorb the energy you bring to them. Because of this, many recommend not allowing others to touch or use your personal rune set.

runic basic roll

Anyone who wishes to use the Viking runes must make a roll, to obtain a prediction. That is why many online sites offer personified runes and rolls for which a payment must be made. However, like other divinations, you can make a roll yourself.

In the same way that it happens with the Viking tarot and with the I Ching, or with any other tarot, a question is asked or a hint is made about the subject of interest; once they are placed on the table, the answer is obtained. For a correct print run, it is advisable to design a favorable environment, since they are symbols that house ancestral and traditional wisdom, the type of material with which they are made is important, but not decisive.

Permanent contact with nature led the Nordic peoples to convert their badges with stone, wood, bones, clay; therefore, it is advisable to use these simple materials. Likewise, it is recommended to create an environment that brings us closer to nature and Mother Earth. It does not matter if the questions asked to the runes are about topics such as love or a work problem.

The roll with these symbols is established by the following 3 steps: Prepare a triskel on the ground, it is not significant if it was drawn on paper or drawn with sand. The size of the circle will be determined by your hand as follows: unfold your thumb and little finger, and close the other three fingers. Using your hand as a compass, draw a circle. (This is the size the triskel should be.)

  1. The mind must be clear and empty, meanwhile the bag of runes is held in one hand. It seeks to establish a connection with the runes and take charge of their power; it must be completely available to them.
  2. The hand is inserted into the bag by shaking it and moving it with force; you have to feel every stone, every piece that is placed there waiting to be selected.
  3. Ask the question you want to ask, with total firmness.

Then you should take a handful of runes without thinking about it, and then extend your arm frontally over the triskel, at a not so high height; for the roll you must use the same distance that was used to initially measure the circle.

Next act, the fist must be opened to drop them, while reflecting on the question asked. Each area of ​​the triskel is part of the life of the person consulted, who, like everyone else, has a present, past and future. Look carefully at where they landed, whether they are outside or inside the circle, as well as whether or not they are near the center.

The closer it is to the center, the more important they will be for the advice provided by them. Those outside the circle do not respond to the request, but draw attention to events that affect or possibly will affect it; these are very important, but not for this query.

runic positions

At the time of the roll, the runes can fall in different ways; therefore, it is essential to have an idea of ​​the interpretation of this:

  • face up or face down: If the rune is face down, it will be the last to be interpreted and will always remain upright. Its meaning and interpretation will be based on what is to come; to what is inevitable but not yet clearly foreseen.
  • Direct position on who reads: its meaning is what it is, there are no nuances.
  • reverse position: represents the opposite of the rune; that is, a negative indication or a no.
  • side position: it is an ambiguous interpretation, everything depends on the context of the other pieces.

 Where can I buy Viking runes?

Through many online pages you will find many rune options, some of them you can get at an affordable price, often even offers on rune sets, with which you can carry out your practices; there are also rune texts, often including a complete set of runes as gifts.

If you want to buy one, it is necessary to choose materials made of stone and wood; We highlight this because this culture has lived in constant contact with nature, and these elements are the most suitable to house their ancestral wisdom. Also consider their aesthetic value and look for a set of runes, which inspires confidence and calm, and is easy to handle.

Make your own Celtic runes

In general, over time many who enter the world of runes choose to make their own set of pieces, in order to make a greater magical connection with the runes.

In ancient times, the Vikings personally chose each stone or piece of wood for its manufacture, selecting among the branches of ancient trees, designed to have great wisdom. They then carved them with their knives and designed their symbols with natural paints. If you want to make your own runes with your own hands, we recommend the following simple steps:

  1. Choose the material of your choice: stones, shells, wood, clay, among others.
  2. Draw the symbols on the surface of the selected material, example: in the case of a stone you can sculpt it, in the case of wood you can carve it, paint it or make the figures on fire. Once you repeat this process until you have completed your set of runes, you will have them ready to begin your initiation and enjoy.
  3. You can also make a bag, to store them after each spin.

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