The Elder Futhark is the oldest known runic alphabet, used by Germanic tribes from roughly 150 to 800 CE. It consists of 24 runes, each symbolizing sounds and meanings tied to nature, spirituality, and everyday life. The name “Futhark” comes from the first six letters: F, U, Th, A, R, and K. These runes were carved into stones, wood, and metal, serving as communication, protection, and magical symbols. Elder Futhark is central to understanding the beliefs and practices of early Germanic and Norse cultures.
Symbolism, Etymology, and Meaning The Jēra (pronounced “YAY-rah”) rune represents cycles, harvest, and rewards for effort. It symbolizes natural rhythms and the passage of time. It has no reversed position, […]
Jēra (ᛃ): 4th Rune of the 2nd Ætt Read Post »
Symbolism and Meaning Hagalaz (ᚺ) (pronounced “HAH-gah-lahz”), represents hail and destruction. Some spell it Hagall or Hagal. In Old Norse, “Hagall” (HAH-gahl) also meant hail. The Anglo-Saxon and Younger Futhark
Hagalaz (ᚺ): 1st Rune of the 2nd Ætt Read Post »
Symbolism and Meaning The Wunjō, pronounced (WOON-yoh), Elder Futhark rune, sometimes called Wynn or Winya, symbolizes joy, harmony, and well-being. In Asatru, it represents a state of contentment and fulfillment
Wunjō (ᚹ): 8th Rune of the 1st Ætt Read Post »
Symbolism and Meaning Isaz (pronounced “EE-sahz”) represents ice in the Elder Futhark rune system. Other spellings include “Isa” and “Is.” The Old Norse word “ís” (pronounced “EES”), meaning ice, relates
Isaz (ᛁ): 3rd Rune of the 2nd Ætt Read Post »
Rune of Fire and Illumination The Kenaz (KAY-nahz or KEH-nahz) rune represents fire, knowledge, and transformation. Some sources spell it Kaunaz or Kaunan (KOW-nahn). Its shape resembles a torch, symbolizing
Kenaz (ᚲ): 6th Rune of the 1st Ætt Read Post »
Definition and Symbology Raido (pronounced “RYE-doe”) is a rune from the Elder Futhark. It represents journeys, movement, and the rhythm of life. The name comes from Proto-Germanic raidŅ, meaning “ride”
Raido (ᚱ): 5th Rune of the 1st Ætt Read Post »
Symbolism and Symbology The Gebō rune (ᚷ) comes from the Elder Futhark script. It represents the g sound. Scholars pronounce it as “GAY-boh” or “GHEH-boh,” depending on dialect. Some variations
Gebō (ᚷ): 7th Rune of the 1st Ætt Read Post »
Symbolism and Meaning Sowilō (pronounced “SOH-wee-loh”) represents the sun’s power, clarity, and life-giving energy. This rune, also spelled as Sowulo, Sōl, or Sigel, corresponds to the Proto-Germanic *sōl, meaning “sun.”
Sowilō (ᛊ or 𐌔): 8th Rune of the 2nd Ætt Read Post »
Origins and Meaning Mannaz (ᛗ) is pronounced MAH-nahz. Other spellings include Man, Mann, and Manna. The name means “man” or “human.” This rune symbolizes intelligence, cooperation, and social order. It
Mannaz (ᛗ): 4th Rune of the 3rd Ætt Read Post »
