Learn to read the Elder Futhark Runes:

Part 1: Introduction to Elder Futhark

History and Origins

The Elder Futhark runes date back to around 150-800 CE and were used predominantly in Scandinavia. The name “Futhark” comes from the first six runes: Fehu, Uruz, Thurisaz, Ansuz, Raidho, and Kenaz. These runes were inscribed on stones, weapons, and various artifacts, serving as a means of communication and divination.

• Origins: Elder Futhark is the oldest form of the runic alphabets. It likely evolved from Old Italic scripts brought to the Germanic peoples by the Etruscans.
• Geographical Spread: Found mainly in modern-day Germany, Scandinavia, and the British Isles.
• Cultural Significance: Used for inscriptions on memorial stones, jewelry, and other artifacts. Their usage was both practical and mystical, serving as a link to the divine.

The Alphabet

Elder Futhark consists of 24 runes, each with a unique phonetic sound and symbolic meaning.

Part 2: Understanding Individual Runes

First Aett (First 8 Runes)

1. Fehu (ᚠ):
   • Phonetic Sound: F
   • Meaning: Wealth, cattle, prosperity.
   • Symbolism: Fehu represents material wealth and prosperity. It signifies abundance and success in one’s ventures.
2. Uruz (ᚢ):
   • Phonetic Sound: U
   • Meaning: Strength, power, health.
   • Symbolism: Uruz symbolizes raw power, physical health, and endurance. It is associated with the strength of a wild ox.
3. Thurisaz (ᚦ):
   • Phonetic Sound: TH
   • Meaning: Giant, thorn, protection.
   • Symbolism: Thurisaz represents protection and defense. It is often associated with Thor, the Norse god of thunder.
4. Ansuz (ᚨ):
   • Phonetic Sound: A
   • Meaning: Odin, communication, wisdom.
   • Symbolism: Ansuz is linked to Odin, the chief god in Norse mythology. It signifies wisdom, communication, and inspiration.
5. Raidho (ᚱ):
   • Phonetic Sound: R
   • Meaning: Journey, travel, evolution.
   • Symbolism: Raidho symbolizes travel and movement. It is connected with journeys, both physical and spiritual.
6. Kenaz (ᚲ):
   • Phonetic Sound: K
   • Meaning: Torch, knowledge, creativity.
   • Symbolism: Kenaz represents enlightenment and knowledge. It signifies the creative and intellectual fire.
7. Gebo (ᚷ):
   • Phonetic Sound: G
   • Meaning: Gift, partnership, generosity.
   • Symbolism: Gebo stands for gifts and the act of giving. It is also associated with partnerships and mutual benefit.
8. Wunjo (ᚹ):
   • Phonetic Sound: W
   • Meaning: Joy, harmony, success.
   • Symbolism: Wunjo represents joy and harmony. It signifies success and the fulfillment of one’s desires.

Second Aett (Second 8 Runes)

1. Hagalaz (ᚺ):
   • Phonetic Sound: H
   • Meaning: Hail, disruption, transformation.
   • Symbolism: Hagalaz represents natural forces beyond human control, such as hail. It signifies disruption and transformation.
2. Nauthiz (ᚾ):
   • Phonetic Sound: N
   • Meaning: Need, constraint, endurance.
   • Symbolism: Nauthiz symbolizes need and necessity. It signifies constraints and the endurance required to overcome them.
3. Isa (ᛁ):
   • Phonetic Sound: I
   • Meaning: Ice, stillness, introspection.
   • Symbolism: Isa represents ice and stillness. It signifies introspection and the potential for growth through reflection.
4. Jera (ᛃ):
   • Phonetic Sound: J/Y
   • Meaning: Year, harvest, cycles.
   • Symbolism: Jera stands for the cycle of the year and the harvest. It signifies the natural cycles of life and the rewards of hard work.
5. Eihwaz (ᛇ):
   • Phonetic Sound: EI
   • Meaning: Yew tree, death, rebirth.
   • Symbolism: Eihwaz represents the yew tree, associated with longevity and resilience. It signifies death and rebirth, and the cyclical nature of life.
6. Perthro (ᛈ):
   • Phonetic Sound: P
   • Meaning: Mystery, fate, secrets.
   • Symbolism: Perthro symbolizes mystery and the unknown. It signifies fate, secrets, and the hidden aspects of life.
7. Algiz (ᛉ):
   • Phonetic Sound: Z
   • Meaning: Elk, protection, shield.
   • Symbolism: Algiz represents protection and a shield. It signifies defense and the warding off of harm.
8. Sowilo (ᛋ):
   • Phonetic Sound: S
   • Meaning: Sun, energy, victory.
   • Symbolism: Sowilo stands for the sun and its life-giving energy. It signifies victory, success, and enlightenment.

Third Aett (Third 8 Runes)

1. Tiwaz (ᛏ):
   • Phonetic Sound: T
   • Meaning: Tyr, justice, leadership.
   • Symbolism: Tiwaz represents Tyr, the Norse god of justice and law. It signifies leadership, fairness, and rationality. This rune is often associated with courage and victory in battle.
2. Berkano (ᛒ):
   • Phonetic Sound: B
   • Meaning: Birch tree, growth, fertility.
   • Symbolism: Berkano symbolizes growth, fertility, and new beginnings. It represents the birch tree, which is known for its regenerative properties. This rune signifies personal development and the nurturing aspects of life.
3. Ehwaz (ᛖ):
   • Phonetic Sound: E
   • Meaning: Horse, movement, trust.
   • Symbolism: Ehwaz represents movement, progress, and trust. The horse, a symbol of partnership and transportation, signifies the harmonious relationship between humans and animals. This rune embodies trust, loyalty, and the journey forward.
4. Mannaz (ᛗ):
   • Phonetic Sound: M
   • Meaning: Man, humanity, self.
   • Symbolism: Mannaz represents the human race and the self. It signifies humanity, community, and the individual. This rune is often associated with self-awareness and personal growth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all people.
5. Laguz (ᛚ):
   • Phonetic Sound: L
   • Meaning: Water, intuition, flow.
   • Symbolism: Laguz symbolizes water and its various forms, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. It signifies intuition, emotions, and the flow of life. This rune is connected with the subconscious and the deep wisdom that comes from within.
6. Ingwaz (ᛜ):
   • Phonetic Sound: NG
   • Meaning: Fertility, new beginnings.
   • Symbolism: Ingwaz represents fertility, new beginnings, and potential. It is associated with the god Ing, a figure linked to fertility and prosperity. This rune signifies the seed of new ideas and the promise of future growth.
7. Dagaz (ᛞ):
   • Phonetic Sound: D
   • Meaning: Day, dawn, transformation.
   • Symbolism: Dagaz stands for the light of day and the transformative power of the dawn. It signifies clarity, awakening, and the breakthrough of new perspectives. This rune embodies transformation and the balance between opposites.
8. Othala (ᛟ):
   • Phonetic Sound: O
   • Meaning: Heritage, inheritance, home.
   • Symbolism: Othala represents heritage, inheritance, and the concept of home. It signifies the ancestral legacy and the values passed down through generations. This rune is connected with family, tradition, and the security of one’s roots.

Part 3: Reading and Interpreting Runes

Forming Words and Sentences

1. Combining Runes:
   1. Practice Forming Words: Start with simple words by combining runes. For example, to write “rune” in Elder Futhark, you combine Raidho (ᚱ) + Uruz (ᚢ) + Nauthiz (ᚾ) + Ehwaz (ᛖ).
   1. Phonetics and Meanings: Understanding the phonetics and meanings of each rune helps in forming words correctly.
   1. Exercises: Create words such as “sun” (Sowilo (ᛋ) + Uruz (ᚢ) + Nauthiz (ᚾ)) or “joy” (Jera (ᛃ) + Othala (ᛟ) + Ingwaz (ᛜ)).
2. Simple Sentences:
   1. Structure: Construct simple sentences by combining words. For example, “The sun shines” can be written using Sowilo (ᛋ) + Uruz (ᚢ) + Nauthiz (ᚾ) for “sun” and Kenaz (ᚲ) + Raidho (ᚱ) for “shines”.
   1. Exercises: Create sentences describing daily activities, objects, or simple phrases like “I am happy” or “Nature is beautiful.”

Runic Inscriptions

1. Studying Famous Inscriptions:
   1. Historical Context: Analyze the context and significance of famous runic inscriptions. For instance, the Rök Stone in Sweden contains one of the longest known runic inscriptions and is a significant historical artifact.
   1. Examples: Examine inscriptions like the Kensington Runestone, Jelling Stones, and other notable runestones.
   1. Translation Practice: Translate short historical inscriptions to understand their meanings and context.
2. Understanding Usage:
   1. Practical Use: Learn how runes were used in everyday life for various purposes, including marking possessions, memorials, and magical amulets.
   1. Magical and Ritualistic Use: Explore the use of runes in magical and ritualistic contexts, such as charms and talismans.
   1. Exercises: Translate runic inscriptions from historical artifacts and try creating your own inscriptions with similar themes.

Divination

1. Introduction to Divination:
   1. Role of Runes: Understand the role of runes in divination and their spiritual significance. Learn about the belief systems and practices of ancient Germanic and Norse peoples.
   1. Divination Methods: Explore different methods of rune casting, such as three-rune spread (past, present, future), single rune pull, or nine-rune cast.
2. Rune Casting Methods:
   1. Three-Rune Spread: Interpret the runes in the context of past, present, and future. This method provides insights into a specific situation.
   1. Single Rune Pull: Draw a single rune to get an answer to a question or insight into a particular issue.
   1. Nine-Rune Cast: Cast nine runes on a cloth or surface and interpret their positions and interactions.
   1. Exercises: Practice different rune casting methods and record your interpretations. Reflect on the insights and guidance you receive.
3. Interpreting Rune Spreads:
   1. Symbolism and Context: Learn to interpret rune spreads by considering the symbolism of each rune and their positions relative to each other.
   1. Narrative Building: Build a narrative from the runes’ meanings and positions to provide a coherent interpretation.
   1. Exercises: Conduct rune readings for yourself or others. Practice interpreting rune spreads and document your findings.

Part 4: Practical Applications and Exercises

Writing in Runes

1. Practice Writing:
   1. Name Writing: Begin by writing your name in Elder Futhark runes. Identify the phonetic equivalents of each letter in your name and practice inscribing them. For example, the name “John” can be written as Jera (ᛃ) + Othala (ᛟ) + Hagalaz (ᚺ) + Nauthiz (ᚾ).
   1. Phrases and Quotes: Write your favorite quotes or simple phrases in runes. This exercise helps in familiarizing yourself with the runic alphabet and understanding the phonetic structure of words.
   1. Creative Inscriptions: Create personalized rune inscriptions on various materials such as paper, wood, or stone. Experiment with different mediums to enhance your skills.
   1. Exercises: Challenge yourself by translating common phrases or short sentences into runes. For example, “Live, Laugh, Love” can be translated into Laguz (ᛚ) + Isa (ᛁ) + Wunjo (ᚹ), Laguz (ᛚ) + Ansuz (ᚨ) + Uruz (ᚢ) + Gebo (ᚷ), Laguz (ᛚ) + Othala (ᛟ) + Wunjo (ᚹ).
2. Creative Exercises:
   1. Rune Crafting: Develop creative projects that incorporate runes. This can include making rune stones by painting or carving runes on small stones, creating rune-based decorations, or designing runic jewelry such as pendants and bracelets.
   1. Runic Art: Create artistic representations of runes through drawing, painting, or digital art. Experiment with different styles and techniques to bring the runes to life.
   1. Exercises: Design and craft projects that use runes creatively. For example, create a set of rune stones with detailed designs, or paint a canvas featuring a runic inscription with symbolic meaning.

Runic Meditation

1. Meditation Techniques:
   1. Meditating on Runes: Learn techniques for meditating on the runes and their meanings. Focus on one rune at a time and reflect on its symbolism and significance. For example, meditate on Ansuz (ᚨ) and contemplate its connection to wisdom and communication.
   1. Visualization: Visualize the rune and its associated imagery. Imagine the rune’s energy and how it influences your thoughts and emotions. For example, visualize Algiz (ᛉ) as a protective shield.
   1. Exercises: Meditate on a single rune each day for a set period (e.g., 10-15 minutes) and document your thoughts and insights in a journal. Reflect on how the rune’s symbolism resonates with your personal experiences.
2. Personal Reflection:
   1. Using Runes for Reflection: Use runes for personal reflection and insight. Consider the rune’s meaning in the context of your life and experiences. For example, if you draw Ehwaz (ᛖ), think about the movement and progress in your life.
   1. Journaling: Keep a journal to document your experiences and revelations during meditation. Record your reflections on each rune and how it influences your thoughts and actions. For example, write about your meditation experience with Sowilo (ᛋ) and its connection to victory and enlightenment.
   1. Exercises: Meditate on different runes and record your reflections. Share your experiences with others who are also interested in runic meditation. Discuss the insights and personal growth achieved through this practice.

Runic Art

1. Creating Runic Art:
   1. Incorporating Runes: Integrate runes into your artwork. This can include drawing, painting, carving, or other forms of creative expression. Experiment with different mediums and techniques to showcase the beauty and power of the runes.
   1. Symbolic Art: Create art that symbolizes the meaning and power of the runes. For example, design a painting that represents the energy of Thurisaz (ᚦ) or a carving that depicts the growth and fertility of Berkano (ᛒ).
   1. Exercises: Create a piece of art dedicated to a specific rune or group of runes. Explain its significance and the creative process behind it. For example, create a mandala featuring all the runes of the Elder Futhark and describe the symbolic connections between them.
2. Projects and Integration:
   1. Runic Jewelry: Make runic jewelry, such as pendants, bracelets, or rings. Choose runes that hold personal significance and incorporate them into your designs. For example, create a pendant with Tiwaz (ᛏ) for strength and justice or Dagaz (ᛞ) for transformation and new beginnings.
   1. Decorating Personal Items: Decorate personal items with runes, such as notebooks, clothing, or home decor. Use runes to personalize your belongings and infuse them with symbolic meaning. For example, paint runes on a notebook cover or embroider runes on a piece of clothing.
   1. Rune-Based Stories or Poems: Create stories or poems that incorporate runes and their meanings. Use the runes as inspiration for your creative writing and explore the themes and symbolism they represent. For example, write a poem that weaves the meanings of Fehu (ᚠ), Raidho (ᚱ), and Wunjo (ᚹ) into a narrative about a journey to find joy and prosperity.
   1. Exercises: Develop projects that integrate runes into everyday life. Share your creations with the runic community and seek feedback. For example, create a series of runic paintings and exhibit them in a local art show or share your rune-based stories online.

Part 5: Advanced Studies and Resources

Historical Context

1. Deep Dive into History:
   1. Cultural Significance: Elder Futhark runes played a crucial role in the culture and traditions of early Germanic tribes. They were not only used for writing but also held spiritual and magical significance. Understanding the cultural context of these runes enhances our appreciation of their meanings and uses.
   1. Archaeological Findings: Study various archaeological discoveries to gain insights into the use of runes. Artifacts such as runestones, weapons, jewelry, and tools have been found with runic inscriptions, providing valuable information about their historical usage.
      1. Examples: The Kylver Stone, Gundestrup Cauldron, and Lindholm “amulet”.
      1. Exercises: Research and write a report on a specific archaeological finding that includes runic inscriptions. Analyze the significance of the inscription in its historical context.
2. Advanced Topics:
   1. Evolution of Runic Alphabets: Explore the transition from Elder Futhark to Younger Futhark and other runic alphabets such as Anglo-Saxon Futhorc. Study the changes in characters and their meanings over time.
      1. Younger Futhark: Used from the Viking Age (around 800 CE) to medieval times. It has only 16 characters, compared to the 24 of Elder Futhark.
      1. Anglo-Saxon Futhorc: Used in England and Frisia, it expanded to 33 characters to accommodate the phonetic needs of Old English.
      1. Exercises: Compare and contrast the characters and usage of Elder Futhark and Younger Futhark. Create a chart showing the evolution of specific runes.
   1. Decline of Runic Usage: Understand the factors that led to the decline of runic usage, such as the spread of Christianity and the adoption of the Latin alphabet.
      1. Historical Transition: Explore how and why runes were gradually replaced by the Latin script. Discuss the influence of religious and political changes on this transition.
      1. Exercises: Write an essay on the impact of Christianity on the use of runes. Include examples of how runes were used in pre-Christian and Christian contexts.

Further Reading

1. Recommended Books and Articles:
   1. Books: Here are some highly recommended books for further reading:
      1. “The Runes: A Handbook” by Michael P. Barnes
      1. “Runes and Their Origins: Denmark and Elsewhere” by Erik Moltke
      1. “Runes: Reading the Past” by R.I. Page
      1. “The Complete Illustrated Guide to Runes” by Nigel Pennick
      1. “Runic Amulets and Magic Objects” by Mindy MacLeod and Bernard Mees
   1. Articles: Explore academic articles and online resources for in-depth information on Elder Futhark runes and their historical context:
      1. “Elder Futhark: The Oldest Form of the Runic Alphabets” by Małgorzata Balińska
      1. “Runes and Runic Inscriptions: Collected Essays on Anglo-Saxon and Viking Runes” by R.I. Page
   1. Exercises: Read and summarize key points from recommended books and articles. Share your summaries with others interested in runes. Discuss the new insights gained from your readings.
2. Connecting with the Community:
   1. Online Forums and Social Media Groups: Engage with the runic community through online forums, social media groups, and local workshops or events. Share your experiences and learn from others passionate about runes.
      1. Examples: Join forums like “The Rune Corner” on Reddit or Facebook groups dedicated to rune studies and discussions.
   1. Workshops and Events: Attend workshops and events focused on runes and their meanings. Learn from experts and enthusiasts in the field. Look for local museums or cultural centers that offer lectures or exhibits on runes.
   1. Exercises: Participate in discussions, share your insights, and learn from others passionate about runes. Contribute to the community by sharing your knowledge and experiences. For example, you can organize a local rune study group or host an online seminar.

Sample Historical Runic Texts for Practice Translation

1. The Rök Runestone:
   1. Inscription: “ᛊᚱᚢᛋᛏᚨᛁᛁᛋ᛫ᚢᛦ᛫ᚦᚱᚢᛁᛋᚨᚠ᛫ᚨᛁᛚᛁᚲᚨᛏᛁ”
   1. Translation: “This stone I made in memory of Vémóðr, for his soul’s repose”
2. The Kylver Stone:
   1. Inscription: “ᚠᚢᚦᚨᚱᚲᚷᚹᚺᚾᛁᛃᛈᛋᛏᛏᛚᛒᛟᛞᛖᛗᛚᛏᚢᚱ”
   1. Translation: “FutharkgwhnijpSTTBODMLTUR” (It’s a listing of the runes in order, often used as a magical formula)
3. The Tune Stone:
   1. Inscription: “᛫ᚺᚨ᛫ᚷᚨᛗᛁ᛫ᛊᚢᛊᛏᛁᚲ᛫ᛖᚾᚨ᛫ᚦᛁᚱᛁᛊᚨ᛫”
   1. Translation: “Hagammadaustirena ar haeragicutharunomasutomegest”
4. The Gørlev Stone:
   1. Inscription: “ᚦᛁ᛫ᚱᛂᛉᛏᛁᚱ᛫ᚢᚱᛂᚾ᛫ᛖᚲᚲᛁ᛫ᛊᛁᚦᛏ᛫ᛊᛂᚾ”
   1. Translation: “Thikna sigumhar – Hake’s stone is to ask me”
5. The Jelling Stone:
   1. Inscription: “᛫ᛁᛋᚺᚢ᛫ᚦᛚ᛫ᚴᚢᛋᛏᚱᚨ᛫ᛒᚢᛁᚾ᛫ᛏᛂᚠᚱᛁ᛫ᚲᚬᚦᚱᛖᚱ᛫ᚨᚷᛏᚱᛁ᛬ᛏᚬ᛫ᚲᚬᚾ᛫ᛁᚴᚾᚨ᛬ᛁᚴ”
   1. Translation: “This stone Harald set in memory of Gorm, his father”