The Viking Runes: Symbols of Power

What Are Runes?

These magical symbols are not just letters but keys to wisdom, power, and the gods' own knowledge. The word "rune" comes from an Old Norse term meaning "mystery" or "magic," for runes were much more than a simple alphabet—they held the power of the gods themselves. They were used for writing, magic, divination, and casting spells. Writing was seen as a mystical art, and those who could use the runes were respected as powerful beings.

Origins of the Runes

Runes came into our world long ago, around 150 AD, when the Romans ruled much of Europe. Inspired by the Latin alphabet, the Germanic tribes developed the runes, and they quickly spread across the north. Carved into wood, bone, metal, and stone, these angular symbols were well-suited to the tools and materials available to us Vikings. You’ll find the oldest inscriptions on weapons, coins, and jewelry, where they often bear the names of their owners or makers.

There were two main forms of runes. The first, Elder Futhark, had 24 runes and was used from the 2nd to the 8th century. Later, as the Viking Age began, a newer version arose called Younger Futhark, with only 16 runes. This was the alphabet of our people during the Viking Age and was easier to carve and use for everyday communication.

The Power of the Runes

Runes were not just for communication. The gods themselves, particularly Odin, used runes to unlock great power. It is said that Odin hung from Yggdrasil, the world tree, for nine nights, sacrificing himself in order to gain the wisdom of the runes. Through his sacrifice, Odin became the master of these symbols, and he shared their secrets with us. Each rune is tied to ancient forces, animals, deities, and elements of nature, giving them immense power when used correctly.

The shapes of the runes are simple and angular because we carved them into hard materials like stone or metal. Runes were often used to commemorate great deeds or people, as seen on the mighty rune stones erected throughout the land. These stones stood proudly along roads or near important sites, bearing messages that could honor a warrior, curse an enemy, or pray for a soul’s safe passage to the afterlife.

The Rune Alphabet: Elder Futhark

Now, let me teach you the names and meanings of the runes, the powerful symbols that form the Elder Futhark. Each rune has its own sound, but also a meaning tied to the elements of life, nature, and the gods.

1. Fehu (F) – Cattle, wealth, and prosperity. Fehu represents abundance and the fulfillment of one’s desires.
2. Uruz (U) – The aurochs, a wild ox symbolizing strength and vitality. It is a rune of power and good health.
3. Thurisaz (Th) – The giant, a force of destruction and defense. It represents Thor's hammer, Mjöllnir, both destructive and protective.
4. Ansuz (A) – The ancestral gods, especially Odin. It signifies communication, wisdom, and divine inspiration.
5. Raidho (R) – The wagon, symbolizing travel, rhythm, and the journey through life.
6. Kenaz (K) – The torch, representing knowledge, controlled energy, and transformation through creation.
7. Gebo (G) – The gift, the exchange between people. It embodies generosity and the importance of giving and receiving.
8. Wunjo (W) – Joy and harmony. This rune represents fulfillment, happiness, and the alignment of life’s energies.
9. Hagalaz (H) – Hail, a force of natural disruption. It reminds us that chaos is a necessary part of life’s cycle.
10. Naudhiz (N) – Need, distress, and the challenges that force us to grow. It teaches us to face our problems head-on.
11. Isa (I) – Ice, a symbol of stillness and obstacles. It reminds us that patience is sometimes needed before renewal can occur.
12. Jera (J/Y) – The harvest, the cycle of the seasons. It signifies reaping the rewards of past efforts.
13. Eihwaz (E/I) – The yew tree, symbolizing life and death. It marks a gateway through which one must pass to begin anew.
14. Perthro (P) – Fate and mystery, often connected to divination and the unknown forces that guide us.
15. Algiz (Z) – Protection, represented by the elk. This rune calls for heightened awareness and serves as a guardian against harm.
16. Sowilo (S) – The sun, a source of spiritual power and enlightenment. It represents personal growth and success.
17. Tiwaz (T) – Tyr, the god of justice and honor. Tiwaz stands for bravery and sacrifice for a higher cause.
18. Berkano (B) – The birch tree, symbolizing new beginnings, rebirth, and the cycles of life.
19. Ehwaz (E) – The horse, representing partnership and progress, a symbol of trust and cooperation.
20. Mannaz (M) – Humanity, the balance between the divine and the earthly. Mannaz calls for the development of one's full potential.
21. Laguz (L) – Water, a symbol of emotions and the inner self. It represents the flow of life and the journey within.
22. Ingwaz (Ng) – Fertility and growth, the seed waiting to sprout. It symbolizes potential and the importance of patience.
23. Dagaz (D) – Daylight, the dawn of a new era. It represents enlightenment and the beginning of a new cycle.
24. Othala (O) – Ancestral property and heritage. It speaks of inheritance, homecoming, and the wisdom passed down through generations.

The Use of Runes in Magic and Ritual

Runes are not just letters to be written but symbols of power to be used in magic and rituals. Many of the Vikings use runes for divination, similar to how others might use cards to read the future. They carve the runes onto stones, wood, or bone, and cast them in a ritual to gain insight into the questions that plague our minds. Each rune drawn tells us something about the path ahead or the forces at play.

Some use runes as amulets for protection and luck. For example, carving the rune Algiz into a piece of wood and carrying it on your person will help shield you from danger, while Fehu can bring prosperity into your life. Many warriors inscribed runes on their weapons to invoke the favor of the gods in battle.

Runes Today

Though the Viking Age has passed, the power of the runes remains strong. In the modern world, they are used not only for historical studies but also in spiritual practices. People wear rune jewelry to attract the energies of the runes into their lives, whether seeking protection, abundance, or guidance. Runes continue to be cast for divination, helping those who seek wisdom on their life’s journey.

These ancient symbols, imbued with the strength and knowledge of the gods, will always be a part of us. As long as there are people who honor the old ways, the runes will never fade from memory.