The First Aett

f A-S Rune Name Feoh, Proto-Germanic Fehu, Roman Letter f

Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Fee (money) is a help--to everyone,
Though every man should--deal it our freely,
If they wish before the Lord--To cast doom's lots.
Foh is the power of domesticated cattle. The ancient Northern Europeans likemany peoples used cattle as a form of money in bartering. This power was
later transferred to raw gold and jewelry and finally to coins. Today it can be seen in checking accounts and cash.
Foh symbolizes all that money does; power, wealth, position. It is as many writers havestated symbolic of mobile power. This power has a good and a bad
side. As stated in the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem," it must be given out freely. Otherwise its power can lead to the greed and envy which lie behind the
warnings in the Icelandic Rune Poem, "Fee is strife amongst kinsmen..." Thus fh is a two edged sword bringing favor from greater powers for those that
give it away, strife and warfare for those that do not. It is no different today. fh is therefore linked to Giefu, the rune of giving in its good qualities and to
thorn in its bad. It is also related to Mann which is also a two edged sword. All of these runes have exceptionally good qualities and bad ones, the difference
being how we use them.
Foh, because it is linked to gold, also symbolizes fire. In the poetic imagery of the ancient Northern Europeans, gold and fire are symbolically linked, fire
being bright like gold, and the earliest form of mobile energy. Fire in the mythology of the ancient Northern Europeans is seen both as creative and
destructive. It is the fire that the blacksmith uses to beat out farming implements, and the fire that destroys forests. Even in its destructive aspects, fire
brings forth new birth, as many plants on the American prairie have been found to need fire to germinate their seeds. It can also been seen as a person's
spiritual strength. The final line of the poem refers specifically to the casting of rune lots, and how in order to cast runes one must first win the favor of the
dryhten or "lord." In ancient times this would have been Wden whose title in Old Norse was Drttin, cognate to Old English dryhten.
In divination, foh can mean that money is going to be received or it can be a warning against greed. Often it indicates one will be in a position to generate
wealth. Usually, foh carries its good and bad sides with it, where wealth is received some of it must be given away. In the ancient lore only dragons
hoarded wealth. Good kings were called "ring givers" or "givers of gold." In spellwork it can be used to generate wealth or mobile power.
u A.-S. Rune Name Ur, Proto-Germanic Uruz, Roman Letter u
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Aurochs is savage---and greatly horned,
A very fierce beast---it fights with its horns,
A well known moor walker---that is a bold wight.
Ur is the power of the extinct wild ox, the aurochs. The aurochs was one of the largest bovines to ever live, often standing 7 feet at the shoulder. As fierce
and strong as the American buffalo, its horns spread out form its skull like a Texas longhorn and made it a deadly prey to hunt. Ancient Germans used to
hunt the aurochs as a test of manhood in the woods and glades of Northern Europe. The horns were prized as drinking vessels, and the hides and meat
provided warmth and food for the children of the tribe.
Ur symbolizes strength, fierceness, and individuality. It is the rune of determination and individuality, the strength needed to accomplish great things. It is
the rune of raw physical might or spiritual strenght. It's traits are valuable to a warrior, but they also have much in common with the outlaw.The word fr,cne
used in the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" is related to the Old Icelandic word Freki, the name of one of Woden's wolves. Wolves in the ancient lore were
commonly associated with outlaws in general and seen to have many traits in common. This trait is further borne out by description of the aurochs as a
"moor walker" in the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem."
The outlaw in Northern European society held a unique position. Outlaws because they were largely expendable were used to commit deeds that no one
else were willing to do. Often the outlaw though feared and hated found themselves in the role of hero.
Many feel Ur represents the cosmic bovine Audhumla and therefore represents the vitality of the life force or men. This ties in with the meaning that lies
behind the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" verse quite well, although more likely Ur represents the physical aspect of men called might.
In divination it usually represents strength will be called for or fierceness and the courage to use these qualities. In magic it can be used to bring about
strength and physical health.
T A-S Rune Name Thorn, Proto-Germanic Thurisaz, Roman letters th
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Thorn is very sharp---for every thane
Who grabs it, it is evil---and immeasurably cruel
For every man---that with it rests.
In Old Norse this rune's name is thurs or giant. The thurses were known for their brute strength and often were in opposition to the Norse gods, though
sometimes they were helpful. The Anglo-Saxon name refers to the thorn of the rose or any other plant. However, it must be remembered that while the

thorn may draw blood, it often defends something of great beauty like the rose. The Old Norse and Old Icelandic rune poems portray this rune as harmful to
women, and it is also the rune with which Skirnir threatens Gerdhr when seeking her hand in marriage on behalf of the god Freyr. This is probably the dark
side of the rune. Its ability to draw blood and do harm. It has for this reason been seen as a phallic symbol, the phallus that takes away the maiden's virginity.
It is also linked to the god Thor however, a god who is linked to many plants that have thorns or thorn like structures like nettle and thistle. This is the good
side of thorn, its ability to use its power to defend man and beast. Thor with his hammer and powerful arms protected both god and man from the giants. He
was also responsible for sending the thunderstorms that brought water to the crops. Thorn in either aspect is a rune of silent strength waiting to be
unleashed. Thorn is similar to Eolh-secg in its defensive aspects.
In divination, thorn can mean "look before you leap," or proceed with caution. It is a dangerous rune to be used in magic but can be used for defensive
spells although it is commonly seen used in mythology and folklore in curses.
o A-S Rune Name Os, Proto-Germanic Ansuz, Roman Letter o or a
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
One of the 'sir is the ordfruma (i.e., "primalsource")---of all speech
Wisdom's support---and wiseman's help
And every earl's---riches and happiness.
Os is the rune of the god Wden (Odin), god of magic, death, and speech. It was Woden (Odin) who first won the runes for mankind when he hung on the
World Tree for nine nights and nine days. It is therefore the rune of wisdom and esoteric secrets. It is the rune of knowledge and the power that knowledge
can bring. It can been seen as the rune of the psychic death and the spiritual rebirth of the shaman or spell caster. This makes it the rune of "shamanic"
ecstasy. In order to win the runes, (Wden) Odin hung on the World Tree for nine nights and nine days without food or drink. From the "Hvaml" stanzas
138 and 139 of the Elder Edda.
Wit I that I hung--on that wind swept tree,
Nights all nine--wounded by a spear,
And given to Odin--myself to myself,
On that tree which no man knows--from whence its roots rise.
Given no bread--nor horn,
I looked down--I took up the runes
Screaming I took them up--I fell back from there.
It is linked to all powers of speech and the written word such as poetry, song, and prose. It also governs the words of the magic charm. It is the word well
spoken, the ability to sway others, the rune of poetic inspiration. Being the rune of speech it is also connected to the word of power, the secret word spoken
only in arcane circles. It is the rune of runes, esoteric secrets known only to the enlightened. Os is therefore linked to divine inspiration, the flash of
enlightenment that comes out of the blue. It is also the `them or breath of life, as Odin was god of the winds was giver of divine breath to mankind.
In divination, Os can mean divine inspiration, enlightenment, or a time when words will flow easily and freely. In magic workings it can be used to draw up
magic energy or to receive enlightenment on some issue.
r A-S Rune Name Rd, Proto-Germanic Raidho, Roman letter r
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Rd is in the hall---to every warrior
Soft, and mighty hard---to him that sits upon
A mainhardy mare ("strong")---over miles of paths.
Rd symbolizes a journey, either a physical one or a spiritual one. The ancient Europeans saw the universe not as space but as action, for them where
action was not taking place, there was a void where nothing existed. This action or movement is reflected in R. This action was also reflected in the
metaphysical realm by the movement of the dew dripping down from the World Tree into Wyrd's Well, only to become dew again. This action was
symbolic of the flow of time itself. It is the rune of ordered movement and as such also is the rune of the dance and the rhythm to the dance. It is the rune of
time keeping and travel. It is also symbolic of the sun's course across the sky as well as that of the moon. This being so Rd is tied to the passage of the day,
the months, and the seasons.
As can be seen by the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" verse, any journey seems easy to the one not taking it. The ancient Northern Europeans saw action as
necessary to the maintenance of the universe, non-action was seen as evil or detrimental. Therefore, it was desirable to take the long hard journey, to be
constantly in movement. Yet, anything seems easy to one that does not do it. Rd is related to the other "journey" runes Lagu and Sigel, as well as Eh which
also implies movement.
Rd can also represent the hard journey, the difficult road to travel in life. The "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" verse could refer to the refusal of the hero to
take that journey, a part of Joseph Campbell's Monomyth. Refusal indicates a loss of what could have been a great reward, while acceptance can mean
great benefits will be received after a hard time of travel.
In divination Rd means a journey that should be or has been taken. In magic, it can be used to send one on a journey or to keep ordered movement.
c A-S Rune Name Cn, Proto-Germanic Kenaz, Roman letter c

Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:

Cn is to all of the quick (i.e., "living")---known byits fire
Shining and bright---burns it oftest
Where the thelings ("princes")---rest inside.
Cn is the rune of fire. Its Anglo-Saxon name means torch and the rune is therefore linked to all aspects of fire. Fire was seen by the ancient Northern
Europeans as having warding and healing qualities. Food was passed over fire to bless it and cattle driven through the smoke of need fire to drive off pests
and disease. In Medieval times, European nobles burned candles in their bedrooms at night to keep away evil spirits. Thus Cn is a rune of warding and
defense, not to mention one of blessing. It is the opponent of disease and evil. It was also fire that sent such warriors as Beowulf off to the realms of the
gods. This was the fire of cremation, which KveldolfR Gundarsson sees as a primary aspect of Cn (Gundarsson, Teutonic Magic, page 61).
It is also the rune of creation, the blacksmith's fire, and here it hold's much in common with the rune fh. As symbolic of the blacksmith's fire, Cn governs
many of the creative energies of the artist and worker. While Os is the rune of divine inspiration, Cn is the raw energy needed to complete a task, the blood,
sweat, and tears. Cn is also the rune of passion of flaming desire. And is Cn also controls many of the negative aspects of fire, its destructive qualities.
In divination, Cn can mean a need to be creative, to generate the energy needed to ensure one's health. It can also indicate passions and desires. In
spellwork it can be used as a rune of warding, or to set off creative energies.
g A-S Rune Name Giefu, Proto-Germanic Gebo, Roman letter y, g
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Gift is to men---glee and praise
Support and worship (worthiness)---and to every wretch
Ar ("honor befitting"), and edwist (sustenance)---that would otherwise be left without.
Giefu is the rune of gifts and giving. Giving was seen not only as a duty in early Germanic culture, but a necessity, and this verse reflects that. Gifts and
giving was for the average man, happiness, praise, support, and a sense of self respect. To those in exile, gifts restored honor, for to receive a gift intimated
a bond like that between knight and king, which was very important to the lordless outlaw. Of course, for those with less, slaves and such, gifts were their
only means of survival. Giefu governs the law of giving, which states there must be an equal exchange of all things exchanged. Every gift calls for
something in return. This gift in return need not a physical one, it can be in the form of acts of kindness or other good deeds or gifts of knowledge. Giefu
also governs the exchange of energies, the exchange of men.
Gifts were exchanged between lord and vassal, husband and wife, and those making peace.It represented the exchange of mgen and created a bond
between two people or groups of people. Giving also governs the hospitality of the home and sacrifices made either to the divine or in one's own life. It is
the giving up of something in order to receive something else. Giefu is the rune of the ultimate exchange, that of love between two people in marriage for
which no sacrifice is too great, it therefore represents the state of marriage.
Giefu governs the law of giving, that is it governs the exchange of spiritual energy. Failure to return gift for gift or the deliberate theft of something, be it a
piece of jewelry or human life results in a scyld, the obligation to repay a debt owed. Failure to repay this debt can result in a loss of main.
In divination, Giefu represents any sort of exchange, while in spell work it can be used to bring about such an exchange.
w A-S Rune Name Wynn, Proto-Germanic Wunjo, Roman Letter w
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Joy one brooks (uses/enjoys)---that knows little (of)want
Sores and sorrows ---and himself has
Blead (prosperity) and bliss---and bury (fortress)enough
Wynn is the rune of joy and pleasure. The rune name itself is related to the word winsome. This is the rune of positive thinking; to achieve few sorrows, one
must use joy or happiness. In addition, they must have a good stronghold, a fortress of the self to withstand the travails of life. Wynn is the rune of elation,
of happiness, of taking pleasure in life. Even with the often rugged and hard life of the ancient Northern Europeans there was room for happiness and joy;
the togetherness of the family, the seasonal celebrations throughout the year such as Yule. Wynn is the rune of wishes come true, of dreams fulfilled, of
togetherness and love. Wynn governs the harmony of humans, that which allows Mankind to live in peace and happiness.
Wynn also governs self esteem for without good self esteem, one can not truly feel happy. For this, one must have a strong will to survive, to combat
sorrow. One who loves one's self is usually loved by others. In essence, Wynn is the rune of frith or peace, the peace of mind one has when living in a
community of caring individuals without the threat of such hardships as poverty, famine, or heartbreak.
In divination, it can mean a period of joy or that happiness will be needed. In magic, it can be used to achieve joy and happiness.

The Second Aett

h A-S Name Hagol, Proto-Germanic Hagalaz, Roman letter h
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Hagol is the whitest corn---it whirls from heaven's sky
Rolled by wind's showers---it worths (becomes)water then.
Hagol is the rune of creation. The lines of the Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem speaks of the creation of a hail stone and its final transformation into water. Hagol
therefore symbolizes not only creation but the process of transformation in life. It is the rune of life change and the shaping energies that brings about that
change. It is somewhat symbolic of Wyrd also as what the poem does not say is that the water will again evaporate into the clouds to be sent back down
again as rain, hail, sleet, or snow. It is therefore ever going through changes based on laws laid down at the beginning of time. Much as the water in the well
of Wyrd goes through its cycles condensing as dew on the World Tree only to fall back into the Well, Hagol goes through its cycles. Many runesters see this
rune as symbolic of the "cosmic egg" or a set pattern as in a crystal, but this does not agree with the Northern European view of an ever changing universe.
Hagol can also be seen as a rune of fertility as it falls to the ground to water growing crops. But here it has its destructive tendencies too, leveling crops, and
injuring cattle; change is often not without destruction.
In divination, Hagol can be taken that a period of change may be about to take place, or that a new creation in one's life is coming about. In magic it can be
used to bring about such change.
n A-S Rune Name Ned, Proto-Germanic, Roman Letter n Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Need is narrow on the chest ---though worths it oft to men's children
To help and heal however---if they listen to it early.
Ned is the rune of necessity and constraint. It is representative of the stresses of everyday life. However, stress, as the rune poem verse says need not be a
bad thing. Often, it can signal a need for change, and if this signal is heeded, the changes to be made can lead to healing of mind, body, and soul. It is the
rune of the overcoming of all odds. Whereas Wynn is a rune of joy and happiness, Ned is its nearly its opposite. Ned is the "school of hard knocks" where
lessons are learned by necessity. It is therefore a rune of struggle, sometimes of the ordeal. Nonetheless it can be used to help fight hardships one endures.
In the Sigdrifumal Sigdrifa advises Sigurdh to carve Ned on his finger nails and any drinking vessel to avoid enchantment. Ned can be used to avoid those
situations that cause hardship by constraining those very causes. It is also the rune of the need fire, the fire created from a fire drill and used by the ancient
Northern Europeans to drive away pestilence and disease and other forms of evil. For this reason, Ned also represents not only the stresses of everyday
life, but the ability to overcome them.
In divination, Ned indicates a need that may have to be met or overcome. In spellwork it can be used to overcome such obstacles.
i A-S name s, Proto-Germanic sa
s is overly (i.e., "supremely") cold ---immeasurably slick
It glistens like bright glass---most like gems
A floor wrought of frost---is a fair sight.
The rune verse of s is a warning, "beware of that which is beautiful, for it can contain great danger." Its meaning can be seen in such old sayings as "all that
glitters is not gold" and "appearances can be deceiving." It is the alluring song of the sirens or the insincerity hidden behind the con man's pitch. It is the
beautiful woman or handsome man that uses their physical beauty to achieve dishonest means. It is a warning to look out for things that are too good to be
true. It is the cold uncaring individual willing to use deception to achieve their means, and unwilling to change themselves.
On another level, s symbolizes the standstill of the frozen sea, the inability to change. It is cold, unyielding and deadly. Some runesters see s as a rune of
the ego but this is highly unlikely. If it does indicate anything about the self it most likely refers to a cold unchanging individual whose life is at a standstill.
It may be that s was what brought about the "battle fetters" a condition brought on warriors by a curse to prevent them from taking action.
In divination, s can mean, "beware, watch your step," or it can indicate one's life has cometo a standstill. In spellwork, it can be used to bring activities of
some kind to a complete halt, to ice it over.
j A.-S. rune name Gar, Proto-Germanic Jera, Roman Letter y (American) g (soft) or j (German)
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:Year is man's hope---if God lets,
Holy heaven's king,---the Earth sell (i.e. "give")
Bright fruits, ---to nobles and needy.
The rune gar is the rune of the harvest, the reaping of one's labors. It is also a rune of divine aid or the cooperation from the forces of nature. It is the
marriage of the sky and the earth, the rains and the soil that along with Man's labors brings about fruits from the soil. This line of thought goes beyond mere
agriculture however, and can be applied to nearly any undertaking in life, a project at work, a relationship leading to marriage, the birth of a child. On an
esoteric level, Gar represents the completion of a project and the labor that went into it. It also represents the cycles of nature, and reflects the cycles we go
through to accomplish great deeds. Gar can reflect gradual growth or change, development of something from beginning to end in a slow process.
Gar also reflects the natural cycles of Wyrd, the laws of Wyrd that governs the growth of plant life, the endless cycle of death in the fall and rebirth in the

spring. The lesson of Gar is that no state is eternal, the world is ever changing, and there is no set uniform universe, only the uniform laws of cyclical
change that govern it.
In divination,Gar can indicate a project is about to come to fruition, or that it may take a cycle to complete. In spellwork it can be used to reap the benefits
of hard labor.
E A.-S.Rune Name oh, Proto-Germanic Eihwaz, Roman Letter ie
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse: Yew is outwardly---an unsmooth tree
Held hard, earthfast---fire's herd (guardian/keeper)
Worts (roots) underwreathe (twist) ---wynn on thel (i.e. "joy on the estate").
oh reflects the quality of the European Yew, a tree that grows to great heights, is nearly indestructible, and has deep meaning for the peoples of Northern
Europe. The wood of the yew was used in staves fashioned for protection against all forms of evil, and also in bows, a weapon that commonly was used to
protect against the onslaught of an enemy charge. Beyond this however, the yew had deeper meanings, for many believe that the World Tree of ancient
belief was a yew (though some said it was an ash). This would explain the use of yew trees in ancient European cemeteries and its connection in folklore to
death. In order to reach the gods' realms, the worthy dead would have to journey up the World Tree from our plane here on Earth. oh therefore can
represent death, or the spiritual death and rebirth of the shaman who makes a similar journey while alive.
oh also represents the ability to be hard and fast and ever on our guard against the "fire" that may damage us. By doing so we build strength deep within us
so we appear rooted in any stand we make. oh gives us the ability to ward and defend ourselves just as the yew tree does.
The verse of the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" for oh also contains the names of two other runes, Wynn and el. Usually when this occurs it indicates that
the rune contains qualities of the runes mentioned in its verse. oh then, drawing on its own symbols and those of Wynn and el; could indicate the joy or
ecstasy of death and rebirth in the estates of the gods.
In divination, oh can be a difficult rune to interpret. Nonetheless, it can indicate that a spiritual journey is about to be made or that psychic death may be in
the making. In spellwork, it can be used as a rune of defense.
p A.-S. Rune Name Peor, Proto-Germanic Perthro, Roman Letter p
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Peor is always ---play and laughter
Amongst bold men---where warriors sit
In the beer hall---blithe together.
The meaning of the word Peor is unknown, but many have taken it to mean 'lot box" and therefore see a link to Wyrd. However, it is important to
remember that nothing is truly random, there is a cause for everything even if our mortal minds cannot comprehend it. The laws of cause and effect were
set down long ago and the enTre universe must follow this laws set down in Wyrd. The verse of the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" also stresses the happiness
of warriors gaming together. This may be symbolic of warriors going off to face their wyrds, the doom of battle, without out fear, but laughing in the face of
death. Taticus speaks of Germanic tribesmen gambling themselves into the point of slavery, and then cheerfully accepting that state.
Even the mention of the Beerhall in the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" brings in the concept of Wyrd. The beerhall was where the ancient Germanic ritual of
symbel was commonly held. Symbel is a rite to place one's self into the flow of the events of Wyrd, to better understand one's actions, and act accordingly.
(Bauschatz, page 83). Symbel is an tr drinking rite in which rounds are made; with the first round the Norse gods are boasted, with the second the
ancestors of those present, and after the third participants boast of their own past deeds and then vow to do greater ones. The point of this rite is to place
one's self in touch with Wyrd and thereby gain mgen by boasting of great deeds one can accomplish.
In divination Peor may mean a stroke of luck or indicate the unknown. It is rarely used in spellwork, but may be used to bring about the outcome of one's
wyrd.
x A.-S. rune name Eolh-secg*, Proto-Germanic Elhaz, Roman Letter z
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse: Elk sedge grass has a home ---oftest in the fen
It waxes in water---it wounds grim
and burns with blood---any man
that in any way---dares grab it.
*alternate name Ealh "temple sanctuary"
Eolh-secg is primarily know as the rune of defense, it is the rune of sacred ground, of sanctuary. It's protection is passive, but brings forth painful results.
The rune poem verse packs a warning, do not violate warded places. Eolh-secg is related to the concept of the sacred, that dedicated to the divine which
cannot be violated. Eolh-secg invokes the divine's protection, and can be used to communicate with the divine. Its rune verse is similar to that of Thorn's,
both being defensive runes. The primary difference however is while Thorn is geared to an active defense and can be used offensively, Eolh-secg is
oriented towards passive protection. This passive protection is the protection of the gods and that which they make sacred.
This concept of the sacred is linked to the concept of wh, that which more properly belongs to the realms of the gods and not that of the mundane world.
Wh is a divine state, one that belongs to a higher plane. The alternative rune name Ealh was used of places that were also called in Old Norse v a word

which derives from the proto-Germanic ancestor of the word wh "sacred." This linkage to the idea of the "sacred" brings with it the awe and fear of the
divine, and herein rests the power of the rune Eolh-secg. For the uninitiated, or the unenlightened to attempt to touch the divine could result in dangerous
consequences "burning with blood any man that tries to grab it." Ancient Germanic law prescribed the death penalty for those that stole from temples or
other holy sites or otherwise desecrated them.
In divination Eolh-secg may indicate a period of safety and security or a time when safety and security is called for, it could indicate contact with the divine
or that divine protection is coming. In spellwork its primary use is related to defensive spells and warding. Its defense being passive, while Thorn's is more
aggressive.
s A.-S. rune name Sigel, Proto-Germanic Sowilo, Roman Letter s
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Sun by seamen---always is hoped for When they fare hence---over fish's bath
till the brime steed ---they bring to land.
Sigel is the rune of the sun, and therefore is linked to all of the sun's imagery. The Northern Europeans however did not view the sun as masculine like the
Greeks and Egyptians, there was no sun god per se. In the Mediterranean regions the sun was often seen as harsh; bringing dry, hot summers. Northern
Europeans however saw the sun as a goddess due to the warmth she gave in the often cold north. This warmth was seen as the warmth a mother or wife
gives their children or husband. It is a feeling of love and safety. It was the sun's rays that allowed the crops to grow, the same crops that would be stored for
the onslaught on winter.
Sigel is a rune of protection and good weather. Strangely, enough it is often connected to Thunor (Thor), god of the thunderstorm, as is the fylfot though
this may be due to his role as protector. It is also a rune of beauty, the words used in the Ancient Northern European tongues for beauty were also used of the
sun's rays. Overall, Sigel is a very positive rune, although the imagery of its rune poem verse also link it to Lagu whose verse is similar, the difference being
Sigel is a safe journey while lagu's is a rough one. Sigel is the opponent to s and can be used to overcome any such standstill in life. It is the thawing rays of
spring.

The Third Aett

t A.-S. rune name Tr**, Proto-Germanic Tiwaz, Roman Letter t
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Glory is some token ---it holds troth well
With thelings---aye it is on course
Over night's mists---it never swikes(i.e. "wanders/deceives").
** alternate name Tiw "the god Tyr."
The rune Tr actually has two names, the one used in the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" means "glory,' but the name used in Old Norse was Tyr, the name of
the Norse god, the Anglo Saxon equivalent of this name being Tiw. Tr is a guiding force, a mark to live one's life by. This guiding mark is the troth or
loyalty between friends and family. The Norse god Tyr was the god of troth or faith kept between warriors of the same war band. Tyr was also god of
victory in war, legal matters, and any other undertaking that required one to strive. Tales in the Icelandic sagas portray warriors invoking this rune for
victory.
Tr is the rune of justice in all matters. However, this justice is often recieved only after undergoing trial by ordeal. The god Tiw lost one of his hands in
order to bind Fenris the wolf so that justice could be served. Thus the rune Tr is not the symbol of easy victory, but victory to come if one does what is right
and true and is honest in every undertaking.
In divination, Tr means a successful venture, an existence of troth and loyalty. Guidance may be in the offering. In spellwork, it can be used to gain success
or to force someone to obey a legal agreement.
b A.-S. rune name Beorc, Proto-Germanic Berkano, Roman Letter b
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Beorc is shootless---it bears even so
Tines without fruit---it has shining branches
High in its crown---fair adorned
Loaded with leaves---it touches the luft (sky).
The rune Beorc represents motherhood and productivity. Where oh, the yew is a rune of death, Beorc is a rune of new birth. Many runesters interpret this
rune as symbolizing the barren mother, but this is largely due to the vagueness of the words used in the Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem which many take to
describe a poplar. However, a slightly different translation reveals the verse to describe the birch we know. Birch was used in Maypoles, and its leaves in
bridal arrangements which mat indicate the rune is one of new birth. Beorc can indicate new birth or rebirth, a time of beauty and transcendence to almost
the divine. Its qualities are those of spring, of flowers blooming forth, of young maidens in the spring atTre. A few runesters interpret this rune as one of
the barren mother, but this is not so, for the symbolism of the tree itself is strongly linked to springtime festivities. It is a rune of fertility, birth, and
motherhood.
Beorc is also a rune of protection, in Medieval Europe birch twigs were used to drive away evil spirits and twigs of it hung over door ways. This protection
is that of the loving mother or sister or lover. The feeling of safety a child gets when it lays its head on its mother's bosom. It is also a rune of healing as it can
be linked to the profession of mid wife, mid wives having been some of the best healers in ancient Europe.
In divination, Beorc may mean new growth, a time when motherly tenderness is called for. In spellwork, it can be used to ensure the safety of a child or
adult, to promote new growth or healing.
e A.-S. rune name Eh, Proto-Germanic Ehwaz, Roman Letter e
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Eh (horse) is for earls---an theling's wynn (pleasure),
A horse's hooves are bold---when around it heroes
Wealthy on war horses---exchange speech
And is for the restless--- ever a help.
Eh is another rune of movement, but unlike Rdd, the concern is the vehicle of movement, the war horse and all the symbolism surrounding it. Eh is a rune
of motion, pride, joy, and confidence. It is the rune of pleasurable journeys. It is also a rune of cooperation like that between horse and rider. Some therefore
see it as symbolic of marriage though the usual rune associated with that institution is Giefu. Eh can be symbolic of the fetch, one's guardian spirit. In
folklore the fetch often appears as a horse. And the fetch often aids the spellcaster on his or her journey.
Eh, like Wynn is a rune of harmony, of two things or people working together on a journey to achieve a common goal. This harmony includes working with
others, pride in one's partner, and communication. It is a rune of comfort, the creation of the contentness. It draws forth imagery of the road trip, a trip taken
for the mere pleasure of it to quell restless feelings. Most of all, Eh is the ability to set forth on such a journey, it is the vehicle for travel. Eh is one of the
runes linked to nobility, the others being Cn, Tr, and thel.
In divination, eh may refer to a period of cooperation, it can indicate marriage, but rarely one in the making. In addition, it can indicate a pleasurable

journey or a period of well being. In spellwork, it can be used to contact one's fetch or to ensure cooperation.
m A.-S. rune name Mann, Proto-Germanic Mannaz, Roman Letter m
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Mann is in mirth---his kinsmen's leif (dear),
Though each shall - others swike (deceive)
When the Drighten (i.e. "lord") wishes---in his doom
That poor flesh---betaken (committed) to the earth.
Mann in the ancient Northern European tongues meant both sexes not just the male. The word for male in Anglo-Saxon was wer while in Old Norse it was
ver. Mann represents all humans can be, it is a rune of mortality, of happiness and betrayal. The moral of the Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem is clear, when things
are going good it is easy for humans to be kind and loyal, but when death is near, personal survival takes over. One noted runester takes Mann to indicate
the perfect man, the sort found in Plato's philosophy. However, the "Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem" verse seems to indicate something much different; a typical
human with all their flaws.
Mann is the rune of Mankind's mortality. We are quick to act and behave with honor and dignity when the going is good, but when our worlds begin to
crumble around us, the survival instinct kicks in, and we betray even those whom we love. Even so, Mann also represents all of Mann's noble qualities,
though these are better represented by other runes such as Tr. Mann is neither a negative or positive rune, but one of reality. For all we are, we are still mere
mortals questing to comprehend what we often cannot.
In divination, Mann can mean many things, but it usually indicates to beware of betrayal, to watch ones self and others. In spellwork, it can be used to
reinforce one's own mortality.
l A.-S. rune name Lagu, Proto-Germanic Laguz, Roman Letter l
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Lagu is to lede (people)---thought long
If they should go thence---on a shaky ship
And the sea waves---strongly bree (terrify)
And the brime steed ---obeys not its bridles.
Lagu is another journey rune, this one of the sea. It is to Sigel, what Eh is to Rd. It is the rune of the rough passage, of the terrifying transformation. An
alternate name for this rune in the Proto-Germanic is Laukaz or the leek. Leeks are known for their rapid growth and are sacred to the god Thunor (Thor).
Here again we see the North Sea storm symbolism for Thunor is god of the Thunderstorm. Lagu, therefore refers to rapid uncontrolled change which if
geared towards growth can be helpful, but if allowed to go astray may lead to destruction. Leeks were also used for healing though, and this is Lagu's good
aspect. Physical healing in and of itself can be a rapid though controlled process like the growth of a leek, and rapid change if controlled can lead to great
progress for any undertaking.
Lagu's name means "sea" and this indicates that the rune itself may have links to Wyrd. Much of the water symbolism in Norse Mythology was tied to the
concept of Wyrd (see Bauschtaz), and the rune Lagu is perhaps no different. Lagu may refer to one caught in the results of their own deeds, caught in their
own wyrd, being tossed about like an uncontrolled ship on the ocean. Lagu may then be those times in life of great travail, bankruptcy, divorce, family
deaths, things that often seem beyond our control.
In divination, Lagu can indicate rapid change good or bad. In spellwork Lagu can be usedto promote growth and healing, but one must be careful to control
these processes. A safer rune to use for such things is Beorc.
N A.-S. rune name Ing, Proto-Germanic Ingwaz, Roman Letter "ng"
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Ing was first---among the East Danes
Seen by men---but he since went eft (back)
Over the wet way---his wain (wagon) ran after
Thus the Heardings---named the hero.
The name of the rune Ing is also the name of the Norse god Frey. Therefore the rune Ing is a rune of fertility, peace, and plenty. Many runesters see it as the
"castrated male," but in truth, it is the virile father. Ing is the principal of male virility and along with Beorc is the rune of the start of new life. While Beorc is
the nurturing of motherhood, Ing is the protectiveness of the father. Ing was protector of the frith, the peace that surrounded a community along with the
prosperity that kept it safe. Frith guilds in Anglo-Saxon England kept the peace, and Ing is a good rune for policemen and other "officers of the peace."
Wars and strife broke the peace necessary for the care of crops and animals. Ing therefore symbolizes a provider, protector, and leader.
Ing is also tied to the hero who shows up out of nowhere to save a kingdom and then returns whence he came. This motiff is common throughout Northern
European mythology and may give the rune added meanings. Ing may indicate the knight in shining armor, the one that shows up suddenly to set things to
right and then leaves as quickly as they came. In this sense Ing may indicate unexpected gifts from the gods, the sudden happy surprise.
In divination Ing can indicate a prosperous period of peace, sometimes romantic love. In spellwork, it can be used to promote fertility and peacefulness.

d A.-S. rune name Dg, Proto-Germanic Dagaz, Roman Letter d

Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Day is the Drighten's (i.e. "lord's") sender - dear to man
The Metod's great light - mirth and hope
To rich and poor - for all to brook ("use/enjoy").
Dg is the rune of daylight and the happiness associated with it. It has much in common with Jera, in that it reflects a cycle of nature, but this one is much
shorter. Day can be seen as symbolic of a short though happy process of change. It can also be associated with the feeling of elation felt on warm sunny
spring days. Many associate it with the principle of shamanic ecstasy, though it is probably more indicative of the burst of enthusiasm, of true joy, than it is
any spiritual awakening. No doubt this sudden burst of enthusiasm may be due to a sudden realization, one that may be linked to the divine. In this sense,
Dg may be related to the Christian principle of agape, the love for the divine sometimes felt when divine revelation is recieved.
Dg however is only the last part of a process. The ancient Northern Europeans started the "day" with nightfall, so that by the time daybreak had come,
half the cycle of light and darkness had passed. Dg therefore represents something that must be achieved only by surviving the dark of the night. To see
the light of day, one must first survive the darkness before dawn
In divination, Dg sometimes means a change for the better is about to take place. In magic it can be used to achieve happiness and intuitive thoughts.
O A.-S. rune name el, Proto-Germanic Othala, Roman Letter O
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
el is very lief (agreeable) - to every man
If he may straight away - keep what's fit
And brook in his house - blead (increase) often.
el is the rune of the household and the estate, its sentiment is summed up in the phrase "A man's home is his castle." It is the rune of the home life and the
safety of the home. However, to keep this estate one must uphold what is right and keep the moral codes of the community. el symbolizes the customs
and morals of the tribe, its laws. It is also the rune of inheritance and of nobility. It is therefore linked to one's hereditary traits as well as one's personality
traits brought about by their up bringing. This can be seen as part of one's personal wyrd or that of the family or clan.
el can also be seen as that type of mgen which is linked to one place or group of people. Whereas other runes symbolize mgen in general, the mgen
el represents is tied to specific families. It is the might of ancestral homelands, of ancient clans. Whereas fh represents mobile power, el represents
that power which is fixed, stable, and far more powerful in the long run.
It is the rune of the enclosure known as the tribe, a group of people banded together for mutual protection from the wilds outside. Ancient Northern Europe
was sometimes a difficult place to survive, in many ways like the American frontier. Warfare with Celts and Romans and even with other Germanic tribes
was often the case. Yet, one's homeland was safe, a place where one was surrounded by a loving caring community. Yet this safety can only be kept as long
as ancient customs and laws are observed, as long as what is right is done.
In divination, el can indicate an inheritance either of a physical or spiritual nature. In spellwork, it can be used to enforce customary law or to protect
one's estate.

Additional Runes of the Anglo-Saxon Futhark

A A.-S. rune name c
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Oak is on earth---for sons of men
Food for the flesh---It fares often
Over whale's bath---The sea finds
Whether oak has---nobile faith
Oak was sacred to the god Thunor (Thor), and was one of the holy trees of the Northern European peoples, known for its strength and durability. The
acorns of some varieties served as food for man and beast alike. The folklore surrounding the oak is great and most of this can be applied to the rune.
Offerings of food were often left at its base and court assemblies often met at its base. The oak was seen as a tree with great healing and magical powers.
The rune poem verse indicates that the rune itself may also be one of testing, that of the ordeal to see if one has noble faith and strength.
In divination, it may mean a test of strength of character or indicate that a time for strength is needed. In spellwork it can be used to promote strength and
durability.
a A.-S. rune name sc
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Ash is very tall----dear to men,
Resolute in stability---It holds the right place
Though it fights off---many men.
sc is the rune of steadfastness, of standing strong, resolute in one's place. In Northern European folklore, the first male human was created from an ash
and some accounts say the World Tree was an ash. sc is therefore a rune of the center of being, of the will, and the self. The wood of the tree itself was
used in spells of warding and this is also indicated in the rune poem passage.
In divination, sc may indicate a need to be steadfast. In spellwork, it may be used to booster one's own will or in spells of a protective nature.
y A.-S. rune name Yr
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Bow is to nobles---and men alike
Joy and worthiness---it is fair on a horse
Steadfast on a journey---It is a piece of war gear.
The meaning of the word Yr is unknown, but most take it to mean "bow." Yr's passage resembles that of Eh in that it is something that brings joy and
worthiness to nobles. Therefore the rune can probably be linked to many of the qualities of honor. In divination, it may indicate a time of joy and self worth.
In spellwork, it could be used for spells of a defensive nature.
I A.-S. rune name Ior
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
Serpent is a river fish - and though it always uses
Food on earth - it has a fair home
Surrounded by water - where it lives in happiness
Ior is another rune whose name is obscure as is its passage. The symbolism behind the passage seems to mean there "is no place like home." In divination it
could mean such, while for spellwork its mysteries are too deep to make it safely utilized.
A.-S. rune name Ear
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem Verse:
The grave is hideous---to every man
When steadily---the flesh begins
The body cools---and chooses the earth black
To bed with---Fruits fall
Joys pass away---truths are broken
Ear again is an obscure rune name whose meaning is not quite known, although most take it to mean "earth" or "grave." The passage definitely describes
the decay of the body and the destruction of the flesh after death. The rune itself is probably linked then to human mortality, the frailness of the earthly
flesh. It is in a way very reminiscent of the rune Mann. However, instead of being about betrayal Ear seems to be more about the fear of death. For the

Northern Europeans, the worst that could happen was what was known as a straw death. A straw death was one due to illness or old age. Without modern
medical care such a way of dying must have often been slow and painful, death in battle or due to an accident or even a heart attack while working in the
fields must have been a much preferred way to go. Too, the references to the grave and the black earth, may simply be a cynical jeer from a follower of
Woden (Odin), whose cult utilized cremation instead of inhumation for the dead.
In divination it may indicate an illness, while any usage in spellwork would most likely be unethical.
A.-S. rune name Cweordh
There is no passage for the rune cweordh in any of the rune poems. Its name might mean "fire twirl, but no one is certain. Therefore this rune cannot truly
used for anything except writing.
S A.-S. rune name Stn
Stn means stone and therefore we can easily link this rune to the qualities of stone. It ismost likely linked to hardness and perhaps even to protection
through analogous to stone walls. Again, having no rune poem verse to go by, it is difficult to say what its meaning is in divination or its use in magic.
G A.-S. rune name Gr
Gr means spear and can be linked to that weapon's symbolism. The spear was seen by the Northern Europeans as a weapon of sacrifice. Followers of the
god Odin threw a spear over the opposing army to dedicate them as sacrifices to that god. Prisoners of war as were criminals were stabed by a spear prior to
hanging. The shape of the rune Tr is also that of a spear, and therefore this rune can probably be safely identified with victory in battle and the act of
sacrifice. Most of its mysteries probably lie between the runes Os, Giefu, and Tr.

A Translation of the Old English Rune Poem by Swain Wodening Canote

(Note: This translation is Common Domain, and may be distributed freely, as long as it is properly attributed to its translator, Swain Wodening
Canote or Berry Canote)
Feoh (money) is a help to everyone,
Though every man should deal it our freely,
If they wish before the Lord To cast doom's lots.
r (Aurochs) is savage and greatly horned,
A very fierce beast it fights with its horns, A well known walker of the moors that is a bold spirit.
Thorn (Thorn) is very sharp for every thane
Who grabs it, it is evil and immeasurably cruel

For every man that with it rests.

10
s (One of the Aesir) is the primal source of all speech
Wisdom's support and wiseman's help And every earl's riches and happiness.
Rd (Ride) is in the hall to every warrior
Soft, and mighty hard to him that sits upon
15
strong mare over miles of paths.
Cn (torch) is to all of the quick (i.e., "living") known by its fire
Shining and bright burns it oftest Where the nobles rest inside.
Giefu (Gift) is to men glee and praise 20
Support and worship (worthiness) and to every wretch
Honor and sustenance that they would otherwise be left without
Wynn (Joy) one uses and enjoys that knows little (of) want

Sores and sorrows and himself has

prosperity and bliss and fortress enough

25
Hagol (Hail) is the whitest corn it whirls from heaven's sky
Rolled by wind's showers it worths (becomes)water then.
Ned (Need) is narrow on the chest though worths it oftto men's children
To help and heal however if they listen to it early.
s (ice) is overly cold immeasurably slick 30
It glistens like bright glass most like gem
A floor wrought of frost is a fair sight.
Gar (Year) is man's hope if God lets, Holy heaven's king, the Earth sell (i.e. "give")
Bright fruits, to nobles and needy.
35
oh (Yew) is outwardly an unsmooth tree

Held hard, earthfast fire's guardian

Peordh (tafl man?) is always play and laughter

In the beer hall happy together.

Roots twist underneath a joy on the estate.

Amongst bold men where warriors sit 40

Eolh-secg (Elk sedge grass) has a home oftest in the marsh

It waxes in water it wounds grim
And burns with blood any man that in any way daresgrab it.
45
Sigel (Sun) by seamen always is hoped for When they fare hence over fish's bath ("ocean")
Until the sea steed ("ship") they bring to land..
Tir (Glory)* is some token it holds troth well With nobles aye it is on course 50
Over night's mists it never wanders or deceive. *alternative name Tiw (the god Tyr)
Beorc (birch) is shootless it bears even so
leaves it touches the sky.

Twigs without fruit it has shining branches

H igh in its crown fair adorned

Loaded with

55
h (horse) is for earls an noble's pleasure,
And is for the restless is ever a help.

A horse's hooves are bold when around it heroes

Wealthy on war horses exchange speech

M ann (man) is in mirth his kinsmen's dear, 60

Though each shall others deceive
When the Lord wishes in his doom That poor flesh be committed to the earth.
Lagu (sea) is to people thought long If they should go thence on a shaky ship 65
And the sea waves strongly terrify And the sea steed (ship) obeys not its bridles.
Ing w as first among the East Danes
Thus the Heardings named the hero

Seen by men but he since went eft (back)

D g (Day) is the Lord's messenger dear to man

Over the wet way his wain (wagon) ran after 70

The Measurer's great light mirth and hope

To rich and poor for all to use or enjoy.

thel (Estate) is very dear to every man And enjoy in his house - increase.
75
If he may straight away keep what's fit And enjoy in his house increase often.
c (Oak) is on earth for sons of men
Whether oak has nobile faith
sc (Ash) is very tall dear to men,

Food for the flesh It fares often

Over whale's bath (sea) The sea finds 80

Resolute in stability It holds the right place

Though it fights off many men.

r (Bow) is to nobles and men alike 85

Joy and worthiness it is fair on a horse
Steadfast on a journey It is a piece of war gear.
Ior (Serpent) is a river fish and though it always uses
90
ar (The grave) is hideous to every man
Joys pass away truths are broken
Courtesy of http://www.englatheod.org/

Food on earth it has a fair home

When steadily the flesh begins

Surrounded by water where it lives in happiness.

The body cools and chooses the earth black

To bed with Fruits fall