Free Guide to Runes

How to read and understand runes.

The word "rune" means "whisper" or "secret", runes are thought by some to be a way of interacting with both the spirit and the living world. The runes should be drawn from either a box or leather pouch where they should normally be kept. After drawing the stones you should read it depending upon whether the rune is reversed or not as it will have a bearing upon its meaning and the reading.

Wyrd - The unknowable

This rune stone is blank and symbolises something that cannot be known or cannot be controlled and as such fate will decide the outcome.

Ansuz - Name of Odin

Description: Ansuz represents mankind's spiritual connection to God and the universe. It is often referred to as the "God Rune." This Rune embodies reason, truth and justice. It denotes the coming of knowledge and true counsel from a higher authority.
Reversed Description:
Ansuz reversed denotes failed communications and missed opportunities to become more in harmony with the universe. Your path may be unclear at this time. False advice and malicious rumors may be afoot.
Keywords: Order, rebirth, consciousness, knowledge, wisdom, mental agility, communication, creative expression, and reason.
Astrological Correspondence: Gemini
Tarot Correspondence: Death
Gods/Goddesses: Odin
Color: Dark Blue
Tree: Ash
Herb: Fly agaric
Stones: Lapis
Element: Air
Animals: Wolf, raven, horse, vulture, eagle, hawk, falcon, bear, tiger, cheetah, cat, hound, fox, butterfly, parrot, mockingbird, cockatoo, emu, snake, turkey, bat, scorpion.
Magic:
Increases magical powers and instinctive abilities
Gets in touch with divine power and knowledge
Communication with the divine within
Creative inspiration
Assistance in times of change
Ability to change form and work closely with power animals

Berkano - Divine Energy of Earth Mother

Description: Berkano is the Rune of birth and rebirth. This may symbolize a time when you are capable of great personal growth. Love may be in the air as well.
Reversed Description:
Berkano reversed may foretell family problems and dissatisfaction. Your life path my not be clear to you at this time. Be careful to protect that which is yours.
Keywords: Nurturing, rebirth, growth, transition, spirit, concealment, protection, ancestry
Astrological Correspondence: Virgo
Tarot Correspondence: The Empress
Gods/Goddesses: Frigga, Holde
Color: Dark Green
Tree: Birch
Herb: Lady's mantle
Stones: All Gems
Animals: All Animals
Element: Earth
Magic:
Understanding transition
Protects and masks energy
Revitalization and empowerment
Draws and directs the powers of nature
Increases insight

Dagaz - Light of Day

Description: Dagaz represents the fresh light of a new day. You are close to making a breakthrough. You have the will to change whatever you deem necessary. You may see the world with absolute clarity at this time.
Reversed Description:
warns of treading carefully and conserving energy.do not rush things.
Keywords: Light, enlightenment, polarity, awakening, intuition, well-being
Astrological Correspondence: The Moon
Tarot Correspondence: Temperance
Gods/Goddesses: Odin
Color: Blue
Tree: Spruce
Herb: Clary sage
Stones: Lapis Lazuli, Amazonite, Azurite, Sapphire
Animals: Wolf, raven, horse, eagle, bear
Element: Fire
Magic:
Awakens the light within you
Embodies the powers of light and darkness
Increases magical patterns
Spiritual enlightenment
Protects from harm
Energizes

Ehwaz - The twin gods or heroes

Description:
Ehwaz represents movement. You may be closing in on reaching your current goals. Your life may be changing for the better. Harmony with others should come easy for you at this time.
Reversed Description:
Ehwaz reversed indicates a restless soul in need of change. Although you may hunger for something different, do not act in haste.
Keywords: Duality, movement, partnership, interaction, harmony
Astrological Correspondence: Gemini
Tarot Correspondence: The Lovers
Gods/Goddesses: Freyja, Frey
Color: White
Tree: Oak/Ash
Herb: Ragwort
Stones: Milky Quartz, Diamond, Clear Quartz, Pearl, Amber
Animals: Horse, hound, boar, cat, goat, falcon, hawk, eagle, bear
Element: Earth
Magic:
Increases wisdom
Increases magical power
Speeds personal patterns
Enhances harmony in relationships