The Names of the Runes (Elder Futhark)
The Names of the Runes (Elder Futhark)
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The Elder Futhark, also known as the Older Futhark, Old Futhark, or Germanic Futhark, is the oldest form of the runic alphabets. It was a writing system used by Germanic peoples for Northwest Germanic dialects in the Migration Period.

A very brief history of the runic alphabets

Runes are the characters that form the runic alphabets, also known as futhark or fuþark – a word derived from the first 6 letters (ᚠᚢᚦᚨᚱᚲ). The origin of runes is unknown, but it’s believed that the word “rune” comes from the Norse rún which means “secret” or “mystery”, so this could indicate that the runic alphabet was created for esoteric purposes.

They were used by Germanic and Scandinavian tribes, evolving over time. The first we know is called the Elder Futhark alphabet and it consists of 24 letters. Later, it morphed into the Younger Futhark and runes were introduced in Britain as well, deriving in the Anglo-Saxon runes or futhorc (We will cover these alphabets in the future, so stay tuned!)

Elder Futhark Runes Translation and Meanings

Learn more about the Viking runes and their meanings with this handy Elder Futhark Rune Chart. You will see each rune’s translation and a brief approximation to their literal and magical meanings:

  RUNE NAME TRANSLATION MEANING
Fehu F Cattle, prosperity, gain of some sort, fulfilment
Uruz U Wild ox, strength, life force, determination
Thurisaz Th Giants, Thor, brutal force, unexpected change
Ansuz A Mouth, Odin, communication, transmission of knowledge
Raido R Wagon, travel, movement, introspective journey
Kaunaz C/K Fire, warmth, energy, power, positive attitude
Gebo G Gift, fortuitous outcome, partnership, commitment
Wunjo W Joy, success, lasting emotional happiness
Hagalaz H Hail, limitations, delays, forces outside your control, disruption
Nauthiz N Patience, passing through a difficult learning situation, hardship, need
Isa I Ice, plans on hold, frustrations
Jera J/Y Harvest, reaping of rewards for past efforts, justice
Eihwaz E Yew, Yggdrassil, endurance, ability to achieve goals with resilience
Pertho P Mystery, occult knowledge, randomness, coincidence, secrets uncovered   
Algiz Z Elk, protection, support, wisdom of the Universe
Sowulo S Sun, victory, awareness, energy
Teiwaz T Tyr, success in a competition, warrior strengh
Berkana B Birth, new beginnings, fertility, true home
Ehwaz E Horse, movement, steady progress, physical shift
Mannaz M Humankind, interdependence, collective potential
Laguz L Water, evolution, cleansing, female figure
Ingwaz Ng Successful conclusion, relief, personal development
Othala O Heritage, possessions, ancestral wisdom, home
Dagaz D Day, increase, steady growth, awakening

A little word of advice before you leave…

Please, be aware that this is a very short guide to help you with your studies. Runes are very complex and it can take many years to fully understand them, so don’t stop here! There are many beginner-friendly books to learn how to read the elder futhark runes and infinite online resources available.

And whenever you feel ready to do your first rune casting… don’t forget to have a look at our quick guide on how to make your own rune set!

Further Reading

 

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