Runes are an ancient form of writing and divination that originated in Germanic and Nordic cultures.  The word “rune” comes from the Old Norse word “rún” which means “secret” or “mystery”.  Runes were traditionally used for writing, but they were also used for divination, magic, and protection.  Today, runes are still used by many people who are interested in the history and spirituality of these ancient symbols.  

History of Runes:  

Runes were first used by Germanic tribes in Northern Europe around 200 BCE.  They were used as a form of writing and communication, and were often carved into stone, wood, or bone. The earliest known runic inscriptions date back to the second century CE, and were found in Denmark and Sweden.  

Over time, the use of runes expanded beyond just writing. They were used for divination, magick, and protection.  In Viking culture, runes were often used by warriors to protect themselves in battle. They would carve runes onto their weapons or shields, believing that the symbols would provide them with strength and protection.  

Types of Runes:  

There are many different types of runes, but the most well-known are the Elder Futhark runes. The Elder Futhark consists of 24 symbols, each with its own meaning and significance.  These runes were used by Germanic tribes from the 2nd to 8th centuries CE.  

In addition to the Elder Futhark, there are also other forms of runes, such as the Younger Futhark, the Anglo-Saxon Futhorc, and the Armanen runes. Each of these forms of runes has its own unique set of symbols and meanings.  

Using Runes for Divination:  

One of the most common uses of runes today is for divination.  To use runes for divination, first find “your” set of runes, or perhaps let it find you.  You can  purchase a set or even make your own.  

Once you have your runes, you can begin the divination process.  To do this, you will need to draw a certain number of runes from your set and lay them out in a particular pattern.  There are many different layouts that you can use, but one of the most common is the three-rune spread.  

In the three-rune spread, you draw three runes and lay them out in a row.  The first rune represents the past, the second represents the present, and the third represents the future. nThis is connected to the Nornir – the weavers of fate. You can then interpret the meaning of each rune to gain insight into your situation.  

Using Runes for Magick:  

Runes are also commonly used for magick.  In Viking culture, runes were often used to cast spells or create protective talismans.  To use runes for magick, you can either carve the symbols onto an object or use them in a spoken or written spell.  

When using runes for magick, it’s important to understand the meaning and symbolism of each symbol. Each rune has its own unique energy and power, so it’s important to choose the right rune for your intention.  

Runes are not just an ancient form of writing; they are powerful energy of divination and guidance that continue to be used by many people today.  Whether you’re interested in the history and spirituality of these ancient symbols, or you’re looking for a way to gain insight into your life, runes can be a powerful tool. By studying the symbols and meanings of runes, you can tap into the ancient wisdom of our ancestors and connect with the energy and power of these sacred symbols.