Elder Futhark Rune Guide
The Elder Futhark is the oldest runic alphabet used by Germanic tribes for writing, divination, and magical purposes. Consisting of 24 runes, each symbol holds its unique meaning, associations, and correspondences. Here is a detailed look into each rune of the Elder Futhark.
If you’ve never worked with runes and want to start, you can pick up a set of runes in my shop:
1. Fehu (ᚠ)
Meaning: Wealth, Prosperity
In-Depth Meaning: Fehu represents movable wealth, such as cattle, which were central to the economy of ancient Germanic tribes. It symbolizes prosperity, abundance, and financial strength. In divination, Fehu often signifies new beginnings, financial gains, and successful ventures.
Reversed Meaning: Loss, failure, blocked energy
Associations: Cattle, Fertility
Element: Fire
Color: Red
Stone: Carnelian, Garnet
Tree: Elder, Hazel
Gods: Freyr, Freyja
Tarot: The Empress
Zodiac: Taurus
Herb: Nettle
2. Uruz (ᚢ)
Meaning: Strength, Health
In-Depth Meaning: Uruz signifies primal strength, endurance, and physical health. It is associated with the aurochs, a wild ox, embodying raw power and untamed nature. This rune can indicate a period of great physical and emotional vitality, personal growth, and healing.
Reversed Meaning: Weakness, lack of motivation, poor health
Associations: Aurochs (wild ox)
Element: Earth
Color: Dark Green
Stone: Bloodstone, Emerald
Tree: Birch
Gods: Thor
Tarot: The Strength
Zodiac: Aries
Herb: Burdock
3. Thurisaz (ᚦ)
Meaning: Giant, Protection
In-Depth Meaning: Thurisaz is linked to the giants (Thurses) in Norse mythology, representing forces of chaos and destruction. However, it also signifies protection and defense against adversaries. It is a rune of conflict, warning, and the need for caution. Thurisaz can also symbolize the power of breaking through obstacles and the transformative nature of facing challenges head-on.
Reversed Meaning: Danger, compulsion, defenselessness
Associations: Thorn, Resistance
Element: Fire
Color: Red
Stone: Amethyst
Tree: Hawthorn
Gods: Thor, Loki
Tarot: The Tower
Zodiac: Scorpio
Herb: Hawthorn
4. Ansuz (ᚨ)
Meaning: Communication, Wisdom
In-Depth Meaning: Ansuz represents divine inspiration, wisdom, and communication. It is associated with Odin, the chief of the gods, who sacrificed himself for knowledge of the runes. This rune highlights the importance of messages, insight, and the power of words. In readings, it can signify a revelation, guidance from higher powers, or the importance of clear communication.
Reversed Meaning: Miscommunication, deceit, misunderstanding
Associations: God, Mouth
Element: Air
Color: Blue
Stone: Lapis Lazuli, Sapphire
Tree: Ash
Gods: Odin
Tarot: The Magician
Zodiac: Gemini
Herb: Clary Sage
5. Raidho (ᚱ)
Meaning: Journey, Movement
In-Depth Meaning: Raidho is the rune of travel, rhythm, and the journey of life. It emphasizes the importance of following the natural order and finding harmony in movement. Whether it refers to physical travel, a spiritual journey, or life’s cycles, Raidho encourages us to stay true to our path and embrace change with grace.
Reversed Meaning: Stagnation, obstacles, disruption
Associations: Wagon, Riding
Element: Air
Color: Blue
Stone: Turquoise
Tree: Oak
Gods: Thor
Tarot: The Chariot
Zodiac: Sagittarius
Herb: Mugwort
6. Kenaz (ᚲ)
Meaning: Torch, Enlightenment
In-Depth Meaning: Kenaz signifies illumination, knowledge, and the light of understanding. It represents the inner fire of creativity and transformation. This rune often points to a breakthrough, the discovery of hidden truths, or the kindling of new ideas. It is a reminder of the light that guides us through darkness.
Reversed Meaning: Lack of creativity, ignorance, darkness
Associations: Torch, Fire
Element: Fire
Color: Yellow
Stone: Citrine, Amber
Tree: Pine
Gods: Heimdall, Freyja
Tarot: The Hermit
Zodiac: Leo
Herb: Juniper
7. Gebo (ᚷ)
Meaning: Gift, Partnership
In-Depth Meaning: Gebo symbolizes the act of giving and the balance of exchange. It reflects generosity, partnerships, and mutual support. In relationships, it signifies harmony and union. Gebo reminds us of the importance of sharing and the reciprocal nature of interactions.
Reversed Meaning: Obligation, imbalance, selfishness
Associations: Gift, Generosity
Element: Air
Color: Pink
Stone: Rose Quartz
Tree: Elm
Gods: Odin
Tarot: The Lovers
Zodiac: Libra
Herb: Sweet Pea
8. Wunjo (ᚹ)
Meaning: Joy, Harmony
In-Depth Meaning: Wunjo stands for joy, happiness, and well-being. It represents moments of bliss and a sense of community and belonging. This rune encourages us to seek joy in our lives and to foster positive relationships. It is a symbol of peace and contentment.
Reversed Meaning: Sorrow, disharmony, alienation
Associations: Joy, Pleasure
Element: Air
Color: Light Blue
Stone: Diamond, Opal
Tree: Ash
Gods: Frigg, Odin
Tarot: The Sun
Zodiac: Cancer
Herb: Marigold
9. Hagalaz (ᚺ)
Meaning: Hail, Disruption
In-Depth Meaning: Hagalaz represents the destructive forces of nature, such as hailstorms. It signifies sudden changes, challenges, and disruptions. However, these forces can also lead to transformation and renewal. Hagalaz reminds us of the cyclical nature of life and the necessity of enduring hardships to grow stronger.
Reversed Meaning: Rebuilding, recovery, clarity
Associations: Hail, Wrath of Nature
Element: Water
Color: Black
Stone: Onyx, Obsidian
Tree: Ash
Gods: Hel
Tarot: The Tower
Zodiac: Scorpio
Herb: Yarrow
10. Nauthiz (ᚾ)
Meaning: Need, Constraint
In-Depth Meaning: Nauthiz embodies the concept of need, necessity, and limitations. It highlights challenges, restrictions, and the endurance required to overcome adversity. This rune teaches the value of perseverance and the lessons learned from hardship. It often points to inner strength and the resilience found in difficult times.
Reversed Meaning: Freedom, release, relief
Associations: Need, Distress
Element: Fire
Color: Dark Red
Stone: Garnet, Smoky Quartz
Tree: Beech
Gods: Nornir
Tarot: The Devil
Zodiac: Capricorn
Herb: Bindweed
11. Isa (ᛁ)
Meaning: Ice, Stillness
In-Depth Meaning: Isa represents stillness, ice, and stasis. It signifies a pause, a time of reflection, or obstacles that require patience. Isa encourages us to take a step back, to cool down, and to approach situations with calm and clarity. It is a reminder that stillness can be powerful and necessary for personal growth.
Reversed Meaning: Movement, thaw, change
Associations: Ice, Stillness
Element: Water
Color: White
Stone: Clear Quartz, Ice
Tree: Alder
Gods: Verdandi
Tarot: The Hanged Man
Zodiac: Pisces
Herb: Witch Hazel
12. Jera (ᛃ)
Meaning: Year, Harvest
In-Depth Meaning: Jera stands for the cycle of the year, harvest, and natural rhythms. It signifies rewards earned through hard work and patience. This rune embodies the concept of reaping what we sow and the importance of timing and cycles in life. It is a symbol of hope and the promise of fruitful outcomes.
Reversed Meaning: Delays, setbacks, missed opportunities
Associations: Year, Harvest
Element: Earth
Color: Orange
Stone: Topaz
Tree: Oak
Gods: Freyr
Tarot: The Wheel of Fortune
Zodiac: Virgo
Herb: Rosemary
13. Eihwaz (ᛇ)
Meaning: Yew Tree, Transformation
In-Depth Meaning: Eihwaz symbolizes the yew tree, associated with endurance, transformation, and protection. It represents the connection between life and death, highlighting the transformative power of facing our fears and embracing change. Eihwaz encourages resilience and the ability to adapt and overcome obstacles.
Reversed Meaning: Fear, stagnation, resistance to change
Associations: Yew Tree, Death
Element: Fire
Color: Dark Green
Stone: Yew, Labradorite
Tree: Yew
Gods: Odin
Tarot: The Death
Zodiac: Scorpio
Herb: Yew
14. Perthro (ᛈ)
Meaning: Mystery, Fate
In-Depth Meaning: Perthro represents mystery, fate, and the unknown. It is associated with hidden knowledge, secrets, and the unfolding of destiny. This rune encourages us to embrace uncertainty and to trust in the process of life. Perthro often signifies intuition, the occult, and the deeper aspects of existence.
Reversed Meaning: Secrets revealed, loss of control, bad luck
Associations: Cup, Womb
Element: Water
Color: Black
Stone: Obsidian, Moonstone
Tree: Beech
Gods: Norns
Tarot: The High Priestess
Zodiac: Scorpio
Herb: Mandrake
15. Algiz (ᛉ)
Meaning: Protection, Shield
In-Depth Meaning: Algiz is the rune of protection and defense. It symbolizes a shield, warding off danger and harm. This rune signifies the presence of a guardian or protective force, encouraging us to stay vigilant and to protect ourselves and our loved ones. It often indicates the need for caution and the power of protective measures.
Reversed Meaning: Vulnerability, danger, lack of protection
Associations: Elk, Shield
Element: Air
Color: White
Stone: Amethyst, Agate
Tree: Elm
Gods: Heimdall
Tarot: The Hierophant
Zodiac: Capricorn
Herb: Angelica
16. Sowilo (ᛊ)
Meaning: Sun, Success
In-Depth Meaning: Sowilo represents the sun, success, and victory. It embodies the life-giving energy of the sun, bringing clarity, joy, and positive outcomes. This rune is a symbol of triumph, personal achievement, and the power of positive thinking. It often heralds a time of success and the realization of goals.
Reversed Meaning: Failure, lack of direction, setbacks
Associations: Sun, Energy
Element: Fire
Color: Gold
Stone: Sunstone, Citrine
Tree: Oak
Gods: Sunna
Tarot: The Sun
Zodiac: Leo
Herb: St. John’s Wort
17. Tiwaz (ᛏ)
Meaning: Honor, Justice
In-Depth Meaning: Tiwaz represents honor, justice, and the warrior’s path. It is associated with the god Tyr, known for his bravery and sacrifice. This rune signifies fairness, courage, and the willingness to fight for what is right. It often points to legal matters, ethical dilemmas, and the importance of integrity.
Reversed Meaning: Injustice, dishonor, legal trouble
Associations: Spear, Warrior
Element: Air
Color: Red
Stone: Ruby, Carnelian
Tree: Oak
Gods: Tyr
Tarot: Justice
Zodiac: Libra
Herb: Thyme
18. Berkano (ᛒ)
Meaning: Birth, Growth
In-Depth Meaning: Berkano is the rune of birth, fertility, and growth. It symbolizes new beginnings, nurturing, and the cycles of life. This rune encourages care, protection, and the fostering of new ventures or relationships. In readings, it often indicates a time of personal or spiritual growth and the nurturing of new ideas.
Reversed Meaning: Stagnation, infertility, neglect
Associations: Birch Tree, Fertility
Element: Earth
Color: Green
Stone: Emerald, Moss Agate
Tree: Birch
Gods: Frigg
Tarot: The Empress
Zodiac: Cancer
Herb: Lady's Mantle
19. Ehwaz (ᛖ)
Meaning: Horse, Partnership
In-Depth Meaning: Ehwaz signifies movement, progress, and partnership. It is associated with the horse, symbolizing speed, trust, and a harmonious relationship between partners. This rune often highlights cooperation, teamwork, and mutual support in achieving common goals. It encourages trust and loyalty in relationships.
Reversed Meaning: Disharmony, mistrust, stagnation
Associations: Horse, Travel
Element: Earth
Color: Brown
Stone: Jade, Malachite
Tree: Ash
Gods: Freyr
Tarot: The Lovers
Zodiac: Gemini
Herb: Horehound
20. Mannaz (ᛗ)
Meaning: Humanity, Self
In-Depth Meaning: Mannaz represents humanity, the self, and the human condition. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, community, and cooperation. This rune encourages us to connect with others, to understand our place in the world, and to seek balance within ourselves. It often points to issues of identity and the need for self-reflection.
Reversed Meaning: Isolation, ego, disconnection
Associations: Man, Community
Element: Air
Color: Light Blue
Stone: Aquamarine, Lapis Lazuli
Tree: Ash
Gods: Heimdall
Tarot: The World
Zodiac: Aquarius
Herb: Sage
21. Laguz (ᛚ)
Meaning: Water, Flow
In-Depth Meaning: Laguz stands for water, intuition, and the flow of life. It symbolizes the unconscious mind, emotions, and the natural ebb and flow of energies. This rune encourages us to trust our intuition, to go with the flow, and to embrace the fluidity of life. It often indicates a time of emotional growth and the need to listen to our inner voice.
Reversed Meaning: Emotional turmoil, blockage, stagnation
Associations: Water, Lake
Element: Water
Color: Blue
Stone: Moonstone, Amethyst
Tree: Willow
Gods: Njord
Tarot: The Moon
Zodiac: Pisces
Herb: Willow
22. Ingwaz (ᛝ)
Meaning: Fertility, Completion
In-Depth Meaning: Ingwaz represents fertility, completion, and the seed of potential. It is associated with the god Ing, symbolizing inner growth, transformation, and the fruition of ideas. This rune often signifies the completion of a cycle, the birth of new beginnings, and the nurturing of creativity. It encourages us to cultivate our inner potential and to prepare for new ventures.
Reversed Meaning: Unfinished business, lack of progress, delay
Associations: Seed, Earth
Element: Earth
Color: Green
Stone: Peridot, Aventurine
Tree: Apple
Gods: Freyr
Tarot: The Star
Zodiac: Taurus
Herb: Clover
23. Dagaz (ᛞ)
Meaning: Day, Awakening
In-Depth Meaning: Dagaz stands for day, awakening, and new beginnings. It symbolizes the dawning of a new day, enlightenment, and a fresh start. This rune often indicates a major transformation, a breakthrough, or a moment of clarity. It encourages us to embrace change, to awaken to new possibilities, and to trust in the light of new beginnings.
Reversed Meaning: Darkness, delay, confusion
Associations: Dawn, Awakening
Element: Fire
Color: Light Blue
Stone: Opal, Diamond
Tree: Spruce
Gods: Baldur
Tarot: The Sun
Zodiac: Aries
Herb: Lavender
24. Othala (ᛟ)
Meaning: Heritage, Ancestry
In-Depth Meaning: Othala represents heritage, ancestry, and the legacy of our forebears. It emphasizes the importance of family, cultural roots, and inherited values. This rune often signifies a connection to our past, the strength of our lineage, and the importance of preserving our heritage. It encourages us to honor our roots and to recognize the value of our cultural inheritance.
Reversed Meaning: Alienation, loss of heritage, separation
Associations: Homeland, Inheritance
Element: Earth
Color: White
Stone: Onyx, Garnet
Tree: Pine
Gods: Odin
Tarot: The Hierophant
Zodiac: Capricorn
Herb: Vervain