Elder Futhark Runes: A Beginner's Introduction to Norse Divination

The Elder Futhark is the oldest known runic alphabet, consisting of 24 symbols that served as both a writing system and a sacred oracle for the ancient Germanic and Norse peoples. The name "futhark" comes from the first six runes: Fehu (ᚠ), Uruz (ᚢ), Thurisaz (ᚦ), Ansuz (ᚨ), Raidho (ᚱ), and Kenaz (ᚲ).

The Three Aettir

The 24 runes are organized into three families of eight, called aettir (singular: aett). Each aett is traditionally associated with a Norse deity:

Freyr's Aett (Runes 1-8)

The first aett deals with fundamental forces: wealth (Fehu ᚠ), strength (Uruz ᚢ), protection (Thurisaz ᚦ), wisdom (Ansuz ᚨ), journey (Raidho ᚱ), knowledge (Kenaz ᚲ), partnership (Gebo ᚷ), and joy (Wunjo ᚹ). These runes address the material and social foundations of life.

Heimdall's Aett (Runes 9-16)

The second aett confronts challenges and transformation: disruption (Hagalaz ᚺ), need (Nauthiz ᚾ), stillness (Isa ᛁ), harvest (Jera ᛃ), the yew tree (Eihwaz ᛇ), fate (Perthro ᛈ), protection (Algiz ᛉ), and the sun (Sowilo ᛊ). These runes navigate through difficulty toward enlightenment.

Tyr's Aett (Runes 17-24)

The third aett encompasses higher consciousness: justice (Tiwaz ᛏ), growth (Berkano ᛒ), movement (Ehwaz ᛖ), humanity (Mannaz ᛗ), water/intuition (Laguz ᛚ), fertility (Ingwaz ᛜ), breakthrough (Dagaz ᛞ), and heritage (Othala ᛟ). These runes connect to cosmic purpose and legacy.

How to Cast Runes

Unlike tarot's structured spreads, rune casting is more freeform:

1. Focus your question. Hold it clearly in your mind.
2. Select your casting method. You can draw individual runes (like a tarot draw), cast all runes onto a cloth and read those that land face-up, or use a structured spread.
3. Read the runes. Consider each rune's meaning in context. Pay attention to which runes cluster together.

Popular Rune Spreads

• Single Rune: Direct answer to a direct question.
• Norn Spread (3 runes): Named after the three Norns (fate goddesses) — representing past influence, present situation, and future trajectory.
• Odin's Cross (5 runes): A deeper spread covering the situation, challenge, foundation, aspiration, and outcome.

Merkstave (Reversed Runes)

Some runes can appear reversed — called merkstave. However, symmetrical runes (Gebo, Isa, Jera, Eihwaz, Ingwaz, Dagaz) cannot be reversed because they look identical in any orientation. Their meanings remain constant regardless of how they fall.

Getting Started

The best way to begin with runes is to learn them one at a time. Study one rune per day — its shape, its name, its traditional meaning, and its personal significance to you. In three weeks and three days, you'll know the entire Elder Futhark.