Runes: Stones of Fortune

In addition to being a form of writing, Runes have been used for more than a thousand years in divination.

They are among the most prevalent “Western” oracles, developed in northern Europe and spreading westward with the Vikings and Celtic peoples.

RunesThe original set of Runes are called the Elder Futhark. Each letter of the word is derived from the sound of the Rune as they are placed in order:

  • Feoh
  • Ur
  • Thorn
  • Ansur
  • Rad
  • Ken

Originally, there were 24 symbols, plus one blank Rune called Wyrd (the Unknowable) used in divination.

These original symbols were modified over time adding more sounds and complexity. The Anglo-Saxon Futhork had 33 symbols, which included additional symbols, as well as modifications to the original Futhark.

Runes were used in magic, as well as for divination and writing. Assembled in various ways, called Bindrunes, they could be combined into single symbols.

In addition, when constructed carefully, according to specific proportions, the messages spelled out in Runes were embued with spiritual power in addition to meaning.
Using the Stones
The Rune stones are drawn and laid in various spreads, according to the needs of the individual question or situation.
     Stones may be laid out on a cloth and shuffled face down or drawn one at a time from inside a bag. In either case, as you pass your hand over the Runes, sense which of the stones seems to – “want” to be drawn. Take such stones and put them in place.
     The simplest Runecast consists of three stones placed side by side in the order they were drawn. This spread can be considered a single answer to a Yes/No question, considering whether the three stones were generally positive or negative – right side up, or upside down.
     It also can indicate the Situation, the Action suggested and the Outcome.
     More complex spreads require interpretations, not only of individual Runes, but their pairings with others.

   
Content © copyright 1996-2009
By Gerry Starnes • All rights reserved.