List of Elder Futhark Runes and Their Meanings

The Elder Futhark runes are an ancient runic alphabet used by Germanic tribes of Northern Europe, consisting of 24 runes. These rune symbols were not only used for writing but also held deep spiritual significance. Each rune carries a unique meaning, phonetic value, and energy, influencing various aspects of life.

Below, you’ll find a list of Elder Futhark runes and their meanings, structured for both quick reference and detailed exploration.

Elder Futhark Runes Meanings

Each rune has a unique meaning, phonetic value, and symbolic energy, influencing various aspects of life, from wealth and success to transformation and protection.

These runes were often carved onto rune stones, weapons, jewelry, and wood, with many examples found in Elder Futhark inscriptions. Today, they continue to be used in rune readings, rune magic, and spiritual practices. 

Below is a complete list of the 24 Elder Futhark runes with their meanings, helping you to understand their significance in history, spirituality, and modern practice.

1. Fehu – “Cattle”

Fehu rune means wealth, prosperity, and new beginnings. 

• Symbol: Two diagonal branches on a vertical line, resembling cattle horns.
• Name: Fehu (phonetic value; “F”), meaning cattle in Proto-Germanic.
• Energy: Abundance, fiction: financial stability, manifestation.

Detailed Explanation: Fehu symbolizes earned success and reminds us that wealth requires responsible management. It appears in Elder Futhark inscriptions and the Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem, describing wealth as both a gift and a burden. Used in rune magic, Fehu attracts financial success and stability. In rune readings, Fehu indicates opportunity but, when reversed, warns of financial loss.

2. Uruz – “power”

Uruz rune meaning represents strength, endurance, and transformation.

• Symbol: A curved vertical line, resembling an auroch’s horns.
• Name: Uruz (phonetic value: “U”), meaning aurochs (wild ox).
• Energy: Raw power, resilience, and personal growth.

Detailed Explanation: Uruz is linked to the aurochs, an untamed symbol of physical vitality and inner power. Found in Elder Futhark inscriptions, it represents strengths through challenges. The Anglo-Saxon Poem highlights its wild energy. Rune magic, boosts confidence and endurance. In rune spreads, Uruz signals growth and transformation, while reserved, it warns of missed opportunities.

3. Thurisaz – “thorn”

Thurisaz rune meaning symbolizes protection, conflict, and necessary challenges.

• Symbol: A vertical line with a thorn-like shape.
• Name: Thurisaz (phonetic value: “TH”), meaning thorn or giant.
• Energy: Defensive strength and controlled chaos.

Detailed Explanation: Connected to Thor, the Norse god of thunder, Thurisaz is a rune of both destruction and defense.  It appears in runic inscriptions as a protective symbol. The Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem describes it as both a warning and a source of strength. Used in rune magic, it helps ward off negativity. In rune readings, it signals a turning point, while reversed, it warns of recklessness.

4. Ansuz – “estuary”

Ansuz rune meaning represents wisdom, communication, and divine inspiration.

• Symbol: A vertical line with two small branches.
• Name: Ansuz (phonetic value: “A”), meaning mouth or divine breath.
• Energy: Clarity, guidance, and truth.

Detailed explanation: Associated with Odin, the All-Father, Ansuz embodies clear speech and insight. Found in Elder Futhark inscriptions, it marks wisdom and leadership. The Aglo-Saxon Rune Poem connects it to divine knowledge. In rune magic, it enhances communication and intuition. In rune spreads, it suggests guidance or messages, while reversed, it warns of miscommunication.

5. Raidho – “ride Or Wagon”

Raidho rune meaning represents journeys, movement, and life’s path. It signifies travel, rhythm, and destiny unfolding.

• Energy: Movement, order, and alignment with destiny
• Symbol: A shape resembling a wheel or journey path.
• Name: Raidho (phonetic value: “R”). meaning “ride” or “wagon”.

Detailed Explanation: Raidho rune meaning symbolizes both physical and spiritual journeys, urging us to trust the process of life. It represents destiny unfolding and the importance of following one’s path with purpose. In rune magic, this rune is a sign for safe travels, decision-making, and finding one’s path. If reversed, it warns of delays or a lack of direction.

6. Kenaz – “torch”

Kenaz rune meaning represents illumination, knowledge, and creativity. It is the rune of learning and personal growth.

• Energy: Enlightenment, guidance, and inspiration.
• Symbol: A shape resembling a torch or flame.
• Name: Kenaz (phonetic value: “K”), meaning “torch”.

Detailed explanation: Kenaz brings clarity and new perspectives, illuminating hidden knowledge. Found in Elder Futhark inscriptions, it was linked to wisdom and transformation. The Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem described it as a guiding light in darkness. Used in rune magic, it enhances insight and creativity. In rune readings, Kenaz suggests learning, artistic success, or a breakthrough.

7. Gebo – “gift”

Gebo rune meaning represents balance, partnership, and generosity. It symbolizes the power of giving and receiving.

• Symbol: And “X” shape, resembling a gift exchange.
• Name: Gebo (phonetic value: “G”), meaning “gift”.
• Energy: Harmony, cooperation, and reciprocity.

Detailed explanation: Gebo rune signifies harmony, fair trade, and deep connections. Found in Elder Futhark runes, it often marked alliances and sacred bonds. Used in rune magic, Gebo enhances love, friendship, and cooperation. In rune readings, it suggests giving and receiving in balance.

8. Wunjo – “joy”

Wunjo rune meaning represents happiness, harmony, and fulfillment. It signifies joy, success, and a taste of emotional well-being.

• Symbol: A shape resembling a flag or a banner.
• Name: Wunjo (phonetic value: “W”)m meaning “joy”.
• Energy: Peace, happiness, and emotional balance.

Detailed explanation: Wunjo rune is linked to achievement and satisfaction. Found in rune inscriptions, it marks victory and personal harmony. In rune magic, it attracts joy and positivity. In rune spreads, Wunjo signifies a successful outcome. 

9. Hagalaz – “hailstone”

Hagalaz rune meaning represents disruption, change, and transformation. It symbolizes destruction as a path to rebirth. 

• Energy: Unpredictable forces, cleansing, and transformation.
• Symbol: Resembles falling hailstones. 
• Name: Hagalaz (phonetic value: “H”) meaning “hail”.

Detailed explanation: Hagalaz traces growth through adversity. Appearing in Elder Futhark inscriptions, it represents cycles of destruction and rebirth. In rune magic, it clears negative patterns. In rune readings, it warns of upcoming shifts.

10. Nauthiz – “need”

Nauthiz rune meaning represents necessity, resistance, and personal growth through challenges. It symbolizes delays, hardships, and perseverance.

• Energy: Hardship, endurance, and learning through struggle.
• Symbol: Two intersecting lines, resembling friction.
• Name: Nauthiz (phonetic value: “N”), meaning “need” or “constraint”.

Detailed explanation: Nauthiz is the rune of struggle, self-discipline, and inner strength. It teaches hardship is often necessary for growth, urging patience and determination in overcoming obstacles. The Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem describes it as a rune of great difficulty but also great wisdom, emphasizing that patience leads to eventual relief.

11. Isa – “ice”

Isa rune meaning represents stillness, introspection, and patience. It symbolizes delays, stagnation, and the need for self-reflection.

• Symbol: A simple vertical line resembling a frozen state.
• Name: Isa (phonetic value: “I”), meaning “ice”.
• Energy: pause, self-discipline, and inner stillness.

Details explanation: Isa is linked to inner reflection and restraint, urging patience in times of uncertainty. Like ice that preserves and slows movements, it teaches the importance of passing before action. The Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem describes ice as beautiful yet dangerous, reinforcing its dual nature – sometimes delays serve a purpose, and rushing forward leads to mistakes.

12. Jera – “year”

Jera rune meaning represents cycles, harvest, and rewards for past efforts. It symbolizes change, completion, and abundance. 

• Symbol: Two interlocking lines, resembling seasonal cycles.
• Name: Jera (phonetic value: “J” or “Y”), meaning “year” or “harvest”.
• Energy: Growth, patience, and natural cycles.

Detailed explanation: Jera rune signifies long-term success, patience, and the natural cycle of cause and effect. Just as a farmer must attend to corps before harvest, this rune reminds us that effort leads to eventual rewards. Appearing in rune inscriptions, Jera was associated with abundance, the turning of seasons and prosperity.

13. Eihwaz – “yew”

Eihwas rune meaning represents endurance, transformation, and connection to the eternal. It signifies death, rebirth, and spiritual protection. 

• Symbol: A vertical line with branches extending from both ends, resembling the trunk of the Yggdrasil, the World Tree.
• Name: Eihwaz (phonetic value: “EI”), meaning “yew tree” in Proto-Germanic.
• Energy: Stability, resilience, and connection to higher realms.

Detailed explanation: Eihwas rune is associated with the yew tree, which remains green year-round and endures for centuries. It symbolizes the cycle of death and rebirth, resilience, and overcoming hardships. In Elder Futhark inscriptions, Eihwaz was linked to protection, spiritual wisdom, and transformation. The Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem connects it to stability, teaching that even in endings, new beginnings are present.

14. Perthro – “the Unknown” 

Perthro rune meaning represents mystery, fate, and hidden knowledge. It signifies the unknown, destiny, and spiritual awakening. 

• Symbol: A shape resembling a lot cup or dice cup.
• Name: Perthto (phonetic value: “P”), meaning “lot cup” or “chance”.
• Energy: Divination, destiny, and unseen forces of life.

Detailed explanation: Perthro is the rune of fate, intuition, and hidden forces at play. It is deeply connected to rune divination and the unfolding of destiny, urging trust in what is yet to be revealed. Appearing in Elder Futhark inscriptions, Perhtro was linked to omens, the unknown, and life’s unpredictable nature. In rune readings, it indicates mystery, fate taking its course, or unexpected revelations. 

15. Algiz – “elk”

Algiz rune meaning represents protection, higher awareness, and divine connection. It signifies safety, guidance, and shielding from harm.

• Symbol: A shape resembling elk’s antlers.
• Name: Algiz (phonetic value: “Z”, meaning “elk” or “protection”.
• Energy: Defense, intuition, and divine guardianship.

Detailed explanation: Algiz is a powerful protection rune, often used in rune magic for warding off danger and strengthening intuition. It is linked to spiritual connection and guidance from higher forces. In rune readings, Algiz suggests a need for caution, spiritual awareness, or a protective influence in your life. 

16. Sowilo – “sun”

Sowilo rune means success, vitality, and personal power. It signifies illumination, confidence, and achieving goals. 

• Symbol: A zigzag shape, resembling a sunray.
• Name: Sowilo (phonetic value: “S”), meaning “sun”.
• Energy: Light, clarity, and personal empowerment.

Detailed explanation: Sowilo is the rune of victory, linked to the sun’s life-giving energy. It represents guidance, clarity, and achieving the highest potential.

In rune magic, Sowilo is invoked for confidence, motivation, and personal triumph. In rune readings, it indicates success, self-assurance, and a clear path forward.

17. Tiwaz – “the God”

Tiwaz rune means justice, leadership, and honor. It signifies strength, victory, and fair decision-making.

• Symbol: A straight arrow pointing upwards.
• Name: Tiwaz (phonetic value: “T”), named after the god Tyr.
• Energy: Courage, fairness, and noble sacrifice.

Detailed explanation: Tiwaz rune is the warrior’s rune, embodying justice, bravery and noble duty. It is connected to Tyr, the god of war and law, who sacrificed his hand to protect the gods. In rune magic, Tiwaz is used for court cases, leadership, and staying true to one’s moral path. In rune readings, it signifies decisiveness, honor, and success through integrity.

18. Berkana – “birch Goddess”

Berkana rune meaning represents growth, renewal, and feminine energy. It signifies birth, fertility, and healing.

• Symbol: Two vertical lines of curved branches, resembling a birch tree.
• Name: Berkana (phonetic value: “B”, meaning “birch tree”.
• Energy: Nurturing, healing, and new beginnings.

Detailed explanation: Berkana rune is associated with fertility, motherhood, and nurturing energy. It represents personal growth, transformation, and the healing process. In rune magic, Berkana is used for protection, new beginnings, and emotional healing. In rune reading, it signals growth, positive change, and nurturing relationships.

19. Ehwaz – “horse”

Ehwaz rune meaning represents movement, teamwork, and trust. It signifies progress, partnerships, and synchronized efforts.

• Symbol: Two interconnected lines, resembling two horses moving together.
• Name: Ehwaz (phonetic value: “E”), meaning “horse”.
• Energy: Cooperation, travel, and balance in relationships.

Detailed explanation: Ehwaz is the rune of partnership and forward motion, often symbolizing loyalty and strong connections. In rune magic, Ehwaz is used for improving relationships, trust, and personal progress. In rune readings, it indicates harmony, success in teamwork, or a journey ahead. 

20. Mannaz – “mankind”

Mannaz rune meaning represents humanity, intelligence and cooperation. It signifies self-awareness, relationships, and personal development. 

• Symbol: A mirrored shape resembling human figures.
• Name: Mannaz (phonetic value: “M”), meaning “man” or “mankind”.
• Energy: Communication, self-growth, and wisdom. 

Detailed explanation: Mannaz is the rune of intelligence and social connection, emphasizing the importance of community and self-improvement. In rune magic, Mannaz is invoked for clarity, strengthening relationships, and self-improvement. In rune readings, it suggests growth, awareness, or a need for collaboration. 

21. Laguz – “water”

Laguz rune meaning represents intuition, flow, and the subconscious. It signifies emotional balance and adaptability.

• Symbol: A curved shape resembling a wave.
• Name: Laguz (phonetic value: “L”), meaning “water” or “lake”.
• Energy: Emotion, intuition, and adaptability.

Detailed explanation: Laguz is the rune of deep intuition, urging us to trust our instincts. In rune magic, Laguz is used for spiritual awakening and navigating emotions. In rune readings, it indicates inner wisdom, adaptability and hidden truths.

22. Inguz – “seed”

Inguz rune meaning represents potential, new beginnings, and fertility. It signifies creative energy, stored power, and future growth. 

• Symbol: A diamond shape, resembling a seed.
• Name: Inguz (phonetic value: “NG”), meaning “seed” or “fertility”.
• Energy: Creativity, productivity, and stored potential.

Detailed explanation: Inguz is the rune of fertility and creation, symbolizing stored energy that is ready to be released. In rune magic, Inguz is used for new projects, fertility, and manifesting desires. In rune readings, it signifies opportunity, fresh starts, or personal breakthroughs.

23. Othala – “separation”’

Othala rune meaning represents heritage, inheritance, and ancestral wisdom. It signifies spiritual legacy and cultural identity.

• Symbol: A shape resembling a fenced-off land.
• Name: Othala (phonetic value: “O”), meaning “ancestral land”.
• Energy: Stability, legacy, and connection to roots.

Detailed explanation: Othala is associated with ancestral wisdom and passing knowledge through. In rune magic, othala rune is used for family blessings, protection, and connecting with ancestral roots. In rune readings, it signals heritage, stability, or reclaiming one’s personal power.

24. Dagaz – “transformation”

Dagaz rune meaning represents breakthroughs, clarity, and transformation. It signifies new beginnings and enlightenment.

• Symbol: An hourglass shape, resembling balance and cycles.
• Name: Dagaz (phonetic value: “D”), meaning “day” or “dawn”.
• Energy: Awareness, renewal, and clarity.

Detailed explanation: Dagaz is the rune of awakening and illumination, marking a powerful shift toward enlightenment. In rune magic, Dagaz is involved in new perspectives, fresh starts, and mental breakthroughs. In rune readings, it signals a turning point, sudden insight, or a positive transformation.

How to Use Runes

Runes have been used for centuries in Norse mythology, divination, and magic. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, understanding how to use them effectively is key. 

1. Rune Readings and Divination. Runes can be used in rune spreads to gain insight into life’s questions, challenges, and opportunities. Unlike fortune-telling, rune readings provide guidance and perspective.

2. Rune Magic and Symbolism. Runes are powerful runic symbols used in rune magic, amulets, and protection spells, The Elder Futhark runes were often carved onto weapons, jewelry, and rune stones for protection and empowerment. Some common uses include:

• Fehu for wealth and prosperity
• Algiz for protection
• Sowilo for success and victory

3. Rune Tattoos and Modern Usage. Many people get rune tattoos for their symbolic meaning, such as strength, transformation, or spiritual growth. However, it’s essential to understand their history before using them.

4. Creating Runic Inscriptions. Runes can be used for writing messages, creating signals, or setting intentions. The Elder Futhark runes were historically inscribed on wood, stone, and metal as protective symbols.

Conclusions

The Elder Futhark rune should have profound wisdom, bridging the gap between ancient traditions and modern spiritual practices. Each of the 24 runes carries unique rune meanings, offering insights into personal growth, success and transformation.

Whether you seek guidance through rune interpretations, protection through rune symbols, or manifestation through rune magic, understanding the runes and their meanings empowers you to navigate life’s challenges with clarity. The rune meanings chart serves as a valuable tool in unlocking the messages behind these Norse runes while rune stone meanings reveal their historical and mystical significance.

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