The 24 Types of Runes and Their Meanings

These ancient characters were not merely letters; they were imbued with potent meanings, serving as a form of writing, a tool for rune divination, and a bridge to the divine. 

The Elder Futhark rune set, the oldest and most widely known, is particularly significant. 

Understanding each rune's meaning is needed for effective divination and improving your spiritual practice.

In this guide, you will learn about how runes work, the symbolism and historical context of each of the 24 Elder Futhark runes, the types of runes and their meanings in readings, and practical ways to integrate rune symbolism into your daily life for greater clarity and purpose.

1. Fehu (ᚫ) - Cattle

This embodies wealth and prosperity, both material and spiritual.

Historically, cattle were a primary measure of wealth in Norse culture, symbolising new beginnings, successful ventures, and the flow of abundance.

In readings, Fehu can encourage wise investment and responsible resource management. Practical applications include focusing on financial health and nurturing your assets.

2. Uruz (ᚢ) - Power

Uruz represents strength, vitality, and the untamed potential within.

Historically linked to the wild aurochs, it signifies overcoming challenges, embracing change, and asserting your will.

In readings, Uruz speaks of resilience and determination. Practically, it encourages you to harness your inner power and face obstacles head-on.

3. Thurisaz (ᚦ) - Thorn 

It represents obstacles faced, boundaries set, and the transformative power of destruction.

Historically, it is linked to Thor's hammer, a symbol of protection and conflict. 

In readings, Thurisaz indicates the need for resilience, shedding negativity, or a necessary test.

Practically, it suggests setting boundaries and protecting oneself from harm.

4. Ansuz (ᚨ) - Estuary

Ansuz is the rune of communication, wisdom, and inspiration, linked historically to the god Odin, the seeker of knowledge.

It represents the flow of information and the pursuit of truth. In readings, Ansuz signifies clarity and wisdom through communication.

Practically, it encourages open dialogue and learning.

5. Raidho (ᚱ) - Ride or Wagon

Raidho embodies journeys, both physical and metaphorical, symbolising movement, progress, and the cyclical nature of life.

Historically associated with travel and change, it represents transitions and trusting the process.

In readings, Raidho speaks of following your path.

Practically, it suggests embracing life's journeys and transitions with confidence.

6. Kenaz (ᚼ) - Torch

Kenaz, the torch rune, symbolises knowledge, creativity, and inspiration.

Historically, it represents the light of knowledge and the transformative power of fire.

In readings, Kenaz signifies enlightenment and uncovering hidden truths. Practically, it encourages creative pursuits and continuous learning.

7. Gebo (ᚷ) - Gift

Gebo embodies generosity, partnership, and the act of giving and receiving.

Historically, it represents balance and reciprocity in relationships.

In readings, Gebo signifies collaboration and harmony. Practically, it encourages you to foster partnerships and share your resources.

8. Wunjo (ᚹ) - Joy

Wunjo represents happiness, harmony, and a sense of wholeness.

Historically, it symbolises joy and fulfilment.

In readings, Wunjo indicates inner peace and shared happiness. Practically, it encourages cultivating joy and seeking harmony in relationships.

9. Hagalaz (ᚺ) - Hailstone

Hagalaz, the hailstone rune, embodies disruption and transformation.

Historically, it signifies natural forces and sudden changes. In readings, Hagalaz indicates unexpected change and the potential for renewal.

Practically, it encourages adaptability and resilience in the face of upheaval.

10. Nauthiz (ᚾ) - Need

Nauthiz represents limitations, perseverance, and overcoming adversity.

Historically, it signifies necessity and constraint.

In readings, Nauthiz speaks of challenges faced and inner strength discovered. Practically, it encourages resourcefulness and persistence.

11. Isa (ᛁ) - Ice

Historically, this signifies a period of pause and reflection. In readings, Isa indicates the need for patience and inner reflection.

Practically, it encourages taking time to pause and consider before acting.

Overall, Isa embodies stillness, stagnation, and the potential for hidden growth.

12. Jera (ᛃ) - Year

Jera represents cycles, harvests, and the rewards of patience. Historically, it signifies the yearly cycles of nature.

In readings, Jera indicates reaping what you sow and the interconnectedness of all things.

Practically, it encourages patience and recognising the long-term impact of actions.

13. Eihwaz (ᛖ) - Yew

Eihwaz embodies resilience, endurance, and the ability to overcome hardship. Historically, it signifies the strength and longevity of the yew tree.

In readings, Eihwaz indicates facing challenges with courage. Practically, it encourages finding inner strength and embracing transformation.

14. Perthro (ᛇ) - The Unknown

Perthro represents mystery, fate, and the unknowable aspects of life.

Historically, it signifies the unknown and the role of chance.

In readings, Perthro indicates trusting the unseen and embracing destiny. Practically, it encourages openness to life's mysteries and accepting the unfolding of events.

15. Algiz (ᛉ) - Elk

Algiz embodies protection, shelter, and the presence of higher forces.

Historically, it signifies the protective power of the elk.

In readings, Algiz indicates seeking guidance and finding sanctuary. Practically, it encourages trusting your intuition and seeking protection.

16. Sowilo (ᛋ) - Sun

Sowilo, the sun rune, embodies success, vitality, and the source of all life.

Historically, it signifies the power of the sun.

In readings, Sowilo indicates achieving goals and radiating strength. Practically, it encourages pursuing success and embracing vitality.

17. Tiwaz (ᛏ) - The God

Tiwaz represents justice, leadership, and the warrior spirit.

Historically, it signifies the god Tyr and the principles of justice and courage.

In readings, Tiwaz indicates standing up for what is right. Practically, it encourages taking charge and acting with integrity.

18. Berkana (ᛒ) - Birch Goddess

Berkana embodies growth, fertility, and nurturing aspects of life. Historically, it signifies the birch goddess and new beginnings.

In readings, Berkana indicates personal development. Practically, it encourages nurturing growth and embracing new starts.

19. Ehwaz (ᛖ) - Horse

Ehwaz symbolises partnership, trust, and movement forward. Historically, it signifies the relationship between horse and rider.

In readings, Ehwaz indicates teamwork and loyalty. Practically, it encourages building trust and cooperation.

20. Mannaz (ᛗ) - Mankind

Mannaz represents humanity, individuality, and community power.

Historically, it signifies human beings and their collective strength.

In readings, Mannaz indicates self-reflection and understanding others. Practically, it encourages working together for the common good.

21. Laguz (ᛚ) - Water

Laguz embodies intuition, emotion, and the flow of life. Historically, it signifies the element of water and its adaptability.

In readings, Laguz indicates inner wisdom and emotional flow. Practically, it encourages trusting your feelings and adapting to change.

22. Inguz (ᛜ) - Seed

Inguz symbolises potential, new beginnings, and creation power. Historically, it signifies the fertility god Ing and growth.

In readings, Inguz indicates fertility and manifestation. Practically, it encourages starting new projects and embracing creativity.

23. Othala (ᛟ) - Inheritance

Othala represents heritage, ancestry, and belonging. Historically, it signifies inheritance and family legacy.

In readings, Othala indicates finding your roots and honouring traditions. Practically, it encourages connecting with your heritage and creating a legacy.

24. Dagaz (ᛞ) - Transformation

Dagaz embodies transformation, awakening, and the dawn of a new era. Historically, it signifies the balance between night and day.

In readings, Dagaz indicates personal growth and breaking free from limitations. Practically, it encourages embracing change and awakening to new possibilities.

Understanding the Elder Futhark runes and their meanings is a powerful tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth. 

Each rune holds a unique vibration, offering insights into your inner world and the world around you. 

Runes are not merely symbols but gateways to ancient wisdom. With practice and intuition, you can develop your ability to interpret their messages and apply them to your life. 

Whether used for divination, meditation, or personal reflection, the wisdom of psychic readers can guide you on your path. 

For more information and guidance, contact us at Psychic Sofa.