A few words about runic magic

 The term runic magic can have an effect on the imagination. It is possible that images of ancient pagan priests performing their secret rituals will appear before our eyes - completely out of nowhere. Or, at least, this could be the case if we link runic magic with general ideas about the Celtic priests of the pre-Christian era, the druids. Meanwhile, even if our thoughts run along just such a path, it does not at all mean that it is in accordance with what rune researchers have proven. Although, of course, we are entitled to have our own opinion on the matter.
So what were runes, the basis of runic magic? Runes are a type of alphabet, used in the first millennium AD mainly by the ancient Germanic, Scandinavian tribes and those from whom the modern native Britons, Irish or Scots are descended. Over time, the runes were supplanted by the Latin alphabet, which is generally known and still used today, and fell out of use, gradually falling into oblivion. However, there are indications that runic writing was also known in some parts of Poland.

Runic writing had several "branches", that is, it existed in several varieties. This was probably because it was used for quite a long period of time in a rather extensive area of Europe. Runes were engraved on wood or animal bones, but stone was another common material used to record events. There are particularly many such stone monuments in Sweden. If you are interested in the history of the alphabet and the development of writing, you can look up the details and do some reading. And what does this have to do with magic?

It turns out that it has quite a lot to do with magic. Runic script, also called futhark after its first letters, existed in the Old Germanic, Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian varieties. The latter is the so-called Nordic version or the so-called younger futhark. The Old Germanic variety had 24 characters, the Old English 31 characters and the youngest-Nordic 16 characters. It has to be said that a person might be greatly surprised, as runes could be associated with some form of pictorial communication, but not necessarily with the alphabet. The characters, which serve as letters, are definitely different from those known today, a little more angular. Their pronunciation is just as peculiar as their graphic form.

And this is where the crux of the subject - the magical references of runic writing - begins to reveal itself. Each letter was assigned a specific image, not necessarily related to its sound. In addition to this, each letter-rune was narrated by a specific augury meaning. In addition, and the sound of a particular rune. Both aspects would have an effect on the human being (the vibration of the sounds more on an energetic level). Regarding the divinatory aspects of the runes, here is how the individual letters of the runic alphabet sounded and some of the possible interpretations:

- Fehu - symbol of energy, creativity, abundance, patronal symbol, sign of possible enrichment on a spiritual level

- Uruz - matriarchal symbol, signifies a return to oneself, both in the sense of fuller self-awareness and the resolution of existential problems after calm introspection

- Urisaz - symbolises a positive turn of events, the benevolent energies of the universe favouring the achievement of the desired goal and success in generalAnsuz - indicates inner wisdom and prudence, the power of inspiration and self-confidence, the ability to leave behind what is in any way limiting

- Raido - indicates action, dynamism, as well as the absolute necessity to follow the voice of conscience/internal intuition

- Kaunan - symbol of fire, both external, physical and internal, i.e. strong passion, indication to use unconventional methods of prevention

- Gebo - indicates positive feelings in the sense of love, tenderness, empathy

- Wunjo - may indicate enjoyment of one's achievements

- Hagla(z) - positive influence of fate, revelation of a mystical nature, achievement of inner harmony

- Naudiz - may emphasise such desirable qualities as consistency, regularity, ability to impose discipline on oneself

- Isaz - is a sign of calmness, constancy, maturity

- Jeran - indicates slow but steady growth, development

- Ihwaz - the possibility of transformation, of returning to a spiritual beginning

- Pertho - rune indicating wisdom in life, logical consequence of events (as in a cause and effect sequence)

- Algiz - a symbol of natural protection, a sense of security

- Sowilo - rune indicating a surge of inspiration, prosperity, a positive turn of events

- Tiwaz - masculine element - decisiveness, courage, honesty, determination

- Berkanan/Berkano - symbolises femininity, fertility, a new start

- Ehwaz - is the possibility for big changes to occur, ability to work together, adaptability

- Mannaz - is an indication of values such as friendship, willingness to cooperate, intelligence,

- Laguz - an intuitive connection with oneself, hope

- Iwaz - the rune indicates such positive issues as rest, regeneration and unexpectedly given help

- Dagaz - a possible possibility of transformation, receiving enlightenment of some kind, happiness

- Othalan - a welcome rune, indicating hidden talents