To read runes confidently, you need to know the meaning of each of the 24 Elder Futhark runes. This is the oldest runic alphabet, and each of its signs is an independent symbol of fate. A full interactive reference is available on the rune meanings page, free and without registration.
What the Elder Futhark is
The Elder Futhark is a system of 24 runes used by Germanic and Norse peoples roughly from the 2nd to the 8th century. The name comes from the first six runes: Fehu, Uruz, Thurisaz, Ansuz, Raido, Kenaz (F-U-Th-A-R-K). Runes were used both as writing and as sacred symbols for divination, amulets and spells.
The three aettir
The 24 runes are divided into three groups of eight β βaettirβ. The first aett (Freya's) is about the material and the basic forces of life. The second aett (Heimdall's) is about trials, change and overcoming. The third aett (Tyr's) is about the spiritual, the human and higher goals. This division helps you understand in which area of life energy is now focused.
Upright and reversed meaning
Most runes have two positions. Upright reveals the main meaning, reversed weakens, inverts or warns. But there are symmetric runes β Gebo, Hagalaz, Isa, Jera, Eihwaz, Sowilo, Ingwaz, Dagaz β which do not reverse and always read the same way. This is important to consider in divination.
How to use the reference
Tap any rune to see its name and its upright and reversed meanings. Study one rune a day or review them before a spread. Once you have memorized the core meanings, move on to practice β the rune of the day, three runes or the runic cross.
Open the rune meanings reference and start learning.
