What Are Viking Runes?

When we think of the Vikings, we often picture fierce warriors with longships, horned helmets, and intricate tattoos. But there is another aspect of Viking culture that often goes unnoticed – the use of runes. Viking runes are ancient symbols that were used by the Norse people for communication, divination, and magical purposes. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of Viking runes and explore their history, meanings, and significance.

The History of Viking Runes

Viking runes have a rich history that spans over a thousand years. The word “rune” comes from the Old Norse word “rún,” meaning “secret” or “whisper.” The earliest runic inscriptions date back to around the 2nd century AD and have been found in various parts of northern Europe, primarily in Scandinavia.

Viking runes were not just an alphabet; they were believed to carry powerful magical properties. The runes were seen as a way to communicate with the gods and tap into the mystical forces of the universe. Runic inscriptions were carved on stones, jewelry, weapons, and other objects of everyday life, as well as used in rituals and ceremonies.

The Alphabet of Viking Runes

The Viking runic alphabet, known as the “Elder Futhark,” consists of 24 letters or “staves.” The word “Futhark” is derived from the first six letters of the runic sequence: F, U, Þ, A, R, and K. Each rune had a name and was associated with a specific sound.

Here is a table listing the 24 runes of the Elder Futhark along with their names and meanings:

These runes were not only used for writing, but also had deeper symbolic meanings. They represented concepts, deities, natural forces, and elements of the Viking worldview. The interpretation of a rune could vary depending on the context and the intent of the user.

Divination and Magic with Viking Runes

Viking runes were not only used for communication but also served as a powerful tool for divination and magic. The runic alphabet was used for casting lots, a method of divination where runes were drawn from a bag or scattered on a surface, and their meanings were interpreted to gain insight into the past, present, or future.

Runes were also used in the casting of spells and the creation of magical formulas. Some runic inscriptions have been found that were intended to bring luck, heal illnesses, protect against enemies, or bind someone with a curse. The use of runes in magic was often accompanied by rituals and incantations to harness their mystical properties.

Rediscovery and Modern Use of Viking Runes

After the Viking Age, the use of runes gradually declined, and the Latin alphabet became the dominant writing system in the Norse lands. However, in the 17th century, interest in runes revived with the rise of Germanic nationalism. Scholars began studying runic inscriptions, deciphering their meanings, and delving into the history and culture of the Vikings.

Today, Viking runes have gained popularity among modern practitioners of esoteric traditions, such as the New Age movement and modern Paganism. Many people use runes for divination, meditation, personal empowerment, and connection with their ancestral heritage. There are also runemasters who specialize in creating runic talismans and offering runic healing and counseling services.

In Conclusion

Viking runes are not just a forgotten relic of the past. They represent a profound and intricate system of communication, magic, and spiritual insight. The runic alphabet is a gateway to the world of the ancient Norse people, their beliefs, and their connection with the divine. Whether you are fascinated by Norse mythology, drawn to the mystical energies of runes, or simply curious about the history of writing systems, exploring the world of Viking runes can be a rewarding and awe-inspiring journey into the heart of Viking culture.