The history of the runes is long and fascinating. There is evidence of the runes being used throughtout northern Europe starting around 50CE. Evidence of the runes is on the runestones around Scandinavia as well as on jewelry and even combs. Most people recognize the Elder Futhark runes, but there are different runic alphabets from different time periods and geographic locations. Each of these different alphabets also has multiple variations. The most commonly used runic alphabets are the Elder futhark, Younger Futhark, Icelandic Futhark, Anglo-Frisian Futhark, Medieval Futhark, and the Delecarlian Futhark. The runes were once used as writing system, but are now mainly used for divination and in magic. The word “rune” means mystery, or secret. After studying the runes for over 20 years I can confirm that the meaning is appropriate. After all this time learning about the runes, and owning a large amount of books on the subject, I am still learning new more about them and they keep revealing more to me.
When used for divination, the runes are very useful. There are many ways to do this, such as a single rune pull at the beginning of your day, a 3 rune pull for past, present, future readings, and so many more styles to suit your personal needs at the time. The runes are my favorite form of divination, because I see them as a part of what makes up the universe, just like carbon or oxygen. I do enjoy tarot as well, but it’s harder for me to memorize or understand because the main tarot system used today is based off the Rider Waite Smith deck. This system is very versatile, but much of the symbolism in the art is from Catholicism and Judaism. I was not raised in either faith so much of the symbolism is lost on me. According to the eddas, specifically The Havamal, The Voluspa, and the Gylfaginning, Odin did not create the runes, he discovered them through self sacrifice. To me, this means that the runes were always there, not made by men or gods or giants. This is why i always use runes made from stones, wood, or bones because they are a natural part of the universe. Even my resin runes have stones, herbs, and flowers in them so the natural part of the world is still included.
To find the most extensive information on the runes, their use, and their history, please go to this website and get these books:
Here are more rune alphabets and information.
