Runes are a tool for self-knowledge and work with energies, widely used in magical practice. The runic system originally arose as writing among the ancient Germans, but subsequently each of the signs acquired a secret sacred meaning. In addition to the Germanic tribes, runes were used on the Scandinavian Peninsula and in Iceland. Sometimes the use of runes is also attributed to the Celts, although this is considered by many to be a misconception. The article discusses why the Scandinavian futhark is sometimes called Celtic runes, their interpretation, meaning and description.
Did the Celts have runic writing?
In fact, the Celts did not use runic writing and were ethnically different from the ancient Germans. They had their own language, culture, pantheon of gods. In the visual arts, the Celts left their mark in the form of unique patterns of intertwining lines. A similar Celtic ornament and Scandinavian runes are modern admirers of Europeanpaganism, not thoroughly understanding history, is often combined into a single whole. Hence the numerous questions about Celtic runes for tattoos or amulets. This is due to a superficial acquaintance with both cultures and an unwillingness to dive into their study. Numerous articles on the Internet about Celtic runes and their meaning actually refer to Scandinavian runes.
Ogham as runic script of the Celts
It would be relatively correct to call the runes of the Celts a completely different script - ogham, although in fact it is never called that way to avoid confusion. It is also known as the Irish Druid cryptography, consisting of dashes and sticks. Like Scandinavian signs, Celtic runes and their meanings have specific names. It is believed that each of the 20 signs of the Ogham script is responsible for certain energies. Similar Celtic runes and their meaning are studied by neo-pagans and used for magical practices. In the Russian-speaking magical community, divination by ogham is quite rare. What the Ogham letter looks like can be seen further in the photo. Celtic runes and their meanings are visually and semantically not similar to Scandinavian ones. Therefore, Ogham signs are called runes only for fun.
Celtic runes and staves
Runic staves are the inscription of several runes connected together into one sign. Most often, this form is used for amulets and talismans. Scandinavian staves have a variety of forms, and the Icelandic ones are calledaghishjalmami ("helmet of horror"), as it was believed that they inspire fear in enemies.
In fact, the Celtic runes and their meaning can also be fixed in the form of a stav - they will look like a vertical line, from which many horizontal dashes depart. In this form, ogham can also be used for magical practice. By the way, it is not recommended to use a runic inscription for a tattoo: Celtic runes and their meaning, Scandinavian signs and Icelandic staves contribute to a strong intervention of energies in your life. This can disrupt the natural harmony. However, it's okay if you are going to use Celtic patterns for a tattoo: runes and their meanings are not related to decorative ornaments.
Fehu
The original meaning of the Fehu rune is "cattle". It is responsible for our material well-being, which is not surprising, because in ancient times, human we alth was measured not in money, but in property, including livestock. On a deeper level, this rune can be responsible for energy resources and creativity.
Uruz
The meaning of the Celtic rune Uruz is associated with a bull or a wild tour. This animal for the ancient Germans was a symbol of primordial energy, wild and primitive nature. They also like to interpret this rune as the “root cause”. The use of Uruz opens up access to a huge potential of life energy.
Turisaz
The name is interpreted as "giant", which indicates a hugepotential. The power of Turisaz can be both destructive and active creative - in any case, it is clearly manifested in the physical world, causing a state of absolute confidence in one's rightness and in everything that happens.
Ansuz
The magic of the Ansuz rune is associated with information and knowledge. Its name is interpreted as a derivative of the word "as", denoting the Scandinavian gods. The lord of aces, the one-eyed Odin, has access to all the knowledge of the world - it was for them that he gave one of his eyes. Having harnessed the energy of Ansuz, he has a strong intuition that allows him to predict the outcome of events. This rune gives insight, attentiveness and promotes the development of a tenacious mind.
Raido
Raido - the rune of the road and constant movement. The energy of Raido not only patronizes travelers and wanderers, it also allows you to find your way in an allegorical sense. Raido helps to awaken intuition and follow it. Raidō's movement is not chaotic: it has a clear goal, a final point to arrive at.
Kenaz
The meaning of the Celtic rune Kenaz is interpreted as a "flame" or "torch". A torch is a more accurate interpretation, since the energy of Kenaz can be compared to a controlled fire, designed to illuminate and heat, rather than burn. This rune is responsible for the awakening of creative, creative energy, gives strength to new achievements.
Gebo
Gebo is called the rune of partnership and union. Its name translates as "gift". It symbolically displays the principle of mutual exchange of energy, thanks to which andlife is possible. The energy of this rune helps to establish and strengthen relationships with any person.
Wunyo
Vunyo is one of the most favorable runes. Its name is interpreted as "joy", so the energy of this rune resembles that unconditional feeling of happiness that can rush for no reason. It contributes to the success and successful completion of the work begun, gives healing and cheers up in moments of sadness.
Hagalaz
Hagalaz is called the rune of destruction, but it would be a mistake to interpret it as exclusively negative. The name Hagalaz is associated with hail, which speaks of its ambiguous potential: on the one hand, hail can harm crops, on the other hand, hail is just water. Melted ice floes saturate and nourish the earth with moisture. The energy of Hagalaz helps to get rid of everything old and obsolete so that the new has enough room to develop.
Nautiz
The original interpretation of the name Nautiz is need. This rune has a rather complex energy. It can mean limited personal resources, difficult times, a problem that needs to be addressed urgently. Nautiz puts barriers on the way to the goal, but at the same time can teach patience and humility in overcoming them.
Isa
The name Isa is interpreted as ice. The energy of this rune freezes events and stops processes. Time seems to freeze: the situation does not develop, but freezes at a certain stage. This rune is good to turn to if you need to take a break from business and focus on internal processes.
Jera
Rune Hyere denotes cyclicity. Its name is translated as "harvest": it allows you to look at the situation in the present as the result of actions in the past. Jera teaches that everything in the world returns to normal: all our actions will eventually return to us.
Eyvaz
Eyvaz corresponds with the world tree Yggdrasil: its roots reach the underworlds, and the crown goes up to Asgard. Runa Eyvaz helps to feel your inner core and promotes internal transformation - the transition from roots to branches.
Perth
There is no unequivocal opinion on how exactly the name of the rune Perth is translated. Some interpret it as a "secret", others - as a "womb". Perth is associated with hidden powers, often associated with female magical abilities. Perth can symbolize the birth of something new, a reassessment of values, and is also used as a protective rune.
Algiz
The name Algiz means "moose", and this rune even looks like an elk. Algiz is the most powerful defensive rune. It helps to sharpen intuition, at a dangerous moment your instinct does not fail you, Algiz helps to avoid risky situations.
Soulou
Soulu is a solar rune, but it is also associated with other celestial energies. Outwardly, it resembles lightning and is responsible for active, victorious energy.
Teivaz
This rune has a pronounced masculine energy. It is dedicated to the god Tyr, the patron saint of just war in Scandinavian mythology. Energy runes Teyvazpromotes courage, the ability to make fair decisions and teaches you to take responsibility for your actions.
Berkana
Berkana is a female rune, whose name is associated with a birch tree. This rune patronizes mothers and children, so its energy is soft and tender. Berkana is a good talisman for pregnant women, able to protect and save a new life. It is also good to turn to this rune for help in healing practices.
Ehwaz
Ehwaz literally means "horse", or "stallion". Symbolically, this indicates the potential of the rune, contributing to the rapid advancement. You can turn to this rune if you need to speed up the decision on any of your business, push you to an important choice, pull the situation out of stagnation.
Manaz
Manaz symbolizes a person as a representative of the whole human race. This is the rune of the human "I", symbolizing the triumph of rational thinking. The energy of Manaz brings great opportunities, but at the same time requires full dedication and self-control. This is the rune of mature people, guided more by logic than by a fit of feelings.
Laguz
Rune Laguz is often associated with the element of water, because both concepts patronize the emotional sphere. Unlike the logic of Manaz, Laguz, on the contrary, calls for listening to your feelings and following them. The energy of Laguz promotes the development and strengthening of relationships with a partner, as well as the disclosure of one's own sensual potential.
Inguz
The literal interpretation of the Inguz rune is fertility. This rune symbolizes success.the end of a business and the imminent start of a new project. Under the auspices of Inguz, you are able to cope with any difficulties thanks to the feeling of a surge of strength.
Dagaz
Rune Dagaz is associated with dawn. It is in her power to help us overcome the transformation and be reborn into a completely new person. After everything we've been through on the path of the Runes, we just can't stay the same. Dagaz allows change to happen quickly.
Otal
Rune Otal (or Otila) is a sign that symbolizes the unity between the past and the future. She is responsible for the connection with the ancestors and allows you to transfer the energy of the family to the descendants. Also, this rune helps to become more aware of oneself and understand one's purpose in this life.
