Viking Runes: Origins, Meaning and Use

Origin of Viking Runes

Viking runes belong to the futhark alphabet , used by the Germanic and Scandinavian peoples during the Viking Age. Their origin is surrounded by mystery and mythology. According to Norse legend, it was the god Odin who discovered the runes after a nine-day and nine-night sacrifice hanging from the Yggdrasil tree . This knowledge gave him access to the secrets of the universe and magic.

The runic alphabet has evolved into several forms, but the best known are:

The Elder Futhark (24 runes, used from the 2nd to the 8th century).
The Younger Futhark (16 runes, used in the Viking Age).
The English Futhorc (used in England and Frisia).

Meaning of Viking Runes and their Power

Each rune has a symbolic meaning and was used for writing as well as divination and runic magic. Here are some examples of important runes:

Fehu (ᚠ): Prosperity, wealth and abundance.
Uruz (ᚢ): Physical strength, courage and vitality.
Thurisaz (ᚦ): Protection, conflict and power.
Ansuz (ᚨ): Wisdom, knowledge and divine inspiration.
Raido (ᚱ): Travel, movement and change.
Kenaz (ᚲ): Knowledge, creativity and enlightenment.
Gebo (ᚷ): Exchange, giving and balance in relationships.
Wunjo (ᚹ): Joy, happiness and harmony.
Hagalaz (ᚺ): Transformation, trials and resilience.
Nauthiz (ᚾ): Need, restriction and patience.
Isa (ᛁ): Stagnation, waiting and introspection.
Jera (ᛃ): Harvest, natural cycles and results.
Eiwaz (ᛇ): Spiritual connection, endurance and transition.
Perthro (ᛈ): Mystery, destiny and revelation.
Algiz (ᛉ): Spiritual protection and divine connection.
Sowilo (ᛋ): Victory, success and solar energy.
Tiwaz (ᛏ): Justice, honor and courage.
Berkano (ᛒ): Fertility, growth and renewal.
Ehwaz (ᛖ): Change, movement and partnership.
Mannaz (ᛗ): Humanity, intelligence and community.
Laguz (ᛚ): Intuition, emotions and fluidity.
Ingwaz (ᛝ): Creation, harmony and inner peace.
Dagaz (ᛞ): Awakening, transformation and light.
Othala (ᛟ): Heritage, family and connection to ancestors.

How to Use Viking Runes?

1. Writing and Communication

The Vikings carved runes into wood, stone, and metal to record exploits, inscribe dedications, and mark possessions. Runestones can still be found in Scandinavia today.

2. Runic Magic and Divination

Runes were not only an alphabet: they were also used for esoteric practices. The Vikings carved them on their weapons to protect themselves in combat, used them in rituals and practiced runic divination to predict the future.

3. Viking Amulets and Talismans

Many runes were used as amulets to attract luck, protection or love. For example, the Algiz rune was often worn as a symbol of spiritual defense.

Viking Runes in the Modern World

Today, Viking runes still fascinate. They are used in jewelry, fashion and tattoos as powerful symbols. At Viking Art , we offer jewelry adorned with ancestral runes, inspired by Nordic traditions.

FAQ about Viking Runes

🔹 How to use Viking runes for divination? The runes are drawn and interpreted according to their position (upright or reversed), allowing to obtain answers to spiritual questions.

🔹 What is the difference between the Elder and Younger Futhark? The Elder Futhark consists of 24 runes and was used earlier in history, while the more simplified Younger Futhark with 16 runes was dominant in the Viking Age.

Discover our Runic Jewelry

Viking runes continue to inspire many jewelry and accessories. Explore our collection of pendants, rings and bracelets adorned with mystical runes , perfect for expressing your connection with ancient wisdom.

Viking Runes: Origins, Meaning and Use